Miami Dolphins

Take your awesome quarterback development and blow me.

 

(6-10) Miami Dolphins 19
(8-8) New York Jets 17
Mark Sanchez: 3 interceptions. Santonio Holmes: benched and called out as a whiny quitter by his teammates.  (Seriously. Worst team captain ever.) Bart Scott: flips off a photographer and refuses to talk to the media (For once). Finally seeing theses loathsome Jets miss the playoffs is SO satisfying to me. Take it Rex Ryan. Take it hard.(8-8) Philadelphia Eagles 34

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 17, 2011-12"

It would have felt SO good.(12-3) New England Patriots 27
(5-10) Miami Dolphins 24

It was looking awkward when the ‘Phins were up 17-0 at halftime, but Brady rallied and made sure his team clinched a first-round bye. I’m expecting the Patriots to take the number one seed in the AFC, but I don’t feel very confident about their postseason chances.(8-7) New York Giants 29

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 16, 2011"

nts for not falling into the “Trap of the Week.”(5-8) Philadelphia Eagles 26
(4-9) Miami Dolphins 10

Oh Tony Sparano, we hardly knew ye. Wait, I did. You were a mediocre coach. Its obvious management was waiting for him to lose just ONE more game after that streak of wins they went on. Dropping one to the Eagles wasn’t going to cut it.(8-5) New York Jets 37

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 14, 2011"

” days, giving the Saints points, but not a win.
(4-8) Philadelphia Eagles at
(4-8) Miami Dolphins

Have you ever felt more opposite emotions for two 4-8 teams? Miami is clearly on the rise and is high on the list of teams that no one wants to play right now. Philly couldn’t get out of its own way with Vince Young at the helm, but welcome back Michael Vick to the starting line-up. Vick takes control of a team all but out of the playoff hunt and on the verge of firing their head coach. Have fun Mike.

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Week 14, 2011"

It’ll be a shoot-out to start the day.

 

(3-7) Miami Dolphins at
(6-4) Dallas Cowboys

Turkey Day Trap! Miami’s won three in a row and get to play on the road… where they’re actually better off. Dallas is coming off a dramatic but emotionally taxing win over the Redskins in overtime, so they might be taking these formerly 0-7 ‘Phins lightly. It won’t light up the scoreboard as much as our early game, but it could go right down to the wire.(9-1) San Francisco 49ers at

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 Thanksgiving Day Preview"

ay make this Lions-Packers Thanksgiving game all the more interesting. 


(3-7) Miami Dolphins 35
(5-5) Buffalo Bills 8

WTF Buffalo. What is your deal? You start off 4-0 and then drop 5 of 6? To make it worse, they’ve dropped these last few in tremendously embarrassing fashion, all but ensuring they’re headed for another collapse. Shame on you for fooling us Buffalo.(6-4) Dallas Cowboys 27

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 11, 2011"

(5-4) Buffalo Bills at
(2-7) Miami Dolphins

I would say this is the clear “Trap of the Week,” but I don’t think that a team that’s lost two in a row can get trapped by a team that’s won two in a row. Buffalo has no choice but to take this game seriously because of their own dwindling playoff chances. At 5-5 they would have nearly hammered the nail in their own coffin, and that my friends, takes talent. Miami’s just playing better football right now and has all the momentum.

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Week 11, 2011"

he Week,” but it can’t be a trap for a 2-9 team.(3-5) Washington Redskins at
(1-7) Miami Dolphins

Speaking of the “Trap of the Week,” this was a lock for that designation before I learned that Rex Grossman would start for Washington. While that doesn’t mean the ‘Skins should be favored, it definitely means they’ll get points on the board, something that has looked nearly impossible with John Beck at the helm.(6-2) New York Giants at

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Week 10, 2011"

ing fired Jim Caldwell and promoted himself to head coach yet? This is getting out of hand.

(1-7) Miami Dolphins 31
(4-4) Kansas City Chiefs 3

My Ackbar-themed preview proved to be a success! (Maybe a “Trap of the Week?”) Kansas City came in flat and the Dolphins finally pulled out their first W of the year. Well done ‘Fins. Matt Moore didn’t look like utter garbage, which is always helpful.

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 9, 2011"

They’ll light up a clearly inferior team and get some good publicity for the week.(0-7) Miami Dolphins at
(4-3) Kansas City Chiefs

Todd Haley should have brought in Admiral Ackbar as an inspirational speaker this week, because this game IS A TRAP! Miami is actually better on the road than they are at home, oddly enough. KC has a great chance to leap-frog San Diego and can’t afford to waste it.

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Week 9, 2011"

age, leaving Houston at the top of the division be default.

(2-4) Denver Broncos 18
(0-6) Miami Dolphins 15

Yeah Tim Tebow led a mind-boggling series of drives to come back from down 15 in the final three minutes, but he still looked like pure shit for three and a half quarters.  But, he did kiss Demaryius Thomas on the field after the win. Let the debate rage on! (Also, fire Tony Sparano right now.) (4-3) New York Jets 27

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 7, 2011"

ablishing who emerges as the front-runner in a mediocre division.(1-4) Denver Broncos at
(0-5) Miami Dolphins

“Tim Tebow Time.” I’m more excited about never saying that phrase again more than I am about this game. Can you imagine if he loses to the winless Dolphins? Hilarious.(4-1) San Diego Chargers at

Continue reading "The Opening Drive, Week 7, 2011"

size="3">(3-3) New York Jets 24
(0-5) Miami Dolphins 6

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 6, 2011"

A home game against a depleted Patriot defense? Now or never. (Or next year.)

(0-2) Miami Dolphins at
(1-1) Cleveland Browns

Last second news on this one, Peyton Hillis is out with an illness. That officially means this game gets nowhere near my television.

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Week 3, 2011"

Almost.

2010 Record: 11-5
2011 Prediction: 9-7

You suck. Douche. 

Miami Dolphins

Chad Henne. Need I say more? As much crap as this guy’s been given, he’s somehow still at the reigns in Miami. Now he’s got Reggie Bush, King of the Hype-Monsters, on his side. But Bush won’t be any every down back in this offense. He just won’t hold up over an entire season in that role. They drafted Daniel Thomas in the second round to be the thunder to Bush’s lightning. Henne’s receivers are the same, with Crazy Brandon Marshall making spectacular plays but being vastly under-targeted. 86 catches in 2010? Low. Davone Bess is a decent enough third wide-out, but any lower on the depth chart and it gets murky. Jake Long is one of the best left tackles in the league, but the offensive line might not do Henne any favors. The Dolphin D should be just as stout as in years past, with Cameron Wake emerging as one helluva pass-rusher and Yeremiah Bell still playing at a high enough level. (I mean, dude’s 33 and had 101 tackles last year. That may not say much about the front seven, but he’s still balling.) As with many teams though, their defense won’t be spectacular and will be disappointed by the offense’s lackluster performances. There just aren’t enough playmakers on that side of the ball. Tony Sparano will be on the hot seat during and after another sub .500 campaign.

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 NFL Season Preview: The AFC East"

Now that defense needs to get younger.

Miami Dolphins

My prediction: 8-8
What actually happened: 7-9
My result: ****

Chad Henne was erratic at best, leading to his benching for Chad Pennington (for one play) while the losses caused ownership to flirt with Jim Harbaugh. Miami’s offense was a hindrance on the year, losing the games that their defense typically kept close.

Continue reading "How Much I Effed Up: The 2010 AFC Edition"

s fighting over the rookie hurdle and giving hope for the future.(5-10) Detroit Lions 34
(7-8) Miami Dolphins 27

Oh Miami. Are you too good for your home? The ‘Phins finish with a 1-7 record at home this season, which is officially a mega-fail. Tony Sparano is undoubtedly out at the end of the year, leaving a vacancy at the coaching position and questions about the future of inconsistent Chad Henne. After winning three in a row without Matthew Stafford, Jim Schwartz has the Lions looking forward to next season. Now Stafford has to stay healthy.(6-9) Washington Redskins 20

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 NFL Final Drive: Week 16"

Three concussions through 15 weeks? No more.

Getty Images(4-10) Buffalo Bills 17
(7-7) Miami Dolphins 14

Here’s the Miami Dolphins’ season thus far: pfft. Sorry Tony Sparano, but it looks like you’re on the way out. The offense’s complete inability to put up even a decent amount of points has drawn the attention away from a defense that is doing everything it can. When 45 Chad Henne throws only nets you 14 points, there’s a problem. Kudos to the Bills for continuing to fight each week. They could have thrown in the towel weeks ago.(10-4) Philadelphia Eagles 38

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 NFL Final Drive: Week 15"

he Bucs could sneak into the playoffs… just don’t expect them to beat anybody.

(7-6) Miami Dolphins 10
(9-4) New York Jets 6

Have the Jets been figured out? Is Mark Sanchez any good? The answers to these questions and more in the next episode of “These Are Our Jets!” But honestly, the Jets are slipping off the precipice here. After being resoundingly beaten last week they needed to come out and whip the Dolphins, but instead they rolled over and lost to a QB who only completed five passes. Five. Zoinks.

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 NFL Final Drive: Week 14"

Still, this will be a closer game than some might expect.

(6-6) Miami Dolphins at
(9-3) New York Jets

As odd and disappointing as the Dolphins season has been, they have a great shot at knocking off the Jets today. Angry and fuming after their drubbing at the hands of the Patriots, the Jets could be ripe for the picking or ready to explode. One thing is for sure, that Jet offense has to show signs of life. Oh wait, so does the defense.

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 NFL Opening Drive: Week 14"

s theirs to lose.

Getty Images/ How condescending...

(5-7) Cleveland Browns 13
(6-6) Miami Dolphins 10

So… what’s going on with Chad Henne? Not being able to watch the game, all I saw online was he “out-Delhomme’d Jake Delhomme.” After catching the highlights and getting the skinny, I’ve decided Henne has reached his ceiling. He hasn’t shown signs of improvement or that his wild inconsistency is being tempered. With as little explosion as the ‘Phins have on offense, they can’t afford a turnover-prone QB. On the Cleveland side of life, Eric Mangini may be saving his job for another with tough gritty wins over solid competition.

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 Final Drive: Week 13"

Never in doubt after the first series, the Bears shut out the Miami Dolphins in a 16-0 win Thursday night.

Getty Images

(7-3) Chicago Bears 16
(5-5) Miami Dolphins 0

Following the typical Lovie Smith gameplan, Mike Martz called a balanced offensive attack from the sidelines, using short passes to the outsides to take advantage of the Dolphin secondary. Jay Cutler had plenty of protection for most of his 25 pass attempts thanks to an improving offensive line. Martz called 68 offensive plays on the night, controlling the time of possession (37 minutes) and keeping Miami's defense on their heels. Thanks to Matt Forte's 97 yards and the only touchdown of the game, Martz was able to stick with the run all night and wore down defenders in the second half. Cutler tore apart the defense on third down and picked the perfect spots to scramble down the field. Solid field position from Devin Hester returns (or opponents kicking away from him) put the offense in charge on each drive. I'd like to see less field goals and more touchdowns, but I'll take a win like this any day.

Continue reading "Joe's Gameday Recap: Bears 16, Dolphins 0"

p game for the Bears or will their winning streak continue?

(6-3) Chicago Bears at
(5-4) Miami Dolphins

Tonight the Bear offense will get a decent challenge in the Miami defensive unit, but it won't be up front. While the 'Fins' front three aren't putrid, they're hardly noteworthy. Paul Soliai holds down the middle of their line which doesn't rush the passer extremely well. The pressure comes from their line-backing unit (as it usually does in a 3-4), particularly from Cameron Wake, who has 8.5 sacks on the season. Koa Misi can't be overlooked on the other side either. As long as the Bears get two bodies on Wake, they should be able to keep Jay upright, which is imperative against a Miami pass defense that ranks 6th in the league. Vontae Davis is an above average corner, but he can't be everywhere. Look for Cutler and Martz to take advantage of the lack of depth in the Miami secondary with Hester and Knox.. Karlos Dansby is a great coverage linebacker, so look for him to be matched up on Greg Olsen. (If the recently-signed Al Harris can get on the field, that depth is slightly improved.) Regardless of how the passing game thrives or not, the Bears cannot give up on the run. Matt Forte and Chester Taylor are going to find running lanes against a middle of the road rush defense.

Continue reading "Joe's Gameday Preview: Bears at Dolphins"

The Jets' ridiculous luck has to run out sometime... right?

(5-4) Miami Dolphins 29
(5-4) Tennessee Titans 17

Miami went through three quarterbacks and a glut of wildcat plays, but they managed to keep their season afloat with a win. How bad do you feel for Chad Pennington though? Dude gets injured on his first play. There should be some sort of rule about hitting back-ups right away. It's just sad when they go down.

Continue reading "Joe's NFL Final Drive: Week 10"

Anything else would be ridiculous.

(5-3) Tennessee Titans at
(4-4) Miami Dolphins

This just screams loss if you're a Dolphins fan. Your team is at home, where they're 0-4 after losing to better teams, which Tennessee certainly is. Chad Pennington is starting his first game of the year against a Titan defense that rails on opposing QB's. Oh yeah, and Randy Moss is playing his first game for Tennessee... so there's that. Good luck!

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 NFL Opening Drive: Week 10"

That defense is too good and the Lions aren't at their level yet.

(4-3) Miami Dolphins at
(5-2) Baltimore Ravens

For the first time all year Donte Stallworth will be on the field for the Ravens, giving Joe Flacco a ridiculous complement of wide-outs to target. Stallworth's speed should allow Anquan Boldin to get even more space to run across the middle. Miami's a tough out, but they still haven't learned how to overcome better defenses. Baltimore's defense will keep the Dolphin offense from getting more than 17 points, which is the recipe for a win.

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 NFL Opening Drive: Week 9"

Here's the week eight edition of the Final Drive!

(4-3) Miami Dolphins 22
(2-5) Cincinnati Bengals 14

The Dolphins finally found a few big plays on Sunday to help their surprisingly anemic offense. You'd think adding Brandon Marshall would mean you score more more than four field goals and one TD. Miami is following their typical formula for victory, but to beat the best in the AFC they'll need to continue airing it out. I'm keeping an eye on Cincy this week to see if they pick up Randy Moss off waivers. That would be an epically egotistical group of wide-outs. I would watch EVERY Bengal game. (Maybe.)

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 8"

Look out for the Titans.

(5-1) Pittsburgh Steelers 23
(3-3) Miami Dolphins 22

Was it as obvious a fumble to you as it was to me? Ben didn't even get close to crossing the plane before losing that ball into the end zone. The ref signaled the score too soon and the ensuing scrum for the ball was not officiated properly. Miami fans should be upset, but they should be more upset at the red zone opportunities their team squandered. Every NFL team should be afraid of Pittsburgh. If they have luck on their side too, then their opponents are in for trouble.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 7"

Yippee.

(4-1) Pittsburgh Steelers at
(3-2) Miami Dolphins

As good as the Dolphins seem to be, I just can't see them knocking off Ben Roethlisberger and the Steelers today. They're just not good enough. Their secondary is average and their offense can't put up enough points on this Steeler defense to keep it close. Chad Henne will likely throw a poor interception or two.

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 7"

Here are the highlights of week six in the NFL!

(3-2) Miami Dolphins 23
(3-3) Green Bay Packers 20

Another week, another Packers overtime loss. As good as their offense looked in the first and fourth quarters, the Pack struggled in the second and third periods, letting Miami build confidence. Aaron Rodgers doesn't seem to be playing at full speed yet, but when is it going to happen? The Green Bay defense gave up 150 yards on the ground, in part to their multiple injuries. Brandon Marshall is starting to become the focal point of the Miami offense, having finally gelled with QB Chad Henne. Ten catches for 127 yards proves it.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 6"

...Okay, that's a lie. I'm sorry. Let's just get to my analysis. 

(2-2) Miami Dolphins at
(3-2) Green Bay Packers

The Dolphins are reeling after a 2-0 start with tough losses to divisional opponents. They travel to Green Bay to take on an injury-riddled Packers squad who are ripe for an upset coming off a tough loss. Aaron Rodgers will make the start despite suffering a concussion last week, but he'll be without tight end Jermichael Finley for what will be the first of many games this season. Miami can't afford to fall behind any further in the standings and they get to visit Lambeau Field early on the season, as opposed to the tundra they might get later on.

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 NFL Opening Drive: Week 6"

It'll be a slug-fest all season long.

(3-1) New England Patriots 41
(2-2) Miami Dolphins 14

That was a complete butt-whooping. Patriot special teams made a mockey of the Dolphins on Monday night, blocking a punt, blocking a field goal for a touchdown and returning a kick-off for a touchdown. Did anyone else see a Patrick Chung-fest coming? No? Alright then. I would cut the entire Dolphin special teams unit and elevate my practice squad to take their place after a performance like that. Tom Brady didn't need to light it up on offense with bonus scores like that. After losing two division games at home, Miami has give themselves a tough road the rest of the way.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 4"

keep their former QB in check and expose his weaknesses.

(2-1) New England Patriots at
(2-1) Miami Dolphins

On Monday night the AFC East is on display when the Patriots visit the 'Fins

Continue reading "Joe's 2010 NFL Opening Drive: Week 4"

e talent to compete in this weak division.

Getty Images

(2-1) New York Jets 31
(2-1) Miami Dolphins 23

Man... can't anyone shut these Jets up? With questionable offensive play-calls down the stretch, the

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 3"

ke walk, because Denver doesn't have the offense to match them.

(1-1) New York Jets at
(2-0) Miami Dolphins

Oh Sunday night, how I love thee. In this AFC East contest, expect a low score and tremendous defense. Without Darelle Revis on the field, the Jets' Antonio Cromartie will be locked in on Brandon Marshall all day. This game will prove if Miami is for real at 2-0 or if they fall back in line with the other contenders. If the Jets can get past all their off-the-field distractions and get a win, I'm avoiding every Jets interview this week.

Continue reading "Joe's NFL Opening Drive: Week 3"

until he gets hurt.

(2-0) Miami Dolphins 14
(0-2) Minnesota Vikings 10

Hey Minnesota, have you met the real Brett Favre? He showed to the Metrodome on Sunday, as did his three interceptions and fumble in the endzone for a Dolphin touchdown. Ha! For some reason Favre doesn't get along with Bernard Berrian, who isn't getting passes thrown his way in Sidney Rice's absence. Brad Childress finally gave Adrian Peterson the ball, racking up 145 yards on 29 carries, but it still wasn't enough to overcome the mistakes of number four. On the Miami sidelines, you have to be impressed with the 'Phins' defense that held the Vikings back on repeated goal line trips, but the offense has left little to be desired in these first two games. 29 points in two games normally doesn't get it done. Chad Henne needs to throw more than 15 passes if they expect to compete in the AFC East.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 2"

This just screams low-scoring.  (1-0) Miami Dolphins at
(0-1) Minnesota Vikings This is one of the bigger "show me" games of the weekend, featuring two teams who did little to impress the last time they were on the field. Miami barely beat Buffalo and Minnesota couldn't muster more than nine points and looked out of sync. Chad Henne has to take advantage of Minnesota's still-weak secondary to take the pressure of Ronnie Brown and the running game, which won't find many holes against the Viking front seven. Brad Childress can't forget about Adrian Peterson this week or the Vikings will be in an 0-2 hold in the division. (1-0) Baltimore Ravens at

Continue reading "Joe's NFL Opening Drive: Week 2"

Brace for impact Buffalo.

 

Miami Dolphins

Two years removed from winning the AFC East, the Miami Dolphins have reloaded for another title run. Chad Henne emerged as a legitimate starting quarterback in the NFL last season, despite not being able to stretch the field due to a lack of depth at the wide receiver position. The instigators of the Wildcat offense, the Dolphins are now committed to Ronnie Brown running those packages with the release of last year's second round pick Pat White. In what likely is his last season, Ricky Williams will still be adequately productive to spell Brown. The acquisition of receiver Brandon Marshall from the Broncos was a surprise one, completely changing the look of the Miami offense. Unfortunately, Davone Bess is the only other receiver worth worrying about initially, as the 'Fins traded away receivers Greg Camarillo and Tedd Ginn.

Continue reading "Joe's NFL 2010 Season Preview: AFC East"

ing Drive of week 17 in the NFL! *sniffle* It goes by so fast!

(8-7) Pittsburgh Steelers at (7-8) Miami Dolphins

Well they need help, but the Steelers aren't eliminated from post-season play yet. However, every scenario that finds the Steelers defending their title requires at least two teams in front of them to fall plus an obvious Pittsburgh win. After a late rally against the Texans last week, the Dolphins will be focused on getting to 8-8 but will need Chad Henne to play near-perfect along with a large dose of Ricky Williams (who may not play). Even on the road without Troy Polamalu, I like Pittsburgh to win. Though any Steeler (lookin' at you LaMarr Woodley) or Steeler fan who thinks the Colts or Patriots are resting players because they don't want to see the Steelers in the playoffs is delirious. Maybe you shouldn't have lost five straight?

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 17"

which to climb out.

 
Was it too little too late?

(8-7) Houston Texans 27
(7-8) Miami Dolphins 20

Jumping out to a 27-3 first half lead, the Texans dropped their guard and let the Dolphins rally in the second half. Chad Henne went for over 300 yards passing, but he doesn't have enough weapons to overcome such a deficit. Even if the Texans don't make the playoffs, they have a chance for the first winning record in franchise history. 

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 16"

On Heinz Field, I'll give a slight edge to Pittsburgh.

(7-7) Houston Texans at (7-7) Miami Dolphins

With six 7-7 teams hoping to get a shot at two wildcard slots, this contest will definitely crush one team's playoff dreams. Houston hasn't had a winning season in their short franchise history, much less a playoff berth. Needless to say, the Texans have plenty to play for. (As does their coach, who will likely not return if one of those two goals are not met.) Miami won't catch New England to repeat as AFC East champs, but they could make noise in the playoffs if they can claw their way in. Chad Henne gives them hope for the future as well as the present. I have an urge to take the Texans for the win.

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 16"

s is proving they are the true team to beat in the NFC, winning in a variety of ways. 

(7-6) Miami Dolphins 14
(7-6) Jacksonville Jaguars 10

Jacksonville had control of their playoff destiny. That is, until Miami won in a squeaker. Now the last AFC wildcard spot is up for grabs in a free-for-all. Sorry Jaguars, you had you chance. Chad Henne continues to impress and Ricky Williams continues to shoulder the load without Ronnie Brown. 

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 14"

(3-4) Miami Dolphins at (5-2) New England Patriots

If Miami loses this game, any shot of taking the division for a second straight year is lost. New England will be squarely in the driver’s seat as Tom Brady gets more acclimated to the speed of the game again. Doesn’t bode well for the rest of the AFC East. Still, Miami has another chance to turn some heads with a strong performance. I expect to see some new Wildcat tweaks against the team Miami used as the guinea pig for the formation a year ago. To Miami's Joey Porter: we all knew Tom Brady had his own set of rules way before you said it. Thanks for arriving late to the party, motor-mouth.

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 9"

Mike might need to drop his pants again if his club is to take the division.

(3-4) Miami Dolphins 30
(4-4) New York Jets 25

I think the Jets need to talk a lot less and play a lot better. With Rex Ryan as their coach, they’ve become as talkative and self-aggrandizing as the Ravens, only without the years of solid play as credit. They started out great, but .500 is where most expected this team to hover for the season. In Miami, major props go to Tony Sparano for bringing his team around after some disappointing losses. They may not challenge for a wildcard spot, but they’ll spoil some post-season hopes.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 8"

of their hole, but they need to hold a team to under 30 points sometime this season. 

(2-4) Miami Dolphins at (4-3) New York Jets 

The Dolphins are certainly the best 2-4 team in the league. Unfortunately that doesn’t count for much in the NFL. After two consecutive victories, they lost a 21-point lead and eventually lost to the Saints by 12. Getting over that heartbreaker will prove much easier if they can sweep their green division rivals. If Rex Ryan hasn’t learned how his team should defend against Ronnie Brown and the Wildcat, it will be a long day at the Meadowlands. Mark Sanchez rebounded with a solid game against the Raiders, but what quarterback doesn’t? (Besides Donovan McNabb… that one time.)  

Continue reading "Joe’s NFL Opening Drive: Week 8"

Check out the fallen Falcon.  

(6-0) New Orleans Saints 46
(2-4) Miami Dolphins 34 

Oh Miami, you were so close! It was a valiant effort, but you can’t hold Drew Brees down for long. His two rushing TD’s are proof of that. Down 21 points in the first half, the Saints fought back with 36 points in the second, including a 42-yard interception return by Darren Sharper. Tony Sparano’s Dolphins show promise for the future, but their schedule so far this season has been simply brutal. 

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 7"

as defense that has had trouble rushing the passer.  

(5-0) New Orleans Saints at (2-3) Miami Dolphins 

This is almost a mirror image of Miami’s match-up with Indianapolis. The Dolphins will play ball control offense and may find success with the Wildcat, but they won’t be able to match up points with the Saints. Drew Brees is far too accurate with the football to be human. 

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 7"

eam.

I see these Titan fans were brown-bagging their despair on Sunday.  

(2-3) Miami Dolphins 31
(3-2) New York Jets 27 

This game was simply awesome. Braylon Edwards apparently met up with his hands in New York, catching five balls for 64 yards and a touchdown after joining the team merely five days before. Dolphins QB Chad Henne outshined and out-dueled Mark Sanchez in an amazing slug-fest which saw five touchdowns scored in the fourth quarter. Along with the ever exciting wildcat formation (which wildcat-ted for the wining score), Henne gives Miami fans something to cheer about in the present. 

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 5"

s a player AND a coach? I mean, everyone knows I do both." 

New York Jets (3-1) at Miami Dolphins (1-3)

On Monday night, the Jets will look to keep pace or pull ahead of the Patriots. The Dolphins just want to climb closer to .500. Mark Sanchez will need to rebound from a very rookie performance last weekend. He’s up against an underrated and pass-rush-happy Miami defense. Coach Tony Sparano wants his team to build off their 38-10 dismantling of the Bills last week in which Chad Henne was efficient and protected the football. His second start needs to be better if Miami is to win. 

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 5"

not Joe Namath yet, but he’s definitely going to be successful in this league. 

(1-3) Miami Dolphins 38
(1-3) Buffalo Bills 10 

The Dolphins finally won a game with their clock-controlling style. You can only go so long excelling at dominating time of possession and not win, even if Chad Henne was making his first NFL start. Not every opponent will have Peyton Manning. Buffalo looks to be in considerable turmoil already. I would not want to be coach Dick Jauron right now with a volatile TO waiting to ‘splode. 

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 4"

He’s shaping up to be an elite QB.

(2-0) Indianapolis Colts   27
(0-2) Miami Dolphins      23

Another game where a team rushes all over their opponent and still manages to lose. The wildcat didn't net the Dolphins a victory. The Colts defense just couldn’t get off the field on third down, but they still had Peyton Manning. With few opportunities, Manning made the most of his time and put up 27 points with under 15 minutes in time of possession. Still, he scores too fast.

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 2"

Tennessee’s running game must be the propeller of they are to make it back to the playoffs.

Miami Dolphins at Atlanta Falcons

In a meeting of 2008 shockers, the Miami Dolphins are out to prove they can repeat as division champions. No one should be caught off guard by the “wildcat offense” this year, but with rookie QB Pat White taking the “cat snaps,” defenses will be forced to guard against the pass as well. Unfortunately, in such a difficult division, the Dolphins have their work cut out for them if they are to repeat. If they can only turn it over 13 times like last season, I’d give them a fighting chance. With a returning Jason Taylor, their defense is primed to pressure the quarterback.

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 1"

Obviously, going from an abysmal 1-15 to 11-6 and AFC East Champions was quite the storybook turnaround. But, it wasn't enough, and the team still has a long way to go before it can compete with the AFC powerhouses like the Steelers and the Ravens. 

Continue reading "Dolphins 2009-10 needs — what do you think?"

a heck of a challenge going into Heinz Field against the Steelers on Sunday.

Baltimore Ravens 27, Miami Dolphins 9

After turning the ball over 13 times during the entire regular season (an NFL record), Chad Pennington and the Dolphins shockingly gave it away five times to the Baltimore Ravens Sunday afternoon. It was brutal. After the first two Pennington interceptions you’d say “It’s Chad, he won’t throw another one.” Then he did, twice. Four interceptions certainly killed Miami’s chances, but they couldn’t do much against the Ravens’ brilliant defense anyway. Ed Reed’s coverage assignments were masterfully disguised throughout the game, especially on his two interceptions. Reed ran the first back 64 yards for Baltimore’s first touchdown, effectively sealing the game in the second quarter. That allowed defensive coordinator Rex Ryan to play with the lead and be more aggressive in his play-calling. Offensively, the Ravens weren’t spectacular. McClain and McGahee’s 137 total rushing yards came later in the second half, and most of it was on McGahee’s 48-yard scamper in the fourth. Ravens rookie QB Joe Flacco was pedestrian at best, completing only 9 of his 23 attempts for 135 yards. He may not have thrown a touchdown, but he ran for one near the end of the game and didn’t throw an interception. As much as I wanted to see the Miami Dolphin’s comeback season continue, they had no chance against Baltimore's defense. Bill Parcells and Tony Sparano have built a solid foundation in Miami, so this loss should only be a building block for the future, not a signal of things to come. The Ravens will march on to Tennessee, where they’ll get the Titans at near full strength. If they plan to win, Flacco will need to make plays, not just avoid the big mistakes.  

Continue reading "Joey A's Final Drive: Wild Card Weekend"

squo;s job, but they’re still just an 8-8 team, playoffs or not.

Baltimore Ravens (11-5) at Miami Dolphins (11-5)

Miami’s regular season turn-around from 2007 is nothing short of amazing. A 1-15 team a year ago, the Dolphins have won the AFC East and are hosting a playoff game. Chad Pennington is the comeback player of the year for the second time in his career, but he will need to do more than just manage the offense against the stout Raven defense. Linebacker Ray Lewis may be the heart and soul of the Ravens, but safety Ed Reed is the playmaker. Reed has come through in clutch moments in so many games throughout his career, and his talents have propelled Baltimore into the post-season. With their defense, the Ravens are possibly the most intimidating team in the playoffs. Rookie quarterback Joe Flacco has exceeded expectations by bringing a semblance of offense back to Baltimore and turning a glaring weakness into only a slight weakness. He’ll need to stay on top of his game to avoid linebacker Joey Porter, who has made his name this season by putting the hurt on opposing quarterbacks. The real question coming out of Miami is how the Dolphins offense will perform versus the Ravens D. If Pennington can sustain drives with his precision passing and keep turnovers to a minimum like he did all season, the Dolphins have a real chance to keep their Cinderella season alive.

Continue reading "Joey A's Opening Drive: Wild Card Weekend"

ing too far ahead.  Indianapolis 37, San Diego 29.  

Baltimore @ Miami:  The Miami Dolphins have gone from worst to first in their division.  This time last year, they were 1-15 and on the clock for the 1st pick in the draft.  This year they are AFC East Champions.  Parcells and Sparano have done a heckuva job down there in South Beach!  The Ravens have played beyond their dreams as well, with a Rookie QB who wasn’t supposed to be the starter.  The Ravens beat the Dolphins back in Week 7, and were able to tame the wildcat…will they be able to do it again?  Yes…the Ravens are a well-balanced team and should be able to handle the ‘Fins.  Miami will hang tough and make the Ravens earn it!  Baltimore 24, Miami 23.   

Continue reading "Predictions Wildcard Weekend"

Thin-slicing. It is the act cutting through all extraneous information and getting to the key items that characterize something. Malcolm Gladwell wrote an entertaining and informative book on thin-slicing called Blink.

Continue reading "Thin-slicing Week 1 of the NFL Playoffs"

  

The crystal ball had a mediocre performance this past week, going a mere 2-2.  We’re not sure what happened, but this is not acceptable.  The crystal ball took its lumps on the Cowboys game, but it may have been predicting with its heart rather than its fortune-telling powers?  Either way, that puts the crystal ball at 33-26-1 for the season.  That’s seven games over .500 (.558 to be exact).  Hopefully the crystal ball will perform better in the playoffs!  Let’s take a look back, and review what happened last week.    

Continue reading "Week 17 Review"

nent in last year’s success, Tony Sparano, who is now the head coach of the AFC East Champion Miami Dolphins.  He helped Jason Garrett with the offense last season.  It was obvious to any Cowboys fan how much Sparano was missed.  If you didn’t know before…you know now!  Sparano was why the Cowboys offense excelled last year!  The Cowboys were pre-season favorites to win the Super Bowl, but that’s pretty tough to do when you don’t even make the playoffs.  What a bunch of…underachievers!   

Continue reading "Underachievers"

Louis 13.  

Miami @ New York Jets:  The Miami Dolphins must win this game to capture the AFC East, because if they lose they are out of the playoffs completely.  The Dolphins have done an excellent job in putting together a competitive team in one season.  I’m not surprised though, as Parcells raided the Cowboys front office, coaching staff, and their roster, to get them in position for the playoffs!  The Jets must win as well, but that won’t guarantee anything, as they need some help (Patriots OR Ravens need to lose).  I like the Jets to win this game, but it will be close.  New York Jets 24, Miami 19.  

Continue reading "Predictions Week 17"

I'm not here to rant and rave about Pennington being snubbed from the AFC Pro Bowl team.  Do I think the man deserved a spot on the squad? Absolutely. But, do I understand why he was left off the roster? Of course.  Pennington's numbers — 3,453 yards to go with 17 TDs and 7 picks — aren't quite as flashy as the stats Peyton Manning, Brett Favre and Jay Cutler have put up through the air this season, but they are certainly solid.  For the record, Manning has thrown for 3907 yards, 26 TDs and 12 picks, Favre has 3239/21/19 and Cutler has 4210/24/16 through 15 games this year. Sure, CP has more yards and 12 fewer completions to the other team than Favre, but remember, it's Brett Favre.  As long as Favre is healthy and somewhat productive, the man will be in the Pro Bowl.

Continue reading "Props for Pennington"

 

           Each week I will answer questions submitted by my loyal readers.  I personally read every single email I receive.  I will pick out the best five or so to use for the weekly post, as I won’t be able to answer all of them.  I will also answer one or two questions on my daily posts as well.  Now it’s time to open the mail!  

Continue reading "Reality Mail Bag - 12/25/08"

 

The crystal ball had a mediocre performance this past week, going a mere 2-2.  We’re not sure what happened, but we will get to the bottom of this.  The crystal ball took its lumps on the Cowboys game, but it may have been predicting with its heart rather than its fortune-telling powers?  Either way, that puts the crystal ball at 29-22-1 for the season.  That’s seven games over .500 (.563 to be exact).  Let’s take a look back, and review what happened last week.    

Continue reading "Week 16 Review"

  

           On Saturday night, the Cowboys had a golden opportunity to close out Texas Stadium in style.  This was the final game to be played at the stadium.  A Cowboys win would have been a fitting end to a stadium that has had many classic games.  A win, and the Cowboys would have been one step further in their quest for a playoff berth, and a Super Bowl run. 

Continue reading "Not Dead Yet"

 

The crystal ball, once again, had a stellar performance this past week, going undefeated at 4-0.  Truly a tremendous achievement, as many of the games had playoff implications.  That puts the crystal ball at 29-22-1 for the season.  That’s seven games over .500 (.567 to be exact).  Not many prognosticators gave the Cowboys much of a chance against the G-Men, but the crystal ball took a chance on them.  The ‘Boys rewarded the crystal ball, and pulled off the upset.  Let’s review and see what happened last week.    

Continue reading "Week 15 Review"

 

           Last night, on NBC’s prime time Sunday Night Football, the Dallas Cowboys defeated the New York Giants, 20-8.  The Cowboys desperately needed the win, as they are fighting for their playoff lives.  The Cowboys are now 9-5, but so are the Vikings, the Bucs, and the Falcons.  The Eagles and Bears aren’t that far behind either.  With the Cowboys facing the Ravens and the Eagles in their next two games, the ‘Boys needed a win…desperately. 

Continue reading "Sack-alicious"

 

           Each week I will answer questions submitted by my loyal readers.  I personally read every single email I receive.  I will pick out the best five or so to use for the weekly post, as I won’t be able to answer all of them.  I will also answer one or two questions on my daily posts as well.  Now it’s time to open the mail!  

Continue reading "Reality Mail Bag - 12/12/08"

 

           Each week, on Friday, I will look into my (never wrong, just misinformed) crystal ball and give my predictions for that weekend’s games.  I will always prognosticate on the Eagles and Cowboys games and then pick two more games of interest (to me, that is, not necessarily to you).  Keep in mind, that this is for entertainment purposes only, and that I do not endorse any sort of legal or illegal gambling.  That being said…let’s see what’s in my crystal ball!  

Continue reading "Predictions Week 14"

 

           Each week I will answer questions submitted by my loyal readers.  I personally read every single email I receive.  I will pick out the best five or so to use for the weekly post, as I wont be able to answer all of them.  I will also answer one or two questions on my daily posts as well.  Now it’s time to open the mail!  

Continue reading "Reality Mail Bag - 12/04/08"

 

The crystal ball had a stellar week by going undefeated at 4-0.  That puts the crystal ball at 23-20-1 for the season.  That’s three games over .500 (.534 to be exact).  The crystal ball has a slightly sore back this week.  You know…with all that patting itself on the back stuff!  Let’s review and see what happened last week.    

Continue reading "Week 13 Review"

 

           Each week, on Friday, I will look into my (never wrong, just misinformed) crystal ball and give my predictions for that weekend games.  I will always prognosticate on the Eagles and Cowboys games and then pick two more games of interest (to me, that is, not necessarily to you).  Keep in mind, that this is for entertainment purposes only, and that I do not endorse any sort of legal or illegal gambling.  That being said…let’s see what’s in my crystal ball!  

Continue reading "Predictions Week 13"

The crystal ball had a mediocre week, to say the least.  The crystal ball went 2-2 for the week, and is now 19-20-1 for the season.  That’s just slightly under .500 (.488 to be exact).  We need to give it props for predicting the upset of the year (in my opinion).  On the other hand, we must chastise it for the debacle in Denver.  Let’s review what happened.  

Continue reading "Week 12 Review"

e hard to believe, but the Titans could be in trouble come playoff time.

New England Patriots 48, Miami Dolphins 28

Two straight 400 yard passing games for Patriots QB Matt Cassel in key divisional contests have all but ensured he’s going to be snared in the off-season for big money. The Patriots are now at 7-4 and in the thick of the AFC Wildcard hunt. Miami’s road to the post-season has gotten significantly more difficult with the loss, putting them behind the pack at 6-5. Despite their troubles, the ceiling in Miami has increased exponentially this season. Chad Pennington looks to be a stable presence in their huddle for the foreseeable future.

Continue reading "Joey A's Final Drive: Week Twelve"

I’m just sayin’.

New England Patriots (6-4) at Miami Dolphins (6-4)

Shockingly, the Patriots are 6-4 without Tom Brady. Matt Cassel has filled in admirably and will surely cash-in this off-season. Tom Brady better be healed up for 2009, or the Patriots may have quarterback troubles. A win in this division match-up will not only keep them in the running for the division title behind New York, but for the AFC wild card slots as well.

Continue reading "Joey A's NFL Week Twelve Preview"

 

           Each week I will answer questions submitted by my loyal readers.  I personally read every single email I receive.  I will pick out the best five or so to use for the weekly post, as I wont be able to answer all of them.  I will also answer one or two questions on my daily posts as well.  Now it’s time to open the mail!  

Continue reading "Reality Mail Bag - 11/20/08"

 

           Just this past Sunday (November 16th), something occurred in the NFL during a post-game news conference that has left me dumbfounded.  The Eagles and Bengals played to a 13-13 tie.  Usually that would be news in of itself, since ties are very rare in the NFL.  In fact, the last tie came in 2002.  The last time an Eagles game ended in a tie was, coincidentally, on November 16, 1997 against the Baltimore Ravens.  But what’s got my panties all up in a bunch is what Donovan McNabb had to say after the game.  

Continue reading "No Respect For The Game"

 

The crystal ball was a little off this past week, going 2-2.  That now puts me at 16-16 for the season, right at the .500 mark.  Not exactly great, but we will take it, especially since we didn’t get off to a great start.  We even had to have a changing of the guard a few weeks back, but this crystal ball knows that it could be next if it falters!  Let’s take a look back and see what happened this past weekend.  

Continue reading "Week 10 Review"

 

           Last night, on Sunday Night Football, the Philadelphia Eagles wasted a golden opportunity.  The Birds lost to the New York Giants 36-31, at home.  Lincoln Financial Field (The Linc) was as loud as ever.  The Philly faithful were out in full force, only to be let down, once again, by the Eagles.  Many fans are fed up and frustrated with the team.  

Continue reading "Same-old, Same-old"

e played good at home.

Winners - Houston Texans

2) Seattle Seahawks @ Miami Dolphins

When the Seahawks fly across country, they lose.

Winners -

Continue reading "NFL Week 10 Predictions"

The Dolphin Pod is the ultimate fan site for the serious fan, written by a true fan.  Do you know all of
Dan Marino’s records by heart?  Are you not liking Brett Farve so much for

Continue reading "MyTeamRivals - The Dolphin Pod"

Senator John McCain & Governor Sarah Palin spoke yesterday (Monday) at a Rally in Virginia. One quote of special interest,"We have them right where we want them," Senator John McCain stated to a large Military-based crowd. This message sounds quite a bit like what Quarterback Matt Schaub (Houston Texans) rallied his team, down 14-3, Sunday at HOME against the Dolphins. Schaub faced chants of "SAGE, SAGE" (his BACK-UP QB) in the huddles by the home crowd.

Continue reading "Matt Schaub and John McCain?"

Or maybe not, who can really tell what Gruden thinks when it comes to his quarterbacks?

Miami Dolphins (2-2) at Houston Texans (0-4)

After two tough wins against the Patriots and Chargers, the

Continue reading "Joey A's NFL Week Six Preview"

Green Bay could be in trouble, and it has nothing to do with missing Brett Favre.

Miami Dolphins 17, San Diego Chargers 10

The team that won one game all of last season has beaten both participants of the last AFC Championship. Miami’s turnaround under Tony Sparano is another great example of parity in the NFL. They won’t win the AFC East, but they’ll hover around .500 for a bulk of the season in my eyes. Their “single wing” offense is successful for another week as Ronnie Brown seems to baffle defenses when he goes under center. Chad Pennington simply plays efficient football, which is exactly what this team needs to have success. San Diego continued its annual “start slow and scare the pundits who picked us to go to the Super Bowl” tradition by dropping to 2-3 behind their division rival Broncos who lead at 4-1. LaDainian Tomlinson has been slowed by an injured toe and horrible offensive line play. Back-up Darren Sproles is making a name for himself, becoming the next L.T. backup to eventually leave for a starting job somewhere else. San Diego needs to rebound like they did last year, or it’ll be another season of disappointment for Charger faithful.

Continue reading "Joey A's Final Drive: Week 5"

It was an interesting week in the National Football League. A few surprises, a big meltdown by one team and one bruised and battered team found a way to win a big prime-time game. Let's get right to it--game by game.

Continue reading "NFL Week 5 Fallout"

First off, I want to introduce myself. My name is Jake, I live in Houston. I'm glad I found this place. I've read a lot of bloggers material today from predictions to their favorite teams' rants, it's great. I enjoyed it. Sports, baby sports!

Continue reading "NFL Week 5 Predictions"

1-15. The worst team in the league last season. The Miami Dolphins are looking to get back to relevance and what a chore that is for them competing in the same division with Tom Brady and the Patriots and also having Ladainian Tomlinson and the Chargers on their schedule. The Dolphins are going to have to dig deep and put in the work that is needed to make any sort of impact this season. However, perhaps the point of this season is not to make an impact. Perhaps the point of this season is just to get some wins to their record and rebuild a franchise that was once great.

Continue reading "32 Teams in 32 Days, Team #2: The Miami Dolphins"

His future was limitless. Sure, he was a bit undersized, but Oregon's Joey Harrington could throw the football. Joey Heisman had a billboard in Times Square for goodness sake.

And now, here he stands a free agent.

Continue reading "Atlanta Falcons Release Joey Harrington"

The Miami Dolphins released Zach Thomas on Thursday, ending his 12 year run with the only franchise he has ever known.  The new Miami regime made the decision, no doubt based on Thomas’ recent concussion issues.  He has not been the same spark plug middle linebacker Miami fans knew and grew to admire since 2006, and unfortunately, it was time. 

Continue reading "End of an Era: Zach Thomas Released"

Cincinnati and Miami being what they are, and the talent pool at Parcell’s disposal, the 2007 Miami Dolphins couldn’t have picked a better year to be the worst team in football.   

Continue reading "Plenty of Options for Parcells; Miami"

As a Miami Dolphins fan, and I appreciate your condolences, I have mentally fast-forwarded to April, and the NFL Draft.  With Bill Parcells calling the shots, for the first time since Jimmy Johnson controlled Miami’s war rooms, I am heading into this draft with the utmost confidence.   

Continue reading "Are We There Yet?"

When Bill Parcells was hired as the guy to turn around the Miami Dolphins you knew quickly action would follow. First his statement of no thugs on this team will be something he stresses more than ever. He believes you do things a certain way and if your not going to pack your bags because I don't need you.  In his short tenure he got rid of the General Manager and just recently fired the coach after a 1-15 season. Now I can understand both firings, but in Cam Cameron's defense he inherited this group of players, so he can't be totally to blame for the situation he was put in.  What was interesting was the Dolphins signing Ricky Williams to a contract recently.

Continue reading "Bill Parcells Cleaning House In Dolphin World"

nteresting to watch and see if they can get into that elite class that is only occupied by the 1972 Miami Dolphins. They are playing the New York Giants so if they sit their starters out there is always the chance they’ll lose…we’ll see.

Continue reading "The playoffs are almost here!"

It is always so much fun to watch your team pummel their opponents (37-3)!

Miami Dolphins!

The hapless Miami Dolphins can sleep tonight! They will not go winless this season as they managed to stave off the Baltimore Ravens in overtime. When Matt Stover’s 44-yard field goal attempt was no good, the Dolphins answered with their longest drive this season! Yeah Dolphins!

Continue reading "A streak-breaking day for Florida NFL teams!"