Miami Dolphins\u2019 Start Has Been Worse Than I Expected<\/p>\n
In the latest podcast by Sun-Sentinel sports writers and Miami Dolphins columnists, Chris Perkins and David Furones, they asked an interesting question<\/a>.<\/p>\n The question was, \u201cAre the rebuilding Dolphins worse than expected? \u201c<\/p>\n A great question, so I\u2019ll take a crack at an answer.<\/p>\n This is my take based on a very small sample size: only two games.<\/p>\n I expected better.<\/p>\n I predicted a 4-win season, 4-13.<\/p>\n Beating the Raiders, the Jets twice, and upsetting the Bears.<\/p>\n I am already wrong on the first prediction.<\/p>\n These are my failed expectations thus far this season:<\/p>\n 1) The offensive line play is not up to par.<\/p>\n With our number one draft choice, Kayden Proctor, and Patrick Paul<\/a> commanding the left side; Aaron Brewer<\/a> in the middle; Jonah Savaiinaea<\/a> and Austin Jackson<\/a> on the right side, the line has delivered inconsistent run blocking and has been unable to protect Malik Willis<\/a>.<\/p>\n I expected a healthy Austin Jackson to finally play up to his stated potential, but he\u2019s been horrible so far and, unless his play improves significantly, will likely be released after this season.<\/p>\n 2) Absolutely no pass rush.<\/p>\n Chop Robinson<\/a> entered this year\u2019s offseason with a stronger body, more muscle mass, and very high expectations.<\/p>\n Although he\u2019s only played in one game and was in concussion protocol in game 2, Robinson was a non-factor against the Raiders.<\/p>\n As a result, our only experienced veteran defensive lineman, Zach Sieler<\/a>, is frequently double-teamed and essentially removed from the play.<\/p>\n 3) Quarterback Play<\/p>\n Although Malik Willis performed at an acceptable level in the first two games, the expectation was that he would perform at a higher level.<\/p>\n In all fairness to Willis, the offensive line has not protected him, although he is also partially to blame for holding onto the ball longer than necessary.<\/p>\n His running ability was advertised as one of his strengths, yet he has not used this skill as often as expected.<\/p>\n