Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa revealed that he experienced issues with finding receiver Jaylen Waddle downfield during the team’s 31-6 loss to the Cleveland Browns on Sunday.
“Some of it has to do with being able to see guys,” Tagovailoa told reporters Wednesday. “With their guys also up front and our guys, and I’m not the tallest guy in the back there either. So being able to see and sometimes when that happens you don’t want to just throw it blindly.”
Tagovailoa only targeted Waddle three times during the blowout loss, with the pair connecting for just one 15-yard reception.
The 6’1″ passer didn’t have much success targeting anyone, finishing 12-of-23 for 100 yards and three interceptions. He recorded a mere 4.3 yards per attempt, tied for his lowest average of the season.
It’s worth noting that rain and windy conditions likely impacted the offensive approach for both teams during Sunday’s clash, but Waddle’s lack of involvement in Miami’s offense was still surprising.
Tagovailoa’s issues seeing the field over lineman haven’t prevented him from finding Waddle in the past, as he was targeted 17 times over the Dolphins’ prior two games. He hauled in 12 receptions for 205 yards and one touchdown over that span.
On the season, Waddle has caught 30 passes for 405 yards and three scores. His role in Miami’s passing attack should continue to expand after Tyreek Hill suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 5.
That wasn’t the case on Sunday, though.
Tagovailoa has struggled mightily this year, playing a large role in the Dolphins’ 1-6 start. He’s completed 67.8 percent of his throws, averaging just 187.6 pass yards per game.
While Tagovailoa has tossed 11 touchdowns, his 10 interceptions are tied for the most among all quarterbacks.
He’ll look to get his connection with Waddle back on track during a Week 8 matchup with an Atlanta Falcons squad that owns the NFL’s No. 1Â pass defense.