Mike McDaniel, the head coach of the Miami Dolphins, intends to rest his starters for the preseason contest against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field.
It was at least two days prior to the game. However, McDaniel acknowledged that there is a possibility that some of this could be altered for the 1 p.m. game on August 16. However, it is unlikely that quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, receivers Jaylen Waddle and Tyreek Hill (who is currently out with an oblique injury), and the majority of the other first-team players will be able to compete against the Lions.
The Lions, one of the league’s premier teams, particularly in terms of offensive capabilities, dominated the two-day joint practices that preceded the teams’ meeting. On the second day, the Dolphins demonstrated some offensive energy. The Dolphins defense was largely defeated by Detroit, which was headed by quarterback Jared Goff, on both occasions.
Bradley Chubb, a linebacker for the Miami Dolphins, stated, “There are learning pains and growing pains in everything.” “However, we are currently driven by processes rather than products.” I believe that everything is occurring for a reason. Men are experiencing the emotions that are expected of them, and we will be in the appropriate position for the season.
When the Dolphins play the Lions in their second preseason game, there are four key factors to observe:
Zach Wilson must demonstrate more in his capacity as Tua Tagovailoa’s reserve.
The backup quarterbacks are responsible for this contest, as is the case with the majority of the preseason games. This implies that Zach Wilson must begin to project a sense of assurance as the individual who can assume responsibility in the event of an emergency. In the preseason opener against Chicago, Wilson was sacked four times. He was inconsistent during the joint practices with Detroit, hurling two interceptions on the first day, but he improved during the second practice. Quinn Ewers, a rookie, had a challenging NFL début in Chicago, resulting in two sacks and a fumble. However, his circumstances were not favorable. Both require additional demonstration.
Resolving the backup running back predicament
Alexander Mattison’s season-ending neck surgery was a significant setback. Mattison was obtained to assist Miami in addressing its short-yardage deficiencies. The Dolphins are currently in need of a replacement for Mattison and are in the process of determining the backup to De’Von Achane. Although Jaylen Wright is the superior reserve, rookie Ollie Gordon II may be the superior choice for short yardage.
Secondary deficiencies persist as a significant issue.
The Dolphins’ secondary is entirely unknown, with the exception of safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. In a league that emphasizes passing, this is not a desirable outcome, regardless of the quality of the front seven. The cornerbacks, who all had a difficult week during joint practices against Detroit, and safety Ifeatu Melifonwu, the former Lion who will receive ample repetitions due to Ashtyn Davis’s injury, should be observed.
Wide receiver depth behind Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle
This game will not feature Hill and Waddle in their uniforms; however, a variety of other receivers who are competing for the No. 3 position and seeking to provide depth will receive an abundance of repetitions. Nick Westbrook-Ikhine appears to be the frontrunner for the position of third receiver; however, several other players, such as Dee Eskridge, Tahj Washington, Malik Washington, and Erik Ezukanma, demonstrated their potential during practice against the Lions.
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