The Miami Dolphins defense has had a dominating preseason. Last week, the Miami Dolphins limited the Houston Texans to only three points in a 28-3 win. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio seems to have revitalized what already looked like a talented defense. What may be surprising is the depth of the defense.
The Dominating Miami Dolphins Preseason Defense
After only allowing a touchdown in their first preseason game, their win over the Texans saw them only allow a field goal. Cornerbacks Jamal Perry and Bryce Thompson led the team with four tackles each. Not to be outdone, safety Myles Dorn had two solo tackles including one for a loss. Additionally, linebacker David Long Jr. added two solo tackles including one for a loss. While they may not be household names it shows a great deal of depth, in the secondary and linebacking corps. Obviously, the hope is these players are showing that they have enough talent to contribute regularly. Conversely, it may not be enough to assure them a roster spot; time will tell.
Vic Fangio’s Influence
The Dolphins having acquired Fangio’s talent may have been the least talked about, but most important acquisition this offseason. If the Dolphins starting defense can play up to the caliber they have the potential to, and the offense can use its speed, which is its best asset, the Dolphins could show Super Bowl potential caliber for the first time in decades.
The Player That Will Have to Step Up
When Jalen Ramsey went down with an injury, Dolphins fans were in disbelief. Arguably the best corner in the NFL would be out for an extended period. Surprisingly, the Dolphins remedied the situation by signing free-agent cornerback Eli Apple. While Apple was highly touted and a first-round selection by the New York Giants in the 2016 NFL draft, Apple did not seem to lay up to his potential. After stops in New Orleans and Cincinnati, Apple’s play improved, but still has yet to reach the potential he once showed that made him a first-round draft pick. The hope is Apple is a late bloomer much like Geno Smith was last year for the Seahawks. Regardless, Apple must play up to the level he did while he was with the Bengals until Ramsey returns.
Takeaway
The Dolphins defense has demonstrated a tremendous amount of depth on the defensive side of the ball. Once again, fans will look to the secondary as an integral part of this season’s success. Eli Apple must play to at least the level he did while with the Cincinnati Bengals at minimum until Ramsey returns. If the defense can live up to the potential it has and limit teams to a few points, it will make the job a lot easier on the offense. Not allowing opponents to score points while utilizing speed to put points on the board is a recipe for success and the hope for Dolphins fans this season, is that the final product will turn out to taste as good as it smells.
Main Image: Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union / USA TODAY NETWORK
