Visit www.yourmiamidolphins.webs.com for more Dolphins news and merchandise
Well, there is a mix of youth and veterans on the defensive front for the Miami Dolphins. I hope everyone still remembers that guy...Jason Taylor. He was the cornerstone for the franchise until he was traded last year by the trifecta. In comes two new defensive end rookies of Phillip Merling and Kendall Langford. Merling was a second round pick and a projected first rounder. Bill Parcells wants big bodies up front he got that with these two guys. Vonnie Holliday has stuck around from the previous regime, but Jason Ferguson comes in from the Dallas Cowboys. He played with Parcells when he was the coach with Dallas. Ferguson is the biggest body of front to solidify the run in the 3-4 defense. I wouldn't be suprised if a defensive tackle is taken in the first round as Jason is aging reaching his mid 30s as is Vonnie Holliday. Parcells likes to start up front in the trenches. If by some odd draft that BJ Raji from Boston College falls to #25, look for the Dolphins to pick him up. I doubt he will fall that far, but would trading up be worth it? A defensive tackle to hold up on the 3-4 defense will be a priority pretty soon. Don't forget, Ferguson was injured at one time this year.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Parcells and Co.
Bill Parcells and his staff had built a team that went from 1-15 to 11-5 the following year. Fans and sports pundits thought he could turn the team around, but not to 11-5 regular season record and with a playoff appearance. What’s to come? A new owner is in, but as of now, Parcells still has authority to say where this team will go. You can say he knows success and knows how to build upon it. It sounds like he is sticking around at least another year even with the new owner (Ross) in town. Another year with Parcells should at least solidify a promising future for the Dolphins. I believe he has a strong say in how the draft goes and free agency. He wants real football players and so do the Dolphins. He looks for players with a good grasp of the fundamentals in the game. That had led to the success of this season. He knows how to pick players that play well together. Role players are what I like to call them.
Dolphin's Success
Visit www.yourmiamidolphins.webs.com for more Dolphins news and merchandise.
I believe the schedule played a little easy this season to help the Dolphins go 11-5. You can only play the teams that are put in front of you. The NFL has a lot of paridoy with the salary cap. Some teams could be good one year and bad the next. Next season won't be too favorable with the likes of Pittsburgh on the schedule. But who knows, the Steelers could be a team that others want to play next year. Below are comments Tony Sparano said about the success of Miami.
Tony Sparano said,
It's not something I've sat there and really thought about," Sparano said. "I know we need some pieces to continue to get better and I think that was the plan when we came here. We knew we weren't going to solve everything in year one. We were fortunate to have a little bit of success but we will have a tougher road this yearwhen you look at the schedule.
"That's hard to tell because every year, I don't think people expected some of the teams we played this year not to be ... When you look at this whole thing down the road, I don't know where this whole thing will take us. It's our job to make the sure the team is better and is as well prepared as we can we get out there."
I believe the schedule played a little easy this season to help the Dolphins go 11-5. You can only play the teams that are put in front of you. The NFL has a lot of paridoy with the salary cap. Some teams could be good one year and bad the next. Next season won't be too favorable with the likes of Pittsburgh on the schedule. But who knows, the Steelers could be a team that others want to play next year. Below are comments Tony Sparano said about the success of Miami.
Tony Sparano said,
It's not something I've sat there and really thought about," Sparano said. "I know we need some pieces to continue to get better and I think that was the plan when we came here. We knew we weren't going to solve everything in year one. We were fortunate to have a little bit of success but we will have a tougher road this yearwhen you look at the schedule.
"That's hard to tell because every year, I don't think people expected some of the teams we played this year not to be ... When you look at this whole thing down the road, I don't know where this whole thing will take us. It's our job to make the sure the team is better and is as well prepared as we can we get out there."
NFL Overtime Change?
Roger Goodell (commissioner of the NFL)has said,
"Historically about 30 percent of the games in overtime are decided with the team who wins the coin flip scoring on the first possession,'' Goodell said. "That number has risen to about 47 percent. That's significant, and I think it's something our [rules] committee has to look at. When you couple that with the fact that our field goal kickers are much more accurate than they have been in the past that is a danger.''
I'm not a fan of change, but an overtime rule like the college ranks would only seem fair. I was OK with a coin toss, but now that I think about it, it's truly not up to the teams that win. It's actually luck. A team's offense may never step foot on the field. I think an overtime like college football would bring more excitment in that each team has a chance to score and match the other.
"Historically about 30 percent of the games in overtime are decided with the team who wins the coin flip scoring on the first possession,'' Goodell said. "That number has risen to about 47 percent. That's significant, and I think it's something our [rules] committee has to look at. When you couple that with the fact that our field goal kickers are much more accurate than they have been in the past that is a danger.''
I'm not a fan of change, but an overtime rule like the college ranks would only seem fair. I was OK with a coin toss, but now that I think about it, it's truly not up to the teams that win. It's actually luck. A team's offense may never step foot on the field. I think an overtime like college football would bring more excitment in that each team has a chance to score and match the other.
Re-Signing Carey
According to a source in the Sun-Sentinel,
Harvey Fialkov | South Florida Sun-Sentinel
Tampa - A source told the Sun Sentinel that the Dolphins are definitely interested in re-signing free-agent tackle Vernon Carey. Free agency doesn't start until Feb. 27, so negotiations will probably heat up during the week of the NFL Scouting Combine (Feb. 24).
Carey, along with left guard Justin Smiley, were the most experienced players on a young offensive line that took a bad hit when promising rookie Donald Thomas was lost for the season in the first regular-season game.
"The Dolphins want Carey back and they will continue to bolster their offensive line," the source said.
The same probably can't be said for free-agent linebacker Channing Crowder, who was lowballed by the team's first offer.
I say Carey needs to be resigned. He is still young and the offensive line needs to stay cohesive for once. It seems like every year, the OL is re-furnished. Gelling is part of success with the offensive line. He is still a good runblocker and pass protection I think will only get better.
Harvey Fialkov | South Florida Sun-Sentinel
Tampa - A source told the Sun Sentinel that the Dolphins are definitely interested in re-signing free-agent tackle Vernon Carey. Free agency doesn't start until Feb. 27, so negotiations will probably heat up during the week of the NFL Scouting Combine (Feb. 24).
Carey, along with left guard Justin Smiley, were the most experienced players on a young offensive line that took a bad hit when promising rookie Donald Thomas was lost for the season in the first regular-season game.
"The Dolphins want Carey back and they will continue to bolster their offensive line," the source said.
The same probably can't be said for free-agent linebacker Channing Crowder, who was lowballed by the team's first offer.
I say Carey needs to be resigned. He is still young and the offensive line needs to stay cohesive for once. It seems like every year, the OL is re-furnished. Gelling is part of success with the offensive line. He is still a good runblocker and pass protection I think will only get better.
Tony Sparano's Future
If the Dolphins have a good record with a playoff birth in 2009, look for Tony Sparano to be a mainstay in Miami, just as Bill Cowher was in Pittsburgh. He was a Parcells guy from the beginning. In one of my earlier posts, I will admit I wanted someone with experience. Brian Billick was actually on the top of my list. Sparano has never had head coaching experience in the NFL, but he was an assistant head coach with the Cowboys. You can say he has seen what it takes. Sparano is a football minded guy. He sticks to the fundamentals. You noticed injuries were not an abundance this year compared to last season with Cam Cameron. Preparation is a huge part of playing the game. Sparano knew what it took and he brought in coordinators assist with his logic and carry a new culture. Sparano brings a certain kind of toughness to the team. It was a bend, but don't break defense this year. Unlike last year and years before, the Dolphins found ways to lose close games instead of winning them.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Dolphins OL
Remember the days when fans and reporters were very skeptical about Miami's offensive line? It felt like a was weak link that past four years, even when Vernon Carey was drafted as a first round pick. If only Culpepper had a line that protected him..remember those days? I believe those days are gone. The pick of Jake Long should be a sign to fans and the franchise that a great offensive line is a major part of team success. Long played well as rookie allowing two sacks and is heading to the Pro bowl as an alternate. an article in the Sun-Sentinel had said the re-signing Carey is part the Trifecta's plan. Justin Smiley played well until his injury. I think we would all like to see what Donald Thomas can do. If he lives up to starter material, this OL can be a big threat to opponents. Look for the run game out of the base offense to open up in 2009. Ireland and Sparano will still be looking at OL in the draft and free agency. 2009 will be a good measuring point to see what this line will be for years to come if healthy.
For more Miami Dolphins news and merchandise, visit www.yourmiamidolphins.webs.com
For more Miami Dolphins news and merchandise, visit www.yourmiamidolphins.webs.com
Monday, January 26, 2009
Dolphins' QBs
Pennington, Henne, and Beck. Well, I can say that's a lot better than and Injured Trent Green, Lemon, and Beck. Pennington needs to start next year, and it sounds like Sparano is on top of doing that. This will probably be the first time in which fans will know who is starting by training camp, since the Jay Fiedler days and that's not saying much. Pennington was on a two year contract, and Miami should let him ride out his contract as the starter for 2009, even if Henne looks sharper in camp than last year. Even with an 11-5 record, the team is still finding an identity. Chad Henne needs to take over when the team is starting to set in with players that will be around him for a long time (2008 and 2009 draft)....
visit www.yourmiamidolphins.web.com for your dolphin news.
visit www.yourmiamidolphins.web.com for your dolphin news.
Dolphin's DBs
Goodman, Bell, and Hill are all free agents. Who does Miami resign? if any? You can make a case for resigning Yeramiah Bell and Andre Goodman, but I think Renaldo Hill can be replaced. In the previous posts, I have noted that Miami should keep getting younger. Both Goodman and Bell in their 30s. I think Jason Allen needs to be on the field. I see him holding his own everytime he's in. Yes, he has made coverage mistakes, but as a #1 pick, I think full time play will get him better and better. He was too big of an investment to have him just playing special teams. If Nnamdi Asomugha is available, i think he is a must in signing first....
Miami's LB Situation
Channing Crowder out? Who will come in? Joey Porter isn't getting any younger at 32 for the next season. I want to see the Dolphins get younger at every position. Cameron Wake just signed and could become a replacement in the future for Porter. Roth is still young. Akin Ayodele is going to hit 30 shortly, but young enough to stay a Dolphin for years to come. I would be OK with the resigning of Crowder, but breaking the bank should not happen for him. If he isn't resigned, look for Miami to pick a LB with one of their two first draft picks. Cushing from USC is an intriguing player if he falls to #25.....
Dolphin's Receiving Corps
Before the season started, I wasn't impressed with the core receivers. I was happy with the Wilford signing, because I knew a big receiver was needed. Obviously that didn't mount to anything, but a wasted $6 mil. A #1 type receiver is still needed, even though Ginn was picked to be that guy. I think he will be a #2 at best. Bess who suprised everyone, I believe will be a very good slot receiver. Camarillo is that steady guy who won't put up dazzling numbers, but could be a go-to guy like Ricky Prohel was. He signed an extension, so he will be around for a while. I honestly don't think a receiver is top priority this draft or free agency, unless a player like Anqaun Boldin is availble for maybe a second round pick....
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Miami Dolphins in Free Agency
The Miami Dolphins should be active during free agency, since I haven't seen them 20+ million under the cap in a long time. It seems Otogwe (DB) from St. Louis will be tagged or resigned. If Nnamdi Asomugha from the Oakland Raiders hits the market, I believe he priority one to sign with a lucritive contract. He's 27, so he is fairly young. When Oakland played Denver on primetime early in the season, the commentators were commenting how balls weren't being thrown his way. That is a sign of a "shutdown" corner. Something that Miami is need of since the Surtain and Madison era. If Goodman tests free agecny, then a DB is a must. Will Allen isn't getting younger at age 30. He is a good corner, but he can't match up with certain receivers that are overpowering.
Dolphins before free agency
Well, the only thing to look forward to with Miami is free agency and the draft. I look at the draft as the way to build a team. Free agency to me is about plugging holes with proven good players, and age doesn't matter as much. Eventually those players will hopefully be taken over by the draft picks after a year or two.
The Dolphins have some key players hitting the free agent market in Vernon Carey, Channing Crowder, Andre Goodman, Yermiah Bell, Renaldo Hill. Am I missing anyone? I believe Bell needs to be resigned with a 1 year contract, and Carey with a long term contract. I want to see Miami get younger, but Bell will turn 31. Otogwe will stay with the rams, Bell needs be re-signed. I say Vernon Carey needs to stay long term because he can play LT if needed, he is still young and I think he excels in the run game. Also, I don't see anybody out there besides Gross, and he'll demand Steve Hutchinson money. I think by locking up Carey, other positions can be focused on with a long term view. I believe Miami needs to dab in the FA market and the draft with a lot of defensive players due to age.
The Dolphins have some key players hitting the free agent market in Vernon Carey, Channing Crowder, Andre Goodman, Yermiah Bell, Renaldo Hill. Am I missing anyone? I believe Bell needs to be resigned with a 1 year contract, and Carey with a long term contract. I want to see Miami get younger, but Bell will turn 31. Otogwe will stay with the rams, Bell needs be re-signed. I say Vernon Carey needs to stay long term because he can play LT if needed, he is still young and I think he excels in the run game. Also, I don't see anybody out there besides Gross, and he'll demand Steve Hutchinson money. I think by locking up Carey, other positions can be focused on with a long term view. I believe Miami needs to dab in the FA market and the draft with a lot of defensive players due to age.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Dolphins in Review
I for one was excited to see the Miami Dolphins go 11-5 this year and see them make the playoffs. It was nice to be able to watch every game this season and know that each one counted. The win against the Jets made the season savoring, even if it was "one and done" in the playoffs.
The Parcells hiring meant that the Organization was going to get "football" minded and bring in a certain culture (toughness) ala Pittsburg Steelers. I liked the hiring of GM Jeff Ireland, but I wasn't sold on Sparano at first. Truthfully I was a Brian Bilick fan, because I wanted someone with NFL head coaching experience. Throughout the season, I noticed it was night and day with Cameron and Sparano (sloppy vs fundamentals).
This team was 1-15 last season, and everyone (ESPN, sports writers, fans) wrote them off this year because of that. It seems nobody understands the parody in the NFL. Remember, this was a team picked to win the Superbowl the season before the 1-15 disaster. I actually predicted a 9-7 record this year with Josh McCown as QB, then I went with a 10-6 record with Pennington as QB. It proves that with one good leader in the clubhouse and on the field a well prepared team can win on any given Sunday. Do you think they would have gone 1-15 if Trent Green stayed healthy? Just look at the Detroit Lions. I don't think they would have gone 0-16 if Kitna was QB. I fell off the 10-6 bandwagon after the Arizona game, but Sparano and the coaching staff proved to me that he is a coach that needs to stay around a long time in Miami. To me, he was the best signing this season.
I was questioning the draft with the two signings of Merling and Langford, wondering why two defensive ends in the early rounds. I was for the Jake Long signing, as a lot of others were for Chris Long. I am a fan of building an offensive line, because a good line will make the passing and rushing game better (killing two birds with one stone). Even though the rushing wasn't good out of the base offense, that may had a lot to do with injuries of Donald Thomas and Smiley later on. After seeing how the run defense played out this season, I am OK with Merling and Langford, because they can only get better. It proves that building a winning team, it starts with the trenches. To build a Superbowl team, that's where skill players come into play.
The Parcells hiring meant that the Organization was going to get "football" minded and bring in a certain culture (toughness) ala Pittsburg Steelers. I liked the hiring of GM Jeff Ireland, but I wasn't sold on Sparano at first. Truthfully I was a Brian Bilick fan, because I wanted someone with NFL head coaching experience. Throughout the season, I noticed it was night and day with Cameron and Sparano (sloppy vs fundamentals).
This team was 1-15 last season, and everyone (ESPN, sports writers, fans) wrote them off this year because of that. It seems nobody understands the parody in the NFL. Remember, this was a team picked to win the Superbowl the season before the 1-15 disaster. I actually predicted a 9-7 record this year with Josh McCown as QB, then I went with a 10-6 record with Pennington as QB. It proves that with one good leader in the clubhouse and on the field a well prepared team can win on any given Sunday. Do you think they would have gone 1-15 if Trent Green stayed healthy? Just look at the Detroit Lions. I don't think they would have gone 0-16 if Kitna was QB. I fell off the 10-6 bandwagon after the Arizona game, but Sparano and the coaching staff proved to me that he is a coach that needs to stay around a long time in Miami. To me, he was the best signing this season.
I was questioning the draft with the two signings of Merling and Langford, wondering why two defensive ends in the early rounds. I was for the Jake Long signing, as a lot of others were for Chris Long. I am a fan of building an offensive line, because a good line will make the passing and rushing game better (killing two birds with one stone). Even though the rushing wasn't good out of the base offense, that may had a lot to do with injuries of Donald Thomas and Smiley later on. After seeing how the run defense played out this season, I am OK with Merling and Langford, because they can only get better. It proves that building a winning team, it starts with the trenches. To build a Superbowl team, that's where skill players come into play.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)