Dec
21
Quarterback – C-
This wasn’t all Ryan Tannehill’s fault, but it’s not like he was superb out there.
Tannehill had his share of garbage time stats, completing 20 of 34 passes for 216 yards while running for a touchdown.
He also didn’t turn the ball over and was sacked only three times despite the mess of an offensive line protecting him.
Despite all of that, and a super-vanilla game plan, I can’t say Tannehill was very good. His throws were kept short, and when they weren’t, they were well off-target. He did net two big completions to DeVante Parker; however, those completions came due to Parker’s skill.
Running Backs – D
Considering that the Chargers were atrocious against the run coming into the game, you’d expect better than 2.3 yards per carry.
That’s what Miami’s running backs did. Kudos to Jay Ajayi for his first NFL touchdown (and a good day for him considering the small number of carries as he averaged 4.5 yards per carry on six carries), but Lamar Miller disappointed with his nine carries, gaining only 12 yards.
Wide Receivers – C
Parker was excellent, save for a drop early in the game, with four catches for 87 yards. Jarvis Landry was again the focal point of the offense thanks to eight catches, but he gained only 54 yards.
Tight Ends – F
The most wasteful position on the Dolphins continues to be a waste of time, thanks to Dion Sims and Jordan Cameron combining for two catches and 14 yards. Neither was targeted more than once, and their blocking, while needed greatly, was lacking.
Offensive Line – F
In fairness to Miami’s offensive line, it tried.
The line didn’t do well, especially after losing its starting left tackle and starting center, but the linemen tried their best.
It was just an abject failure.
Blame the front office for this, as it’s been known that depth was needed along the offensive line, and they have put plenty of resources (draft picks, free-agent money) into the line. Despite that, the team’s still failed to build and nurture it.
Defensive Line – F
The Chargers run game had been non-existent this season, but leave it to the Dolphins defense to kick it into gear.
Chargers running backs ran for 140 yards against Miami, while Philip Rivers was only sacked once. The Dolphins defensive line wasn’t very active on Sunday, with the thoughts of “quit” written on their faces.
Linebackers – F
The Chargers knew they were going up against a very bad Dolphins linebacking crew and took advantage by utilizing Danny Woodhead to terrorize Kelvin Sheppard.
Defensive Backs – F
Miami’s defensive backs were responsible for two of the best plays of the afternoon; unfortunately one of those best plays turned into one of the worst.
Other than that, it was not a good performance, with Philip Rivers picking on Bobby McCain (and winning), while San Diego receivers had their way all over the field.
Special Teams – B
At least Matt Darr punted the ball well, while Andrew Franks kicked the ball off well and made his extra points.
Punt coverage was very good too. Overall it was a good game for Miami’s special teams.
Coaching – F
I know this coaching staff has little to no experience, but at times they coach like they have “little to know” experience.
The play-calling was extremely vanilla, as you could set your watch to what plays the defense would do based off how they lined up, while the offense’s idea of a rhythm is calling the same plays on first, second and third down every play.
Atrocious effort all around.
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