For Dolphins, offensive success starts and ends in the trenches

By Hugo Guzman  |   Monday, June 09, 2008  |  Comments( 2 )

Miami Dolphins
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This just in from the oversimplification department: The Miami Dolphins' offense was not good in 2007.

The Dolphins struggled to generate yardage, convert first downs and put points on the board. Moreover, their offensive struggles could in most cases be attributed to a fundamental lack of production along the line. Fortunately, that foundation for failure could become a pillar of strength in 2008 and beyond.

But instead of delving into what appears to be a very talented offensive line led by proven youngsters like Vernon Carey and Justin Smiley, not to mention up-and-comers Jake Long and Samson Satele, let’s take a moment to look at the talent that surrounds the quintet and how it will be aided by improved line play.

Miami’s trio of quarterbacks, none of whom have a track record of NFL success, will benefit most from sturdy blocking. It’s unlikely that Josh McCown, John Beck or Chad Henne will ever reach the level of play of current greats like Peyton Manning or Tom Brady, but they will surely improve if they get a similar amount of time to drop back and deliver the football.

Interestingly enough, when the quarterback has time step into the pocket and throw without duress, the wide receiving corps and tight ends are the first to benefit. So regardless of who eventually assumes the starting quarterback role, guys like Ted Ginn, Ernest Wilford, and Anthony Fasano will surely benefit if Miami’s offensive line jells, even if Bill Parcells and company roll out a run-first offense as expected.

And speaking of running, there’s been a ton of hype surrounding Ricky Williams’ impressive showing in this past weekend’s minicamp, but the veteran is just one of two ultra-talented backs who will shine brightly if given a legitimate offensive line to run behind. Though Williams and Ronnie Brown harbor injury concerns, both could be in line for a big efforts in 2008.

The Dolphins have spent the last few seasons remedying the dearth of talent along the offensive front. Finally, in 2008, those efforts could be rewarded. Though nobody is expecting Miami to send many offensive skill players to Honolulu in the near term, top-flight line play could lead to Pro Bowl-caliber production at those positions and, more importantly, an exponential increase in the win column.
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About Hugo Guzman

Trying to bring an objective approach to NFL analysis.
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