The Genius Behind the Scenes in Miami: Dolphins' Playbook Review 101

ADD STRENGTH TO COVER TWO AND COVER FOUR FORMATIONS

Adding the first of two new cornerbacks this year shows that the Dolphins recognize their weakness in the secondary and are getting prepared to defend against the pass from teams like the Patriots and the Bills.

In week 12 against the Patriots, Cassel and Moss effectively exposed this weakness. It was the spread offense that overpowered the Dolphins and you can bet the pencils were flying up in the coaching box on this one.

Paired with their third pick, Sean Smith as CB, the evidence is presented.

Adding strength in the Dolphins’ secondary to assist Will Allen and provide insurance in case of injury is a key defensive strategy that is required to help the Dolphins in ’09.

MORE SURPRISES IN THE SINGLE-WING FORMATION

Think the Dolphins are going to ditch the Wildcat Formation?

Think again.

The addition of Pat White to this offense is an odd choice as their third QB. That is a huge indicator that his experience as a WR will mean a new phase for the Wildcat.

Listed on the Dolphins’ roster as WR, White is going to likely create a huge problem for defenses—since Ronnie Brown last year only posed part of that threat.

White will line up in the WR position or the QB position, and that is going to add to the guessing game and give them the muscle that they need to progress this system into the next season.

Whereas Ronnie Brown’s arm was at most lucky to complete the long pass, White is a dangerous element of the offensive arsenal with his QB experience.

PASSING AND SHOTGUN FORMATION

Rumor has it that Henne’s presence will motivate Pennington. If the Dolphins are struggling in the beginning of the season, Chad will most likely be brought in on plays to gain a lot of yardage deep.

He is going to spend some time throwing deep to Ginn Jr. for sure.

What is apparent is that Tony Sparano has faith in Ted Ginn, Jr.

In Ginn’s third season with the Dolphins, it is certain to be his best thus far.

IMPROVED UTILIZATION OF THE BASE FORMATION

To balance out the additions to the defense, Jake Grove is going to open up the lane to allow for some running room and add strength on the ground. The Dolphins lacked this force last year, which gave way to the introduction of the single-wing offense.

Grove is another hungry player—coming from five seasons with the Raiders.

It is the entire team of players and coaches who are creating a fresh look for the Dolphins.

The group is comprised of recently added coaches who have spent significant time in the NFL. Last year was a huge indicator of the combined talent that contributed to the success of this team.

The Miami Dolphins are rebuilding.

Expect to see this team succeed in the next 2 years with a successful trip to the AFC title game.