Miami Dolphins Show Team Unity in Victory over Raiders

After a tumultuous week filled with a quarterback controversy that was created by the their own head coach, the Miami Dolphins responded by playing their best game of the season. The 38-14 victory against the Oakland Raiders in London ended a two-game losing streak that was plagued with poor execution and game plans.

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Satele didn't share specifically what coaches said. But it was clearly heated week between coaches/players. Plyrs wanted to prove themselves

— Andrew Abramson (@AbramsonPBP) September 28, 2014"

To claim victory against the Raiders, Miami rallied around their embattled quarterback, who had struggled through chunks of the previous three games, but was far from the only problem. The offense was able to produce 435 yards on 66 plays, for an average of 6.6 yards per play.

Quarterback Ryan Tannehill played one of his best games, extending plays with his legs and leading his receivers to open space with his passes. His 278 yards and 74 percent completion percentage was made possible by much better performances from the Dolphins’ playmakers.

Wide receiver Brian Hartline led the team with six receptions and 74 yards, which nearly matched his production from the first three weeks of the season. He entered Week 4 with just 87 yards receiving.

Tim Ireland/Associated Press

Miami also tallied 157 yards on the ground, which was crucial as the offense returned to balance. After two consecutive weeks of passing the ball 40-plus times, Miami ran the ball four more times than attempted passes. That formula is the same that led to Miami’s Week 1 victory over the New England Patriots.

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"Great win!" Stephen Ross says as he walks out. "They looked great out there."

— Andrew Abramson (@AbramsonPBP) September 28, 2014"

With the offense performing so well, Miami was able to force the Raiders to play into the Dolphins’ defensive strengths. Despite entering Week 4 without an interception, Miami forced three against the young Raiders’ quarterbacks. The talented Dolphins’ defensive line was able to force bad throws from Derek Carr and Matt McGloin.

Defensive backs Brent Grimes, Jimmy Wilson and Walt Aikens didn’t hesitate when their opportunity for an interception arrived. Cortland Finnegan even joined the turnover party when he scooped up a Raiders fumble and returned it for a 50-yard touchdown.

Lefteris Pitarakis/Associated Press

The Dolphins were able to overcome a quick touchdown by the Raiders on the opening drive by delivering a team performance. Their 38 unanswered points allowed for a comfortable fourth quarter, and showed great resiliency by the players, and a solid game plan from the coaching staff.

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#Dolphins DE Cam Wake said everything is "peaches." "Did you see any turmoil today," he responded.

— James Walker (@JamesWalkerNFL) September 28, 2014"

Despite rumors that players are unhappy with the current coaching staff, according to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald, the Dolphins’ performance on Sunday showed how talented and capable this team is. To continue building momentum after this critical win, Miami must find consistency, on and off the field.

A rare blowout for the Dolphins was a great way to start building that momentum. 

All stats used are from ESPN.com.

Ian Wharton is a Miami Dolphins Featured Columnist for Bleacher Report, contributor for Optimum Scouting, and analyst for FinDepth. 

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