Miami Dolphins Could Have Major Issue In This Critical Area

The Miami Dolphins were fortunate to escape their Week 1 matchup with the Jacksonville Jaguars with a victory. The Dolphins benefitted from several miscues leading to their 20-17 victory.

Running back Travis Etienne fumbled as he was just about to head into the end zone for what would have likely been a game-sealing touchdown. In response to that, Tyreek Hill scored an 80-yard touchdown on the ensuing play, changing the tide of the game.

On the following possession, Jacksonville went for it on fourth-and-one on their side of the field and did not convert. Jason Sanders missed a field goal, but the Dolphins stole momentum away in the game.

Miami took full advantage of that despite the Jaguars stifling them for the majority of the afternoon. Ultimately, it didn’t cost them as they got the most important thing, which was a win over a conference opponent.

But, the game was far from perfect for the Dolphins. There were some major takeaways for them, including a potentially damaging offensive line.

“It’s probably too early to suggest that opponents have caught up with Mike McDaniel’s offensive plan, though that may become a talking point if the offense continues to stumble. It’s not too early to say that Miami has issues along the offensive line.

The Dolphins lost center Connor Williams and guard Robert Hunt this offseason, while guard Isaiah Wynn opened the season on the PUP list. Sunday’s line, which included Liam Eichenberg and Robert Jones, was not good,” as written by Bleacher Report’s NFL staff .

The inability to win in the trenches led to what is normally a very efficient offense being stuck in the mud often. The Dolphins became one-dimensional with the running game not being a factor.

On 25 rushing attempts, the Miami Dolphins’ offense was able to muster only 81 yards. Big plays from Hill, Jaylen Waddle and running back De’Vone Achane in the passing game is what saved them on Sunday vs. the Jaguars.

While Tua Tagovailoa and the passing game will likely remain their strength, they need to find some balance. A victory is nice, but their outlook is shaky if the running game is going to struggle that much and the offensive line springs leaks.

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