The Miami Dolphins are coming off of a 2015 NFL season that simply didn’t live up to the expectations. They finished the year dead last in the AFC East division race with a 6-10 record. Adam Gase was hired as the Dolphins’ new head coach and is hoping to completely change the culture in Miami.
Looking ahead to this evening’s preseason matchup with the Dallas Cowboys, there are quite a few areas that the Dolphins must show improvement. They won their first preseason game against the New York Giants by a final score of 27-10, although there were some major question marks despite the win.
Gase and company are expecting to compete in the AFC East. They are not favored ahead of the New England Patriots, but are right on par with both the New York Jets and Buffalo Bills. There is no telling how the division will go this season.
That being said, what three things should fans keep their eye out for heading into tonight’s game against the Cowboys?
Will Ryan Tannehill Make More of an Impact in Limited Time?
Perhaps the biggest question mark for the Dolphins is starting quarterback Ryan Tannehill. He has not shown the improvement that was expected from him. Tannehill didn’t make much of an impact last week and it will be interesting to see if he makes more of an impact in limited time this week.
Can Jay Ajayi Position Himself for the Starting Job?
Miami needs Jay Ajayi to step up and prove that he is a starting caliber NFL running back. He is in his second NFL season and the pressure is on for him to produce. Ajayi likely won’t get a ton of time this week, but a few big runs would be a huge step in the right direction for him to earn the starting job.
Is Jakeem Grant as Big of a Playmaker as He Showed Last Week?
Jakeem Grant is a rookie wide receiver out of Texas Tech and caught four passes for 68 yards last week, while also racking up 53 yards on two kick returns and 60 yards on four punt returns. Those numbers show just how big of a playmaker he is capable of being. Miami needs more offensive playmakers and Grant is ready to step up and be a difference maker.
What are you looking for in tonight’s game for the Dolphins? Are they a serious threat in the AFC East division? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below!
