5 reasons the Dolphins can’t lose Ryan Tannehill

DAVIE, FL - MAY 25: Ryan Tannehill
DAVIE, FL - MAY 25: Ryan Tannehill /
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MIAMI GARDENS, FL – DECEMBER 11: Carson Palmer
MIAMI GARDENS, FL – DECEMBER 11: Carson Palmer /

3 – Matt Moore is bad

The Dolphins’ backup quarterback is journeyman Matt Moore. Moore filled in for Tannehill for the final three games of last season and the Dolphins’ postseason loss to the Steelers.

Moore looked good in the first two games against the Jets and Bill in Dolphins’ wins.  However, he struggled against high quality defenses in New England and eventually Pittsburgh.

Moore is a capable backup for a game or two, so we don’t want to act like it is all bad. Long term, he is not the answer for an entire season in Miami. If the Tannehill injury ends his season, look for Miami to bring in some competition for Moore.

The Dolphins would also need to rely on Ajayi a lot more without Tannehill and the threats he presents. Their defense does not appear ready to shoulder the load either.

Without Tannehill the Dolphins are looking at a middle of the road team instead of the elite offense they were hoping for. A key element that Moore lacks compared to the starter is athleticism. Tannehill, being a converted WR, has some wheels and is not afraid to take off when stuff breaks down. His legs are a weapon even on rollouts where he has the option to run or throw.

Moore will need to show more in the preseason than he did in the final few games of 2016 for the Dolphins to feel confident entering the season with him at the helm.