Dolphins must build around Tua Tagovailoa to prove he was right choice
The Miami Dolphins had a chance to draft two quarterbacks. In 2021, they’ll need to rebuild the offense to prove Tua Tagovailoa is their man.
Brian Flores has never been afraid of flipping the script. He’s done it twice since rookie Tua Tagovailoa was given the starting nod.
One time it ended in a loss to the Denver Broncos. The next occurrence, Ryan Fitzpatrick showed the magic was far from dead in Las Vegas.
But Flores couldn’t use that option as the third quarter began on Sunday. Fitzpatrick was ruled out after testing positive for COVID-19 and the Dolphins were going to see if Tagovailoa truly is their man.
Despite a horrifying 56-26 loss, the answer remains unknown.
I believe Tua will be fine over time. Today and last week, just didn’t seem to have to bounce that he had a few weeks ago. This is a tough patch that he has to confront and work through. I believe he will. I won’t make a snap judgment. Josh Allen is a perfect example of patience
— Steve Wyche (@wyche89) January 3, 2021
The Dolphins need to win the draft and free agency for Tua’s sake
Adjusting to the NFL takes time. On Sunday, Miami started four rookies on offense, including a quarterback still recovering from a serious hip injury at Alabama. During the season, there were moments three first-year linemen were in charge of protecting the future of the franchise.
Tagovailoa twice missed tight end Mike Gesicki in the end zone by sailing it over the top. He missed Devante Parker for six by throwing too late. And as for the interception? While Parker shouldn’t have been on the ground, the ball was behind his No. 1 receiver.
https://twitter.com/BuffaloBills/status/1345824452530081793
All those faults on Tagovailoa are true.
Yet, what about the dropped pass in the third quarter from Isaiah Ford that would have gone for 18? Where was the run game once more? Where is Lynn Bowden Jr. at fault for going backward in the red zone and seeing a drive end with a Jason Sanders kick?
All those faults on the Dolphins are correct as well.
Miami will be picking inside the top-five come April thanks to the Texans. General manager Chris Grier must decide if he will protect his quarterback or find him weapons downfield. Perhaps reconnecting Tagovailoa with Alabama sensation DeVonta Smith will transcend that Tuscaloosa magic in the AFC East.
It doesn’t stop there. With some money to spend, the Dolphins win in free agency. Last season, they focused in defense and look at the turn around. The only team with a turnover in every game for 2020? Seems like money well spent.
https://twitter.com/SportsCenter/status/1345150897437872128
Miami’s sensational season should still be admired. A 10-win year is tough alone but a rookie quarterback and this arsenal? Consider that a victory itself. Now, it’s about building for the future.
Even the best quarterbacks have a quality supporting cast. For the Dolphins to prove they didn’t miss on their guy, it’s time to truly build around him for the long haul.
dark. Next. The Colts should be thanking the Bills for their potential postseason berth