Deconstructing the reasons why Miami wins close games

[hugoguzman]

http://www.realfootball365.com/articles/dolphins/13413

On Sunday, the Miami Dolphins won their ninth game of the season. That’s news enough in and of itself, considering last year’s 1-15 debacle. However, what’s perhaps more impressive is Miami’s ability to consistently win close-fought games. The Dolphins are 4-1 in games that have been decided by five points or fewer, with their lone loss coming courtesy of a last-second collapse against the Houston Texans. Moreover, Miami has iced victories on key fourth-quarter drives against the Chargers, Bills, Broncos, Seahawks, Raiders, Rams and 49ers.

Give it a quick read and let me know what you think. Thanks!

 

[Dolphin Junky]

Thanks Hugo, I think with out CP we maybe win 4 games. Maybe this defense is better than I thought. This is what a real football team looks like.

 

[Namor]

Turnover margin.

 

[Caliphinfan23]

Definitely a lack of mistakes (i.e. turnovers) and defense. They bend but don't break. Also, Ronnie closing things out.

I know every Dolfan was beside themselves as to why Ronnie didn't get any carries throughout the game. He almost seemed like he wanted to throw a fit at times (myself included) when the take him out on 3rd and short. He was so damn mad that when they finally gave him the ball late in the fourth, he ran with a mean streak. He punished their D late and, for the most part, closed it out.

 

[Avigatorx]

Good article:)

I really think this part sums it up though:

Another key facet of Miami’s play is its ability to avoid costly turnovers. With just two regular-season games left to play, Miami is in position to break the NFL record for fewest turnovers in a season. The record, set by the 1990 Giants, is 14. The Dolphins have committed just 10

Think back to the NE game, which was a close game in the 4th quarter (31-28). NE had just scored to put them up 10, however we had been moving the ball very well on them all day.

Chad threw a pick and the game really went downhill from there.

I'm not saying we would have won that but-for the T/O (considering our D was getting worked all day long), but the finish would have been alot closer.