BAMAPHIN 22
FinHeaven Elite
The Miami Dolphins have rested their best blocker for much of training camp. They have a rookie starting at center, a newcomer at right tackle and a right guard adjusting to a new position.
So far, it shows.
The Dolphins are averaging 2.9 yards per rush through three exhibition games, and Chad Henne was sacked three times in 2½ quarters Saturday at Tampa Bay. The Buccaneers’ first-team defense spent a lot of time in Miami’s backfield, raising doubts whether the Dolphins will be able to block New England in the season opener Sept. 12.
Coach Tony Sparano said Monday there’s no cause for worry about the offensive line.
“I personally feel very comfortable right now,” he said. “This group has shown me plenty to get themselves ready to play for the season.”
The Dolphins invested a first-round draft pick in the line by taking Florida center Mike Pouncey, and while he has been left spinning a few times in exhibition games, he’s expected to start. Marc Colombo, a 10th-year pro signed this month after being released by Dallas, has struggled with pass blocking at right tackle. There have also been lapses by Vernon Carey, who is still adjusting to a recent switch from tackle to right guard.
On the left side, Pro Bowl tackle Jake Long sat out the first three weeks of camp, raising doubts he’s fully healthy after nursing knee and shoulder injuries last year.
The fifth starter, left guard Richie Incognito, conceded Tampa Bay’s stunting defense gave the offensive line trouble.
“We’ve got some big strong guys, and we definitely didn’t play up to our ability,” Incognito said. “The talent is there. It’s squarely on our shoulders to play well.”
Sparano bristled Monday while fielding several questions on the subject, and said it’s unrealistic to expect any front five would mesh at this point in the preseason.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/sport...-worry-about/2011/08/29/gIQAEyq1nJ_story.html