The Miami Dolphins offense the past couple of years has been boring, predictable, safe, outdated and, quite frankly, smelled worse than washed-up fish on Miami Beach.
So as you evaluate the Dolphins heading into the 2011 season, don't focus so much on what they've added but rather what they've lost: offensive coordinator Dan Henning.
Henning and his reputation for being a run-centric, tight-formation offense retired as offensive coordinator, leaving behind the wrath of the fans and the carnage that was the Dolphins offense. Brian Daboll, who comes over from the Cleveland Browns, replaces Henning. At least he comes with imagination.
"I think we will take a lot more chances down the field," quarterback Chad Henne said. "The opportunities for big plays will be there."
The Dolphins finished the 2010 season ranked 30th in scoring, averaging just over 17 points per game. The passing game was a short one, with leading receivers Brandon Marshall (11.8 per catch) and Davone Bess (10.4) rarely getting down the field. Miami had four pass plays of 40 yards or more, which was among the worst in the league. For comparison sake, the Chargers led the league with 14.
That led to catcalls that Henne was "Check-down Chad." Critics said he wouldn't take the needed chances, preferring instead to play it safe. But when you're asked to throw on third-and-long all the time, or asked to make plays with just two receivers in the route in maximum-protection mode, how can a quarterback succeed?
