Grading the Miami Dolphins: Finally, the linebackers get an ‘A’

[DKphin]

Defensive line: B+
For most defensive lines, two sacks, three tackles for losses and four quarterback hits would warrant an indisputable “A” grade. But the Dolphins’ front four is one of the best in the NFL, and the first half was just average for them as they failed to put much pressure on quarterback Kyle Orton. But they rebounded after halftime and even forced Orton into an intentional-grounding penalty while throwing from the end zone, which was good for a safety.
Linebackers: A
Buffalo’s running backs and tight ends have dominated Miami’s linebackers in the past, but the Dolphins had their way Thursday. Bills starting back Fred Jackson was out because of a groin injury and Miami held the Bills to 3 rushing yards in the second half and 54 for the game. Tight end Scott Chandler didn’t have a catch on three targets.
Defensive backs: B
Bills receiver Sammy Watkins picked apart the Dolphins in Week 2, but cornerback Brent Grimes held him in check this time with three receptions for 32 yards on seven targets. The Dolphins were without starter Cortland Finnegan, so second-year corner Jamar Taylor made his first NFL start. Although Taylor led the team with seven tackles, Buffalo wideout Chris Hogan was open a lot. Hogan — known as “7-Eleven” while in Dolphins camp a couple of years ago because he “always open” — had a career-high seven receptions for 74 yards.

Read More: http://www.palmbeachpost.com/news/s...miami-dolphins-finally-the-linebackers/nh654/

 

[nando03]

DK, I could be wrong and I know you didn't write this article, but Taylor wasn't the only culprit behind Hogan doing so well. If I recall correctly Hogan lined up in the slot many times and I believe that's where he did the most of his damage. I can't see how the blame for Hogan doing so well is put squarely on the shoulders of Taylor. I thought Taylor had a fine game with a couple of really good plays thrown in. Especially that tackle for a loss, which was textbook.

 

[Etuoo33]

Hogan was matched up on Jimmy "Toast" Wilson for most of his catches, I thought Taylor played well and needs to see the field more to get some reps in game situations.

 

[Austin Tatious]

On one of the Bills 3rd and short plays in the first half, Jenkins hit the wrong hole and Jared Odrick turned around and blasted him. He's had a hell of a year, though, and has had one of the most surprising rises from a Dolphin player in awhile. He's a tackling machine and really good in coverage.

And you gotta love Odrick. He's a must re-sign. Talk about an under appreciated player in the media.

 

[Danny]

Defense played much better in the 2nd half. They didn't play well in the first half. We're gonna need a complete game at Denver though.

 

[cash]

On one of the Bills 3rd and short plays in the first half, Jenkins hit the wrong hole and Jared Odrick turned around and blasted him. He's had a hell of a year, though, and has had one of the most surprising rises from a Dolphin player in awhile. He's a tackling machine and really good in coverage.

And you gotta love Odrick. He's a must re-sign. Talk about an under appreciated player in the media.

Good eye, I saw that too. I'm so proud of this defense not giving up any touchdowns AGAIN.... This is Ireland's defense he really did us well when you look at it.