Here is a look at whose stock is rising in Miami:
Rising
Moreno
1. Knowshon Moreno, running back: Moreno is paying early dividends as a key free-agent signing for Miami. He rushed for 134 yards and a touchdown in Miami's win. Moreno didn't start the game. But his physical style set a tone for the offense once Moreno got in rhythm. As I mentioned recently, if Moreno isn't starting next week, something isn't right. Moreno has proven he should get a bulk of the carries over
Lamar Miller, who is better in a backup role.
2. Bill Lazor, offensive coordinator: Lazor did not have an easy assignment in his first NFL game as a coordinator. His job was to outsmart Bill Belichick and New England's defense, while also keeping future Hall of Fame quarterback
Tom Brady off the field. Lazor did just that in his debut and racked up 33 points against New England. His run-pass balance proved to be too much for the Patriots. The Dolphins only scored more than 30 points once all last season. Lazor aced his first test.
Wake
3. Cameron Wake, defensive end: Miami's Pro Bowl defensive end came up with two huge sacks against Brady that also caused fumbles. Wake, 32, continues to thrive and appears to be headed to another double-digit sack season if he stays healthy. Miami's defensive line in general played well and dominated New England's offense line. Wake often creates mismatches against opposing right tackles.
4. Dolphins' offensive line: Few knew what to expect from Miami's rebuilt offensive line that boasted five new starters. But the Dolphins dominated the Patriots in the trenches, rushing for 191 yards. Dolphins starting quarterback
Ryan Tannehill was hit several times but only sacked once. Miami's offensive line is expected to get better soon when Pro Bowl center
Mike Pouncey returns from hip surgery. But so far, this group put together a winning performance.
5. AFC East division: We are making a special exception in this week's Dolphins Stock Watch. The AFC East deserves kudos for a fast start in Week 1. The Dolphins,
Buffalo Bills and
New York Jets all picked up victories. It's also safe to assume the Patriots aren't going anywhere. The division has been criticized in recent years -- and rightfully so -- for not being competitive. Early signs point to the AFC East being a much tougher division in 2014.
