Samphin's keys to success week 2 vs. Buffalo

[Samphin]

Well, week 2 is upon us, and if week 1 taught us anything, we should never underestimate the backup QB. Also, if it taught the Dolphins anything, it should be to listen to this column. They chose to do the OPPOSITE of what I suggested, and lo and behold, they lost.

This week they have their home opener against the hated Buffalo Bills. Going against a bitter rival after suffering a loss on national TV can be a great thing, or it can lead to a team's early downward spiral. Let us look at the keys to pounding the Bills into submission.

1. Wha choo talkin' bout Willis?

Willis McGahee is their number one weapon. He is no longer Willis McGimpknee and he can do some damage i fleft to rumble. He is deceptively fast as he often gets the corner without looking like he is in full speed and his stiff has made many a Dolphin look foolish (including Zach Thomas). Look for Buffalo to try and get ihm off early to open up the passing game.

In order to stop him, we are going to need our linebackers to fly to the ball. We need to see not one, but two or three players swarm him so he cannot break free. Bid Daddy and Keith traylor should be able to clog the middle, but our LB's and safeties need to seal off the outside.

2. J.P. Lost Man?

After two years of being a laughing stock, J.P. looks to be finally starting to realize he plays in the NFL. He looked good during preseason and can make a busted play into a postive with his scrambling ability and strong arm. He had a QB rating of over 90 against New England.

However, he still makes a lot of mistakes. Against New England, J.P. fumbled two snaps, tripped over his own feet and got himself sacked for a safety which ultimately was the difference in the game. He also didn't have a completion over 20 yards. Miami needs to continue the trend by sending the house at him. Unlike Batch with the Steelers (which I said to not blitz cuz he would burn us, ahem), Losman looks like he can still be rattled and confused. Multiple looks on d, switching personel in and out is the key to keeping him guessing. Blitz from any and all angles and for gosh sake's line Taylor up all over the field again!

3. I'm feeling Randy today...

The Bills have a solid defense...well, they did until after week 1. Starting safety Troy Vincent is out for the year and Takeo Spikes injured himself once again. That means that Buffalo will be starting TWO rookies at the safety position and a backup at the OLB spot. Miami needs to take advantage.

To do this, I believe Randy McMichael will be the key. Randy against a safety is a mismatch in our favor and Daunte needs to exploit that. Send Randy up the seem in the middle of the field and watch what happens. Buffalo blitzes? Have Randy break the route off in the flat/middle of the field where the space is vacated and watch what happens. Randy can have a huge game if he lets himself (and he better, I have fantasy leagues to win!).

4. 1. 2. 3...DRAW!

New England left tread marks up Buffalo's back by running the ball. They had success early with draw plays and delays. The reason these work is because Buffalo is extremely fast on defense and got up field. New England recognized it and turned the tables on them. Allowing Ronnie Brown ANY type of space is deadly (and rare).

It is either that, or count on Ronnie having another day of grinding out yardage to the tune of 2.5 per and shake your heads. You have to take what the defense gives you sometimes, and this time, Buffalo should give us mucho yardso via the running game.

5. Throw it deep....DEEPER!

Daunte rarely threw it deep against the Steelers. He probably won't throw it deep much against the Bills. That is ok though. This key isn't about Daunte. It is not geared towards him and it is not meant for him. This is meant for Nick Saban.

If a play needs to be challanged, HEAVE THAT RED FLAG DEEP! Run out and suplex the ref, I don't care! Just don't let there be any reason for them not to stop the play from happening. Limp wristed red hanky throws relative to the coach will not be tolerated aight? Aight.

So thats it. PRetty simple eh? Well, it was against Pittsburgh and they didn't do it. Hopefully they learn from their mistake and turn this home opener into a BBQ. I could use a Buffalo burger about now anyway...

 

[Desides]

If a play needs to be challanged, HEAVE THAT RED FLAG DEEP!

This is the only aspect I disagree on. Had Saban challenged, the Steelers could have chewed up the clock at the goal line and likely still would've scored that touchdown.

 

[Aqua4Ever04]

This is the only aspect I disagree on. Had Saban challenged, the Steelers could have chewed up the clock at the goal line and likely still would've scored that touchdown.

Yeah because the last time the Steelers were inside the 5 they scored right? Nope, they fumbled. Getting inside the 5 doesn't guarentee you a TD. Miller was out at the 3 and the Fins very possibly could've held the Steelers to 3.

Nice read Samphin.

EDIT: Hey Samphin, what is your countdown too?

 

[Desides]

Yeah because the last time the Steelers were inside the 5 they scored right? Nope, they fumbled. Getting inside the 5 doesn't guarentee you a TD. Miller was out at the 3 and the Fins very possibly could've held the Steelers to 3.

So what? Fumbles aren't exactly common occurrences, given that they happen once, perhaps twice, in an average game. You're suggesting that Saban should have challenged and then hoped for another fumble. That's insane.

 

[Aqua4Ever04]

So what? Fumbles aren't exactly common occurrences, given that they happen once, perhaps twice, in an average game. You're suggesting that Saban should have challenged and then hoped for another fumble. That's insane.

I think any one here would agree with me that we should've challenged that play. You would rather give them a touchdown oppose to having them down at the 3? That's the insane part. If you're argument is because of the time remaining, we still would've had 5 minutes so I don't know about that.

 

[CrazyCarl]

I think any one here would agree with me that we should've challenged that play. You would rather give them a touchdown oppose to having them down at the 3? That's the insane part. If you're argument is because of the time remaining, we still would've had 5 minutes so I don't know about that.

They would have been down on the one at worst, not the three.. its where the ball is and the chances of another 1 yard fumble are pretty small..

 

[Bills Fan888]

http://img103.imageshack.us/img103/2474/week2keysxv5.jpg​

Well, week 2 is upon us, and if week 1 taught us anything, we should never underestimate the backup QB. Also, if it taught the Dolphins anything, it should be to listen to this column. They chose to do the OPPOSITE of what I suggested, and lo and behold, they lost.

This week they have their home opener against the hated Buffalo Bills. Going against a bitter rival after suffering a loss on national TV can be a great thing, or it can lead to a team's early downward spiral. Let us look at the keys to pounding the Bills into submission.

1. Wha choo talkin' bout Willis?

Willis McGahee is their number one weapon. He is no longer Willis McGimpknee and he can do some damage i fleft to rumble. He is deceptively fast as he often gets the corner without looking like he is in full speed and his stiff has made many a Dolphin look foolish (including Zach Thomas). Look for Buffalo to try and get ihm off early to open up the passing game.

In order to stop him, we are going to need our linebackers to fly to the ball. We need to see not one, but two or three players swarm him so he cannot break free. Bid Daddy and Keith traylor should be able to clog the middle, but our LB's and safeties need to seal off the outside.

2. J.P. Lost Man?

After two years of being a laughing stock, J.P. looks to be finally starting to realize he plays in the NFL. He looked good during preseason and can make a busted play into a postive with his scrambling ability and strong arm. He had a QB rating of over 90 against New England.

However, he still makes a lot of mistakes. Against New England, J.P. fumbled two snaps, tripped over his own feet and got himself sacked for a safety which ultimately was the difference in the game. He also didn't have a completion over 20 yards. Miami needs to continue the trend by sending the house at him. Unlike Batch with the Steelers (which I said to not blitz cuz he would burn us, ahem), Losman looks like he can still be rattled and confused. Multiple looks on d, switching personel in and out is the key to keeping him guessing. Blitz from any and all angles and for gosh sake's line Taylor up all over the field again!

3. I'm feeling Randy today...

The Bills have a solid defense...well, they did until after week 1. Starting safety Troy Vincent is out for the year and Takeo Spikes injured himself once again. That means that Buffalo will be starting TWO rookies at the safety position and a backup at the OLB spot. Miami needs to take advantage.

To do this, I believe Randy McMichael will be the key. Randy against a safety is a mismatch in our favor and Daunte needs to exploit that. Send Randy up the seem in the middle of the field and watch what happens. Buffalo blitzes? Have Randy break the route off in the flat/middle of the field where the space is vacated and watch what happens. Randy can have a huge game if he lets himself (and he better, I have fantasy leagues to win!).

4. 1. 2. 3...DRAW!

New England left tread marks up Buffalo's back by running the ball. They had success early with draw plays and delays. The reason these work is because Buffalo is extremely fast on defense and got up field. New England recognized it and turned the tables on them. Allowing Ronnie Brown ANY type of space is deadly (and rare).

It is either that, or count on Ronnie having another day of grinding out yardage to the tune of 2.5 per and shake your heads. You have to take what the defense gives you sometimes, and this time, Buffalo should give us mucho yardso via the running game.

5. Throw it deep....DEEPER!

Daunte rarely threw it deep against the Steelers. He probably won't throw it deep much against the Bills. That is ok though. This key isn't about Daunte. It is not geared towards him and it is not meant for him. This is meant for Nick Saban.

If a play needs to be challanged, HEAVE THAT RED FLAG DEEP! Run out and suplex the ref, I don't care! Just don't let there be any reason for them not to stop the play from happening. Limp wristed red hanky throws relative to the coach will not be tolerated aight? Aight.

So thats it. PRetty simple eh? Well, it was against Pittsburgh and they didn't do it. Hopefully they learn from their mistake and turn this home opener into a BBQ. I could use a Buffalo burger about now anyway...

those were the centers fault for 1 and fb daimon shelton hit 1 with his knee

 

[PhinsRock]

Nice article, thanks.

 

[CirclingWagons]

http://img103.imageshack.us/img103/2474/week2keysxv5.jpg​

Well, week 2 is upon us, and if week 1 taught us anything, we should never underestimate the backup QB. Also, if it taught the Dolphins anything, it should be to listen to this column. They chose to do the OPPOSITE of what I suggested, and lo and behold, they lost.

This week they have their home opener against the hated Buffalo Bills. Going against a bitter rival after suffering a loss on national TV can be a great thing, or it can lead to a team's early downward spiral. Let us look at the keys to pounding the Bills into submission.

1. Wha choo talkin' bout Willis?

Willis McGahee is their number one weapon. He is no longer Willis McGimpknee and he can do some damage i fleft to rumble. He is deceptively fast as he often gets the corner without looking like he is in full speed and his stiff has made many a Dolphin look foolish (including Zach Thomas). Look for Buffalo to try and get ihm off early to open up the passing game.

In order to stop him, we are going to need our linebackers to fly to the ball. We need to see not one, but two or three players swarm him so he cannot break free. Bid Daddy and Keith traylor should be able to clog the middle, but our LB's and safeties need to seal off the outside.

2. J.P. Lost Man?

After two years of being a laughing stock, J.P. looks to be finally starting to realize he plays in the NFL. He looked good during preseason and can make a busted play into a postive with his scrambling ability and strong arm. He had a QB rating of over 90 against New England.

However, he still makes a lot of mistakes. Against New England, J.P. fumbled two snaps, tripped over his own feet and got himself sacked for a safety which ultimately was the difference in the game. He also didn't have a completion over 20 yards. Miami needs to continue the trend by sending the house at him. Unlike Batch with the Steelers (which I said to not blitz cuz he would burn us, ahem), Losman looks like he can still be rattled and confused. Multiple looks on d, switching personel in and out is the key to keeping him guessing. Blitz from any and all angles and for gosh sake's line Taylor up all over the field again!

3. I'm feeling Randy today...

The Bills have a solid defense...well, they did until after week 1. Starting safety Troy Vincent is out for the year and Takeo Spikes injured himself once again. That means that Buffalo will be starting TWO rookies at the safety position and a backup at the OLB spot. Miami needs to take advantage.

To do this, I believe Randy McMichael will be the key. Randy against a safety is a mismatch in our favor and Daunte needs to exploit that. Send Randy up the seem in the middle of the field and watch what happens. Buffalo blitzes? Have Randy break the route off in the flat/middle of the field where the space is vacated and watch what happens. Randy can have a huge game if he lets himself (and he better, I have fantasy leagues to win!).

4. 1. 2. 3...DRAW!

New England left tread marks up Buffalo's back by running the ball. They had success early with draw plays and delays. The reason these work is because Buffalo is extremely fast on defense and got up field. New England recognized it and turned the tables on them. Allowing Ronnie Brown ANY type of space is deadly (and rare).

It is either that, or count on Ronnie having another day of grinding out yardage to the tune of 2.5 per and shake your heads. You have to take what the defense gives you sometimes, and this time, Buffalo should give us mucho yardso via the running game.

5. Throw it deep....DEEPER!

Daunte rarely threw it deep against the Steelers. He probably won't throw it deep much against the Bills. That is ok though. This key isn't about Daunte. It is not geared towards him and it is not meant for him. This is meant for Nick Saban.

If a play needs to be challanged, HEAVE THAT RED FLAG DEEP! Run out and suplex the ref, I don't care! Just don't let there be any reason for them not to stop the play from happening. Limp wristed red hanky throws relative to the coach will not be tolerated aight? Aight.

So thats it. PRetty simple eh? Well, it was against Pittsburgh and they didn't do it. Hopefully they learn from their mistake and turn this home opener into a BBQ. I could use a Buffalo burger about now anyway...

Not too shabby

 

[Desides]

I think any one here would agree with me that we should've challenged that play.

Fine, the play gets challenged, Pittsburgh gets 1st and goal and a chance to whittle down the clock while still scoring. That scenario sucks more than not challenging. And despite what you said above, a second fumble in that situation was NOT likely. Fumbles are surprise gifts to the opposing team; they are not expected deliveries.

You would rather give them a touchdown oppose to having them down at the 3? That's the insane part. If you're argument is because of the time remaining, we still would've had 5 minutes so I don't know about that.

I would rather have had the time to move up the field. The more time, the better, especially with how Culpepper plays in the 4th quarter when behind. Maybe you missed it, but he threw two simultaneous picks, and has always been less-than-stellar when behind in a late-game situation. 6 minutes remaining with that kind of player is better than 5 or 4:30 minutes remaining.

Again, it's pointless to complain about the challenge. Why not complain about how Pittsburgh got that far down the field in the first place?

 

[Aqua4Ever04]

They would have been down on the one at worst, not the three.. its where the ball is and the chances of another 1 yard fumble are pretty small..

I disagree. I watched the game yesterday and his foot clearly slides out at the 3. The ball was at the 2 at the best. When you go out of bounds I'm pretty sure it's where you touch out.

 

[Killer B's]

Take the Challenge

They would have been down on the one at worst, not the three.. its where the ball is and the chances of another 1 yard fumble are pretty small..

Any time you have an opportunity to take points off your opponents scoreboard, you do it.

 

[Aqua4Ever04]

Any time you have an opportunity to take points off your opponents scoreboard, you do it.

BINGO!

 

[Desides]

Any time you have an opportunity to take points off your opponents scoreboard, you do it.

There was no such opportunity. Maybe if Miller had stepped out of bounds at the 30, the 20, or even the 10 yard line--but not at the 3.

 

[VanDolPhan]

Fine, the play gets challenged, Pittsburgh gets 1st and goal and a chance to whittle down the clock while still scoring. That scenario sucks more than not challenging. And despite what you said above, a second fumble in that situation was NOT likely. Fumbles are surprise gifts to the opposing team; they are not expected deliveries.



I would rather have had the time to move up the field. The more time, the better, especially with how Culpepper plays in the 4th quarter when behind. Maybe you missed it, but he threw two simultaneous picks, and has always been less-than-stellar when behind in a late-game situation. 6 minutes remaining with that kind of player is better than 5 or 4:30 minutes remaining.

Again, it's pointless to complain about the challenge. Why not complain about how Pittsburgh got that far down the field in the first place?

There was no such opportunity. Maybe if Miller had stepped out of bounds at the 30, the 20, or even the 10 yard line--but not at the 3.

How many times has Miami had teams inside the 3 and held them to a field goal or stuffed them large (anyone remember Atlanta?). There was a SOLID chance the team holds em to a field goal there. It isn't an absolute touchdown like your treating it.