As the Dolphins head into the biggest game of the year (up until this point), there are many things to consider when reviewing the progress of this team.
Everyone knows this, but it is still important to remember that over 50% of this team has been turned over and, when combined with a new coaching staff and philosophy, it was never realistic to expect great things from the Dolphins this year.
Nevertheless, it appears that Saban clearly had a good draft, picked up some valuable, cost-effective free agents, hired some good assistants, changed the team's culture, and has cleaned up the salary cap. Not a bad first year.
The 2005 Dolphins needed at least (3) things to happen this year. We had to find a way to win back-to-back games, beat AFC East rivals, and play well for 60 minutes. These goals may seem pretty simple, even basic, but after a 4-12 record and everything this team went through last year, we have to start here and build. We have finally won back-to-back games and beat an AFC East rival. Now we have to play solid 60 minutes with very few penalties and turnovers and win the mental battle. We have to put it all together and play solid football the entire 60 minutes. When we can do that, this team is ready for the next step - being a legitimate playoff team.
It's been a turbulent year, but so many positive things have happened and I believe we are 1 goal away from being a complete team poised for the playoffs, if not this year, next year and beyond.
Everyone knows this, but it is still important to remember that over 50% of this team has been turned over and, when combined with a new coaching staff and philosophy, it was never realistic to expect great things from the Dolphins this year.
Nevertheless, it appears that Saban clearly had a good draft, picked up some valuable, cost-effective free agents, hired some good assistants, changed the team's culture, and has cleaned up the salary cap. Not a bad first year.
The 2005 Dolphins needed at least (3) things to happen this year. We had to find a way to win back-to-back games, beat AFC East rivals, and play well for 60 minutes. These goals may seem pretty simple, even basic, but after a 4-12 record and everything this team went through last year, we have to start here and build. We have finally won back-to-back games and beat an AFC East rival. Now we have to play solid 60 minutes with very few penalties and turnovers and win the mental battle. We have to put it all together and play solid football the entire 60 minutes. When we can do that, this team is ready for the next step - being a legitimate playoff team.
It's been a turbulent year, but so many positive things have happened and I believe we are 1 goal away from being a complete team poised for the playoffs, if not this year, next year and beyond.