2010 NFL Predictions: Miami Dolphins

May 31, 2010

The Miami Dolphins are a respectable 30-1 odds to win the Super Bowl next season. They are in what has turned out to be a very strong AFC East division that has seen the Patriots and Jets go deep into the playoffs. Miami has taken huge steps over the past few seasons, and now find themselves as legitimate playoff contenders.

Ever since Bill Parcells has taken over the helm as General Manager this team has been heading in the right direction. Parcells preaches hard nosed defense and running the ball, and that’s exactly what the Dolphins have focused on since his arrival. The Dolphins ranked 22nd in the league in total defense last year, but Parcells and the coaching staff aren’t happy with their overall level of play.

The draft was a clear sign that the Fins are looking to make a statement defensively this season. Seven of the Dolphins first 8 picks in the NFL draft were on defense including first round selection DT Jared Odrick. Second round pick Koa Misi was selected to bring some youth to the aging linebacker corp. Much like their fellow AFC East rival Buffalo Bills, Miami needs to sure up their rushing defense. They allowed almost 115 yards per game last season. The New York Jets led the NFL in rushing, and the Fins have to play them twice a year. Their passing defense isn’t much better as they allow 235 yards per game. The additions of CB Nolan Carroll and safety Reshed Jones via the draft were put in place to give the weak defensive line time to get to the quarterback.

Offensively this team has been built with the run first pass second mentality. They have a 2 headed attack in the backfield with Ricky Williams and Ronnie Brown who combined for almost 1800 yards in 2009. Quarterback Chad Henne is asked to make a few throws, but he is expected to direct the offense and take care of the ball. The “wildcat” offense has become over-used by many teams, but Miami is the team that initially implemented this style and perfected it. It has become an instrumental part of the offense, and has made it difficult for opposing defenses that aren’t familiar with it.

As a whole, the Dolphins have the opportunity to make an impact in the AFC playoffs if they can navigate their division schedule with at least a 4-2 record. NFL predictions for teams is always a guessing game. Injuries, schedule, coaching changes and player changes make it almost impossible to determine how a team is going to do. If the Jets and Patriots have down years, it is very possible that Miami can make a significant run at an AFC Championship in 2010.

Written by Glenn Andrew · Filed Under NFL

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