Yes it’s still only preseason, but the Dolphins put a W on the board as they man-handled the Texans in Houston, rolling out 28-3 winners. Tua Tagovailoa and most of the starters took the field for the first time this season, and the Dolphins defence stifled the Texans all day.
TUA GETS THE RUST OFF
The day didn’t get off to the best start with Tua Tagovailoa making a bad read, and a worse throw gifting the Texans an easy interception on Miami’s first offensive play. But make no mistakes about Tua hiding this season as he tackled the defender to prevent a pick six. The Dolphins defence held firm denying the Texans a touchdown and holding out on fourth and goal.
The Dolphins second drive was much more successful with Tua rolling the Dolphins down the field going 5/6 for 61 yards. The drive capped off by Raheem Mostert.
Skylar Thompson replaced Tua after that drive, ending the game 15/22 for 157 yards and 3 touchdowns. There was only a brief sighting of Mike White when Thompson had a brief spell undergoing concussion checks.
SALVON AHMED HAD A BIG DAY IN DOLPHINS BACKFIELD
But make no mistakes it was Salvon Ahmed who stole the show with 12 carries for 99 yards including a 65-yarder. He added 4 catches for 32 yards and a TD as he surely cemented his place on the Dolphins opening day roster.
Chris Brooks had a solid day, posting 11 carries for 47 yards, and an 18-yard reception for a touchdown. Brooks looks a solid bet for the practice squad.
On the defensive side of the ball former Viking Parry Nickerson had another solid outing posting a PFF coverage grade of 89.9 following on from his 85.9 against the Falcons. Parry is making a push to make the roster as a special teams player. But in a loaded Dolphins secondary it’s always good to have depth just in case.
It was a good day for new DC Vic Fangio’s defence as the Dolphins got 15 pressures on the Texans QB’s and kept them out of the end zone. It’s a totally new scheme for a stacked defensive unit and it was fun finally seeing the starters line it up.
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