Dolphins-Buccaneers Preseason Game: Why It Matters
The Dolphins and Buccaneers play in both teams first preseason game Saturday night. How Miami uses tight end Mike Gesicki will be something to watch.
Miami Head Coach Mike McDaniel wants tight ends to block first in his wide zone scheme. He now asks Gesicki, one NFL’s better receiving tight ends, to run block more. The additions of Tyreke Hill and Cedrick Wilson, reduce his targets in the passing game. Second year receiver Jaylen Waddle comes off a 104 catch season expecting the field to be opened up for him, thanks to Hill. That means on many pass plays Gesicki could be the fourth option for quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.
In joint practices against Tampa Bay Tua connected with Gesicki several times. Gesicki plays on the franchise tag for $10.9 million this year. How the Dolphins use him in a run first offense, with so many other options, determines his willingness to resign with the team after this season.
Dolphins Run D Vs Buccaneers
With Tom Brady out for the game fans and analysts focuses move to Miami’s run defense. Tampa Bay ruled out receiver Mike Evans due to injury. That puts even more of a spotlight on the running game for Tampa Bay.
Miami struggled at times this week covering Tampa’s backs. They also broke some long runs as well. Brady and Evans absence means Miami’s recognition of screen passes to backs will be key. Dolphins linebackers need to help fill lanes to prevent bigger runs.
Miami’s Run Blocking Vs Tampa Bay’s Defensive Line
Good news: Miami’s offensive line held up fairly well against Tampa’s defensive line in pass protection. Bad news: the line struggled run blocking. Miami’s offense runs to set up the pass.
Tackle Terron Armstead practiced against the Buccaneers this week. He may not play against Tampa, putting pressure on the rest of the line to step up. One of the very best defense in the NFL, the Buccaneers present a challenge for any offense. How Miami’s new wide zone offense looks against them makes the game interesting.
