Dolphin defense stout; other units not so special - 08/25/2006
Source: South Florida Sun-Sentinel, Scout.com At least the Dolphins' defense is ready for the regular season. As for the starting offense and special teams, a 19-10 exhibition loss at Carolina showed those units could use a little more practice time before the Sept. 7 opener against defending Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh. "The defense played very well," Dolphins coach Nick Saban said. "We obviously have a lot of things we need to work on and fix, but I was pleased with what we were able to accomplish." The Dolphins' secondary and defensive line were especially stout. Panthers starting running back DeShaun Foster averaged 2.8 yards on his nine carries and quarterback Jake Delhomme completed only 6 of 15 passes for 58 yards while getting sacked twice.
Fantasy Impact: The Dolphins have a solid group of playmakers for their defense, led by LB Zach Thomas and DE Jason Taylor. It appears as though this group has the ability to play well and cohesively as a unit and could surprise some people. Second-year DE Matt Roth had an impressive game with a few big plays and should contribute more in '06. |
| |
Dolphins camp report: Wright, Taylor miss practice; Saban says no more injury reports - 08/02/2006
Source: South Florida Sun-Sentinel Dolphins coach Nick Saban said DT Manny Wright didn't practice because of illness. LB Zach Thomas, who continued to play at a high level in 2005 even after suffering a major shoulder injury, said he is completely healthy and is determined to stay that way. "I feel great," said Thomas. DE Jason Taylor was held out of practice. Taylor was sidelined for Tuesday's team drills because of cramps. CB Will Poole and S Jack Hunt wore red non-contact jerseys. Fantasy Impact: None of the injuries are of serious concern and should be considered one-day affairs. However, Thomas's claim to being 100% recovered is great news for a Dolphins defense that is already older than most. |
