The Miami Dolphins are grappling with a critical decision: whether to continue relying on Tua Tagovailoa, who faces yet another injury setback, or seek a new quarterback strategy.
The Dolphins, standing at an 8-8 record, find themselves financially committed to Tua Tagovailoa, as well as other key players like wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, and cornerback Jalen Ramsey. Despite this commitment, concerns about Tagovailoa’s availability have surfaced due to his recurrent injuries. Should he miss the upcoming game against the New York Jets, Tagovailoa will have been absent for six of the team’s 17 games this season, marking a 35 percent absence rate.
The quarterback’s history of injuries is notable. Assistant editor Steve Svekis notes that in each of the past three seasons, Tagovailoa has endured multiple injuries that led to missed games. In 2021, rib and finger injuries caused him to miss four starts. The following year, concussions kept him out for five games, including crucial playoff matches against teams like the Patriots and Bills. This year, his injuries include a hip issue and recurrent concussions, totaling five missed games.
The impact of these absences is significant. A caller notes that with Tagovailoa out for such a large portion of the season, the Dolphins might need to reconsider their long-term strategy for their primary quarterback position. A viable approach could involve strengthening the squad around Tagovailoa while investing in a reliable veteran backup, capable of taking the lead when necessary.
Should the Dolphins fail to reach the playoffs, it would highlight the flaws in their current ‘win-now’ strategy despite beginning the season with high aspirations. Achieving a playoff spot would mitigate some disappointment but missing it entirely would underscore an unmet goal.
Notably, there are doubts about Tagovailoa’s performance in adverse playing conditions, such as cold weather. Observations suggest that the team’s losses in cold-weather games against heavyweights like Buffalo, Kansas City, and Green Bay had less to do with the temperature and more to do with playing stronger opponents.
Questions have arisen about the team’s offensive tactics that seem limited to short passes, often referred to as a ‘dink-and-dunk’ strategy. The adaptation to this approach appears to be a response to opponents effectively defending key receivers through tactics like the two-high safety strategy. This leaves the Dolphins adjusting their offensive plan, though it may not fully leverage their receivers’ potential.
As the season progresses, the Dolphins face pivotal decisions regarding Tagovailoa’s future with the team and their overall quarterback strategy. Building a resilient team around him while considering a capable backup could offer a balanced solution.
Source: Sun-sentinel
