The Miami Dolphins had a rough time last week during their joint practices with the Detroit Lions. On social media, players and coaches expressed their discontent with the experience. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and head coach Mike McDaniel both took ownership of the offense’s struggles, with neither practice living up to their standards. The Dolphins have played the last two weeks away from home, going directly from Chicago to Detroit. This journey has developed an even deeper attachment between these players in the locker room.
Looking back on joint practice with the Bucs last week, Tagovailoa decided not to give himself a grade. He proposed that journalists conduct those assessments instead. He stated, “My assessment … I still wouldn’t give myself a grade. I think that’s for you guys to do with however you guys report that and whatnot.” This sentiment echoed McDaniel’s own admission that the practices did not meet the team’s standards.
The Dolphins’ offensive unit found it difficult to establish a rhythm during their first joint practice with the Chicago Bears, leading to a lackluster performance against Detroit’s defense. Most prominently, wide receiver Tyreek Hill was out for this practice, hampering the offensive first-team’s effectiveness. McDaniel acknowledged the frustrating day for the offense, saying, “I think today offensively was a very frustrating day in regards to what we wanted to do, what we said we wanted to do.”
On the heels of these regressions, McDaniel continued to express faith in his unit’s ability to be better. He stressed the importance of seizing jurisdiction over the things they can actually shape. He highlighted the importance of maintaining a hopeful disposition in the face of adversity. “We’re very process-driven but as competitors, it’s impossible not to really, really get annoyed and pissed off when the results aren’t what you’d expect,” McDaniel remarked.
The Dolphins seemed to battle back more during their second joint practice with Detroit, exhibiting a better capacity to withstand NFL defensive heat. This development represented a positive move towards their readiness. McDaniel was adamant that’s the attitude he’s looking for out of his players. He sees this as an important thing to do, as they are letting northome grow and develop.
Tagovailoa recognized the value of these joint practices, stating, “One thing I thought was the best thing about both joints is the intentionality and effort going into it was correct.” This perspective reflects a shared understanding among players regarding the significance of these sessions in building chemistry and honing their skills.
As the Dolphins prepare to host the Jacksonville Jaguars for another joint practice on Thursday, both players and coaches are focused on overcoming recent challenges. That next practice will come before their preseason finale this Saturday. It’s a terrific opportunity for the Underwood sextet to hone their ideas and improve their work.
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