After losing consecutive games, they are now at an inflection point. Will they be able to take advantage of a winning game against a 1-4 team as strong as the Chargers?
With the addition of rookie Najee Harris on injured reserve, moving the running game forward will be a big challenge. Miami’s front seven was hopelessly gaping against the run, so the opportunity to gain a ton of yards is there.
“It’s your time to shine, step up,” I said.
Back in 2020, the Dolphins used the No. 5 pick on a quarterback and the Chargers used the No. 6 pick on a quarterback. Ten years earlier, Dolphins owner Stephen Ross tried to hire Harbaugh to coach Miami.
How the Chargers will win: Run the ball. Even with their top two running backs out, the Chargers can stomp on a defense that allowed little-known Rico Doodle to rush for 206 yards last week. That includes tight end Darren Waller, one of Miami’s few bright spots. Forces Tagovailoa to improvise. When the rhythm is disrupted, it can be a struggle.
How the Dolphins win: Gave the ball to Devon Arcane in space. If you go to the edge of a cliff, you can deal damage. It shuts down the Chargers’ ground attack and makes Herbert one-dimensional. Protect Tagovailoa, whose strengths are timing and prediction. He thrives on offensive structure.
