Ahead of the Denver Broncos’ game against the Miami Dolphins this weekend, we asked Mike Masala of Dolphins Wire five questions about the Phins and Sunday’s game in Denver. See our questions and Mike’s answers below.
1
How does Vic Fangio's defense look through two weeks, including Bradley Chubb?
Through two games, Fangio’s unit has played two completely different games, allowing over 30 points to the Los Angeles Chargers in the opener and holding New England to under 20 in Week 2. The big difference was the performance of the front who went from allowing over 200 yards on the ground to under 90. Chubb played arguably his best game since arriving in Miami last week, as he forced a huge fumble on a hustle play that saw him chase down wide receiver Demario Douglas from behind and stall New England’s momentum.
2
Did the Dolphins make any big personnel changes this offseason we should know about?
While Miami’s biggest offseason move was the trade for Jalen Ramsey, the Dolphins lost the cornerback for at least a few months when he tore his meniscus in the team’s second training camp session. Beyond that, the free agent signings of linebacker David Long and safety DeShon Elliott have been the most impactful with both players earning major roles in Fangio’s defense this year.
3
Does Miami have a weakness of note that Denver might be able to exploit in Week 3?
In Week 1, the Dolphins were gashed on the ground for over 200 yards between Austin Ekeler and Josh Kelley, but they cleaned that up the following week. However, there’s always a chance that they slip up and struggle again to stop Javonte Williams from putting up over 100 yards on them.
It hasn’t been a huge issue for Miami yet in 2023, but the offensive line was a worry in the preseason and training camp. So far, despite not having Terron Armstead for the first two weeks, the big men have looked competent and have only allowed Tua Tagovailoa to be sacks one time. If there was a weakness on offense, that could be it.
4
Do the Dolphins have any under-the-radar players who Broncos fans should be aware of?
2022 undrafted free agent Kader Kohou, from the football factory of Texas A&M-Commerce, ascended to the team’s starting cornerback opposite Xavien Howard as a rookie. This year, he’s still playing 98.7% of the team’s defensive snaps, as he’s moved to the slot with Eli Apple playing outside.
Kohou has impressive instincts, and he’s more than willing to step up and make a tackle or blitz the quarterback, making him a weapon that Fangio can deploy.
Offensively, wide receiver River Cracraft is the lesser-known guy to watch. He’s been waived roughly 10 times in his career since entering the league as an undrafted free agent out of Washington State in 2017. So far this season, he’s taken over as Miami’s third wideout behind Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, recording five receptions for 74 yards and a touchdown.
5
What's your prediction for Sunday -- who wins and why?
Dolphins win by at least a touchdown. The Broncos certainly have some talented weapons and some familiarity with Vic Fangio and his scheme, but Mike McDaniel’s group has shown to be one of the best teams in the league as long as Tagovailoa is healthy and leading the offense.
