Miami Dolphins 2014 Player Review: Ryan Tannehill
In 2012, the Miami Dolphins, who lacked quarterback stability for nearly 13 years, used the eighth overall-pick in the draft to select Texas A&M quarterback, Ryan Tannehill. With the high investment, Tannehill was expected to be the cornerstone of the franchise for the coming future.
So far, the future in Miami is looking extremely bright. This past year marked the best team offensive performance since the 1996. This, due in large part, was a direct result of the progression and development of the third-year quarterback.
After what was a struggle during the first couple of weeks – which questioned his job security – the light was lit under Tannehill. He showcased his skills in week four, when Miami traveled to London to take on the Oakland Raiders.
At the time, he put up career-best single game numbers. On a 74% completion rate, Tannehill threw for 278 yards and two touchdowns. Tannehill’s play over the next month went a long way in the Dolphins winning four of five games in the middle of the season. During this stretch, Tannehill threw ten touchdown passes, while completing just under 69% of his passes.
During the game against the Raiders, he introduced a dimension to his game that was previously foreign. On five rushing attempts, Tannehill piled up 35 yards, with a long of 18 yards. Then, in four straight games, Tannehill ran for at least 47 yards, and in three straight games he had a run of minimum 30 yards.
It wasn’t his individual performance that attributed to his success. For the first time in his career, Tannehill embraced the role as team leader. Instead of the conservative approach during his first two years, new offensive coordinator Bill Lazor allowed Tannehill to take control of the offense. This was a big step in the right direction for Tannehill, as many questioned whether or not he could develop into a leader.
His incredible success was unlike anything the Dolphins have seen out of a quarterback since Dan Marino. While the two have contrasting styles of play, Marino served as a mentor to the young quarterback this season, as his presence was felt during film studies. Marino would act as a soundboard and give pointers Tannehill.
Unfortunately, the Miami Dolphins as a team struggled down the stretch. While Tannehill is not responsible for a lack of commitment from Mike Wallace, or a injured offensive line, or a collapsing defense, some of the blame will naturally fall on him. It is not taking anything away from what he did this season, that’s just the nature of the business.
However, heading into next season, Dolphins fans must remain optimistic for another promising performance from Tannehill. This season was labeled as a “make-or-break” season for Tannehill. Next year is a “make-or-break” year for the entire team. With the pressure higher now, more so than the previous seasons, as the quarterback, Tannehill must keep his head straight and lead continue to lead the team.
2014 Overall statistics: 4,045 passing yards (career-high), 27 touchdowns (career-high), 12 interceptions (career-low), 66.4 completion percentage (career-high) and a passer rating of 92.8 (career-high) — 56 rushing attempts (career-high), 5.6 yards per-carry, 1 touchdown.
Grade: A-