Entering this weekends match with the Detroit Lions, the Miami Dolphins were riding a three game win streak. Fresh off their 37-0 shutout victory against the San Diego Chargers, Miami had all the momentum needed to win this weeks game. Miami played well in a loss; however, a bigger loss came in the second quarter as left tackle Branden Albert fell victim to a serious knee injury. The injury took place in the second quarter, resulting in Albert being carted off the field. Official word from Miami is the injury is season ending.
Last season, Miami had arguably one of the worst offensive lines in history, allowing a total of 58 sacks. Due to the constant pressure, Tannehill and the offense crumbled down the stretch, forcing them to miss out on the playoffs for the fifth consecutive season.
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The Dolphins made Branden Albert their big offseason acquisition last season, signing him to a five-year, $47 million contract to protect Ryan Tannehill. Through eight games, the offensive line is no longer the cause for concern in Miami. The unit has only allowed 17 sacks and has made drastic improvements in run blocking; being an integral part to Miami’s success.
Of course, what would a season be without any drama? The injury to Albert is a reasonable cause for concern moving forward. His replacement, first round pick Ja’Wuan James will now transition to the left side, with either Nate Garner or Dallas Thomas likely to take over the duties as right tackle. While Garner and Thomas are serviceable, they are an obvious downgrade from Albert.
The injury comes at a bad time as the Dolphins are forced to play on a short week, hosting the Buffalo Bills on Thursday night. Last season, the Bills swept the Dolphins. A big reason for the sweep was their fierce pass rush. In two games, the Bills were able to get to Tannehill a total of nine times.
This week should be no different. The Bills continue to boast a premiere pass rush. Halfway through the season, the Bills are second in the league in sacks, trailing the Minnesota Vikings with 28 total sacks.
In what is a very important divisional game, the Miami Dolphins must find a way to overcome their injuries. No team, especially in the situation Miami is in can afford to lose two straight games. If Miami wants to win it is imperative the offensive line overcomes the injury to Albert and continues protecting Tannehill.
The Dolphins may also be without starting left guard Daryn Colledge, who has missed two games with a back injury.
Expect the Bills to dial-up their pass rush early, hoping to fluster the Dolphins offense. It’s no easy-task but this is the NFL. No excuses will be made for Miami. It’s time for the Dolphins offensive line to salvage the remainder of the season.