Miami Dolphins: Defense must get more pressure on quarterbacks

The Miami Dolphins defense has to replace 12.5 sacks from Robert Quinn and Cameron Wake in 2018, meaning they must relentlessly rush the passer.

Last season, Robert Quinn led the Miami Dolphins in sacks with 6.5. Cameron Wake had six sacks on the year as well, second only to Quinn on the team. Neither player is currently on the roster heading into 2019 as Quinn was traded to Dallas and Wake signed with Tennessee. Miami has to relentlessly rush the passer to make up for those lost 12.5 sacks.

Miami struggled to get sacks last season even with Quinn and Wake. Jerome Baker was the next notable sack artist as he finished 2018 with three sacks. They finished near the bottom of the NFL with 31 sacks. They must improve in order to make a run for the playoffs.

In 2018, they gave up 391.1 total yards per game. Miami ranked 21st in pass defense by giving up 245.8 yards per game. Opposing teams gashed the Dolphins run defense by gaining an average of 145.3 yards per game. Something has to change to allow Miami to become a contender.

The Dolphins defense under new head coach Brian Flores might look different each game. Matchups are a key component in football. Perhaps being fluid will help Miami recoup those lost sacks via a different route.

Adam H. Beasley of The Miami Herald quoted Dolphins defensive coordinator Patrick Graham as saying the following:

"“We’re going to do whatever coach Flores wants us to do that week, … We’re going to do what we need to do that week and that game,” Graham continued. “We’re going to try to win that situation, whatever we’re trying to do. If it requires all 11 guys to be on their feet, … If it requires all 11 to be down in a three-point stance, it’ll look weird, but we’ll do it, if we think that’s what it takes to win the game.”"

You can expect that the Dolphins will find the weak link in the opposing offense. Under Graham’s leadership, Miami will exploit that weakness to their advantage. Whether it’s Charles Harris or Kiko Alonso leading the way, the defense will be ready for each game day challenge. Graham seems to be quite confident in how to win the AFC East. Miami will do what it takes to win.

After finishing second with a sub .500 record, the Dolphins are poised to make a run towards the playoffs with the new coaching staff. It will be interesting to see which players step up in their playmaking ability.