The Miami Dolphins beat the New York Jets on Sunday. Here are Miami’s positional grades from the Week 15 game:
Quarterback: C-
Dolphins starter Tua Tagovaiola did not build on last week’s impressive performance against the New York Giants. The second-year starter coughed up two interceptions while making several other risky throws. Oddly enough, his most erratic performance of the season came on an afternoon that his offensive line played quite well. The Alabama product managed to rebound in the second half, completing 59% of his passes for 196 yards and two touchdowns.
Running Backs: A+
University of Miami product Duke Johnson returned to his old stomping grounds to put together the best statistical performance of his seven-year career. Johnson ran for 107 yards and two touchdowns in his first game as a Miami Dolphin. Johnson demonstrated the elusive, quick-twitch ability that cemented his place as a Miami Hurricane legend nearly a decade ago. 84 of Johnson’s 107 rushing yards came after first contact. Usual starter Myles Gaskin also performed well, rushing for 54 yards on 5.4 yards per carry.
Wide Receiver/ Tight End: C+
In the absence of Jaylen Waddle, DeVante Parker had to reclaim his position as the Dolphins leading receiver. Parker hauled in four passes for 68 yards, with one of them being a touchdown. Although he has spent some time on the Injured Reserve this season, Parker has been consistent in the contests that he is healthy for. Isaiah Ford has continued to perform well when given the opportunity, catching three passes for 51 yards. Ford’s advanced understanding of the offense gives Miami the opportunity to use him at numerous receiver positions, while many receivers are limited to their assigned role
Tight end Mike Gesicki led Miami in catches, but served as more of a check-down option. The Penn State product had five receptions for 43 yards.
Offensive Line: A
Miami’s offensive line put together its most impressive performance of the seasons. Both Robert Hunt and Austin Jackson did not allow a single quarterback pressure, while rookie Liam Eichenberg allowed just one. However, the most impressive reflection of Miami’s performance stemmed from its ground game. The Dolphins nearly rushed for 200 yards while finding the end-zone twice.
Defensive Line/ Linebackers: B-
Outside linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel has been a menace while pass-rushing off the edge this season. The Wisconsin product takes advantage of his quickness and long-arms by utilizing an array of intricate pass rushing moves to blow by much slower offensive tackles. Van Ginkel reached the quarterback on nearly a quarter of his snaps against the Jets.
While Miami’s defensive line generated most of the pressure, it was Miami’s linebackers that were able to swoop in to make stops. Defensive leader Jerome Baker finished with two sacks, while linebacker Elandon Roberts finished with one tackle for a loss.
Defensive Backs: A
Xavien Howard and Byron Jones proved why they are the league’s highest-paid cornerback duo. The two All-Pros each allowed just one catch, with the longest being for only nine yards. Safeties Eric Rowe and Brandon Jones played well in the absence of Jevon Holland, primarily shutting down New York’s tight ends and slot receivers by staying true to their responsibilities in zone coverage.
(Featured image by Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports)