For starters, I say we target two serious needs in FA. QB and DE. This will save us draft picks while giving us instant play makers. That is the key in the modern NFL, having play makers. Role players are important. But play makers win championships. This is why a few of the worst defenses in the league are going to, and winning title games over the last few years. For example, a defense can give up 35 points and 400+ yards and still win games because they find a way to come up with that timely pick 6, or those key sacks when the games on the line. Our Dolphin D, on the other hand, plays well all game, keeps yards low, keeps points low, but when the game is on the line, they just don't make that play, that sack, that INT.

So before I discuss a couple obvious FA pickups, we must first make get rid of a few guys for some of that sweet spending cash. And I know this part will probably seem the most "controversial," but I urge you to separate your emotional attachment or personality crush you may have on the player, and instead, ask yourself, does this guy WIN us games.

Salary Cap Causalities

1. Yeremiah Bell: I've truly been a fan of his since he has arrived in Miami. He is a leader and a hard worker. Never seems to complain and has consistently been a tackling machine for us. However, for his age, and how much we can retain if he is cut, it is a no brainier from a numbers standpoint. Not only has he been a liability in coverage, I feel that Rashad Jones is better suited for SS, as do many of you, and would be a more versatile, younger, and cheaper replacement after having a couple seasons of game play experience.To my understanding we can put around 3 million extra doll-hairs in the go out and get a difference maker pot.

2. Davone Bess: Again, this is one of the more difficult players to cut from a fan perspective because he is without question the most likeable, humble, positive guys on the team. From his first training camp days until now, Davone has been a guy everyone has cheered for and supported. And he has certainly produced. However, cutting him will give us an additional 2 million plus to spend on FA, which is a lot for a third WR coming off a down year. Not to mention, his productivity are not overly difficult to replace at a much cheaper price.Think long term here guys. This isn't Wes Welker we're talking about here. Davone has done much for us, and the organization has done much for Davone. Therefore, no one should feel bad about a mutually beneficial separation. Furthermore, we have a few guys on the roster who don't get much playing time but have much more physical upside.

3. Anthony Fasano: This will make more sense when you see the draft below. But I like Fasano. As we have heard many times, and it is true, he does a lot of things well. Is he a play maker that presents match up issues to an opposing defense? No. Does he cost a decent chunk of change? Yes, nearly four million next year. Can we replace that production and "solid" versatility in this coming draft, that will also give us an immediate upgrade? For sure.

4. Restructure Jake Long's contract and save us a few more million.

Then between our current salary cap and and the aforementioned cuts.....go get.....

1. Peyton Manning: I am not fully on board with this decision as many are, but if we pulled the trigger on it (of course assuming he is healthy and willing to take a incentive based contract as he said he would play for) I wouldn't be disappointed with taking a shot on the greatest QB of my generation. And I will say that Peyton Manning at 80-90 percent of his 2010 season is certainly better than any possible alternatives for the immediate short term, draft included. Again, if we made this move, I'd be OK with it, and if we didn't, I would be fine with that as well.

2A. Throw tons of cash at Mario Williams, essentially, whatever is let over from the Peyton Manning Deal (assuming it goes through). As we can all imagine, Mario Williams and Cam Wake is certainly an exciting prospect. A D-Line of Williams, Odrick, Starks, Wake (and either Langford or McDaniels) would be the AFC version of the Giants. And that worked out. What cannot be under estimated is that, because the NFL is a passing league, the only way to defeat an elite QB is not by great DB's, but is by putting him on his ass through a consistent and aggressive pass rush. This is how the defense has and must adapt to the modern day dominance of elite QB's and passing games. Adaption. Adaption. Adaption.

2B. If not Mario Williams, then Cliff Avril. He could be a a few bucks cheaper, and is certainly more of a gamble, yet he has still shown everything you can ask for over the last couple of years. I am slightly worried about his " I won't even consider giving my team a hometown discount" but hey, you only got one career, and you never know what could happen to you on any given play.

As I said before, these should be our initial off season priorities, and if possible, should be the only focus before the draft.

The Draft.....

Again, assuming the above plan as been followed, we would be more free to address other more simple, yet important needs without the whole "we need to trade 3 first rounders to move up and gamble on RGIII or else we're fucked" scenario. Also, I know a lot of people, when creating a mock draft, fantasize about addressing all of our team needs in one draft and FA. For example, many people say, "Ok, we need a QB, OT, OG, DE, TE, and FS, so in Round 1 we get a QB, in Round 2 we get an OT, in Round 3 we get an OG, in Round 4 we get a TE, in Round 5 we get a FS.." and so on and so forth. But guys, this never works. Never, ever, ever. And it's isn't essential that a team address all its needs on paper in order to get substantially better. The FA scenario mentioned above will get our team substantially better on its own even though it is only two positions out of 6 or so getting filled. That could give us 2-4 extra wins, which would make us a play off team. Further, if we use the draft to focus on 2 or three positions rather than 7, we can potentially add another win or two and make us championship ready.

For example, if we somehow get Manning and Williams/Avril, we could use the draft to double down on positions such as TE or OT while getting a play maker early on. Therefore, we could be in position to do something like this....

Round 1: Trade down with Cincy, let them get Richardson if they really want and we would then have the 17th and 21st pick.

Pick 17: V. Burfict: this guy reminds me of Bryan Cox, a little bit crazy, but certainly intense. This guy is athletic and flat mean. As a former college QB, this guy scares the shit out of me just watching on TV, I could only imagine what Tom Brady's soft ass would feel like looking at this crazy fuck from 2 yards away as he threatens to rip his face off. In addition to our possible D-Line scenario mentioned above, think about our LB's consisting of Dansby, Burfict, Burnett.

Pick 21: Here, you can either use this pick to get an OT, or you can get one of the top TE's, thus replacing Fasano. Because this draft is deep at OT (and the O-line generally) and thin at TE, we can go for D. Allen or Even C. Fleener. Allen is super athletic, and from what I understand, a solid blocker who instantly becomes a red zone and play making threat all over the field, creating mismatches all over the place. Not only would this be an instant upgrade at a more and more coveted position in the NFL, it would also replace the departed D. Bess as a QB's best friend.

Note: In this scenario, between FA and the first round alone, we have addressed at least 3 positions of need and play makers that would make this team instant play off contenders and maybe more.

Round 2:

Here, we could go after an OT, especially if we get Manning and there are a few solid ones available. You choose.

Round 3:

Again, we can use this to either double down on an OT, and really be safe, or go for the Best Available OG or CB. I feel that OG's are generally a dime a dozen. We can give John Jerry an opportunity to see if he can hold down the position as well and disregard the position in the draft or FA. Also, I really like CB's Boykin from UGA and Ryan Steed from Furman (watch is highlight if you get the chance). And since we likely will not re-sign Will Allen, we will need to upgrade at Nickel. Boykin can also instantly help us in the PR game. The kid is explosive.

Round 4: I would use to double down on the Best Available TE, maybe that kid LaDareus Green or Egnew from Mizzou. these guys are TE's built like WR's and could make us that much more dynamic.

The rest of the draft just get the Best Available Players regardless of what position. If we can use FA to address to solidify 2 positions of absolute need, and the draft to solidify 2-3 positions of need for the long term than that is much more practical and much less of a gamble then addressing each one of the positional needs and hoping each one of those guys pans out. That is just fantasy.

For 2012 keep M. Moore just in case.Then in 2013, no matter what, do whatever it is you gotta do to get the QB of the Future in the draft. By any means necessary.

1. Who becomes trade bait?

2. Who becomes expendable as to create more salary cap room (in other words, who will be released or no resigned)?

3. Who become targets/priorities during free agency?

4. How would this affect our 2012 draft targets?

So what do you guys think? I know we have a versatile D-Line which has been one of our strengths, but if we switched to a 4-3, do you think this would create too much of an overhaul to be practical? I have my opinions but I am interested in the Phinsider Nation's.

In regards to some possible quarterback scenarios that may play out among teams who are in the market for a new signal caller, I must admit, I have been looking at such possibilities rather narrowly. Like many of you, I am stuck on this mentality that....Ok, we need a QB, we are drafting 8th/9th, and the only two legit franchise QB prospects are expected to be long gone by then since there are arguably 3 or 4 teams that are in the same or worst position as we are (Indy, Cleveland, Washington, and maybe TB or Jacksonville). Therefore, we must either mortgage the future for by trading away countless top draft picks for RGIII or throw a ton of money at Matt Flynn (neither of which I am not completely opposed to).

What I have been failing to do, and this may just be the inner optimist in me desperately trying to force its way out, is also understand that, besides Matt Flynn, P. Manning is possibly an option for one of the aforementioned teams. Also, from what I have been reading, K. Kolb may be a possibility for a team as well. Personally, I would love if Kolb hit the market some how, not because I want him anywhere near the Dolphins lockeroom, but because it would naturally eliminate someone from the RGIII/Flynn sweepstakes. I do not feel that Kolb leaving is likely. But Manning leaving is certainly more of a possibility. Who couldn't see a team like the Redskins snagging a guy like Manning, who some say have a few good years left in him?

So, let's think about this possible scenario based on these QB needy teams......

Indy - Luck

Cleveland - Flynn

Washington - Manning

Miami - RGIII?

**Kolb is the long shot but hey, I have seen crazier things happen.

The reason I have Flynn hypothetically going to Cleveland is because Flynn has proven he can play in the brutal Cleveland weather. If the Browns really thought this through, they would certainly understand that they are guarnteed to play two games against Cincy, Two against Pitt, and of course those late November-January home games along the snow belt in Cleveland. RGIII, like Colt McCoy, is a Texas boy, and Texas sure as hell ain't Northeast Ohio. One thing I underestimated as a kid who lived my whole life in south Florida and then went to play college football as a quarterback at Kent State (20 minutes from Cleveland) was how difficult of a transition it was to go from playing playoff games in late November in Palm Beach County where it was 75 degrees with that beatiful, light ocean breeze, to going to playing in weather I did not know was even possible (I mean what the hell is an ice storm? I thought they meant hail). Don't get me wrong, RGIII is better than I could be in three lifetimes and may be good enough to adjust, but this should not be taken lightly.

With that being said, RGIII would be tough for anyone to pass up, but it may not be so simple for a team like Cleveland, or at least shouldn't be. Although I am a pessimist, this is just another way to look at things, especially because any if not all of these deals would likely take place well before the draft.

What do you guys think about any or all of these scenarios playing out?

Before I begin, I would like to make it clear that I did not support the idea of Fisher being our next coaching candidate. Although there are many variables that go into creating a successful head coach, some within the coaches actual control, many out of his control (i.e. the GM, owner, personnel decisions, division, etc.), 16 seasons are 4 or 5 times longer then the average NFL coaching stint; therefore, odds are that out of 32 teams, a single Superbowl appearance is extremely probable over a long enough time line. Out of his 16 full seasons as coach, 5 were losing, 6 were winning, and 5 he broke even, this is the epitome as average; and as we know in the NFL, unless you are in an ultra garbage division (see Denver this year and Seattle year), 8-8 will not give you a chance to get to the playoffs. Therefore, 8-8 has the same practical effect as going 1-15, but may actually be worse then going 1-15 because you don't get a shot at a real good draft pick (see Miami Dolphins circa 21st century).

With that being said, I am troubled by the reaction of our local media and many of our fans who consider the non-hiring of Jeff Fisher as "strike two" as I have read, and another failure of Ross and Co. However, I do not share this opinion. I have been very skeptical of Ross and even more so of Ireland, but I do not consider Fisher choosing St. Louis as a failure. There are two main things an employer can offer a prospective employee, 1. money and 2. control. From what I understand, Ross offered a ton of money to Fisher but did not offer the level of control Fisher sought, which he received from St. Louis. Fisher, who already has financial security, does not need money like another potential employee may need. Fisher is obviously more interested in control and decision making then the financial aspect. Don't get it twisted either, even though Miami likely offered more money, I'm sure he will be well paid by St. Louis nonetheless. An easy example analogous to this situation is when a person leaves a well paid position at a company to start his own business, or work for a smaller company with a better job title but less salary. Do you call the original employer a failure for someone making a legitimate and understandable career choice? No of course not, it is understandable from both sides. Ross, to his credit stuck to his guns but not cracking on the whole "give Fisher more control thing."

By no means am I big Ireland fan and would not lose an ounce of sleep he was let go. But in all fairness to Ross, offering Fisher a bunch of money is one thing, I get it, does Fisher deserve it? In my opinion no, but others would say he does and that's fine. But what has Fisher proven in 16 seasons that he deserves more power, more control? To me, nothing. Nothing at all (see above). Ross clearly felt that Fisher was good enough to be a well paid coach, but not more of a decision maker. So, if this was the offer, and Fisher didn't take, then fine. We move on. If an employee at a firm leaves the company to work for a new start up company as an officer, even if he is offered more money to stay, is the employer a failure? incompetent? no! Assuming Ross was unwilling to bend on the whole "control" aspect, the only other thing he could have done was offer more money. But how much money does Jeff Fisher truly deserve? Does he deserve to be far and away the most well paid head coach? If you believe he does then what do you base it on? I mean seriously, what? Don't get me wrong, Ross may be incompetent for a whole bunch of other reasons, but not for this. And It really bothers me reading articles from dipshits like Armando Salguero who gets his jolly's off shitting all over other people's decisions and mistakes and somehow gets paid to do so as if he is some genius. I am also deeply annoyed by some fans who think Jeff Fisher has shown that he deserves anything more then to be treated like an experienced, yet mediocre NFL head coach.

The 2012 season has begun with the firing of Tony Sparano. Head Coach, has officially been added to the off-season "To Do" list, along with a franchise QB, Guard, Free Safety, OLB, and RT (anything else?). I know many of us have already been brainstorming our off-season game plans for weeks, but now, with the anti-climatic termination of TS confirmed, I can go forward with my off-season plan with conviction. So lets do it....

Step #1: The Coach

i want to get something off my chest. I cannot stand Jeff Ireland. I understand why TS got fired and agree that it had to be done, but Ireland needs to go too. I have a feeling that Ireland has played a huge role in this team's failure. Again, i know Sparano's job was to NOT go 0-7 and maybe get his team prepared and win some games. But lets face it, assuming Ireland truly is the one behind the player personnel moves, how was TS supposed to win with Chad Henne? its no surprise that we actually started looking like an NFL team when Henne went down. I feel bad for the guy I really do, and TS certainly deserves his fair share of the blame, no doubt. But Ireland comes off as such a snake in the grass. What a sleaze, he seems like that guy in "Fast Times at Ridgemont High," you know, the one who was giving his dorky but loyal friend advice on how to bang that girl, but then he nailed her behind his back.

Also, why is it that none of those reporters had enough nuts to ask Ross in that interview today if Ireland is going to have a job in a few weeks? And if so, why? Because it seems like Ireland snaked his way into convincing Ross, who genuinely appears to know nothing about football, that the team is the epitome of average because of TS alone. I mean, I'll give them the benefit of the doubt as I cannot get into Ross' mind. But one of those reporters should have stepped up to the plate. Someone should have asked "geez, I watch Green Bay, I watch New England, I watch Pitt, I watch New Orleans...do we look like them? Do we have players, and talent like them?" Those teams have QB's, we are not average only because of our coach. But we have a QB who, at best, doesn't lose a game. A secondary, that refuses to make plays. Two 5th round draft pick Free Safeties. A 2nd round OLB who, in order for me to even know if he is even playing in the game, I have to check the box score to see if he registered any stats. Oh yeah, a fat ass RG who cannot stay healthy while he complements our RT who, WE BOUGHT after literally being rated the worst tackle in football last year.

There is no way that Sparano is choosing any if not all these players. So who is? the GM right? What NFL coach, could be a playoff team with Henne and Moore? I like the two guys, I really do. I like underdogs more then anyone, but damn, TS cannot totally be too blame, rather he may merely be a lesser part of the problem. This is not college, this is the NFL, championships are ultimately won by PLAYERS. By scoring points. By QB's who can pick a defense apart. Not by coaches. You think Belicheck is so smart? See what happens if Tom Brady goes down. Geez this has happened once before, hmmmm oh yeah they didn't make the playoffs. You think Sean Payton is super innovative? Imagine the Saint's without Drew Brees. Remember a couple years back when the guy for the Colts was Coach of the Year? haha yeah what a joke. What happened when Manning went down? 0 and what is it now..13? Wow what a dynamic coach.

Ok sorry for that rant....back to the coaching search?

So, I don't know, if you ask me, I want a coach who is young and aggressive. That's all. Someone who is good with the players and has a chip on his shoulder. I want the best, most feared team, not the nicest and most classy. Mr. Ross, find that man, and please do not even attempt to bring in some recycled has been.

Step #2 - Departures

Before getting to the draft, there are a few people I want to see go. Not because I dislike them or anything. I truly support and rep anyone who rocks the aqua and orange. But I am thinking more about the team here and taking into account their current market value, if any.

I would try my hardest to get some trade value for Misi and Smith, both guys are young, and I'm sure have upside, but I don't know man, something about them seems like they are flat lining in a hurry. I know Smith has gotten a couple picks as of late, but I just feel like we can do better. In fact, I kind of hope he gets a few more Int's to really up his trade value. He is young, tall, athletic, but he just doesn't scare me. Vontae may be a little more reckless and all, but something about him puts a little more fear into me, he plays hard, comes downhill with his ears pinned back, I can dig that. But Smith, not so sure. I'm tired of waiting for him to take over, I mean at what point can we say ok, maybe this is as good as he is going to be? year 7? Again, I like the kid I really do. I'm just not afraid of him. And, it has more to do with the fact that I think we can get some, I stress some, trade value out of him. This goes for Misi as well, I know he is young, I know he is playing at a tough position, but this guy has disappeared at a time when he should be steadily more apparent. I wouldn't be opposed to holding onto him for another year or two, but if we can use him to trade up in the draft or package something with Smith, soooomething...I'd be all for it. Because when he came out of college, he seemed ok, nothing spectacular, a high motor, yada yada.....but today, that is still what he seems like. Those guys are a dime a dozen. Whats the difference between him and IAF? OLB's who can set the edge and not get a pass rush are all very easy to find. I would get rid of either Clemons and/or Jones, have not seen anything nor much potential. Merling you're the odd man out of the DE rotation. Adios.

On the offensive side of the ball, Columbo, gone, no brainier. Don't know why you were here in the first place. Seems like a nice guy, but one of the most incompetent signings I have ever seen an NFL team make. I love Bess, but if we can get a 3rd or 4th for him, pull the trigger. He's a great guy, an underdog, humble, love the guy. But if we can turn an undrafted free agent into a 3rd or 4th rounder you gotta do it. Vernon Carey, later! Miami kid. Took the move from RT to RG like a champ. Gave us about 6 or 7 solid years. But man, an oft-injured ultra liability out there.

Step #3 - The Draft

This is the key. We must amass as many picks before the draft as possible. Depending on where we fall in the pecking order, QB is obviously the key to this draft. Period. So If we either go for Luck, Barkley, or RGIII. That's it. One of those guys. I would not, for the life of me, take Landry, Tannehill, Foles, or any other 2nd Tier Qb's just for the sake of taking a qb. That is the epitome of irrationality. I am well aware that this team will not win unless we get a franchise qb. And I am more aware that we certainly do not have one. But it is beyond stupid to draft a qb just to draft one. If Luck, RGII, or Barkley falls to us, wonderful get one and lets go. If not, trade up and grab one. If we just cannot get one of those three, trade back, get a second rounder, and we'll wait another year. I am 26 years old, I have never seen Miami in the Superbowl, what's one more year? I want to win Superbowls, not 9 or 10 games a year.I'm not saying that Luck, Barkley, or RGIII are locks by any means at all. No one is, especially at QB. But I have seen enough potential out of those three, the other guys I am not impressed even the slightest.

Assuming we can get one of those top three QB's. Round Two.... best player available, between a CB (if we get rid of Smith) or OLB. Round 3, best available player....whatever we did not get in the 2nd round or maybe a RT.

Step #4 - Free Agency

Guard - Carl Nicks

Best FS

That is my plan so far, more of a rant then a plan. When my exams are over, I'll have a much more concise breakdown.

During this past off season, the big story, or lack thereof, was the non-signing of Kyle Orton. Many fans, including yours truly, were hoping the Phins might strike a deal that would bring Orton to Miami. Although I must admit I wouldn't have mind seeing Orton rockin' the Aqua and Orange, I was certainly hoping that Jeff Ireland and Co. were not willing to hedge our team's future on him as I definitely never saw him as a long term answer. Rather,I felt Orton could help us a win a few more games while keeping the seat warm for our 2012 First Round Draft pick. So when we didn't pull the trigger on Kyle Ort-daddy, I was not overly disappointed because I, like many Phin Fans assumed the price was way too high and was willing to roll with Henne for one more year.

Fast forward three months...It looks like the Broncos have confirmed that Orton has been waived after being replaced by, the less then stellar (I know I know, hard working, competitive, yada yada, never say never..) Tim Tebow. While, I am confident (fingers crossed) Ireland will be the first to go after this season, I must give him credit (as far as I know at least) for not wasting resources on Kyle Orton who has been let go for free. The main reason I am inclined to give Ireland the benefit of the doubt on this one is because this past weekend, two potential play off team's had quarterback's go down; Schaub is done for the season I believe and Cutler appears to be out for a month or two. However, I have to assume the Broncos would have tried to get something for Orton as opposed to just letting him go for free. I mean, of course, I could be wrong.

But like I said, I'd be open to keeping Sparano.... I reiterate OPEN, nothing more. And while Ireland has had some hits, he has mostly missed, and many of the misses have been big and perplexing to say the least. But on this one, whether it was an accident or not, who isn't glad we didn't trade or sign or blink first for Orton? Matt Moore has been great the last few weeks. By no means am I sold on him and I still hope to get a first round QB next draft. But Hey!...as it stands today, I wouldn't even mind if we kept Moore for another year or so and let him keep the seat warm for a Barkley or Robert Griffin. This could all change but I'm trying to think long term here. But for the price we got Moore compared to what we could have spent on Orton, I'll give Ireland props for this move and this move only!

Agree? Disagree?

Living now here but for fortune

Placed by fate's mysterious schemes

Who'd believe that we're the one's asked

To try and rekindle the patriot's dreams.

Arise sweet destiny, time runs short

All of your patience has heard their retort

Hear us now for alone we can't seem

To try and rekindle the patriot's dreams.

Can you hear the words being whispered

All along the American stream

Tryants freed, the just are imprisoned

Try to rekindle the patriot's dreams.

Ahh but perhaps too much is being asked of too few

you and your children with nothing to do

Hear us now, for alone we can't seem

To try to rekindle the patriot's dreams.

                       go dolphins. Ockyoupie.

           Good evening Dol-Fans! It seems after the first month of over-hyped and uninspired Dolphin football, the 2011 mission appears to be lost cause. Well, now what? I'm sure most if not all of you loyal Dol-Fans have mulled over this question many times over because when it boils down, this franchise has only a few options; some practical, others not so much. At 0-4 going into the bye week, Miami would realistically need to win 10 out of their next 12 games. Wow, until this moment I haven't realized how insane of a task that sounds. So, without further adieu, I will do my best to run down all possible major scenarios and close with my own humble game plan going forward.

Scenario #1

          Win 10 games and give ourselves a shot at the play-offs.

Pros:

          Play-offs are always a good thing. Obviously, in order to get a shot at any title game a team must get a spot in the payoffs. One thing is for certain, IF, and of course this is a big IF, Miami were to get a spot in the play-offs, they would likely be the hottest team in the league with a full head of steam a la the New York Giants a few years back. In all honesty, IF this were to happen, it could be argued that this would be an ideal situation for any team; even better than having a 4-0 start to this season. Not only would we hit the play-offs rolling, the team would prove to itself that they are capable of overcoming almost insurmountable odds and adversity. Further, there would surely be an unbreakable team chemistry that would naturally flow from this deal. And of course, to us fans, a run like this would allow us all to die happy.

Cons:

          Although one might assume that reaching the play-offs could never have any "Cons," My biggest fear is that if we were to earn a Wildcard spot, it will only serve to ensure another first round exit while preserving another mediocre draft position. Also, while I personally think Sparano is a stand up guy that was given a narley deck of cards while having his hands tied behind his back for the last few years in terms of management, control, and decision making, I can not say that I think he has "it." I certainly respect the fact that the players seem to really admire him, but for whatever reason, the decisions that seem to have been within his control have been blunders. Whether they are in game decisions such as calling absurd time outs (see N.O. Saints game just before half time) and having no sense of urgency (see Houston Texans game from this season and not going for it on 4th being down by two scores approaching 8 minutes left in the game), or big picture decisions and that been monumental failures (see Offensive Line woes that still cannot get corrected, Sparano has had little success. I understand it is hard to tell who deserves the bulk of the blame for each huge embarrassing failure: Ross, Parcells, Ireland, or Sparano. But one this is certain, this ain't workin'. Personally, I feel Ireland has more to do with the big picture failures than Sparano. With that being said, however, I believe the cultural of no confidence, losing whether we are winning in the fourth or the inablilty to overcome being down in the 4th, will continue to perpetuate so long as the current Regime is in place. Frankly, this team just flat out does not know how to win. This is why I feel that even if we make it into the play-offs, this team just does not have the talent to win it all. However, a play off appearance may enable this current Regime to get another year or God forbid an extension which will surely extend mediocrity.

Scenario #2

Embark on the "Suck For Luck" Campaign

          I for one am competitive to fault. I hate losing more than anything, I fight until the end even if the outcome is already solidified, like many of you, its just in our nature. However, as I have grown and matured, I have been able to look at the importance of the "Big Picture" in any situation. So, I have a question for you guys out there, what do you really want? To win some games and make the play-offs, or win the Superbowl? Many teams do in fact make the playoffs every year, but only one wins the SB. Now, obviously the more appearances a team makes in the playoffs, the greater the chance that franchise will have of getting to and winning the SB. But one thing we do know, in order to get to the Superbowl, we NEED an elite quarterback. Not a good one, but a great one. Of course, there are exceptions to every rule (see Eli Manning and Trent Dilfer), but the perennial contenders have elite quarterbacks and that is no coincidence. While I personally supported Henne or any player that rocks the Aqua and Orange, like Jeff and Tony, Chad Hen-dog may just not have "it." I don't even blame the kid really, his owner, coaches, and GM have all failed him where possible. I didn't mind the notion of giving him a few seasons to show his stuff, I mean, I'm 26 years old and have never seen Miami in the Superbowl, so what's a few more years? But for whatever reason, whether Henne had the tools or not, it seems time to move on. Thus, the quickest route to making serious changes within this franchise is to essentially keep this train wreck going as is, which will certainly force a regime change from the top to the bottom.

Pros:

          Well, if we get Luck we will appear to have the first and most important piece to a perennial contender. While no one, especially a quarterback, will ever be a "Lock," Luck appears to be the closest thing to a "Lock" that I have ever seen. And this is coming from an Arizona Wildcat fan. This kid is incredible. Now, I read what a lot of what you guys say such as "It doesn't matter who is at QB because with out offensive line, a QB cannot have success." As a former collegiate quarterback, there is no one who understand the importance of having a good OL. However, when we take a step back and look at the big picture, having an OL is just another one of the pieces as is having that elite QB. I cringe when I see some of those short sighted comments. I want to see my team a contender for years, as I said before, I have never seen this team play in a truly meaningful game since I was a child, I can wait a couple more years. But if we get Luck, we will have addressed the biggest need of a contender. And from there, we can put the rest of the pieces together over the next few seasons. I go to school in Toledo, Ohio so I am surrounded by Detroit fans, and the last coupe of years, most people around here had this feeling that finally, this team was on the right track and would start climbing the latter sooner rather than later. Even when this team was only winning a few games a season, there was more hope and promise among Lions fans than Miami having won 7 games. The way Detroit was playing generated optimism, they were clearly getting better and closer. Whereas the way Miami would struggle to maintain leads and overcome being down was seriously discouraging. And now look where the Lions are, they have nearly all the pieces to be a SB contender, they are young, confident, they have overcome being down by about twenty points at half time the last two weeks to win the game. I mean, this is such an underrated aspect. If a team cannot be shaken after getting there ass kicked at half time, then no team will ever feel at ease when playing them. Compare this to Miami, when was the last time we really came back to win a game when it seemed out of reach? and when was the last time that we ever got up on a team and put them away for good, When we are leading, every fan and player seem to be waiting for that margin to shrink and shrink. And that is exactly what happens. This team has no idea what a killer instinct is. This is their culture.

Cons:

          On the flip side, the only drawbacks to tanking the rest of the season are obvious. First of all, having a super high draft pick comes with high risk high reward. Franchises can get setback 5-10 years when their high pick does not pan out (see Jemarcus Russel). Fortunately, this negative effect may have been minimized with the new pay structure that began this past season. Also, watching my Dolphins lose week in and week out is not something I look forward to either, even if I know that this is the only way to force real, positive change, it is certainly a tough pill to swallow after such optimism following the 2008 division title campaign. Alas, as I have said before, I don't care whether we get to the playoffs or win 9 or 10 games, I want a Super Bowl so we need to do whatever it takes to reach this goal, for this is the only goal a franchise should have. No shortcuts. On the bright side, while I would hope that our team and fan base has more pride than to intentionally "Suck for Luck" I'm comforted knowing that this team can still fight every week and still get the #1 pick overall. This realization hit me after about 10 seconds after the end of the Browns game.

Scenario #3

Win just a few games....but let's not get carried away.

Pros:

          As I mentioned before, I am supremely competitive and will fight even for a lost cause. The only thing worst than watching your team lose is watching them give up. Losing should be a talent thing, not a manhood thing. I can deal with losing, but not quitting. So if Miami wins a few games, I will know they still have some fight in them that could carry into the off season.

Cons:

          Whether a team wins 1 game or 9 games, there will likely be a similar result; no playoffs. The only difference is the much better position the one-win team will have at getting that elite play maker. I'm worried that if this team wins three, four or five games, they may miss out on a potential elite QB. As of now, it seems there are 3 potential elite QB's in this draft with Luck appearing to be on a different plane than the other two. I like what I have seen from Landry Jones and wouldn't mind getting him, but personally, I'm not sold on Barkley especially after that Arizona State game last week. the kid has talent, no doubt, but USC has had a history of putting out NFL flops, or at the very least, over-hyped under achievers. Thus, the difference between winning a game or two and getting Luck and winning four or five games and getting Barkley could result in dramatically different results. Better to be safe than sorry right?

Scenario #4

Win 6-9 games

Pros:

          see Scenario #3

Cons:

          see Scenario #3 and multiply the potential risks by 10.

Scenario #5

Win out and hit the play-offs as the hottest team in the NFL en route to our first AFC title game in years.

          I won't even comment on this scenario.

Conclusion:

          The only way I would be happy with a playoff appearance would end with a Superbowl victory. Anything short of that may perpetuate mediocrity by ensuring a draft pick no higher than 20th while running the risk of keeping the regime in tact. I want to be clear and say that If Miami makes a playoff run, it may actually prove that this regime is competent. I personally don't believe they are but in this regard, maybe it wouldn't even be a fluke. However, I have seen so many blunders and head scratching decisions from the top to the bottom that dispel any desire I have to see this regime manage the Dolphins for another season. No one is perfect, everyone makes the wrong move at some point.

          But why is it that some of these personnel decisions are so perplexing to us fans that they defy reason and logic? I always give those the benefit of the doubt in these kinds of situations that with all their knowledge and experience, they will generally be in a better position than us fans to make complicated decisions. But I am convinced that some of these failures are so UN-godly obvious to everyone that no one would a sound mind could make these decisions. While we are merely fans with somewhat limited access to all of the information, there was not one single shred of evidence or justification that would give rise to the notion Marc Columbo would have any success or confer any benefit to this team. No one wanted him. He was rated as one of the worst linemen and all of football? He is old and has no upside. And ironically, all off season we heard how there would be competition at every position, yet, halfway through training camp, we signed this useless tool to come in and be given the RT position without ever having to compete. How could adults let this happen? I mean really think about it. I suppose Sparano's constant meddling with the OL in years past has forced him to overcompensate with becoming stubborn to the point of stupidity with his notion that he was not going to mix and match the OL. In what has become a sick joke, he has now refused to change the OL when it should have been addressed all preseason when Columbo and Carey were getting absolutely worked. Yet, good ol' TS stuck to his guns and went from one extreme to the other with the exact same result; a dysfunctional, unreliable, and flat out toxic OL situation. Sparano and Ireland's lack of an understanding of a balance is truly worry some. They just don't have it.

          Therefore, real change is needed, once again. I don't think this team has to try to hard to tank the rest of the season, so my message to the team is  as follows: if you are going to win some games, win them all, if you are only planning on winning a some or most of them, don't bother.  For the sake of the franchise, I wouldn't be opposed to trading a bunch of players for mid round picks and stocking up for next years draft. Clear out some cap room if you need to to make some big FA moves next year. While this would no doubt ensure a circus of a team for the remaining 13 weeks, it would at least give this season purpose in the grand scheme of things. I mean what's a few more seasons of waiting am I right?

Regards,

The Scarecrow

2013 JD Canidate

Hey Dolfans! 

Just a quick question. First of all any lawyers out there who want to give some unofficial advice to a 1L writing an appellate brief let me know haha!!

Ok now back to my Dolphins.........Over the last couple of weeks, a veteran crop of former Hurricane greats have hit free agency. Most of these guys are in their early 30's and a couple have some injury concerns. A short time ago, I briefly stated in a fanpost that I have a romantic vision to create more of a connection between Florida High School, College, and the Miami Dolphins.

Us Floridians and Dol-Fans have a true understanding of the pride and tradition that the Great State of Florida has given to the national football community. Since the 80's UM, FSU, and UF have flat out had spans of sheer domination, sometimes, simultaneous with each other. I know my first year playing college ball in Ohio, two-a-days were consumed with conversations (arguments) with my teammates regarding which state had the best football. Naturally, I would be debating this with kids from Ohio, PA, VA, TX, etc. Obviously, Ohio, California, and Texas can make their claim, and they have some damn good football. But not like we've got down here. (actually I'm back in Ohio fighting the good fight again).

But the last 10 years have not been that good to us, well, unless you're a Gator. High School football is still stellar in Florida but UM and FSU have fallien off quite a bit. FSU appears to be back on track but UM is losing ground fast. Back in the 80's and 90's the top high school players in the state either went to UM, FSU, or UF (I'm NOT a GATORS fan so im throwing UF a little bit of courtesy out of respect for the State). Nowadays, a lot of high school players are lured away to schools around the country, which speaks volumes to the level of high school talent Florida produces. But at the same time, it chips away from a massive advantage Florida Universities were able to utilize; cornering the Florida High School market.

At the same time, the Dolphins have falling out of perennial contention. As Dol-Fan's we hang on to memories and past achievements, but the only place this fundamental dolphin prowess exists in our hearts, while we wait and pray for our STILL proud franchise to make its return. 

One of the goals Steve Ross set out to do was connect the City of Miami to the Dolphin organization. This is something I admired, even though he wants this for different reasons than I do ($$$$). Unfortunately, in paramount New York fashion, Ross misidentified WHO the city of Miami and south Florida actually is. 

I'm willing to bet true Miami Dolphin fans don't give two sh*ts about J-Lo, Marc Anthony, and the Williams sisters. The Miami Steve Ross sees glorified on TV is not the Miami that Dolphin fans live in. in 1987, the population of Florida was somewhere around 8 million, today about 19 million. And of those 19 million, about 65-70 percent are from NY, MA, OH, PA, etc. Hence the reason Dolphin games are damn near overrun by Jets an Pats fans. 

In order to defeat this invasion, and re-secure our homeland (I know I am being dramatic), the Dolphins must look to traditional sources of pride that unites south Florida athletics. Thus, I propose, as a default rule, when in doubt sign or draft kids with Florida roots, whether college or High School. 

The truth is, regardless of what rank the Canes or Noles are, the kids still produce. For whatever reason, there appears to have been a serious problem developing the talent at UM. I am all ears to learn why this has happened whether it was Shannon, a string of coaches, etc. But at the same time, some of these kids still produce a la Sam Shields, Javarris James, etc. I am certainly not saying that the current talent can hold a candle to some of the old teams. But hey, when in doubt......

Finally, the question: Out of  these current Free Agents would you be opposed to bringing in some possible "has beens" at a fair price? Im talking about Shockey, Portis, McGahee and Santana Moss (I may be wrong but Moss and Willis might still be on a their rosters)? 

Some of these guys have battled injuries and up and down careers, but could we use some or any of these veterans? 

Do any of these guys have gas in the tank?

And who, if any, other kids from Florida Schools, including UCF, USF, FAU and FIU might be a diamond in the rough whether late in the draft or as a UDFA?

The four players listed above actually serve as position of needs, but could either of those guys fill it?

Would anyone be opposed to letting R and R go, and replace them Willis and/or Clinton and a RB in rounds 1-3? and maybe draft Graig Cooper late?

I'll tell you what, when B Marsh was signed, it was nice to hear that the first thing he said was "I'm Home." (Don't get me wrong, if someone paid me that kind of cash I have no problem calling Anchorage, Alaska home too). But assuming that Shockey saying that he really wants to play in Miami because of his ties here is not total BS, could this be a good thing to help re-connect Miami back to the State of Florida, back to being the TEAM of FLORIDA!! Like I mentioned in a previous fanpost, I would love to see the Dolphins rock the State of Florida Flag on their jerseys, just as a message to Tampa Bay and Jacksonville.

But just imagine, if in a wierd way, the Dolphins could corner the Florida College market? How many fans would love to see their favorite college players play for their hometown team? 

Again guys, I would love to hear your comments and I FULLY UNDERSTAND some of the practical concerns that follow my proposition. But hey, I'm romantic, what can I say?

Alright Dol-Fans, it's that time again! Procrastination Time....Dolphin style!

So once again, I'm in the middle of writing another Law School brief, this time, an appellate brief to the 7th Circuit Court. Oh yes, it is as much fun as it sounds.....FML...and the Jets of course. As we delve further into this seemingly uneventful offseason, many of us continue to play out certain scenarios involving the draft, free agency, and trades, that ultimately will culminate into the Dolphin's collective off-season. Like all of you, I have been toying with different scenarios that will allow this team to maximize its offseason success.

Sometimes, I find myself conjuring up practical (feasible) scenarios and other times, I feel like I'm flat out dreaming. Below, I lay out some scenarios and I want you loyal Dolphin fans to tell me if it is conceivable or plausible. Am I dreaming, or could this happen? (although I concede anything I say is unlikely to happen in its entirety). 

I am not going to go into to much detail or debate about the Dolphin's NEEDs and priorities this offseason, most of us by now have a general consensus. Rather, my aim is to figure out the best way to create the MEANS in which this franchise can address its priorities (whatever the powers that be decide they are). Furthermore, I am presuming there will eventually be a true Free Agency period and Trading amongst teams. So....

1. How to Maximize the Draft?

Obviously, in order to get the most out of the draft, whether you have 20 picks or 2, its vital to draft players who don't turn out to be busts, this goes without saying. When you have a limited amount of picks it is a MUST that the players turn out to be solid contributors at the very least. On the other hand, you can acquire 20 picks and miss on each and every one of them. Naturally, with all else even, the more picks you have, the more opportunity the team creates to select good or great players, although, practically speaking, it's certainly not a guarantee. 

With that being said, on the surface, there appears to be a consensus that this is a Defensive heavy draft, which is unfortunate for Miami. However, it is still possible to address many priorities. But, it is very important to create and maximize opportunities in this draft.

I will assume that what Ireland has said regarding his quest to obtain a 2nd round pick is his true intent. Well, there are really only two or three legitimate ways this can be done. Either we (1) trade down to the bottom of the first round or (2) we trade a player for a 2nd rounder or (3) we bundle up mid-late round picks in exchange for a 2nd. 

Addressing the first issue, assuming there are trade partners available (big assumption), the simplest and most painless way is to trade down. From what I see, there is no one around the 15th pick that Miami cannot live without. Many will argue that if Cam Newton, Gabbert, or maybe even another QB is available, that we should take him at 15th instead of trading down. I personally do not see anyone of these QB's as being considered "locks" in the same manner that Bradford or Matt Ryan were coming out of college. That is not to say they are not capable and by no means am I saying that anyone at all, especially QB's are guaranteed "locks" as franchise QB's , but in my opinion, viewing the top QB's in this draft in the most favorable light possible, ALL of these QB's are riddled with question marks, baggage, and flaws. Again, to reiterate, every QB in this draft has very serious, and very practical concerns. For example, assuming that the two top QB's in this draft (Newton and Gabbert) are in fact worthy of their title, they are at best project's and far from NFL ready. 

So what does this mean? Well, for one, not a whole lot because there are always teams who need a QB and are willing to look past certain flaws to draft a guy with a lot of upside. This is good for us. Everyone in the league knows or believes that Miami is looking to the future (again) to find a franchise QB. Therefore, if a team wants QB "X" and he is still on the board at 15, and this team believes there is a high probability that Miami or another team will draft this guy, they are going to want to trade up for him. This is why it is so important that leading up to the draft, that Ireland and Sparano make it really appear the Dolphins are seriously considering a QB. This is a simple, yet brilliant strategy and Ireland appears to be doing this by openly stating interest in Newton and Colin K. (In my opinion, I do not think they want either one in the first round, and as history has shown, when it comes to Ireland and Co. I believe none of what I hear and half of what I see. In fact, when Ireland says something so clear and straightforward, he actually means the opposite...**see comments made prior to drafting Jake Long when Ireland said "..the #1 pick must be staple of our defense.")

So trading down....Conceivable? Plausible? Or a Dream?

2. Trading Current Players for a 2nd Rounder?

Before we get into this, I am assuming the NFL and Players Union gets their sh*t together in time. Next we must look at who on this team is worthy of a 2nd round pick or even a 3rd. 

Obviously we can name off which Dolphins are worthy of 2nd Round: Long, Marshall, Carey, Dansby, Davis, Starks, etc.

The next step is to then decide out which of the possible 2nd round worthy players, we can afford to part with. A few factors to consider would be the quality of depth at the position, whether or not the player is in his prime or yet to be, and of course the financial consequences.

In terms of players who are not expendable, I would say Long, Marshall (can be argued, but I like what he brings, and we know what we are getting out of him and he is still young), Dansby, again, is too valuable to our defense and we know what to expect from him. Therefore, I think one of the strongest, most talented, and deepest part of this team is our D-Line, specifically D-End. We have Odrick, Merling, Starks, Langford, McDaniels (FA) who are or can be starting calibur linemen. 

Odrick was a 1st rounder last year and showed great potential but only played like one half. However, when you draft a guy in the first round, you are saying that he better be a starter. Also, it goes without saying that his trade value is minimal anyways. McDaniel brings versatility, which is key. I think he has a significant role on this team and can should be re-signed at a fair price. Merling is definitely not capable of being traded for a 2nd rounder, but can be a starter or a good backup at worst. That would leave us with Langford and Starks. The fact of the matter is there are two D-end positions and 3 or 4 players that are capable of being starters. This is a good problem to have. Langford has been solid from day 1. He is young and has played above expectations. Could he be traded for a 2nd rounder? maybe, maybe not. I certainly think he could be. I mean, he has the potential of being a Pro-Bowler in time and should be a solid starter for a long time to come at worst. Is a long term starter worthy of a 2nd round pick? I think so. OR Starks, who is coming off a pro-bowl year. I really appreciate what he has done for this team. He is been self-less and has became a fantastic player at DE while giving us serious versatility by being able to play NT. I mean, this quality versatility cannot be under estimated, it is huge. At the same time, his trade value is at a premium right now. Look at what the patriots do, they trade players based on their market value, regardless of who the player is or what position they play...*see Phillip Seymour. 

A lot of this depends on what Miami does with Soliai, I understand. 

But, on its surface, Starks or Langford trade for a 2nd Rounder....Conceivable? Plausible? or a Dream?

3. Bundling up Mid-Late Round Picks for a 2nd Rounder?

I will not spend too much energy on this scenario. It basically boils down to whether or not a person wants to have "many" picks collectively, or a "few" picks of quality, i.e. a three or four picks altogether, but in the first 3 rounds. 

I will Conclude by giving my dream scenario for this particular draft.....you tell me whether it is Conceivable? Plausible? or am I completely dreaming?

1. Trade Down to a QB desperate team (more so than us and less patient). Yes we need a QB, RB, C, etc., But since we ultimately need those positions collecively, what is the difference between getting a QB this year or next year, or a C this year or next year, or a RB this year or next year. What I'm saying is that if we NEED to fill positions X, Y, and Z, etc. why do we NEED to fill it in a particular order instead of letting the draft and available personnel dictate who we draft. In order to get to the Superbowl, we more than likely need to address quite a few positions, some more than others, and it is SERIOUSLY unlikely to get all of those positions filled in one offseason. And because it is unlikely to fill them all in one offseason, this means we need two or three off-seasons anyways. 

I'm not saying that we should or shouldn't draft a particular player, and if the Dolphin brass does there due diligence and determines a player to be worthy of a pick, then go for it. But one thing I notice, for example, when people talk about drafting Mark Ingram, there are people who immediately say that "No, don't draft a RB because he has no line to run behind, but instead, draft linemen instead because drafting a RB with no O Line is a wasted pick. But why is this so? Again I'm not saying that we should draft Ingram, but if he turns out to be determined as a special player, why not draft him when we can, and then draft linemen when we can. I certainly understand the importance of the O-Line, but skill positions are what separate the great from the good teams. If we drafted a guy like Ingram and he rushed for 500 yds this year behind an average O-Line, but then we solidify our O-line next season, we then have a solid O-Line with an elite RB capable of 1200 yards for years to come. (I am using Ingram as an example and not saying he is a stud or a dud, just an example).

Similarly, yes we need a QB, but its not the only thing we need to get to the next level. So if we draft a QB this year because we need one, and he turns out to be average, how much will that help us? As opposed to having a better chance of getting a better QB next draft.

So, trade down, get a 2nd.

2. Trade Starks or Langford for a 2nd rounder. I think one of the biggest obstacles regarding this scenario, outside the CBA issue, is the fact there are a lot of good DE's in this draft. But at the same time, with young veteran players, it is less of a risk and possibly cheaper as well.

3. Sign quality two or three quality players though FA....A guard, or maybe even Bob Sanders for a cheap one year deal and see if he can stay healthy. If he cannot, we have capable players. Low risk - High Reward. Same for the now jobless Shockey. 

This would leave us with a first round pick, two second round picks, and a third, hell, maybe trade Y. Bell for another third rounder and replace him with Jones or Culver. I really like Bell, but again, its about getting the best bang for your buck, like trading stock, buy low sell high. Are Bell's best days not behind him? If we can get a 3rd for him why not?

If this scenario above pans out, you can draft the best player available in the first, maybe another OLB (think about it what if Wake goes down??). If we get another OLB that can pass rush, we can move Misi inside, let Channing Crowder go or be traded and still have Dobbins to give us depth. 

Then, in the 2nd round, we could draft two RB's that compliment each other, or a RB and WR with some wheels, and another RB in the 3rd, a guard and a RB in the second round and then another RB and WR with two third rounders, etc. The possibilities are endless!!!

The Question for you is Conceivable? Plausible? or is The Scarecrow living in the Land of Oz?

Once again it's time to procrastinate the Miami Dolphin way....this time The Scarecrow is putting off writing an appellate brief for 1st year Legal Research and Writing.

With your permission, I would like to refute some myths that are bugging me as I scan through the media and blogosphere regarding what the Phins should and should not be doing during this 2011 offseason. As we surf the web and try to assess the best possible strategy the Dolphins should use to attack this ever important offseason, all of us have seen countless mock drafts and free agent scenarios along with the rationalization behind these predictions/suggestions/prayers. Well I for one support free thought, some of the rationalizations used to support one's conclusion really bother the hell out of me. While no one on planet earth has any idea (not even Jeff Ireland and Co.) know exactly how this offseason is going to play out, there are certain philosophies floating around that are illogical if not flat dumb (in a football sense of course)......

Myth #1

Any one who expressly or impliedly assumes this team can satisfy all of its needs in one single offseason is flat crazy.

     This means that anytime you read somebody's assessment of what this team's "Needs" are followed by a solution to address each single need in a single off season should give off Red Flags. I understand many out there are having fun with the offseason and thats ok, but the moment anyone believes that this is a viable solution is living in Fantasy Land.

     First of all, this team has way too many needs to satisfy in one offseason. This has been pretty unanimous and in no particular order: QB, RB, C, G, Speedy WR, TE. An easy and "seemingly" logical way to approach this is to say, "ok we have six positions to fill through the draft and FA, we have picks in the 1st, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, two in the 7th (somebody let me know if this is the right amount of picks). So we will get X in the 1st, Y in the 3rd, Z in the 4th, and so on and so forth and of course sign Mankins or DeAngello Williams, etc. and Presto!! Superbowl!!....How I wish it would work like that but if that were the case, every team, every year would likely be headed to the Superbowl. In order for this to pan out, we would need every pick to be a home run and every FA we offer to sign with us. Furthermore, I would love to be able to trade down in the 1st and pick up a 2nd rounder because this is a weak draft to a degree, but that requires a team to REALLY want what a guy whom they believe is a sure thing, something that this year is a tougher scenario than most seem to understand.

     The truth is, most teams, even the Patriots, don't hit home runs left and right with their picks. It just seems that way because of two things. 1.) the Pats treat their players like a stock market, which is beautiful really. Buy low and sell high. Take Richard Seymour for example; many in the NFL thought it was crazy when they traded this guy at the prime of his career to the Raiders who have been so bad, NE essentially felt confident that they had on acquired a top 10 pick out of it. Brilliant. Also, Randy Moss, at the most random time, they trade him away during the middle of the season for a 3rd rounder because, although productive, they knew this was a super high offer for this guy at this point in his career, especially when they planned to get rid of him after the season. 2.) Plain LUCK!! His name is Tom Brady. Not once but twice has Brady brought supremely good fortunes to that team. The first time being drafted in the 6th round. And in a strange way, by getting hurt a few seasons ago, Matt Cassel stepped in and instantly brought his stock up from a back up who was not even a starter in college, to bringing NE some more 1st round love when he was traded to the Chiefs.

     But I digress, point is, Pats and other perennial teams have hits, but misses as well. For this reason, we should be thinking of a more practical approach this offseason. A week or two ago, I posted my Practical Draft Methodology outlining a more realistic strategy to use this offseason. But as I previously wrote, if we satisfy one, two, or God forbid three of our needs, we can be a playoff team or better. This would involve determining our top needs and applying it to what is available in the draft, and more importantly, what will be available to us in the draft. If it were up to me, I would sign a guard at the very least, hopefully Mankins, but if not a solid starter, then draft another Guard/Center within the first three rounds, ideally, and I stress IDEALLY, trade down, pick up a 2nd and use that 1st to pick up a top OL, preferably a Center. This would allow us to fill a guard position through, put Incognito back at the other guard position and of course use the pick to solidify the OL while providing for quality depth with Jerry, Garner, etc.

Myth #2 (and this drives me crazy)

QB is a need therefore we MUST draft a QB. 

     This terrifies me. I don't have the resources to fully assess and analyze every QB in this draft, especially those considered possible 1st rounders, but just because we need a QB does not mean we must draft one just for the sake of it. If the Dolphin brass logically analyze and conclude that their is a 1st round QB worthy of the pick and pull the trigger, I have no problem with that. But by no means would I draft a guy in the first round because he is better than the other QB's in the draft. It is obviously a weak, weak QB class. Just because X is better than Y, does not mean X is worth the pick at all. It just means he is better than another guy. People sound like children when they post or make comments saying "this team needs a QB, Henne doesn't have it, so lets get Newton, or Colin K, etc." This team is almost certainly NOT going to the Superbowl next season. But hey, 28 other teams won't as well. So lets get a team in place that can compete for the next 10 years, not just trying to figure out a way to win next season. Don't get me wrong, while it would be nice to win NOW,  it is more likely to set us back a few more years if we act like an impatient 6 year old rather then getting the RIGHT guy. I don't know about you guys, but I don't give a damn about winning games, I want to see my Dolphins in THE GAME. I would rather win 3 games next season and get Andrew Luck in 2012, then get bumped out of the first round of the playoffs and find ourselves were we are, and have been the last 15 years. Just beat those jerk off JETS and I'm content.

Myth #3

Suggesting the Dolphins should have players switch positions because it will free up draft picks.

      I have not seen this notion made all that much. But when I have, I immediately say to myself this guy probably has never played tackle football pass 8th grade (and that is a me being nice).

     More often than not, this position switch involves moving Vernon Carey to Guard with the belief that this will allow us to kill two birds with one stone by only needing to draft one OL and sign another. FANTASY LAND!!

     Those who actually played competitive football understand the difference between a Guard and a Tackle. Yes, there are certain players who can play both, apparently John Jerry is one who could. But these are more plug in guys that are tweeners because they are either too small to be a TRUE tackle but are big and athletic enough to play Guard and CAN play tackle if needed. Vernon Carey is a MAMMOTH at 6-5 340, which I personally do not believe is actually 340. I don't know his 40 time, but even if it was decent (for a big tackle fast would be between a 5.1 and 5.3) Carey is certainly not quick. Quickness is the key of being a good guard because they do a lot of pulling more so than tackles. They not only need to be quick, but they need to have a relatively low center of gravity because when they do pull, they need to be able to be athletic enough get their feet under them and be in enough control of their body to lay into someone with precision. Tackles, however, come down hill at an angle to pick up those interior D linemen or use their massive size to pick up DL or LB straight ahead. 

     Linemen are not all the same, each position has a certain skill set specific to each respective position. It's like saying if we had a TE that was a little smaller or faster, they can be moved to WR. Just because a TE may occasionally line up as a WR in certain packages, does not mean he should be or could be moved to the WR position permanently. Although there are guards with similar size as Carey, he is by no means fitted for a guard position.

Myth #4

Cam Newton should be drafted because he is a less polished Vince Young.

     Ok...I don't necessarily consider this a myth, it is more of a description, but if you want to sell me a QB, you don't say this is a "not as good" version of Vince Young. Vince Young is and has been one of the rawest starting QB's in the NFL. To say someone is more raw than him is not how you sell a 1st round QB. If you said he is a less polished Manning, Brady, or Roethliswhatever, I might be interested. But Vince Young? Give me a break. I realize that when V. Young has not been injured physically or mentally, he has played pretty well at times, he has been pretty inconsistent. Also, he has been on some good Titan teams prior to this year and to my recollection had not been able to take them deep in the playoffs. I want a real QB, not a less polished version of an unpolished QB. 

     Also, and this can be added to the "myth" is that Cam Newton can be coached. This is not a total myth because in theory, anything is possible. But there is not a QB in this draft that has a longer way to go than Cam Newton. How many triple options do you think he will run in the NFL? How many NFL throws and reads has he actually made....and please don't say " I've seen him throw the ball 60 yards with a perfect spiral blah blah blah." Non-sense, he is tall and fast (striding fast not NFL fast by the way), but his arm is not unique in its strength and accuracy. I'm not even going to go into how little reading (defenses) he actually did in college, its just a waste of time. But making reads and using your brain is THE SINGLE most important part of being an NFL QB. Every one in the draft has incredible ability and some more than others. But what sets them apart is there ability to make reads. It is not something you just learn, you cannot teach a guy to be smart. I am not saying Newton is a moron, I have no idea, but I do know for a fact that he either makes very basic reads, or picks a guys and throws it to him. To his credit he was able to get away with it in college. But he has been very fortunate. When looking at a QB, its so easy to look at the result of the play instead of how the play came to be. What makes Cam Newton so appealing is his stats, and what makes his stats so sexy are his rushing stats, and what makes his rushing stats so sexy WILL NOT TRANSLATE INTO THE NFL and will be nullified. 

His footwork is garbage if not offensive, and why? I know he had coaches from middle school through college coaching him daily on his footwork, so that leaves only two options: Either he cannot comprehend the coaching relating to his footwork or he just flat out did not care enough to work on it.  And for whatever reason or rationale someone wants to give, he either has not or cannot make reads. 

He could be a starter and based upon his size, and apparent athletic ability, has has great upside, but I would not bet my only 1st or 2nd rounder on it. People will discredit Colin. K, Blaine Gabbert, Ryan Mallet, etc. about playing in systems and spreads, but no one has played in an offense so far and out of line from NFL offenses then Newton...ok you can probably argue Colin K. and Nevada's "Pistol" offense. i do agree that the offense a QB played on is very significant in de terming his draft viability, but make sure those who will discredit other QB's in the draft, apply that same principle to Newton.

Ok back to writing an appellate brief. As always, your comments are appreciated.

Go Phins

Each offseason, it seems everyone with voice (or keyboard) use their perceived knowledge of a team's strengths and weaknesses to devise a plan of action for the upcoming draft. I am no different. However, many of these plans involve a strategy that will allow a team to address most if not all of their needs.

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  I am 25 and the last time the dolphins went to the SB was the year I was 7 8 months before I was born...so needless to say Im not, nor have any reason to be an optimistic person regarding this team. With that being said, I think it is unfair to pre-judge this new OC or QB's coach (I heard there may have been mistake regarding his coaching position). When I first saw the headline, the first thing that came to my head was "Is this some kind of sick joke?!?!" But If he is the OC, I certainly do not believe it is fair to equate him to the Dan Henning offense based on stats alone. I do not know what  hand Henning or Daboll had in drafting Offensive players, but I can tell you that when I watched Dolphin games, Henning severely handicapped this football team based on his play calling and overall strategy. I'm not saying that the Fins offensive talent was elite by any means, but they were completely under utilized and leading to their under performance. The Browns had a worse QB situation then we did, having to go through 3 starting qb's who all got hurt at some point throughout the year and ultimately relying on a Rookie QB who was not supposed to start this season.  The Browns knew who they were and stuck to it despite the QB situation. They ran the ball down peoples throat when everyone who played them knew what to expect, yet the Browns still found a way to run the ball for the most part with massive issues at Qb and no real WR threats.

   On the other hand, our offense had RB's, good WR's, and obviously QB issues. I realize that Miami started 3 qb's this season, but Henne really started all but 2 games and basically played 15 games. And like the stats show, an unprepared rookie basically played as well as our veteran Qb. And like you said, no moron WC calls on first and second down to have Henne go in on 3rd and 14, no more Ricky throwing the ball on like 2nd down from the 1 yd....this has been a highly predictable, under performing offense. The only types of surprises were usually in utter disbelief of some of the garbage play calling we saw this past season. If the Dolphins could have had an average offense, not even a good one, just an average one, this team could have won at least 10-11 games without question. Instead we had one of the worst two or three in the league and still managed 7 wins because of our defense. 

   Think about it this way, I am beyond disappointed with what I witnessed this past year, and personally, like you, I believe a lot of the blame is coaching on the offensive side of the ball and possibly with the head coach. I mean, you obviously can show that the team has the capability to beat NFL teams when you beat teams like the Packers and Jets on the road and out of the 4 teams competing for the Conference Championships, Miami has played four games against three of those teams and went 1-3. Split 1-1 with the Jets and lost to the Bears and Steelers. The Steelers game is likely a win without monumentally disastrous refereeing. And we lost 16-0 to the Bears with the 3rd string QB starting on two days notice, then we lose our WR, Guard, Center in the first half which means our defense played practically lights out in a disaster situation. 

  In summation, lets give this guy a shot, statistically, it cannot get much worse. I am cautiously, mildly, uncomfortably optimistic. I'm just hoping we can be average offensively.

Here is the thing, and I really hope people read this and reply to my comment because I want to know if I'm alone in this or just crazy......

This is an opinionated summation where Miami has come and where we currently stand.

First of all, unfortunately I think this is the right move. Its unfortunate because it is our only chance to have any success this year. As a college Qb, I was never the biggest or fastest guy or had the strongest arm but I had success and played at the D1a level because I was efficient and put my teams in a position to win and for this reason I really admire CP10 for what he has been able to do with his career. Henne has all the tools, he really does. But the window for young Qb's to sink or swim is small and unfortunately for Henne, it is near the end and it is because the offensive coaches. Primarily Henning and Sparano has monumentally failed this kid. In particular, Sparano's "I'm going to play not to lose" mentality and Henning's inept, uncreative, arrogant style of coaching. **By the way, if anyone has not already, please look up Henning's overall record as both a HC and OC in both the NFL & NCAA so you can see just how average (or slightly below) he is.

I rest a significantly greater amount of fault for the offense's troubles and Henne with Henning. Sparano's hyper-conservative mentality is grossly contagious. How is it that we are the only team in the NFL not to score30 points in a single game yet this season? Why is it that Detroit, Cleveland, Buffalo (god damn buffalo), St. Louis can put up points quite consistently with so much less. We may not have the team right  now that can go to the Superbowl, but we should at the very least be able to score. Those other teams I mentioned do with so much less talent. I mean watch Ryan Fitz put up points with no name WR's (other than Lee Evans) and a porous offensive line. Watch a rookie Qb put up points with a team that either went winless last year or won one game. Guys, over the last 2 and a half years, and please correct me if I'm wrong, but I can only remember one single game that we won by more than one score, and that was against NE when we unleashed the Wildcat. How is it possible that over two an a half years, even when we do win, we squeak by or weather the storm? This is not a coincidence. When was the last time you were watching a game and felt calm and certain in the 4th quarter? I sure as hell cannot. Do you guys want to know how to figure out if a team has coaching issues? Look at second half and specifically 4th quarter stats. Thats where coaching comes in to play because thats when you make in game adjustments. We are getting outscored badly in the 4th quarter and second half of games because teams adjust to us and we cannot do the same. I hate the inconsistency of this team in all aspects. Our dumb ass head coach used the offensive line as his own personal science experiment. What were we 4th in the NFL in rushing last year? Then what does Sparano do? He spent all offseason and preseason churning & churning our OL then ultimately dismantles the interior OL just before the season starts. And for what? And more importantly for who? I'm ok with not wanting injury prone guys around, I get it. But be consistent. (Now you bring in Al Harris?) The OL is the most important part of an offense and maybe the team. If you are going to replace guys for dumb ass reasons, give them a chance to mesh instead of dicking around all preseason hoping they come together in season. And who are we drafting? I certainly realize that drafting players is a crap shoot, even the better NFL teams miss all the time. But Pat White? do you know who we could have drafted instead? P. Turner? Honestly, what is the best case scenario in drafting pat white? In the 2nd round? Im not even going to go through the FA busts. But it happens and I get it.

Ill finish off on Henning. Why are we running PAs when we need to go 70 yards in 90 secs? Why run the ball on 1st down when we need to go 45yds in 2 min? and vs. Pitt? How does Ronnie go 6 for 45 and a TD on the 1st drive then 3 more carries? How does BM have 5 catches for 30yds? (only running 5 yd routes). I can't tell if we are trying to get younger cheaper cause they chronically contradict themselves. I know that Henne is the one playing and everyone on the offense naturally must take responsibility, but this kid never had a chance with these coaches. We compare Henne to his young contemporaries such as Matt Ryan, Mark Sanchez, Joe Flacco, Sam Bradford, etc. You know what those guys have in common? Michael Turner, LT, Ray Rice, Steven Jackson, etc. the coaches do not rely on them they let the running game take the pressure off and utilize the young Qb's properly to their skill set as they adjust to the game. But again, our RB sucks because our OL sucks. Our OL sucks (and was great last year) because our coach let the interior go and completely downgraded the OL in general. And then we ask Henne to win us ball games while playing in Henning's garbage system. Again, not saying Henne has no responsibility in this, but the coaches failed him one hundred percent.