The Miami Dolphins’ losses this year can be attributed to two major deficiencies on defense, defending the big plays and taking on big, physical receivers. In each of Miami’s 3 losses this season we can see evidence of these things working against them.

In Miami’s losses to the Jets, Cardinals, and Texans it was big plays and physical receivers that doomed the defense in those games. Against the Jets it was two big pass plays that doomed the Dolphins, the bomb to Cotchery in the 1st quarter and the 4th down hail mary to Chansi Stuckey in the endzone near the end of the half. If you take away those two touchdowns on big plays, the Dolphins otherwise locked down the Jets offense.

The Cardinals game was a case of too much of both their problems. Arizona’s big WRs Anquan Bolding and Larry Fitzgerald had monster days, but also had monster plays. One play in particular provides a perfect case in point. A long pass to Larry Fitzgerald resulted in Fitzgerald out jumping both Miami defenders, breaking their tackles, and romping another 20yds before being brought down.

Then last week against Houston. Big plays obviously played a role in this game, especially the two 4th down conversions on the final drive that allowed Houston to stay alive and eventually win. The Dolphins DBs struggled to deal with Andre Johnson as well.

By comparison, Miami’s defense was able to lock down the more finesse and speedy receivers of New England and San Diego in their two victories this season.

It is clear, the Miami Dolphins are making great strides in their quest to turn the franchise around. At the same time, the time to rest has not come yet. The Dolphins need to keep improving and need to find a way to deal with big, physical WRs and prevent the opposition from getting big plays (particularly late in games) that hurt the Dolphins’ chances.