Defensive Line is a Problem

We’re only three weeks into the season, but the Miami Dolphins defensive line has been a big problem throughout the year. And I mean for opposing offenses. The tandem of Cameron Wake and Robert Quinn have been wreaking havoc on opposing offenses. Then, as if that wasn’t enough, the Dolphins have the likes of William Hayes and Charles Harris lying in wait to spell Wake and Quinn. The rotation has been working well for the Dolphins, and Sunday’s game against Oakland was no exception.

Things didn’t get off to a great start for the unit in the opening game against Tennessee. In spite of the team squaring off against backup tackles and a backup quarterback, no one was able to get home and notch a sack. I’m willing to chalk a lot of that up to the combination of first game rust, and the incredible weather delays that game had. Since the opener, the Dolphins pass rushers have been great.

They got home several times in the Week 2 match-up against Sam Darnold and the New York Jets. This week, the Dolphins added another three sacks against Derek Carr and the Raiders. More than the sheer numbers, though, Wake and the crew were punishing Carr. They hit him numerous times and late in the game that had an effect. It was a great performance, and one they’re going to need to duplicate next week to take down Tom Brady and the Goliath Patriots.

The game wasn’t without consequences for the unit, however. Defensive end William Hayes left the game with a knee injury after one of the three sacks. There’s been no word on what that injury is, or the severity, but his absence was felt. Between his injury and Akeem Spence getting ejected early on, you could see how worn down the unit became toward the end of the game. If Hayes is to miss significant time, that could be something to watch for.

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