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2010 NFL Predictions: Miami Dolphins

The Miami Dolphins weren’t able to build on their 2008 division title, falling to just 7-9 last season. But things are looking up as the 2010 season approaches. The Dolphins were able to land wide receiver Brandon Marshall, giving them a true No. 1 wideout for the first time in several years. His presence should immediately improve a passing attack which ranked No. 20 in the NFL last season. After ranking No. 25 in scoring defense, it was clear the Dolphins needed to part ways with Paul Pasqualoni. Former San Francisco 49ers head coach Mike Nolan has been brought in to take over defensive coordinator duties. Miami is hoping that this move, along with the signing of Karlos Dansby, will help the rejuvenate the defense.

Offense: Marshall may be a diva, like so many other wide receivers in today’s game, but he will have an immediate impact on the offense in a positive way. First off, he gives emerging quarterback Chad Henne a go-to guy. Secondly, he demands a lot of defensive attention. That means fellow wideouts Davone Bess, Greg Camarillo and Brian Hartline will have the potential to have more productive seasons.  It also means Ricky Williams and Ronnie Brown will benefit as defenses are forced to pay more attention to the passing game. Marshall’s presence will also allow offensive coordinator Dan Henning to abandon the Wildcat offense. Miami started to abandon it when Brown went down with an injury last season, and Henne impressed throwing the football during that time. Miami won’t need to depend on deception as much now that it has a top notch playmaker. Led by tackles Jake Long and Vernon Carey, the Dolphins also boast one of the better offensive lines in the league.

Defense: If Miami hopes to return to the top of the AFC East, it must turn things around on this side of the football. Last season, the Dolphins were among the worst scoring defenses in the league, allowing 24.4 points per game. They gave up way too many big plays while not making enough big plays themselves.  While Dansby fills a big hole at inside linebacker, making a major turnaround won’t be easy. Players will need to step up to fill the shoes of departed outside linebackers Joey Porter and Jason Taylor. Plus, the Dolphins will have to juggle personnel following the retirement of nose tackle Jason Ferguson. The impression I’m getting is that Randy Starks will slide down to take Ferguson’s spot. Porter and Taylor combined for 16 sacks last season, so Koa Misi, Charlie Anderson and Cameron Wake must be able to at least match that production. First round draft pick Jared Odrick must produce at the defensive end spot as well. Pro Bowl safety Yeremiah Bell leads a defensive backfield which should show some improvement as long as Miami can mount a formidable pass rush. Cornerbacks Votae Davis and Sean Smith will benefit from getting lots of experience as rookies last year.

Prediction: 3rd AFC East The Dolphins could certainly do better than third, but there are still some areas of concern on the defensive side of the football. Miami should be able to muster a winning season, and it may be able to find its way into the playoffs. Be sure to check out my 2010 NFL predictions to see who I have winning the division.

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