One of the biggest criticisms the Miami Dolphins have faced lately is their culture. The NFL is a mean place and it seems like Mike McDaniel’s way is too relaxed for the team. After a joint practice against Jared Goff and the Detroit Lions, one player said Miami didn’t match Detroit’s intensity. When McDaniel tried to dismiss it, Tua Tagovailoa made a worrying statement about it.
It was Lions linebacker Grant Stuard who stirred the pot. McDaniel said the remarks were just mere “noise.” However, Tua wasn’t agreeing with his coach. Per the team’s transcript, the quarterback said it was “a very frustrating day in regards to what we wanted to do.”
“We couldn’t gain that momentum to where all we needed was one play and then jumpstart the offense… It just felt like we didn’t have the energy that we’re used to when we practice and when we play against opponents. So, that’s what I’m talking about when I talk about it was frustrating today,” Tua said.
Mike McDaniel might be on the hot seat for these kinds of issues
No one will deny Mike McDaniel is an offensive genius and has charisma. However, some might say that his character is not head coach-esque enough. Players in the league, some that even play under him have called out how the Dolphins are too soft at times for being an NFL team. This falls on McDaniel. Before, it was edge rusher Bradley Chubb, now, this Tua remarks just sent worrying signs that nothing has changed.
This is especially worse because if there is a team that defines intensity in the NFL, it’s the Lions. So, getting called out by a player on their roster and then your own quarterback admitting there was no energy it’s highly concerning. After all, there’s less than a month to the start of the season.
The talent is there, but the intangibles are in question
That’s the storyline for this Dolphins. They have to defy the narrative created upon them. When you see Tua throwing the ball, Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle as the receivers and all that talent, there is no reason for this team to not succeed. However, they were outplayed by Jared Goff and company on a joint practice.
The intangibles are what, to many, are keeping this team off their expectations. Being able to out-rough other teams, be more intense, is what will set the team apart. However, on that regard, it seems like the Dolphins always fall short.