Miami Dolphins: Can the secondary take pressure off of Tannehill?

There is no question that during a two-game win streak, Miami found the right mix offensively with the scheme running through RB Jay Ajayi, and making QB Ryan Tannehill a game manager who doesn’t have to operate in third-and-longs. Of course, Ajayi isn’t going to run for over 200 yards a game like he did in wins over the Steelers and Bills, but the Dolphins are much better when Tannehill is a bit player instead of the major star.

The only way the Dolphins can continue to play that way is if the defense does its part and keeps Miami from needing to play catch up. The defensive line has started to play up to its talent, but the secondary is still a big issue, especially after standout safety Reshad Jones was placed on injured reserve. Cornerbacks Byron Maxwell, Tony Lippett and Bobby McCain, along with safeties Michael Thomas and Isa Abdul-Quddus all have to play well, or the Dolphins will be back to winging it with Tannehill, and that’s not a winning formula.

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