Skylar Thompson or Tyler Huntley- Who will start in Tua Tagovailoa’s absence against Patriots? Mike McDaniel gives clarity
The Miami Dolphins have made their decision ahead of their Sunday clash with the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium.
Tyler Huntley (L), Skylar Thompson (R) (Images via AP)
Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel has offered insights into the quarterback situation of the team heading into a Sunday afternoon clash against the New England Patriots.
The Miami Dolphins are remaining committed to Tyler Huntley in Week 5 despite poor performance against the winless Tennessee Titans. The Dolphins signed Huntley from the Baltimore Ravens practice squad amid Week 3 to add some depth while star player Tua Tagovailoa is on the sidelines.
Huntley noted before Week 4 that adapting to a new team is like riding a bicycle for the first time. His performances channeled the same, with visible gaps in preparation and execution. The offensive style of the Dolphins was missing as Huntley failed to catch Tyreek Hill, and Hill fumbled. He completed 14 of 22 passes for 96 yards on the outing.
Despite not delivering a win, The Dolphins are forced to go with Huntley as Skylar Thompson is reeling from the rib injury and has not completely recovered. McDaniel understands the need to change things, but he is not ready to cut down Tyler Huntley after one game. Speaking with NBC Sports, McDaniel noted that there are reasons to build from their initial struggles.
We’re planning on going with Tyler. After reviewing the tape, there’s reasons for guys to be excited about that because while the output wasn’t nearly what we wanted offensively, there were some things to build upon that we’ll keep working through.
Mike McDaniel on starting Tyler Huntley
The match against the New England Patriots could be a game-changer for the Dolphins ahead of Tagovailoa’s return and salvage their playoff chances. The Patriots, much like the Dolphins, are 1-3, barely registering 15 points over the last two weeks.
Shedeur Snaders linked as Dolphins’ future long-term option
Tyler Huntley’s recent signing as the Dolphins’ starting quarterback offers a reliable short-term solution. If he steps up, the Dolphins can breathe a sigh of relief. However, the team must still consider multiple contingency plans to maintain their competitive edge.
The Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders, son of ex-NFLer Deion Sanders, has been a name seen in the talks. He could be a strong option for the Dolphins if Tua Tagovailoa decides to retire after this season. Sanders is projected to be a top-five pick in the upcoming draft—a position the Dolphins might find themselves in if their struggles continue.
The Dolphins might be broken.
— FanDuel (@FanDuel) October 1, 2024
Shedeur Sanders time in Miami? 👀#GoFins | #NFL pic.twitter.com/xSY78MAdr1
Mac Jones, who’s serving as a backup to Trevor Lawrence, is one of the other options. Jones was traded in the off-season after poor performances over two years with the Patriots.
Jones, who played with Tagovailoa in Alabama, never had the kind of support in Massachusetts that McDaniel could offer as a coach. He could be developed into a quarterback for the Dolphins in the long term. Russell Wilson is also linked with the Dolphins as Justin Fields gains traction after four games.
Mohammed Bazim
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