News and Gossip

September 17.

Dolphins Win, Dolphins Win, Dolphins Win!!!!

The Miami Dolphins defeated the Baltimore Ravens 19-6!

Playing off their strengths and working around their weaknesses, the Miami Dolphins aren't being conservative, just realistic. With their top three receivers (Lamar Thomas, Tony Marin, and O.J. McDuffie) injured, the Dolphins are content with running the ball, avoiding turnovers and relying on the defense. The Miami Dolphins "D" has allowed only 1 touchdown and a league-low 19 points! The Defense, which leads the league in sacks and interceptions, has taken a lot of pressure off a somewhat banged up offense. This Sunday, the Dolphins are hopeful of the return of Richmond Webb (OT), who has been sidelined with a sprained ankle, knee. Tony Martin (sprained foot) is expected to play against New England also.

Dolphins defensive tackle Daryl Gardener is out indefinitely after back surgery Friday.

The team hopes Gardener, who hasn't missed a game in his five-year NFL career, will be able to return this season, although no timetable has been set. He had a herniated disc in his lower back.

The Dolphins finally made running back Thurman Thomas a bigger part of their third-down offense. The future Hall of Fame selection responded with three catches for 31 yards and three carries for 25 yards.

Thomas was signed to a three-year deal in the offseason after spending 12 seasons with Buffalo. "They know I can catch the ball coming out of the backfield, and I'm not afraid to go over the middle. I am not afraid to do anything. That's my job," says Thomas.

Defensive end Kenny Mixon fared well in his first start at defensive tackle in place of the injured Daryl Gardener (back). Mixon finished with three sacks, and he blocked a field goal at the end of the first half.

Dolphins running back J.J. Johnson saw his first action of the season on special teams and in the backfield. Johnson, who lost his starting tailback spot to Smith during the preseason, was on the kickoff return team to open the second half. Johnson then received cheers after his name was announced late in the third quarter following a two-yard carry. Johnson finished with 10 yards on five attempts.

Well for a little while longer, the Dolphins will have to depend on the their Defense and their running attack to produce victories. This week the Dolphins will try to knock off division rivals the New England Patriots.