The Miami Dolphins came into the 2024 NFL season with a lot of lofty expectations, but with just as much trepidation given the team’s propensity for late-season collapses. Those expectations were instead dashed early this season, as quarterback Tua Tagovailoa was knocked from the Dolphins lineup in Week 2 with his third diagnosed concussion, and the Dolphins have had a precipitous drop down power rankings ever since. That slide continues after an embarrassing defeat on Monday Night Football at the hands of the Tennessee Titans.
ESPN: No. 23 (down three spots)
“The Dolphins were the seventh-best run defense a season ago but have allowed 119.5 yards per game on the ground this season (ranks 16th in the NFL). They are yet to allow a 100-yard rusher this season, but Zach Charbonnet and James Cook scored multiple touchdowns against this defense in consecutive weeks. The Dolphins have allowed seven rushing touchdowns, which is tied for the second-worst mark in the league. Miami's slow start has more to do with a struggling offense than shortcomings of its defense, but the Dolphins can still improve in controlling their opponents' run game.” - Marcel Louis-Jacques
Pro Football Talk: No. 28 (down two spots)
“The fans on Monday night definitely weren’t chanting ‘Tuuuuu-a.’” - Mike Florio
The Sporting News: No. 24 (down three spots)
“The Dolphins are wisely turning to former Ravens supersub Tyler Huntley at QB to pivot to a run-heavier offense with Tua Tagovailoa (head) out. Thanks to limited defense, however, that didn't play off at home vs. the Titans on Monday night.” - Vinnie Iyer
