Armando Salguero
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One of the reasons the stability of Miami's offensive line is profoundly important this year is because the Dolphins are undergoing something of a transformation on offense and it greatly depends on the ability of the front wall to stay sturdy.
The Dolphins, you see, are apparently going away from their typical offense this year. So far this training camp the use of the FB as the lead blocker has been rare indeed
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So the Dolphins may be transitioning to a three-receiver set team.
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Yes, the tight end or H-back (depending on personnel) can serve as the lead blocker. But even that is hardly considered a hammering attempt to be physical because Dustin Keller often is asked to serve as the lead blocker. And if you are aware of Keller's histroy you know he's an accomplished pass-catching tight end. But as a blocker ... he's an accomplished pass-catching tight end.
And Charles Clay's blocking will never be confused with Leach's lead blocking.
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Simply, if that unit doesn't win up front, there is no fullback reinforcement coming through the hole to help. It's win or the play loses.
Except that, as you'll read in my column the line is definitely not stable right now.
Yes, it's early in camp. Most clubs just opened camp this past weekend while the Dolphins have already been in camp since July 22. But Jerry will be out at least another week at best and perhaps three more weeks. He definitely isn't playing the preseason opener against Dallas in the Hall of Fame game. So time is precious.
Obviously, the Dolphins could decide to shelve their three-wide look as a base offense. (God, I hope not)
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No, the Dolphins need the offensive line to step up ...
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