After a 24-3 loss to the Seattle Seahawks, the Miami Dolphins have dropped to 1-3 on the season, with their only victory coming in Week 1 of the 2024 season. Now facing mounting challenges and without their franchise quarterback, head coach Mike McDaniel is under increasing pressure.
Before taking the helm in Miami, McDaniel served as an offensive mastermind for the San Francisco 49ers from 2017 to 2021. He initially worked as a run game specialist before being promoted to offensive coordinator.
In McDaniel’s final season with the 49ers (2021), the offense ranked 8th in total offense, averaging 376 yards and 25.1 points per game. As of Week 4, the Dolphins’ offense is ranked 16th, averaging 318.7 yards and just 11 points per game.
Despite the speed and talent of wide receivers like Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, along with running back De’Von Achane, Miami’s offense has only managed 13 points over the last two weeks.
Speculation has arisen about McDaniel relinquishing his play-calling duties, but when asked about it by ESPN’s Dolphins beat writer Marcel Louis-Jacques, McDaniel addressed the issue.
“I’m experienced enough in the NFL to anticipate these types of questions when your production is not where it should be,” McDaniel said. “As head coach, it’s crucial to take accountability for all decisions.”
He emphasized that it’s unfair to evaluate solely on results, especially when well-executed plays are undermined by unfortunate timing.
McDaniel’s offense has been hindered by injuries. Starting QB Tua Tagovailoa suffered a concussion in Week 2, and backup QB Skylar Thompson injured his ribs last Sunday, leaving journeyman QB Tim Boyle to finish the Seahawks game.
Tagovailoa remains on injured reserve and will miss at least three more games, with uncertainty about whether he will return as the starter or even to football at all. If Thompson isn’t cleared for Week 4, Boyle and former Ravens backup QB Tyler Huntley could compete for the starting role.
“I take play-calling seriously. Every decision I make is with the team’s best interest in mind. I wouldn’t hesitate to change that if necessary, but it’s my responsibility.”
McDaniel and the Dolphins have extra time to prepare for their upcoming “Monday Night Football” matchup against the Tennessee Titans on September 30.
