Who’s hot, who’s not after the Dolphins’ home loss to Titans

Daniel Oyefusi
MATIAS J. OCNER/mocner@miamiherald.com

The Dolphins had a historic collapse in a 28-27 home loss to the Tennessee Titans that knocked the team off its perch as the AFC’s No. 1 seed.

Here’s a look at who’s hot — and who’s not — after Miami’s defeat.

Who’s hot

▪ Running back Raheem Mostert: It was a disjointed effort for the Dolphins’ offense with a strong defensive game plan from the Titans and injuries to key starters. But Miami was able to run the ball effectively. Mostert totaled 96 yards on the ground and scored twice late as Miami built its 14-point lead in the fourth quarter. The scores gave Mostert a league-leading 16 rushing touchdowns, which ties Ricky Williams for the most in a single season in franchise history.

▪ Inside linebacker David Long Jr.: Facing his old team, Long continued his strong play against the run. Long recorded eight tackles and a game-high two tackles for loss. His instincts and physicality were a big reason Miami was able to hold running back Derrick Henry to 34 rushing yards on 17 carries.

Who’s not

▪ Coaching: Mike McDaniel after the game said that the Dolphins’ stunning defeat was a “legitimate team loss” and that includes the coaching staff. McDaniel particularly faces questions as an offensive play-caller after Miami continued to struggle in the red zone, often passing in short-yardage goal-to-go situations. After a pair of Titans turnovers, McDaniel leaned on the running game and was rewarded by a pair of Mostert touchdowns. But Miami’s reluctance to run when the team needs a few yards is facing scrutiny again.

▪ Offensive line: The work that offensive line coach Butch Barry has done in his first season with the Dolphins is commendable. But depth and coaching can only stretch so far and Miami played much of its game without four starters along the offensive line. Issues with pass protection were particularly glaring as quarterback Tua Tagovailoa was sacked five times. The road ahead won’t get any easier with center Connor Williams out for the season because of a torn ACL.

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