MIAMI – Real football that counts is getting closer!
The second preseason game for the Dolphins kicks off at Carolina on Saturday night and, while we still won't see much game-planning or heavy strategic adjustments, we will get a better look at the Fins starting unit than we did in game 1.
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Here are some of the things I'm watching for in this one.
1. For Starters
The Fins starting unit played crisp football all the way around in the opener. Minus a couple penalties, they were efficient on offense and looked tough on D.
I want to see if Ryan Tannehill can continue to build chemistry with his new receiving corps and I also want to see Ndamukong Suh continue to disrupt the middle of the opposing O-Line.
Much like in game 1, don't judge Suh's performance simply by his stat line. Watch how easily his teammates make plays because that Panthers run away from him.
2. Safety Dance
The loss of Louis Delmas to a torn ACL is painful. Now, the Fins must get Walt Aikens up to speed quickly as he assumes that starting role alongside Reshad Jones.
The Panthers WR corps was already one of the weaker units in he league and that was before Kelvin Benjamin went down with a devastating knee injury of his own.
Still, Aikens will have to watch for guys like former Hurricane Greg Olsen and former Dolphin Ted Ginn. His test will likely be a lot tougher when Julio Jones and the Falcons come to town next week.
3. On Guard
Once again, the Fins guards will be front and center in the spotlight. They held their own against the Bears in the opener, but the Panthers front 7 will likely present an even tougher challenge.
The fins probably have less than a week to decide if they are comfortable at the Guard spot or if they want to make a push for Evan Mathis (who is reportedly drawing heavy interest from he Chiefs and Seahawks).
As always, the final score will be meaningless in this one and keeping injuries to a minimum will be the most important key.
Still, there will be plenty to watch for when the Fins and Panthers kickoff Saturday night.
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