Philbin's Dolphins hits and misses

Ousted head coach has plenty of highs and lows

DAVIE – Joe Philbin's tenure as head coach of the Miami Dolphins may have been short, but it was certainly filled with its share of glorious hits and devastating misses. Local 10's Clay Ferraro takes a look at the Philbin highlights and lowlights:

HITS

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37-0 win over San Diego in 2014
After Philbin's father passed away, the 'Fins rallied around him for, perhaps, the biggest win of Philbin's tenure. Was it as important to the playoff race as a win over New England? No. But it showed a unity that may have been lacking.

Dancing and singing karaoke in 2015 camp
This may seem silly in hindsight, but give credit to Philbin for trying to relate to players, something that he had been criticized for not doing at times during his tenure.

Beating the Patriots in 2014 season opener
It looked as if this game would turn the tide for the Philbin era. Not only did they beat the team that would eventually win the Super Bowl, but they did it by harassing Tom Brady over and over in the second half. Ironic that one of Philbin's downfalls was his team's inability to pressure the QB early in in 2015.

MISSES

41-14 loss to Bills in 2015 home ppener
This was the beginning of the end. It was a celebration of the Dolphins 50th anniversary and the grand opening of the renovated Sun Life Stadium.  The Dolphins didn't just lose. They were embarrassed against a division rival. What's worse? Former Dolphins Charles Clay, Richie Incognito and Chris Hogan played key roles in the win. The final loss to the Jets in London was the last straw.  

2013 bullying scandal
Speaking of Incognito, this may be the most memorable event of the Philbin era. The accusations made by Jonathan Martin sparked a months-long investigation that brought unwanted publicity to the franchise. Was it all Philbin's fault? No. But as the head coach, ultimate responsibility falls on him.

2013 collapse
At 8-6, all the 'Fins had to do was win one of their final two games to qualify for the playoffs. Not only did they lose both games to inferior teams, but they were blown out 39-7, including a 19-7 loss to the Jets at home to close out the season.

2014 loss to Packers after Aaron Rodgers "fake spike"
There were plenty of tough losses in the Philbin era, but watching Rodgers drive the Packers down the field in the closing seconds hit 'Fins fans in a particularly tough spot. The 'Fins forced a fourth-and-10 on the final drive and could have sealed the game. Not only did Rodgers convert, but he proceeded to continue the drive with a "fake spike" that brought back memories of Dan Marino doing the same thing against the Jets years before.


About the Author:

Clay Ferraro joined the Local 10 News team in 2014 to take his dream job: covering big-time sports at a first-class station in paradise.