PEMBROKE PARK, Fla. – Having covered the Dolphins since the first practice in training camp, no one knows more about this year's Dolphins than Professor Will Manso, who will hand out his report card following every game during the season.
FALCONS VS. DOLPHINS
Offense: B
The story of this game was the poise shown by Ryan Tannehill, especially in the face of strong pressure from the Falcons defense. He was sacked five times and pressured a number of other instances, but he stood his ground on the game winning drive. While he's still a work in progress for some aspects of his game, in the last two weeks he's beaten Andrew Luck and Matt Ryan in close games. He's only in his 2nd season, but it's not too early to say that he's creeping his way into good company around the league's top QB's.
His offensive line will have to help him, and the ground game will have to become more consistent, but overall, the offense did its job in the win.
Defense: B
The Falcons had their way moving the ball for most of the game, yet the Dolphins defense did a great job holding the Falcons to three field goals tries in key situations. Remember, Miami played without Paul Soliai and Cameron Wake missed most of the game. They also had a couple of other defensive players injured. But, they bent but didn't break, and because of that they gave Tannehill and the offense a chance to win.
Special Teams: A
This can be summed up in two words: Caleb Sturgis. The rookie kicker continues to be a weapon and is lethal within 54 yards. That's saying a lot. He will continue to be a big weapon for this team.
Coaching: A
This was the type of game the Dolphins teams of the past would find a way to lose. Give Joe Philbin credit. Whatever he's telling his team to get them ready is working,. He's letting them have fun and they're playing hard for him. Also, Philbin is starting to trust Tannehill more, and that's a big step for any team. The Dolphins have plenty of holes still and, as mentioned, some key injures. But, the bottom line is the Fins are 3-0 for the first time since 2002. A Monday night game in New Orleans is next.