As the NFL season charges into Week 3, the Miami Dolphins find themselves at a crossroads. Following a 24-10 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday, the Dolphins are 0-3 and searching for answers. In this week's mailbag, reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, we dive into the burning questions surrounding Malik Willis, the challenge of stopping Kenneth Walker III, and just how bad things really are in Miami Gardens.
Can Miami Contain Kenneth Walker III?
Kenneth Walker III has been a revelation this season, leading the league with a staggering 145.0 rushing yards per game—nearly 40 yards more than second-place Derrick Henry. The Chiefs' rushing offense ranks second in the NFL, averaging 186.0 yards per game, while Miami's defense has struggled mightily, allowing 112.5 yards per game on the ground. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the Dolphins face an uphill battle trying to slow down Walker. While some fans wonder if Walker could eclipse 200 yards, our analysis suggests that while he'll get his yards, the Dolphins might not be historically bad. As one analyst noted, 'I do not think it gets to 200-yards bad.'
However, the Chiefs are mindful of Walker's injury history and may limit his touches. Rookie running back Emmett Johnson could see some action to keep Walker fresh. And while Taylor Swift might not be at the game due to the MTV VMAs in Los Angeles, her presence—or absence—won't impact the scoreboard. The Chiefs are unlikely to hang 70 points, but a blowout is still on the table.
Malik Willis: Growing Pains or Long-Term Problem?
Malik Willis, in his first full season as the Dolphins' starting quarterback, has shown flashes but remains a work in progress. He's trying to prove he can be a pocket passer, but that approach has led to indecision and sacks. Willis often holds the ball too long, waiting for receivers to come open instead of using his legs to extend plays. The coaching staff must encourage him to play instinctively—run when pressure comes, and throw the ball away when necessary. As highlighted on Vulius, an incomplete pass is far better than a sack.
Offensive coordinator Frank Smith has incorporated more RPO (run-pass option) concepts, which could help Willis. But ultimately, the offense should flow through running back De'Von Achane. Willis keeping the ball on RPOs takes touches away from Achane, who is a dynamic playmaker. The Dolphins need to find a balance that maximizes both players' strengths.
The Pass Rush: Historically Bad?
Miami's pass rush has been nonexistent, recording zero sacks through two games—the only team in the league without a sack. While that's concerning, it's not historically bad. The Rams and Cowboys, both playoff contenders, have only two sacks each. The return of rookie edge rusher Chop Robinson, who missed last week, should provide a boost. Facing Patrick Mahomes, who tends to hold the ball and extend plays, the Dolphins have a prime opportunity to get their first sack. Expect Miami to finally break through this week.
Rookie Growing Pains and the Bigger Picture
The Dolphins have leaned heavily on rookies, who have played 841 snaps—over 100 more than any other team through two games since at least 2006. Over a quarter of Miami's snaps (27.6%) have come from rookies, the highest in the league. This youth movement explains some of the communication issues and mistakes. But as the season progresses, these rookies will gain valuable experience. The key is improvement: if the Dolphins look better in Week 18 than they did in Week 1, the rebuild is on track.
Is this the worst Dolphins team ever? Not quite. The 2019 squad started 0-3 with blowout losses to the Ravens, Patriots, and Cowboys, yet finished 5-4 over their last nine games. While a similar turnaround seems unlikely, stranger things have happened. For now, Dolphins fans must embrace the process and hope for growth.
"The massive turnover alone could cause some of the problems we're seeing—a bunch of players who have not played together in a new system still being established struggling with communication and responsibilities is not unexpected."
As the Dolphins prepare for Week 4 against the Minnesota Vikings, all eyes will be on Willis's development, the pass rush's first sack, and whether Miami can start turning things around. For more in-depth NFL analysis and official Dolphins merchandise, visit Vulius.com.
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