The Dolphins are starting to find their way through the strange, but slow start of the 2017 season.
While the offense has yet to find its footing by not scoring touchdowns in the first half of games, the defense has managed to put some points on the board and be the difference maker during this four game stretch.

While it’s certain that the Dolphins linebackers are an improved unit, the safety production by Reshad Jones is not a surprise.

Ryan M. Smith of ProFootball Focus said first and foremost that linebacker Kiko Alonso was the highest graded linebacker this weekend at 91.7. Alonso finished Sunday’s game versus the Titans with six tackles and a sack. It seems Alonso is doing just fine as an outside linebacker.

In addition, Lawrence Timmons is coming into his own with another strong effort posting a grade of 85.9 with 6 tackles and a quarterback hurry. Since coming off of the suspension for going AWOL week 2, Timmons has been nothing short of great and a welcome addition to the linebacker unit.
At safety, Reshad Jones first and foremost sets the tone for the defense. When Jones plays well, the defense plays well. Yesterday was no exception with Jones performance: 6 tackles, a half a sack, and fumble recovery for a touchdown. That heads up play gave the Dolphins their first lead at halftime this season making it 10-3. PFF’s Ryan Smith graded Jones a 90.3, thus reaching elite status for the week.

At this point, the pieces are falling into place and with two very good efforts in the final two games-the Dolphins defense is beginning to rise.

Asked about Jones heads up game-changing play that appeared to be an incomplete pass to the Titans as they barely moved: “I did a great job of finishing the play. The ball’s on the ground; pick it up. You never know.”

Photo credit: Palm Beach Post
All quotes from the Miami Herald.
Stats and grades from ProFootball Focus Miami.
Article originally appeared at FinsFreelance.com