1) Fitzpatrick Leads The Way
Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick played his most efficient game this season, carrying the Dolphins to their first win of the season. Fitzpatrick was sharp throughout the game and his precision passing and knowing when to take advantage of one-on-one mid-matches was the difference in the passing game. Throwing for 288 yards and three touchdowns without turning the football over gave this offense a consistent spark for four quarters for the first time all season. That experience led Fitzpatrick to take shots down the field to Preston Williams and to DeVante Parker in the red zone. It also allowed tight end Mike Gesicki opportunities to use his long frame and speed to make plays against linebackers down the field.
2) Playmakers Come Through
Speaking of Gesicki, he was one of the bright spots in the passing game, catching six passes for 95 yards against New York on Sunday. This is how former Dolphins head coach Adam Gase first envisioned using Gesicki last season, but he just wasn't ready lacking strength and quickness to the football. In his second NFL season, Mike looks like he belongs and is just playing instead of running without a purpose when running routes. Also, rookie wideout Preston Williams is turning into a dominate force in the passing game. His five receptions for 72 yards and two touchdowns looked effortless, using his freakish body control and skill to elude coverage and be consistently available in the passing game. Williams was injured twice in the game and all Dolphin fans are hoping he's back in the line-up next week at the Colts. Let's not forget veteran DeVante Parker who's been able to stay healthy and produce on a consistent basis. His one-handed, back-shoulder catch for his touchdown showed some of the same qualities of Williams. Both of these receivers can be closely covered and still give Fitzpatrick the chance to throw them open by locating the football properly.
3) Wilkins Impressive Up Front
The Dolphins first-round selection Christian Wilkins finally broke through for his first NFL sack of his career, getting to Jets quarterback Sam Darnold for a nine-yard loss in the first quarter. Wilkins was able to use his quickness and strength to create havoc in the New York backfield on multiple occasions both stopping Jets running back Le'Veon Bell and forcing Darnold to throw the football sooner than desired. Another defensive lineman who made his presence known was Davon Godchaux. It might not show up in tackles or sacks, but his ability to take on multiple defenders and assist Wilkins in the middle of the Miami defense should strengthen this group up front this season and hopefully for the near future.
