Starting With A Charge

By Mike Rifkin

Two playoff hopefuls in the loaded AFC will kick off their season against each other as the Dolphins take on the Chargers. Both teams lost in the wild-card round last year as the Chargers blew a 27-0 lead to the Jaguars to lose 31-30. The Dolphins lost 34-31 to division rival Buffalo Bills without their quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa, who was out with his third concussion. 

This offseason, Tagovailoa learned Jiu Jitsu to learn to fall better to avoid another concussion. Tagovailoa, when he did play last season, had his best season as a pro with a 64.8 completion percentage, 3,548 yards, 25 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. Tua will have his receiving duo of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle back for another season. Both Hill and Waddle went over 1,000 yards receiving last season. One thing to watch for the Dolphins is whether Left Tackle Terron Armstead has been dealing with a leg injury. If not, Tua’s decision-making will have to be quick because who knows if the offensive line can contain Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack. 

Last year the Dolphins defense was middle of the pack. They gave up 23.5 points per game. They had 40 sacks on the season, led by Jalean Phillips, who had seven. The Dolphins defense had 14 takeaways on the season. So, changes were made. They hired Vic Fangio to be their new defensive coordinator. They traded for All-Pro Corner Jalen Ramsey, signed Linebacker David Long, and will have Edge Rusher Bradley Chubb for an entire season. While Ramsey will miss some of the season after knee surgery, his presence will still be felt. This defense will be tested early by playing the Chargers. 

Last season, the Chargers beat the Dolphins 23-17. Justin Herbert threw for 367 yards and a touchdown in that game. The Chargers defense held the Dolphins to 219 yards and 3-11 on third downs. Herbert, who the Chargers selected one pick after the Dolphins selected Tagovailoa in 2020, signed a five-year 262.5 million dollar contract this offseason.

Two playoff hopefuls in the loaded AFC meet to get their 2023 season off on the right foot.