Troy Aikman criticizes the Dolphins for their strange approach in disappointing loss on Monday Night Football

Troy Aikman Questions Dolphins’ Strategy

Troy Aikman, the former NFL star and current ESPN analyst, expressed confusion about the Miami Dolphins’ approach during their recent game against the Steelers. In a 28-15 loss, he specifically questioned why they didn’t try rushing quarterback Tua Tagovailoa in the fourth quarter, especially when they were behind.

“It’s a strange last few series,” Aikman mentioned as the game wound down. “They seem hesitant to rush, and then suddenly they are rushing and calling timeouts. It’s tough to grasp their game strategy right now.”

Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel, who had faced potential dismissal earlier in the season, had shown improvement recently. However, it’s never great to see a team adopt such a slow approach when they need quick action in critical moments.

During the game, Miami bizarrely allowed the play clock to expire on several occasions in the fourth quarter, as they were trying to mount an unlikely comeback.

“Honestly, what the Dolphins did in this fourth quarter took me by surprise,” Aikman remarked. “And now they decide to call a timeout? This is one of the most perplexing fourth quarters I’ve witnessed in a long time.”

By the time the fourth quarter began, Miami was down 28-3, but they managed to score two touchdowns. Still, the drives didn’t unfold quickly at all.

In the fourth quarter alone, the Dolphins possessed the ball for about 10 minutes and 15 seconds, scoring 12 points despite being far behind initially.

Unfortunately for Miami, the loss eliminated them from playoff contention, leaving a challenging offseason ahead.

Under pressure, the Dolphins already parted ways with general manager Chris Grier before the trade deadline, and it’s likely that McDaniel could follow next as the season concludes.