To win in this league you have to have a franchise quarterback. Over the last twenty years only two teams have won a Super Bowl without one (Ravens & Buccaneers), and passing offenses are substantially more dynamic now than even just five years ago.
Joe Philbin oversaw the development of Aaron Rodgers in Green Bay and Jeff Ireland will be counting on him to mold Ryan Tannehill into his next protégé. One of the most intriguing subplots leading up to the draft was just how the Dolphins brass felt about Tannehill seeing as Mike Sherman already had intimate knowledge of not only the kid’s physical talent and potential but also his mental makeup. Drafting a quarterback in the first round of the NFL draft is one of the biggest decisions a franchise makes and the Dolphins had a cheat sheet.
Competing with Tannehill for the starting quarterback job are David Garrard and Matt Moore. Before Garrard’s injury I believe he was on track to be the starter come opening day, but obviously things have changed and we’re left to choose between Moore & Tannehill. With that said, neither one of them has separated themselves from the other in terms of on field performance. However, if you were going to start Moore he would have had to blow Tannehill outta the water and that not happening is what in the end will lead Philbin to go with the rookie in my opinion.
Playing rather than sitting this season will foster a hell of a lot more learning and growth for Tannehill which is best for the future of this team. You have to see the long term picture. The Dolphins do not have the talent to win the Super Bowl in 2012. There are building blocks and I believe hiring Philbin and his staff was the right call, but it won’t happen overnight.
Derek Patton is the author of ‘Fins Talk where he gives his opinions on the Miami Dolphins. Follow him on Twitter @DPMiami and “Like” Outside the Redzone on Facebook!
