The Dolphins overtook Spartanburg as they took part in a two day joint practice session with the Carolona Panthers. Dolfans were out in full force today. Judging by the color of the crowd the Dolphins were definitely the home team today.
It’s easy to understand why as well. For many in attendance, this was a once in a lifetime experience. While there was no score kept and no heavy hitting, fans were in arms length of their beloved Dolphins players. The players seemed to be aware of this as well. Most of the team, players and coaches took time to speak and sign autographs for fans before and after practice, while 98/% of Panther players snubbed their fans with the exception of Luke Kuechly who signed more than all Panthers combined.
Practice started with the Panthers on the near field and the Dolphins on the opposite field. Ryan Tannehill, who has been praised for his consistency this preseason, continued that trend today. His footwork was good, he was poised and decisive. His throws, short, intermediate, and deep were all on the mark. The most impressive throw came during 7 on 7 when he threw a bullet of a deep out to tight end Jordan Cameron, hitting him in stride for a big gain.
It was hard to see some of the offensive work, as they practiced on the bottom of the far field, which of course fans couldn’t get too. Lamar Milker had some nice runs, breaking one for what would have been a long touchdown. Greg Jennings and Jarvis Landry both had some nice grabs as well.
On the field closest to the fans ,the defense, led by Ndamukong Suh, wreaked havoc on Cam Newton and the Panthers offensive line. Chris Mcxain delivered the biggest hit of the day that drew loud cheers from the crowd. Cameron Wake intercepted Newton for what would have been a touchdown. Wale along with Suh would have had multiple sacks if they were allowed to hit the quarterback.
Unfortunately it wasn’t all roses for the Dolphins. On a play that would have been a sack by Suh, Newton was allowed to keep playing and in the midst of breaking on the ball, safety Louis Delmas hurt his right knee. Reports coming out are that Delmas tore his right ACL, the same knee he hurt last season. Michael Thomas and Walt Aikens are next in line. If neither one of them are able to lay claim to the open spot, then it’s very liked the Dolphins will look to add a free agent.
There was some short lived fireworks. During a drill with the Dolphins defensive line and panthers offensive line, a scuffle broke out between Oliver Vernon and Michael Oher. As Panthers players tried to jump in, Suh jumped in and pushed them off.
In other news, Devante Parker was activated off the PUP list. That should hopefully put him on track to play early in the season. Jordan Tripp, was walking much better with any sight of a limp. Brandon Albert participated in drills again today. At one point, he and Cam Wake were off to the side working one on one.
Be sure to check out @Phins_Phocus for pictures from today’s practice.
The Dolphins will be back in action Thursday morning at 8:30 AM. For the fans who either attended and didn’t get any autographs or ones that plan to attend tomorrow for the first time, make sure to go to the fence were the players come in at for your best chance to meet your favorite players.
As always, Phins Up!
(photo credit: Jeff Martin)
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