Are the Miami Dolphins playoff bound?

I know what you are thinking. I know this is a site for opinions and highlights and lowlights of our Dolphins. This blogger must be crazy and is not well qualified with the gift of prognostication.  This blogger does not have ESP.

Bare with me a second, the Miami Dolphins are 3-3 and far from the Super Bowl, but they are on track for the playoffs.

What has to happen?

First the Dolphins need to continue to execute their offense by putting more touchdowns on the board than field goals.

Next, the quarterback play and execution needs to improve beginning drives and on third down passing.  For this to happen, the Dolphins must establish a third receiver and a go to guy when Hartline, Fasano, and Bess are not open.  This can happen with either Moore or Gaffney coming into the fold.

One surprising stat is the Dolphins have been stopped on plenty of 3rd and short opportunities.  The Dolphins are a disappointing 8-15 on 3rd and 1 and 0-2 in overtime versus the Cardinals earlier this season.  This begs the question, who should run the ball on 3rd and short?  Reggie Bush is 2 for 2 in 3rd and 1 situations and Jorvorskie Lane is 3 of 5 in short yardage situations.  Executing on 3rd and short allows the Dolphins do what they do best, run the ball and finish a game at the end of a game.  We have yet to see this type of closing by the running game.  

In addition, the Dolphins defense must take away the ball more than they have. Six interceptions and 1 for 8 on attempted fumble recoveries won't get the job done. Most surprising is the lack of urgency and white or aqua jerseys pouncing on the ball.  Dolphins have to not only force the fumble, but recover it.  Fumble recoveries allow for the Dolphins defense to stay fresh and get off the field.  

Lastly, the Dolphins O-line must absolutely keep Ryan Tannehill's jersey clean. The Dolphins o-line anchored by Mike Pouncey has accounted for hurries and knock downs and sacks. Richie incognito, Jake Long can't miss on their assignments down the stretch.

Of course, being playoff bound is special and unexpected from the dog days of training camp.

WIth a healthy and rested Reggie Bush the Dolphins can find their way back into the thick of the playoff race come December!

But, if the Dolphins want make their owner Stephen Ross do pirouettes dance Gagnam style and spin more than in his interviews, then getting to the playoffs is the most likely of scenarios that would make all Dolfans proud!

Phins up and continue coming back to PhinsPhocus.com and follow  @Phins_Phocus!