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The Miami Dolphins played a strong game in a losing effort to the Denver Broncos on Sunday. I went back to review the game film, and here are additional observations: It’s clear Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill's trust has grown in rookie receiver Jarvis Landry. Tannehill looked to Landry in a lot of tight spots against Denver, even when Landry was covered. Landry won many of the battles. But the fourth-quarter interception was an example where Tannehill forced the ball to Landry in tight coverage. Landry had a game-high 11 targets and led the team with seven receptions and two touchdowns. I agree with Dolphins defensive coordinator Kevin Coyle's assessment that his group wasn't physical enough. It was clear watching the game live that Miami's front seven was pushed around, and it also showed on tape. Denver's offensive line got stronger as the game wore on. You have to wonder if the altitude played a factor for Miami's defense, particularly in the fourth quarter when the Broncos scored 22 straight points. The Dolphins made a big mistake by going away from the running game in the fourth quarter. They gained an early 14-3 lead by running the ball well. Miami had 74 rushing yards in its first three drives. However, Miami ran just three times in the final quarter, which contributed to Denver's comeback. The Dolphins finished with 97 rushing yards on 21 carries, which was a 4.6 yard average. Lamar Miller, in particular, had 59 rushing yards on 12 carries and could have used more opportunities. Cornerback Jamar Taylor's play speed has improved from his rookie to Year 2. His first-quarter stop on third-and-5 behind the line of scrimmage was an impressive read-and-react play where Taylor saw the screen quickly and blew up the play. Taylor has two tackles for losses in his two starts, which is impressive for a young cornerback. Taylor will be day-to-day with a shoulder injury he suffered Sunday. The rotation at left guard worked between Daryn Colledge and Shelley Smith. Colledge returned from a back injury and rotated with Smith approximately every two series. Both players held their own with reduced playing time. The offensive line continued to play well even after an injury to starting left tackle Ja'Wuan James. Miami’s defense continues to struggle with pick plays and crossing routes. Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning was surgical on short passes. According to ESPN Stats & Info, Manning was 22-of-22 on passes of 5 yards or more. Most of those throws came across the middle of the field against the Dolphins’ linebackers and safety, which struggled in coverage. The Dolphins got surprise contributions from backup receiver Brandon Gibson (five receptions, 42 yards) and backup tight end Dion Sims (four receptions, 31 yards). Both players stepped up with increased roles.
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