Miami Dolphins: Five Breakout Candidates

Every season there is always a player or two that exceed expectations. If you break down all 32 teams, you can find breakout players on every roster. As the Miami Dolphins enter week 2 of training camp, beat reporters, NFL analysts and coaches all have their own take on who will breakout in ’23, here’s our take on breakout candidates for the upcoming season:

Jevon Holland (FS): Seeing Holland on this list will probably draw a few questions among readers and fans but while Holland has shown himself to be one of the better young safeties in the league, being the roving piece in Vic Fangio’s defense should see Holland take his play to another level in ’23, likely landing himself a Pro Bowl nod. Fangio’s defense is built on defensive backs, especially safety. The big difference going into this season is Holland is a candidate to breakout from good to great this year, likely landing himself among the top 5 at his position.

Kader Kohou (CB): Kohou was a revelation for the Dolphins last year. As injuries mounted in the secondary, Kohou, the undrafted corner out of West Texas A&M, proved that the transition from division 2 college to NFL was not too big for Darth Kader. Splitting time between boundary and nickel, Kohou displayed solid tackling ability for a corner, not shying away from the physicality of the pros. Going into his second year and having his focus being shifted to being the lead nickelback, Kohou is poised to breakout into one of the Dolphins integral pieces in the secondary.

Raekwon Davis (DT): Playing nose tackle is a crucial but unheralded position in today’s NFL. Where sacks, fumbles, and tackles behind the line of scrimmage gather the most attention, deservingly so, players like Raekwon Davis take on two lineman every snap, clearing the way for the linebackers to chase the ballcarrier and make plays. Davis has been a crucial piece in the Dolphins turnaround on run defense. Going into a contract year, its safe to bet that Davis displays more of his pass rushing ability while clearing lanes for his linebackers to make plays. Lacking any depth behind him, Davis is poised to see a ton of snaps and have the opportunity to exceed expectations in a new defense.

Erik Ezukama (WR): Picked in the 4th round of last year’s draft, Ezukama surprised many fans and analysts alike when selected, after all, the Dolphins just added Cedrick Wilson and Tyreek Hill, giving the team one of the most talented receiver groups its had in a long time. Ezukama found his learning curve more challenging than expected and was a non factor as a rookie. Reports this camp have been very encouraging going into EZ E’s second season. With Waddle and Hill being one of the league’s most explosive and elite receiving duos, the Dolphins truly lack size at the position, especialy when factoring in the red zone. With Gesicki gone, Sherfield in Buffalo, Ezukama is poised to breakout and provide some much needed size and depth for the Dolphins in ’23.

Austin Jackson (RT): Probably the most surprising name on the list, AJ has been trying to establish himself since entering the league in 2020. Expected to be Tua’s blindside protector, Jackson has bounced from Left Tackle to Guard to now being the favorite to play Right tackle for the team. Going into a contract season should provide a little more motivation, in addition to Isiah Wynn and Kendall Lamm being more than willing competition to take the job should Jackson falter. Jackson looks to be in the best physical shape of his career and showed promise before a high ankle sprain sidelined him most of the year. Jackson is being given another lifeline in ’23 and there is confidence to be had that Jackson’s athleticism and another year of familiarity with the blocking scheme will improve the likelihood that Jackson proves himself in year four and earns an extension.

Best of the Rest: Five Best Options to Boost Roster

As the Miami Dolphins enter the second week of training camp and the padded practices begin, let’s take an in depth look at 5 of the remaining free agents that could boost the Dolphins roster as they chase a Super Bowl in ’23.

1. Akiem Hicks (DT): Raekwon Davis is the unquestioned nose tackle on the roster. The next man up is undrafted rookie, Brandon Pili, of which is considered a long shot to make the roster. May we present to you, Akiem Hicks. Hicks played for Fangio in Chicago, having some of his most productive seasons. While considerably younger than his current 33. Hicks brings experience and a veteran presence that can still help against the run and pass. Averaging over 300 snaps the past two seasons and tallying 4.5 sacks, Hicks could provide some much needed depth behind Davis and allow Wilkins and Sieler to play more 3 and 5 technique along the interior.

2. Matt Ioannidis (DT)– Wilkins, Sieler, and Ogbah are set to man the interior edge of Vic Fangio’s defense. Ogbah is coming off a season that saw his production dip and end with a trip to IR. Wilkins is in a contract year and so is Zach Sieler. Enter, Matt Ioannidis who has racked up over 26 sacks during his career while displaying the ability to play anywhere along the interior of the defensive line. While production has dipped the past two years, he’s only 29 and can still play 500+ snaps as a capable reserve.

3. Dalvin Cook (RB)– While this has been an ongoing discussion going back to the draft. Dalvin Cook remains unsigned and looking for a new deal. Cook hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down and still has the ability to be any organization’s lead back. With Mostert and Wilson having sustained injuries in the past, Cook would be a great fit, having played in a similar running scheme in Minnesota and his consistent top tier production. The big question is if Cook would take a hometown discount and Grier has not shown any signs of budging as of late.

4. Michael Brockers (DL)– Brockers has had a solid career, mainly as a staple of the Rams defensive line, while coming off an injury riddled season with the Lions in ’22. Brockers is another capable veteran who would provide quality defensive line depth for the Dolphins, having the ability to stop the run and still pressure the quarterback. Lacking much depth on the line outside of the starters, Grier needs to pull the plug on an available veteran or see what shakes free at the end of camp

5. Damien Wilson (ILB)– Wilson brings over 60 games experience as a NFL starter, splitting time between KC, Jacksonville and most recently Carolina. Wilson would provide depth in the event David Long’s injury become a factor this season or Tindall and Riley fail to seize the opportunity in camp. Dolphins were thin at the position in ’22 and could still use reinforcements. Addition of Wilson would allow the Dolphins to allow AVG to focus on his development as a edge rusher instead of splitting time between the two positions.

While this list of free agents could all find a useful role with the Dolphins this season, don’t discount the idea that Grier and company are waiting for some “acorns” to shake free or a surprised veteran become available during final cuts.

Miami Dolphns: Predicting the 53 Defense/Special Teams

Defensive Line (5)– Christian Wilkins (DT/E), Zach Sieler (DT/E), Raekwon Davis (NT), Emmanuel Ogbah (DE), Brandon Pili (DT)

Outside of the Wilkins, Sieler, Davis and Ogbah the defensive line is a question mark when it comes to depth. John Jenkins is gone and the Dolphins failed to add a replacement defensive tackle. The only backup nose tackle in camp is Brandon Pili which gives him a slight edge over the competion such as Bronson and Twyman who likely go to practice squad when the season begins. There are still options available in free agency such as Fangio alum, Akiem Hicks, of which can still make plays at 33. Matt Ioannidis is another option, with versatility to play tackle or end in Fangio’s 3-4 defense. Time will tell but as of right now, it seems unlikely Fins keep more than 5 of the current guys going into Week 1

Edge Rusher/OLB (5): Jaelen Phillips, Bradley Chubb, Andrew Van Ginkel, Malik Reed, Mitchell Ogunde

Phillips and Chubb are locks as the starting edge rushers, and possess the potential to be one of the league more fearsome pairs. Malik Reed possesses both familiarity and pass rush prowess in Fangios scheme (posting 13 sacks combined in 2020-2021). Van Ginkel provided quality depth, also having the ability to play inside if needed. Undrafted rookie, Ogunde could be another overlooked talent from the University of Miami, having the right size and speed to play edge in this defense.

Interior Linebacker (5)– Jerome Baker, David Long, Duke Riley, Channing Tindall, Aubrey Miller

Baker and Long are the locks for starting inside linebacker. Both have the athleticism to make splash plays and go sideline to sideline, while Long brings add more talent and results to pass coverage, which was lacking in 2022. Riley flashed some in 2022 and helps on special teams. Former 3rd rounder, Tindall needs to show growth in his 2nd season, after minimal playing time as a rookie. Miller was a heck of a player at Jackson State, with the athleticism and tackling ability to be the next in line of Grier’s undrafted gems.

Cornerback (6)– Jalen Ramey (IR to start the year), Xavien Howard, Kader Kohou (nickel), Cam Smith, Eli Apple (Signed this week), Nik Needham (Likely PUP to start), Noah Igbinognehe, and Justin Bethel.

Ramsey and Needham won’t be available to start the season, likely coming back between October and December. This opens the door for Noah and Bethel to stick to the 53 to start the year and prove their value. Bethel is a special teams ace who contributed on defense when called on in 2022. Noah is on his last leg to stick this year while Eli Apple provided nice, veteran depth should Cam Smith experience growing pains as a rookie. Kohou is the favorite to man the nickel position, while being able to flex to boundary if needed. Should Howard return to his old form, Fins should be set in the secondary until Ramsey and Needham return.

Safety (4): Jevon Holland, Brandon Jones, Dashon Elliot, Trill Williams

Jevon Holland possess All Pro potential, flashing a ton in his first two seasons. Brandon Jones improved before injury and is a very effective blitzer out of the secondary. Elliot was brought in during free agency and provides quality depth behind Jones. Trill Williams is being moved to safety in his 3rd season, sticking around year after year on his potential. HIs versatility to play corner only improves his chance of contributing in ’23.

Special Teams/ Specialists (3): Jason Sanders (kicker), Jake Bailey (Punter), Blake Ferguson (Long Snapper)

It was surprising to see that the Dolphins are riding with Sanders and not bringing in any real competition after a down year in ’22. Ferguson has locked down the long snapper job since Denney retired and ready for his 4th year with the team. Bailey replaces, Thomas Morestead who surprisingly left in Free Agency.

Fins Preseason Preview: Offensive Line

It was a rainy evening in Tampa and fans were given 60 minutes of Tony Sparano football as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers hosted the Miami Dolphins for their second preseason game. Both teams struggled to move the ball offensively and penalties stalled out or flat out killed any meaningful drives for both teams.

As the preseason is halfway through, the Miami Dolphins are preparing for their “dress rehearsal” against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Here’s a breakdown of the players that appear to be looking like roster locks and those that seem destined for the waiver wire.

On Offense Miami’s offensive line looked like a disaster. Once Laremy Tunsil was given the night off, the Dolphins failed to contain the pressure Tampa applied to the edges all night. Jesse Davis took a step back from his performance against Atlanta’s pass rush while Michael Dunn and Jaryd Jones Smith proved outmatched against the Bucs 2nd and 3rd stringers. The Dolphins cannot go into the regular season with the current group of reserve tackles.

Miami has experimented with Jordan Mills, a lifelong right tackle as Tunsil’s backup but that plan needs to get scrapped ASAP. The inconsistencies poor technique that have plagued him throughout his career. The jury is still out on Jesse Davis at right tackle, but still the best option Miami has until 6th rounder, Isiah Prince shows enough to warrant a look with the starters. Prince has the look of a NFL caliber tackle but his strength and technique need work. Miami will be hard pressed to add a tackle or two once teams purge their rosters down to the required 53.

Along the interior, the Dolphins have reason for hope with 3rd rounder, Michael Deiter manning the left guard position. Known for his run blocking and physicality in Wisconsin. Deiter performed at this best against Tampa, earning high grades in run and pass protection from Pro Football Focus. Daniel Kilgore gives Miami a steady veteran presence at center, while Chris Reed has looked capable playing reserve center and guard against Atlanta and Tampa Bay. Undrafted rookie, Shaq Calhoun has the steepest climb to become a quality NFL starter. He’s shown flashes in the run game but penalties and poor footwork in pass protection are two areas of concern.

Going into the preseason game against Jacksonville, Miami’s starting offensive line is looking like Tunsil at left tackle, Deiter at left guard, Kilgore at center, Shaq Calhoun at right guard and Jesse Davis at right tackle. The only reserves I see sticking will be Chris Reed as a backup along the interior, with Isiah Prince sticking as a developmental tackle. That leaves Miami with 7 of the typical 9 spots on the offensive line solidified while the other two will likely find their way onto the roster just before the Baltimore game on September 8th.

If injuries were to hit this unit, the Fins offense will fall flat. Cannot rule out a trade, as Miami was previously linked to trade rumors involving Washington’s disgruntled tackle, Trent Williams, but something has to give after two dismal performances by the reserve offensive lineman.

Training Camp Primer

As the 2019 NFL season approaches and teams begin preparing for training camp to start in late July. Sports Finatic will be bringing you team by team analysis and predictions for the playoffs. Now that the hype and excitement of free agency and the draft is over, we’ll break down those primed for big things and the rest of the pack.

Baltimore Ravens: Breakdown and Analysis

As NFL training camp looms in the distance,(July to be exact) teams are beginning to tinker and toy with their current rosters. With the NFL draft behind us and free agency reduced to last calls, all 32 teams have this waiting period to acclimate  to the upcoming preseason. Rookies, free agent additions, and those acquired in trades have OTAs and team workouts in the meantime, preparing for what lies ahead.

The best way to monitor a team’s progress  is to break and analyze the current roster while factoring in any additions or subtractions made during the offseason. This helps in predicting potential breakout, bubble, and franchise players. The following is a breakdown of the Baltimore Ravens:

Baltimore Ravens

Additions: DL Chris Canty, OLB/DE Elvis Dumervil, FS Michael Huff, DL Marcus Spears, ILB Daryl Smith

Subtractions: C Matt Birk, WR Anquan Boldin, ILB Ray Lewis, FS Ed Reed, OLB Paul Kruger, SS Michael Pollard, CB Cary Williams, ILB Dannell Ellerbe

Rookie Watch: SS Matt Elam (1st), ILB Arthur Brown (2nd), NT Brandon Williams (3rd), DE/OLB John Simon (4th), FB/HB Kyle Juszcyk (4th)

Positions of Strength: After winning Super Bowl 47 in 2012, it’s easy to look at the Baltimore Ravens and see a strong roster with limited holes and talent on both sides of the ball. At quarterback, the Ravens are set behind the arm and leadership of Joe Flacco. After leading his team to the Super Bowl, Flacco proved the doubters wrong by playing mistake free football in the playoffs and making the clutch throw when his team needed him. Signing a hefty contract in the offseason, the Ravens are putting their faith in the 2012 Super Bowl MVP.  Behind Flacco, the Ravens are comfortable with the athletic, former Hokies QB, Tyrod Taylor and free agent addition, Caleb Hanie.

Ray Rice has been a cornerstone of the Ravens success. Entering his 6th season, Rice has produced at a high level, running the football with his signature blend of power and speed. Posting four consecutive 1,000 yard, 50 reception seasons, Rice has consistently performed,  making life easier for his quarterback and coaches. Behind Rice, the Ravens are stocked at running back. Bernard Pierce surprised teammates and the organization, carrying the ball 108 times for 532 yards as a rookie. Possessing excellent size (6-0 218), Pierce provides quality insurance and relief. Filling in the depth chart, the Ravens have Anthony Allen, who is more of a short yard, goaline back at 6-1, 223 lbs, Allen has served in a minimal role, but when you have Rice and Pierce ahead of you on the depth chart, any opportunity is a blessing.

Camp Questions: Even after their Super Bowl victory, the Ravens enter training camp, faced with some question marks on their roster. After losing veteran pieces like Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, Anquan Boldin, Bernard Pollard and Paul Kruger, Ozzie Newsome and company did their best to solidify the glaring holes on the roster. Utilizing free agency and the draft, Baltimore looks to fill in the gaps with rookies LB Arthur Brown and SS Matt Elam taking over for the heralded, Lewis and Reed.

Filling in for Paul Kruger, the Ravens signed Elvis Dumervil in his place. Known more for his pass rushing skills, Dumervil lacks the run stop ability that made Kruger so valuable. When Dannell Ellerbe departed for Miami, the Ravens lost their replacement for Ray Lewis. Adding former Jaguar SLB, Daryl Smith, the hope is he can serve as a stopgap while Jameel McClain recovers from a spinal injury, and the rookie Brown adjusts to the speed of the NFL.

Breakout Alert: Jacoby Jones has been in the NFL for six seasons. Being in the league for that amount of time makes it difficult to consider him a candidate for the breakout alert, but the timing is now. Playing some of his best football late in the ’12 season and carrying it over throughout the playoffs, Jones was rewarded for his play, being promoted to starter opposite of Torrey Smith. Feeling so confident that Jones is ready to consistently produce, the Ravens traded Anquan Boldin for nothing more than a late draft pick. After developing chemistry with the rising Flacco, and securing himself a full time role at receiver,  look for Jones to breakout in 2013.

Behind Jones on the breakout alert is tight end, Dennis Pitta. Reeling in 61 catches for 669 yards and seven touchdowns is a pretty clear indicator of a expanded role in the offense. Serving as the quarterbacks safety valve, while creating mismatches up the middle, Pitta should serve as the third option in the passing game. Standing at 6-4, and weighing 245, Pitta has the ability to play inline or flex out wide, providing the offense the flexibility needed  to showcase his skill set.

Smells like Shit? No, that’s just Gingrich!

  As the Florida primary hits full swing, it’s about time we reflect on one of the remaining candidates who like herpes, has a knack for coming back, even when you think he’s gone for good. Who am I talking about? Good, ol’ Newt Gingrich. You might ask, what’s the deal with the constant attacks and attention directed at one of the Republican front runners? Do I have it in for Newt? The answer is an emphatic yes. 

  I have been personally stunned and left with little to say while witnessing a longshot climb his way back to the top. I am usually one to support the underdog, but since we are not talking about the New York Giants, I choose to offer a scathing critique. 

  Newt has gone on the defensive and made tremendous effort to recreate his image, as false as that image is. Rather than take responsibility for his work as a Washington insider and lobbyist for Freddie Mac, Newt claims that he worked as a historian for the real estate giant. Really? I must be blind to not see the need for a Mortgage giant to employ a former Congressman, and Washington insider to offer advice on historical matters? If you really believe this statement, I will grant you a brief moment to pull your head from out of your ass. 

 During one of the more recent Republican debates, Newt deflected ,moderator, John King’s questions in regards to the former speakers consistent pattern of infidelity, especially when that spouse has become stricken with an illness. What does Newt do in response? He turns the questions around and points the finger at the media for “having it in for him, and unethically dragging a former spouse into political matters”… On audacity alone Newt Gingrich deserves a trophy the size of Jupiter. One must wonder whether Gingrich has testicles the size of beach balls for making the statements that he has publicly. 

  Newt has openly declared his contempt for the poor, and going as far as to blame their poor’s inability to improve their situation on the poor themselves. When it comes to addressing minorities, Newt has gone as far as linking the Spanish language as a ghetto language. How about the struggles of African Americans? Newt  has a jobs plan for them too. If Newt had his way, they would all be future janitors, cafeteria attendants, essentially masters of the custodial arts. 

   On the issue of taxes, Newt feels that “job creators” have it too hard in America. The poor job creators that the right has so kindly renamed so as to not create class warfare by labeling them as the rich. After all, Obama is the one who wants class warfare right? What Newt and his fellow Republicans fail to mention is that the tax cuts they propose and the wealthy they choose to protect are not all going to job creators. There are many wealthy Americans who make their money on investments, whether through real estate, stock markets, or downright dirty capitalist tactics, not all of these individuals create jobs. You can be wealthy and yet do nothing for improving employment in America. However, if Newt and his friends had their way, he would slash the tax rate to the 15% that many of the wealthy currently pay in addition to reducing capital gains. Meanwhile, middle and lower class Americans pay upwards of 25% in taxes, but hey that’s okay right? 

  When Newt mentions that a large percentage of Americans do not pay taxes, he fails to mention that those people are living at or below the poverty line. Should Americans making less than $20,000 annually be forced to pay an increase in taxes over those who rake in millions or billions? It’s not about punishing the rich for their success, which is what Newt wants us to believe. Instead its about civic responsibility.  The more you make, the more in taxes one should pay. Consider it a social responsibility as an American who is contributing to the improvement and stability of the America we have come to know and love.

   On matters of science, Newt could not be further wrong in all aspects. If Newt had his way, we would have oil rigs pumping out “black gold” all over this great nation so that we can relieve our dependence on foreign oil. Rather than seek alternatives and try to deter the effects of global warming, he denies that such things exist and refuses to discuss the issues. When it comes to creationism vs. Evolution, Newt wishes to ignore scientific evidence if it means kissing the ass of the Christian right. 

  If Newt had his way, Palestinians would not be people and Newt would do everything in his power to preserve the sanctity of marriage. When Gingrich talks about the sanctity of marriage and need for “stronger, family values”  its essentially parallel to Casey Anthony giving someone advice on how to be a good mother. Gay marriage is an abomination to Mr. Gingrich but asking your ailing wife, who is suffering from a diagnosis of MS to be in a open marriage is okay? 

If you value common sense, if you believe in logic and reason and have compassion in your hearts for those who are  different from you or have not had the privileges that many of us enjoy…… THEN DO NOT VOTE FOR NEWT!!!!

    

   

Fear of Being “Right”

    Now that Iowa, New Hampshire, and South Carolina have wrapped up their primaries and the remaining Republican, Presidential Candidates diminishes their own version of the final four: Ron Paul, Rick Santorum, Newt Gingrich, and Mitt Romney remain. Gingrich, after having a slow start has picked up momentum with victories in South Carolina, and closing the gap in Iowa and South Carolina. What is the most shocking? Mitt Romney’s inability to distinguish himself from the other candidates and capture the Republican vote. 

   What scares people like myself and other moderates, independents, and atheists/agnostics alike is that the Republican party is void of a moderate voice. Sure you will have some argue that candidates like Romney are still fighting and others such as former Gov. Gary Johnson of New Mexico, and Jon Huntsman hung in there as long as possible. However, these sort of examples are about as telling as licking your finger tip and sticking it in the air to predict the day’s weather, it does not work. 

   The front runners and most attractive figures in the Republican party seem to be the ones who make the most inflammatory remarks concerning minorities such as latinos, blacks, gays, and women. Candidates such as Santorum are well like despite believing in the push to ban abortion, prohibit gays from the right to marry and adopt children, and harsh, almost discriminatory laws directed at the American Muslim community. Candidates such as Newt Gingrich like to preach family values yet cannot even maintain their own or stay faithful to their sick, dying wives, yet want to push for discriminatory laws that prevent other Americans from pursuing their own “life ,liberty, and pursuit of happiness” . Newt goes even further but stops short of simply declaring war on the Poor, yeah that’s right, not a War on Poverty, but a war on the poor. If Newt had his way, struggling Americans who lacked many of the opportunities or resources to further themselves are having to face the possibility that food stamps, medicaid, medicare, and social security are all potential programs to be cut. 

   It is apparent, though, the Right will deny it. that the Republican party represents nothing more than a fringe element and political ideology that threatens the majority of Americans.  To the Republican party, it is more favorable to not extend unemployment benefits and food stamps while tossing around the idea of cutting medicaid benefits, which endanger innocent children. Yet, if anyone suggests making major cuts in Defense spending and closing down some of our foreign bases that serve no purpose in a Post Cold War world. 

   Watching the series of Republican debates has been exhausting and shocking in both the same light. What is more frightening than the harsh rhetoric of the candidates is the response of those in attendance at the rallies and debates. When Gingrich makes bombastic claims in contradiction to hard facts or deflects questions about his inability to not cheat on his ailing spouses, he redirects the criticism towards the media, as if they were the ones to push him to do it.

  When Mitt Romney makes statements that reveal his lack of touch with the majority of Americans or his inability to understand the plight of the middle and lower classes, he is rewarded with support and backed by those who support his business friendly tax plans. Romney has done nothing to create jobs, rather, he worked for Bain Capital which thrived on the buying, selling, and dismantling of weaker, struggling companies. Yet, there are those who quickly jump to his defense and claim that he made himself out of nothing, which could not be further from the truth. 

  When castoffs like Michelle Bachmann, Herman Cain, and Rick Perry make inflammatory remarks in regards to Muslims, gays, women’s rights and successful social programs such as medicare and Social Security, they are rewarded with cheers and applause. These candidates, along with  Gingrich and Santorum have shown American an inability to separate their religious beliefs from politics. Separation of Church and state must have been something that they missed when they were glancing over the constitution they wish to destroy. 

  Mainstream Republicans refuse to give someone such as Ron Paul, Gary Johnson, or Buddy Roemer equal opportunity in the debates and do their best to shield the mainstream Right from getting a opportunity to learn more about these candidates. These candidates propose ideas such as campaign finance reform, the push to eliminate Lobbyist influence from Washington, creating a larger gap between special interests and government, and even propose ideas such as diplomacy with foreign enemies, slashing defense spending and looking to marijuana reform as a means of generating revenue for our nation and states. Yet, the voices of these candidates gets silenced and their beliefs mocked by the pundits in the media, especially on Fox News. Ron Paul suggested opening up relations with Cuba and gets booed, yet Santorum links Castro to Al Qaeda and called insightful? 

   Though I am as far from the right as they come, it is saddening to see the direction of one of American’s staple political parties. Religious extremism, economic fascism backed by corporations, and a contempt for anything different from the conservative worldview are all elements that are destroying the party and putting America at risk. Americans must do their research and gather the facts. If you do the homework, it will not be long before you realize the truth and the reality that the current, Republican party does not care about anyone who is not white, rich, and religious and does not have a place for those who do not fit in those categories. 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

Adopt-A-Team time for Dolfans

Ever get that feeling that you’re living in a sports world nightmare, only to continually pinch the hell out of yourself and realize, ” oh yeah, I’m not dreaming”? Well if you have been a loyal, dedicated Miami Dolphins fan for the past 20 years, then you know where this is going. Reflecting back on season after season of misguided personnel decisions, players not living up to their potential and contract, and the inability to find Marino/Shula 2.0, one has to question who is at the root of the ongoing problem that is the Miami Dolphins.

In the 90s, Dolphins fans got seduced by the bling and reputation of Jimmy Johnson, hoping that he could again, guide the Fins back to a perennial playoff team contending for a Super Bowl.  It took less than 5 seasons, but Jimmy could never get it going for the team and failed to reach the expectations that accompanied him from his days in Dallas.  Frustrated and ready to hang it up, Johnson handed the keys over to his former assistant, and defensive minded guru, Dave Wannstedt, who I still refer to as the legendary, “Wannstash”.

As the Wannstash era began, fans were given a false sense of hope, with the Dolphins turning in one of the best defenses in the league, with players such as Jason Taylor, Trace Armstrong, Zach Thomas, Patrick Surtain,  Tim Bowens and Sam Madison. On offense, the team failed to find a successor to #13, with the likes of Jay Fieldler, Ray Lucas, and Gus Frerrote coming to mind. Fieldler was a game manager, who led the Dolphins to playoff caliber seasons, but failed to achieve post season success. The Wannstash era brought of a ground and pound mentality, and the punter worked harder than any of his peers. It was run, run, check down, and punt. After a few years of failing to meet expectations and draft blunders such as drafting linebacker Eddie “who is that?” Moore  over the Hall of Fame caliber, Drew Brees. Fans still have to live with the errors of the Wannstash/Spielman days.

After Wannstash, came the highly acclaimed and regarded, Nick Saban, fresh off his successful run at LSU, Saban came to Miami, bringing hopes of reviving the flat lined franchise. Saban continued the annual fielding of a top 10 defense, but failed to find a franchise quarterback to carry the offense.  Saban brought  a more refined version of the Wannstash mentality, which was ground and pound, and pass only when you have to. Saban whiffed on personnel decisions, including passing on Drew Brees again for Daunte Culpepper, drafting Jason Allen in the first round, claiming he would be the next great safety in the NFL, and let’s not forget passing on Aaron Rodgers for Ronnie Brown, though there are over 20 other teams who made the same mistake as well. Saban angered an entire fan base when he severed ties and moved back to coaching on Saturdays. Saban gave up on the team, lied about his intentions and then hastily bailed for the NCAA, coaching the Alabama Crimson tide.

Three strikes on the record, and former owner Wayne Huizenga was on the move again, searching for another head coach to bring stability to the franchise. The search resulted in the hiring of offensive guru, Cam Cameron, who came off a successful campaign as the San Diego Chargers offensive coordinator, bringing a high octane offense capable of the big play and inventive play calling. Passing on the likes of Mike Tomlin, who was a more respected and highly regarded assistant from the Tony Dungy regime, having his background as the secondary coach of Tampa Bay and defensive coordinator with Minnesota. Cameron continued the streak of poor drafting and roster moves that led to a 1-15 season, saved from the inscrutable 0-16 because of Cleo Lemmon and Greg Camarillo going the distance against Baltimore, and saving the team from going down as the worst in history. Cameron blundered on the decision to select return specialist Ted Ginn Jr., hoping that he could bring a Devin Hester style element to special teams while keeping defenses honest when lined up as a receiver. Ginn never lived up to his draft ranking, and Cameron was shown the door after one season.

Already having a broken heart and having to adopt a team midway through the season, Fans were left in limbo wondering when they would see their team  rival the Shula era and draft a quarterback to help the team move on from the days of Dan Marino. Then along came the Trifecta. Falling for the guise of big name potential, and historic reputation, Bill Parcels was hired as VP of Football Operations, hiring his protege Jeff Ireland as General Manager and appointing his former offensive line coach, Tony Sparano to coach the team. Parcel brought an outdated philosophy, a outdated reputation as winner, especially since he failed to capture the success he had with the New York Giants. Parcel passed  on Matt Ryan in favor of Jake Long, wasted a second round pick on Pat White, did the same with Patrick Turner using a third round pick, in addition to countless other bad roster moves. Three seasons later, Miami is no better off than they were when he took control of the franchise, and fans are pointing the fingers at anyone and everyone associated with the franchise.

Looking back at the team’s shortcomings, the only logical conclusion is that Wayne Huizenga was to blame for the current state of the franchise. Passing on the likes of Green Bay’s Ted Thompson, Atlanta’s Tom Dmitrioff, and Pittburgh’s Mike Tomlin, Huizenga was the person responsible for killing the franchise by simply going with the flavor of the month in his coaching search, while killing tradition when he sold the naming rights to what had been, Joe Robbie Stadium. Huizenga was a business man, and ran his team with the same approach, stealing the limelight when things were good, and taking the money and run, when the right opportunity came. As a owner, he had no loyalty to the South Florida Sports community and lack the patience for due diligence when conducting the search for a new head coach. If only, those are the only words, Dolfans can utter under their breath, as patience is running thin in South Florida.

With the 2011 season, only a quarter of the way through, the team is 0-4, giving fans another year of frustration and looking to other teams for excitement during the football season. Dolfans, it’s time to adopt a team, and wait until next season, hopefully Stephen Ross gets it right for 2012 and the Dolphins land highly touted prospect Andrew Luck as the face of the franchise. Well, one can dream.

Burden on the American Consumer

Consumer rights? does such a thing still exist? Truth in labeling? Has the Federal Government done a satisfactory job regulating business and the private sector to ensure the safety, success, and progression of American society? Do you honestly believe that corporate America values and invest in improving the lives of their clients?  If you really think that the answer to the questions is an unemphatic yes, then I am truly sorry for you.

The American consumer is burdened by an aggressive, deceitful, revenue thirsting corporations that dictate public policy and work around the clock to enslave the American people in a system of economic slavery. Through the use of credit, flashy marketing and advertising tactics, relentless sales strategies and a goal of targeting the psyche of the American people. The goal is to make each and every one of us believe that we need things that we don’t. Ever question yourself on about 50 % of the random things you have purchased in a department store, grocery store, or in a shopping mall? Every sign up for another unnecessary credit card with a Best Buy or Macy’s because it just seemed like it couldn’t hurt?

Anytime you walk into anything retail venue, be it a mall, store, or shopping plaza, you are burdened by a number of promotional offers and marketing tactics aimed at increasing corporate revenue and draining your wallet and bank accounts further by tacking on interest. Take Best Buy for example, or Office Depot, anytime you walk  into those stores, there are sales associates flocking to each unsuspecting consumer or just someone browsing the store, with offers for plan a, b, and c. Want to buy that new Hp Laptop that was offered on sale in the sunday newspaper? Guess what? Once you arrive at the store, you find that the $599 price is actually that plus another $79 for preloaded software and customization that you never asked for. Even purchasing a playstation means having to buy into a bundle package with overhyped accessories and features that are not needed or any amateur could assemble, but is led to believe that he needs the company to do it for him.

Banks collect an ungodly amount of revenue in overdraft fees each and every year. An average account holder could spend hundreds, if not thousands of dollars in overdraft chargers that could be avoided if the bank would do one simple thing. Deactivate the use of one’s checking card or ATM card once  insufficient funds have been detected. The banks will tell you that they do have measures in place to prevent the accumulation of overdraft fees, but what they fail to tell you that it’s flawed, and purposely done for the banks advantage. It can take anywhere between 3-7 days for transactions to process, and any one slip of the math on your checking or savings could result in a account that went from $500 t0  – $225 within a matter of days. With technology, there has to be a better way to ensuring a more efficient processing of financial transactions that minimizes the risk of the account holder. Why isn’t there one? What would the banks have to gain from it?

All in all, no matter where you go or what you watch someone is advertising, promoting, or selling the American consumer something. Ever company that offers you a service or product that was made because of the desire to improve your quality of life is done at a cost and only for profit. Whether a consumer or employee you are just a number, and another replaceable piston in the engine of the corporate machine. The economy is in shambles, and terrorism plagues the globe because of corporate irresponsibility and exploitation through the use of free trade and economic slavery aimed at keeping the wealthy in their rightful place and keeping the middle class from expanding or moving up the totem pole while not leaving out the intentional campaign to maintain a sustainable level of poverty in the First and Third world.  Until the American consumer wakes up, the cycle only continues and the market of competition only decreases, while powerhouses swallow up the weak and small business market.