A look at the takeaways from the Miami Dolphins' close loss to the Minnesota Vikings.
The Miami Dolphins entered Week 4 with some visible growth, and they have added even more following their loss to the Minnesota Vikings.
Most expected the Dolphins to easily fold to a 3-0 team, but the defense finally took hold in a significant way and nearly helped push Miami to a win. After posting no sacks through three games, the pass rush took over on Sunday.
Here are the takeaways from Miami's victory.
Pass Rush Finally Emerges
It took nearly four games for the Dolphins' pass rush to finally notch a solid performance. Throughout the entire game, the defense was constantly in the face of Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray.
Zach Sieler, Chop Robinson, and Josh Uche all made their presence known. Four sacks and eight quarterback hits helped the defense to mostly silence the Minnesota offense.
The Dolphins did have the benefit of Vikings' tackle Christian Darrisaw being injured. This led to more wins for the pass rush.
Penalties Become Rampant
Head coach Jeff Hafley has spoken about process plenty throughout this season. That process appeared to fly out the window for the Dolphins, as they committed a staggering nine penalties, eight of which came in the first half.
There might be nothing worse than penalties that stall drives. The Dolphins' offense had plenty, as did the defense.
Had the team played a bit cleaner football, the win could have been a bit more decisive.
Ollie Gordon II Shows His Skills
Dolphins running back De'Von Achane will miss the season with a torn ACL. This has led to Jaylen Wright and Ollie Gordon II taking over rushing duties.
It was Gordon who took over, putting together a 100-yard rushing performance. This included a massive 53-yard rush.
Gordon could very well be the lead back moving forward. The large back has the ability to bully his way up the middle, which he did plenty of times against the Vikings.
Dolphins Have No Answer for T.J. Hockenson
Miami's defense may have gotten after Murray. However, the unit struggled to contain tight end T.J. Hockenson.
Hockenson may have shown what has been an issue all season. Over-the-middle throws are killing the Dolphins' secondary.
Hockenson secured 13 receptions on 13 targets for 119 yards. The big-bodied tight end was often the only reason the Vikings could move the ball.
Malik Willis Can't Find His Footing
Brian Flores is one of the best defensive coordinators in the league. He drew up plenty of plays to throw the Miami offense off, including quarterback Malik Willis.
Willis was not able to connect with receivers in a big way. The passer ended the day with just 85 yards through the air.
Jacob Rodriguez Continues Ascent
Dolphins rookie linebacker Jacob Rodriguez should have won Defensive Rookie of the Month. He did not, but his performances continue to prove he may very well earn Defensive Rookie of the Year.
Rodriguez was all over the field while showing off his violent tackle finishes. He led the team with 18 total tackles, surpassing his mentor, Jordyn Brooks, who had 13.
