Mike McDaniel January 6 Takeaways
Head coach Mike McDaniel addressed the media before the Miami Dolphins' Friday practice at the Baptist Health Training Complex.
Here were the highlights from McDaniel's press conference:
-- First question deals with Skylar Thompson, and McDaniel confirmed he's scheduled to start. The hope is that Teddy Bridgewater can serve as the backup, and provide grit, leadership and determination.
-- As of today, McDaniel says he can rule out Tua Tagovailoa for the game because he will not be practicing Friday.
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-- If Terron Armstead can't play against the Jets, McDaniel said it would be more about the lower-body issues than the pec injury. McDaniel says Armstead will be either questionable or doubtful, but his availability will come down to game day.
-- McDaniel says he saw Bridgewater throw, which was a big step, then pivots to saying that Thompson has had an outstanding week of practice.
-- Skylar Thompson holds himself to such a high standard, McDaniel says, that the magnitude of the game against the Jets won't make a difference for him.
-- Regarding Joe Flacco starting for the Jets, McDaniel not surprisingly shrugs it off and indicates he's just more focused on the Dolphins. Does call him one of the best pure throwers that you see on tape.
-- Cedrick Wilson Jr. is going to be doubtful because of his hip injury, and McDaniel praises his toughness in finishing the game at New England. McDaniel mentions that Tyreek Hill is one option as punt returner.
-- McDaniel is optimistic about the availability of both Xavien Howard and Bradley Chubb for the Jets game. Says he expects both to be listed as questionable.
-- While the game has major playoff implications for the Dolphins, McDaniel suggests the focus needs to be about going through the process the right way instead of worrying about what's at stake.
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