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Grading Dan Campbell's Second Victory Coaching Miami Dolphins

Dan Campbell led the Miami Dolphins to back-to-back victories to start his tenure as the interim head coach.
Grading Dan Campbell's Second Victory Coaching Miami Dolphins
Grading Dan Campbell's Second Victory Coaching Miami Dolphins

Early in Dan Campbell's tenure as the interim head coach of the Miami Dolphins, the team did not look as lost as it did under former head coach Joe Philbin.

In rewatching the 12 games Campbell coached back in 2015, it is evident players brought it and showcased enthusiasm in his first two games. 

More: Grading Dan Campbell's First Victory Coaching Miami Dolphins

Against the Houston Texans, the offense was highly efficient, and used an amazing first half to secure a 44-26 victory. 

The win took the Dolphins back to .500 (3-3), and rejuvenated the fanbase. 

Miami took advantage of Houston in almost every single meaningful statistical category. 

Offensively, Miami secured 503 total yards, and averaged 8.5 yards per play. 

When Campbell took the job in Detroit, he spoke of fundamental football, including an emphasis on the run.

On the ground, Miami averaged 7.1 yards per rush. Lamar Miller had 236 yards, and did not even need to be utilized at all in the second half. 

“All I know is they’re playing for one another and they’re playing at a high level right now,” Campbell said postgame. “You can just tell that they are playing for one another, and that makes the biggest difference.”

Scoring 82 points in his first two games definitely caught the attention of many pundits across the NFL. 

Quarterback Ryan Tannehill continued his solid play, as he broke Donovan McNabb's record for consecutive completions. He set the mark at 25, after completing his first 18 passes against Houston. 

On the day, he went 18-of-19 for 282 yards and four touchdowns.

Brian Hoyer of the Texans was sacked four times, as the Dolphins defense, led by Cameron Wake, won several key battles in the trenches. 

The common theme following the game was how stunned many were at how the Dolphins looked like a "brand new" football team. 

If Campbell can recreate that same vibe in Detroit, his tenure could surprise many across the National Football League. 

Grade: A+

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John Maakaron
JOHN MAAKARON

John Maakaron has covered Detroit Sports since 2013. Brings a vast array of experience covering the Detroit Tigers, Detroit Lions, Michigan Wolverines, Michigan State Spartans, Detroit Mercy Titans, and Oakland University Golden Grizzlies. John brings a wealth of sports broadcast experience. In 2013, John had the vision to establish the Detroit Sports Podcast Network. Has recorded over 3000 podcasts analyzing Detroit Sports. In 2019, Sports Illustrated Media Group, a historical sports media outlet, partnered with Detroit Sports Podcast to provide daily Lions content for their growing and expanding digital media outlet. Our Lions content can also be read in the newspaper at The Oakland  Passionate about Detroit Sports and it is reflected in his coverage of the local teams!