Has the NFL Solved Mike McDaniel's Offense? What’s Behind the Dolphins' Declining Run Game?

Miami Dolphins RB Devon Achane

The Miami Dolphins were the talk of the NFL in 2023, with a running game that gashed defenses for big gains, racking up a league-best 5.1 yards per carry. But fast forward to this season, and the story is drastically different. What once looked like an unstoppable force has become shockingly average. Through three games in 2024, the Dolphins are averaging a mere 3.7 yards per carry. So, what's going on?

Defensive Adjustments: Have Opponents Figured Out Mike McDaniel’s Offense?

Miami Dolphins HC Mike McDaniel

Head coach Mike McDaniel's love for outside zone runs was a key ingredient in last year's offensive success. His ability to stretch the field horizontally opened up lanes for dynamic runners like Raheem Mostert and rookie sensation Devon Achane. But NFL defenses have adapted.

Opposing teams know McDaniel likes to exploit the edges. It's no longer a secret. According to Pro Football Focus, the Dolphins are now averaging just 2.8 yards on runs off the ends—the very concept that used to be their bread and butter. That’s a steep decline from last season. Even Locked On Dolphins’ Kyle Crabbs noted that Miami’s outside runs are only producing 2.63 yards per carry, compared to a more respectable 4.29 on inside runs.

Missing Explosiveness: Is Raheem Mostert’s Injury a Factor?

Miami Dolphins RB Raheem Mostert

One glaring issue is the absence of big, game-changing runs. The Dolphins, known for breaking 20-yard-plus runs last season, have yet to log one this year. Injuries have played a role, particularly with Mostert missing time. He’s the perfect fit for McDaniel’s outside zone scheme, and without him, the running attack just hasn’t had the same spark. While Devon Achane brings speed and potential, he’s still adjusting to the NFL, and defenses seem more prepared for Miami’s once-lethal ground game.

The offensive line hasn’t helped matters either. Whether it's injuries, shuffling personnel, or simply not executing as well, the line hasn’t been able to create the kind of edges that made the Dolphins' run game so dangerous. Fullback Alec Ingold even mentioned that technique issues and a lack of physicality at the point of attack have been part of the problem.

"It’s playing violent and physical on the edge," Ingold said. "If you can dent an edge and manipulate pressure, it opens up those outside zone lanes. We just haven’t taken advantage of the space like we should."

Adjusting on the Fly: McDaniel Takes Accountability

McDaniel isn’t turning a blind eye to these struggles. He pointed out that defenses are overcommitting to stop the outside runs, forcing Miami to adapt.

Miami Dolphins RB Jaylen Wright

"I think there’s been some presnap and postsnap overplay to our perimeter runs," McDaniel said. "We’ve tried to adjust with some alternative schemes... we’re still working on getting those results, whether it's four-yard, eight-yard, or 16-yard plays."

McDaniel has been quick to take responsibility for the Dolphins’ lackluster rushing production, acknowledging that it’s his job to adapt and find ways to win.

"It’s important as a head coach to take accountability for all decisions made," McDaniel emphasized. "I wouldn’t hesitate to change things if I thought someone else gave us a better chance to win."

A New Opportunity Against the Titans

Up next for the Miami Dolphins is a prime-time showdown against the winless Tennessee Titans. Despite their struggles, the Titans have a top-15 rushing defense, but they’ve also been susceptible to giving up explosive plays on the ground. This game could provide the perfect opportunity for the Dolphins to regain their swagger in the run game, especially if Mostert returns to the lineup.

Miami Dolphins RBs Devon Achane & Raheem Mostert

Will Miami’s running game find its 2023 form again? Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely, as the Dolphins look to recapture the explosiveness that once made them one of the most dangerous offenses in the NFL.

With McDaniel calling the shots and a stable of talented backs like Mostert and Achane, don’t be surprised if Miami breaks out with some big gains on Monday night. It's time to reestablish that identity and remind the league why the Dolphins were feared on the ground.

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Can Mike McDaniel and the Miami Dolphins RB Room Re-establish the Run Game?

• They'll get it going this Monday Night.
• No, the O-Line Won't Allow it.