Can Mike McDaniel Break His Tendencies?

Can Mike McDaniel Break His Tendencies?

As the Miami Dolphins prepare to face the Indianapolis Colts, all eyes are on head coach Mike McDaniel. The innovative play-caller has brought excitement and creativity to Miami’s offense, but his tenure has also been marked by some troubling tendencies—ones he needs to fix immediately if this team is going to reach its potential.

First and foremost, the Dolphins must show a sustained commitment to the run game. McDaniel’s system is rooted in outside-zone concepts, yet too often Miami abandons the ground attack when it starts to click. The result? Predictable passing sequences that put pressure on Tua Tagovailoa and the offensive line. A balanced approach not only sets up explosive plays downfield but also establishes the physical identity that Miami has been searching for. McDaniel needs to resist the urge to outsmart everyone and simply keep pounding the rock when it’s working—and even at times when it’s not working, to keep defenses honest.

But running the ball is just one piece of the puzzle. The Dolphins have been plagued by self-inflicted wounds—pre-snap penalties, delayed play calls, and unnecessary chaos before the snap. These mistakes kill drives and momentum, and they’ve been a recurring theme under McDaniel. Clean operation isn’t optional; it’s foundational. If the Dolphins want consistency, they have to stop shooting themselves in the foot.

Then there’s the issue of game management. McDaniel’s record on challenges—4 of 19—is nothing short of disastrous. Those lost challenges don’t just cost Miami yards or downs; they burn timeouts, which can decide games—especially late in the season and in the playoffs. Whether it means delegating the responsibility or improving his process, this is a weakness that must be addressed immediately.