Nov 6, 2022; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) heads to the locker room after defeating the Chicago Bears 35-32 at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports
NFL: Miami Dolphins at Chicago Bears
MIAMI — The Dolphins’ offense had an impressive performance on Sunday against the Broncos, scoring 70 points and gaining 726 yards.
Head coach Mike McDaniel’s scheme, particularly his use of a player in motion at the snap, has been a key factor in their success.
According to ESPN’s Sports Analytics department, the Dolphins have had a player in motion at the snap on 59 percent of their plays this season. This is the highest percentage of any team since 2017 when motion data started being tracked.
Using motion at the snap has become a trend in the league, with 20 percent of plays featuring a man in motion this season compared to just 4 percent in 2017. However, no team is utilizing motion like the Dolphins.
The Dolphins’ use of motion has proven to be effective, both in running and passing plays. They have found success with this strategy, and it is likely that other teams will take notice and attempt to replicate it in the future.
The Broncos learned the hard way on Sunday that the Dolphins’ schematic advantage, particularly their use of motion at the snap, can be difficult to defend against.
As the NFL is a copycat league, it is expected that other teams will start incorporating similar tactics in their game plans.
