Jalen Ramsey has energized the Miami Dolphins' defense
The Miami Dolphins' defense has turned it around in the last three weeks. They've held the Patriots, Chiefs, and Raiders to only 17, 21, and 13 points, respectively. They can look to the return of one of their superstars as a prime reason for why. Jalen Ramsey's return from a knee injury suffered in training […]
The Miami Dolphins' defense has turned it around in the last three weeks. They've held the Patriots, Chiefs, and Raiders to only 17, 21, and 13 points, respectively.
They can look to the return of one of their superstars as a prime reason for why.
Jalen Ramsey's return from a knee injury suffered in training camp coincides with the strong three-game performance. And Ramsey has been instrumental in all of them. He had a 49-yard interception return against New England. He and Xavien Howard held the Chiefs' wide receivers largely in check in Kansas City's 21-14 win in Frankfurt.
But it was in the Dolphins' 20-13 win over the Raiders where Ramsey reminded the world that he's still one of the best defenders in the NFL. Ramsey made two ridiculous interceptions which helped keep the Raiders at bay during the second half of a tight game, including a leaping grab in the end zone on Las Vegas' final offensive play to seal the win.
Mike McDaniel talked about Ramsey's impact plays after the game.
"I'm really hoping they throw at him. Honestly, I mean, both interceptions were out of control in difficulty level. So, he could see him on the first one. See the ball and he was the aggressor. I think he was behind the receiver on an in break. And he bypasses them to get that thumbs together catch that he's diving for. A lot of receivers don't make that reception. And then that to track the ball down the field. And, and to get contacted in the moment of truth. And hang on to the ball, I mean, it's huge. I think the whole team has gotten a little bit better to a degree since he's been back. And you know, that's the type of effect that players of that caliber can have on people." – Mike McDaniel via Dolphins YouTube channel
Ramsey's return indeed has had a multi-tiered impact. First, he already has three interceptions in just three games. That's good for the team lead in interceptions by two. He clearly gives the Dolphins a player who can win 50/50 balls and give the team a chance at game-changing turnovers down the field.
And because he's back on the outside, Kader Kohou has been able to return to the slot, where he was much better last year. That's continued to be the case this year, as Kohou had a couple of impact plays with a big pass breakup and tackle for loss on Sunday.
Lastly, what McDaniel said after the game is spot on. The Dolphins' defense just looks different nowadays with Ramsey back on the field. There's an energy level there that is palpable. The players are playing fast and with confidence.
Sometimes, one player is all it takes to turn things around. That's especially the case when it's someone as special and impactful as Ramsey.
Dolphins 20, Raiders 13: Instant analysis
The Dolphins’ defense carried Miami to a win over the Raiders on Sunday
