Tom Garfinkel – September 1, 2016
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Thursday, September 1, 2016
President & CEO Tom Garfinkel
(On whether work was done on the stadium up until today) – “There’s a lot of preparation to get the first game open, regardless of whether there’s a renovation or not, whether it’s pumping water out of the parking lots. We had a couple of minor snafus earlier today that had to get addressed. We have some soda lines on the 300 level that weren’t working, so we switched to packaged soda up there for $4. Just some things like that. Some of those things could have happened whether there was a renovation or not. That’s usual stuff. It’s definitely exciting to be here and have all the fans here.”
(On whether a lot of amenities were in the stadium last season) – “A lot of them. This phase (with) the shade canopy was certainly the big thing we worked on this offseason. It’s really incredible when you think about the amount of steel that was lifted and the number of pieces, the number of bolts. There were 600,000 bolts that had to be bolted in and all of these pieces of steel lifted. Again, it’s because of Steve Ross’ commitment not only financially, but to be personally invested every day – the phone calls, to driving it to conclusion. We had over 600 workers here, 24 hours a day, seven days a week for eight months. That’s what it took to get it done.”
(On when the 24-hour shifts ended for the workers) – “Just up until maybe a week ago. It’s not completely done. We’ll have some “pardon our dust” signs up on the video boards for people. You’ll notice that the ETFE – which is the translucent material that lets the light through, but not the heat – is on the south side and the east side. It’s not on the west side or the north side yet. That still has yet to go in. There’s some paneling on the outside of the roofing that still needs to go up. But that’s mostly aesthetic in nature. The structural elements of the roof are all in place and have been now for a couple of weeks, as you know. There will be some ongoing work and as we get to September 25, it’ll be all done.”
(On feedback regarding the modernization of the stadium) – “The feedback has been incredible from fans. It’s really fun seeing the players and the coaches get here, because a lot of them haven’t seen it yet. And having played here or coached here in the past, they’re just kind of blown away, like, ‘This feels like a totally different building.’ So that’s been a lot of fun and obviously seeing the fans’ reaction to it. It’ll be a lot of fun, again, on the 25th when it’s a 1 o’clock game and the fans are sitting in the shade and more comfortable than they had been in the past.”
(On how the stadium handled rain this week) – “It handled the rain fine. There’s a very sophisticated drainage system in the roof up there that basically takes the water down to the eight super columns and then out through the drainage system and then out into the canals. There’s still some of what they call flash work that goes on, sealing work that goes on with some of the ETFE in those things. So, if we got significant rain tonight we’d probably have some drips and things. But fortunately it doesn’t look like it’s going to rain, and we should be fine. But in terms of the roof structure itself, there’s also a big aperture in the middle, so depending on if the wind’s blowing, it’s not designed to keep everybody 100 percent dry from the rain. It’ll keep the upper deck and the 200 level completely dry, but some of the 100 level – depending on the direction of the wind – would get wet from the rain even when it’s done. But it’s all in place and ready to go.”
(On the field) – “The field is in amazing shape. I think the new paspalum (grass) is really incredible. I don’t know if you had a chance to be down there on the grass and actually put your hands on it and feel it. Next time you’re at camp, one of the fields is bermuda and one is paspalum. You can get down there and kind of dig your finger in bermuda and make a divot. You can’t do it in the paspalum. I think it’ll last longer aesthetically. The bermuda’s a fine grass, but this is more durable, aesthetically better, a little softer. So, the field is incredible.”
(On his most memorable exchange with a fan tonight) – “To be honest, I’ve been wandering around talking to you guys tonight, doing some other things. I haven’t had a chance to really interact with fans other than on Twitter so far today, but I’ll definitely get up in the stands and talk to a bunch of fans. I had a couple of memorable exchanges with coaches (and) talking to them about what they see and players. It’s a lot of fun. It’s a credit to Steve (Ross), again, and his vision and his commitment to get to this point at all.”
(On his most memorable exchange with a coach today) – “(Defensive Coordinator) Vance Joseph was just kind of standing there in awe when I was standing on the field talking to him for a little while. This is just a totally different place. I think, talking to (Assistant Head Coach/Special Teams Coordinator) Darren Rizzi and ‘Mouf’ (Assistant Special Teams Coach Marwan Maalouf) about sort of the special teams implications, we want to get them out here before that game to get some punts and kicks in so they can feel what the roof looks like and what it’s going to feel like. But all the feedback really has been very positive.”
(On whether the wind will be different within the stadium) – “You know, it’s a great question. In terms of the wind studies that we did prior to it being done, there’s certainly going to be some difference in terms of how the wind moves around. But it’s mainly … The roof sits, as you can see, above the top of the stadium, so the air flow through there and then the air flow through the corners actually creates more air flow at the seat level. On the field, it doesn’t change things a whole lot. The acoustics are very different, so it will be a lot louder. The crowd noise will stay in the bowl a lot more, which was a design, proactive intent on that one. But the wind shouldn’t be too much different.”
Adam Gase – August 30, 2016
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Tuesday, August 30, 2016
Head Coach Adam Gase
(On if there is a sense of urgency to get a look at RB Kenyan Drake) – “I think a little bit. With the minimal practice snaps we’ve really had (with him), the little time he was out there we were feeling good about his progress compared to where we were at in spring. At least mentally, we were feeling lightyears better. (With) him not practicing as long as he has and (he hasn’t) really been hit in a real game yet, (so) this will be important for him.”
(On what part of RB Kenyan Drake’s game he is most interested to see in a game setting) – “Obviously I’d love to just see what he can do as far as routes go and what he can do in the pass game. But at the same time, he’s shown us in the run game that he’s very effective, at least in the limited snaps that we saw of him in practice. I think we’d like to see if we can get him going in a little bit of both but you never know how this game is going to play out. You’d like to get him touches in both areas of that part of the game.”
(On what he is looking for G Jamil Douglas and if it will be tight for him to make the 53-man roster) – “I think that whole back end of the offensive line group is battling for only a couple of spots there. He’s a guy that with the positional flexibility he has, there’s a lot of value to that. The center – anytime you have a guy that you know has at least played in a game at center … It’s just going to be about keep trying to find ways to not make mistakes in a game situation, being able to make changes (and) executing as well as you can with the group you’re out there with. My conversations with him have always been about (being) right as much as possible, because obviously you’ll always have mistakes; but be right and just show that effort to where you’re always showing up on the screen.”
(On what he is looking to see from WR Leonte Carroo and WR Jakeem Grant on Thursday) – “I think for me it’s to the execution point of knowing what to do (and) being in the right spot. Both of those guys have had those moments of having those mistakes where the quarterback thinks they’re doing one thing and they do something different. We’re making strides in that area, you just want it to happen as fast as possible. I think this game – with the game plan where it is and who knows what the weather is going to be like so I’m not sure how many times we’ll actually get to throw it – we’d like to see them be as sound as possible as far as what they’re supposed to do. And then you try to develop the techniques and the little details of the routes.”
(On what he’s seen from WR Leonte Carroo in the preseason) – “Obviously he can catch the ball. If he has a defender draped on him, he’ll pull it in. I see a guy with strong hands. You see a guy that can move defenders off the ball. He has a quick first step but at the same time, he can stretch the field vertically. I think he doesn’t even know some of the things that he needs to know to really help himself. That’s a little bit of experience and as this route tree keeps growing for him, just finding, ‘How do I do each route? How do I get open? If I get pressed, what am I going to do? What’s my adjustment versus certain coverages and zone?” He’s got a little ways to go here but the thing I love about him is that he works so hard. He spends so much time in the classroom and every time he gets an opportunity out there, he doesn’t waste it.”
(On how LB Spencer Paysinger is coming along with his chemistry with the other linebackers and the defensive line) – “He’s a guy that I think so many guys on our defense trust. When you’re a guy that can play all positions, that’s so valuable for us because he can jump in there and play any of those (linebacker) spots and he does it well enough to where he is very accountable. I think those guys up front know that he’s going to be in the right place at the right time.”
(On the roster moves with DE Dion Jordan and DE Chris McCain) – “Well, as far as Dion goes, that’s hard for me to answer because I’ve never actually seen him play live. In 2014 – that seems like a long time ago. Once we get to that point, we’ll figure that out as far as how much he can help or what role there is, when we get to that point. Right now, the biggest thing for me is helping him make sure that he’s doing everything right as far as in our building and outside of our building. After we feel like that is in a good place, then I’ll worry about as far as his body goes. The biggest thing to me is let’s get him right. Let’s get him to where he feels he’s back and his mind is right and he’s ready to take the next step as far as, ‘I need to get my body straight. I need to get my strength back. I need to get into football shape.’ When we get a chance to get him out on the field, then that’s our next step. As far as Chris goes, I think he was in a situation where he was battling on the back end. When an opportunity came to us as far as possibly moving him, it’s a really good opportunity for him. Where here, he would have been … Would he be active? Does he make (the team)? How much is he going to contribute? I think the situation that he’s getting to go to is really good for him. I know that at least when I talked to him, he seemed excited for the opportunity to go to a place where he’s going to get an opportunity, get a ton of snaps (and) be able to do what he wants to do. Really, at the end of the day, every player wants to play as much as possible and I think that’s a better opportunity for him there than what he had here.”
(On if it’s too dramatic to say that one of the quarterbacks will win a job on Thursday) – “No, I think that’s real. I’d like both of those guys obviously to play. It comes down to how the game is going to unfold, what the weather is like (and) will they have the opportunities they really are looking for. Obviously both of those guys want us to call as many passes as possible. It’s going to be interesting to see how this thing unfolds on Thursday.”
(On how he feels about playing the entire starting offensive line and for how long) – “We’re still kind of talking about that. I feel like we do have a good feel of what we’re going to do. We’re going to have at least a couple of those guys go. I don’t know if all of them are going to go, but we’ll make those final decisions tonight and let those guys know what we are doing. Like I said, there are only a couple of guys that know they are not going. The thing we keep preaching to our guys is, ‘Hey, you’re going until someone tells you different.’ It’s going to be me that tells them that (they’re) not going to go. We’ll see how tonight goes, as far as the discussion, where our health is at and everything. Plus, you’re trying to make sure in this game, when you do sit a whole bunch of guys, you’re putting a lot on some of these younger guys. All of a sudden not only are they playing 60 snaps on defense, they’re playing 25 snaps on special teams. You’re talking about a lot of plays where they haven’t had the opportunity to go that long. To me, it almost becomes a little bit of a concern health-wise, because now you’re pushing guys beyond limits that they haven’t had a chance to do out here. The more guys that you can have up for this game – if you can take a few series off, some of these guys are going to play most of the game – that’s always beneficial as far as getting great tape out for these guys (and) getting a good evaluation where you know you can get them playing well the entire game.
(On the running game averaging 3.3 yards per carry) – “Obviously, we’d love to be better. One of the things that I always look at is that I’m more into the efficiency of the runs because sometimes you look at that average and you can get down on it. But sometimes it’s me calling a play to where it’s not built to get four yards. If we’re in a second-and-1 situation and we run a quarterback sneak, now that goes against your run efficiency. But hey, we got a first-down. That’s an efficient run. Or you run a dive play for 2 yards, but you get the first down. Now by standards, it’s not a good run, right? Because you got 2 yards. But, you got the first down. So to me, I look at efficiency. It’s not where we need it to be and obviously we’re trying to spend more time as far as getting better in these situations. I know the defense is doing the same thing. That’s why we’re trying to emphasize it in practice. We’re nowhere where we need to be on either side of the ball as far as run defense and the whole goal throughout the year is to continue to get better at it. We’re going to have to practice in pads and make sure that when we’re outside, we take full advantage of that.”
(On how much he expects the tight ends to contribute in the passing game this season) – “I think we’ll see a little improvement in the passing game. We’re getting a better feel, at least now the deeper we’ve got in this thing, and the more I’ve seen actually with Jordan (Cameron) especially, I’m starting to get a good feel for what he likes. I’ve had a lot of conversations with him over the last couple of weeks as far as, ‘What do we need to do different that I can get you a little bit in a rhythm?’ I feel like we’re kind of starting to hit some of those things. Dion (Sims), I feel comfortable in a lot of stuff. He’s one of those guys that kind of has a little bit of sneaky speed as far as getting vertical. He doesn’t look like he’s going to be a fast guy but once he kind of opens it up, all of a sudden he seems to get behind guys. So I think as this grows, I think they’ll be a little more impactful than what they’ve been, as far as the preseason goes. And then as far as the run game goes, both of those guys are so willing and work so hard on their technique. I know (Tight Ends Coach) Shane (Day) does a great job as far as constantly coaching those types of things up. You don’t see a group going in there just talking about the passing game. They spend so much time on the running game because they want to be part of the solution and not the group that is the reason we’re not getting positive yards or efficient runs. They’re doing a really good job because when you watch that tape, I know we always look right at, well, Jordan (Cameron) had a drop. Everybody just wants to come down on that but no one takes a look at the fact that he did a really good job in pass protection. He really did a good job as far as chipping out and making the tackle’s life easy. And then the run game, we score that touchdown because he did a great job knocking his guy basically off the path to get to Arian (Foster). Then Arian (Foster) gave him an opportunity to get a clean cut. So we’re seeing what we want to see out of our tight ends and it starts with willingness. That’s the hardest thing sometimes out of a tight end (is) to understand positioning, angles and then the willingness to go in there and dig a guy out.”
(On if it comes as a surprise to him that CB Xavien Howard is covering some of the faster receivers) — “I think we felt really good about him coming out. He was a very high target for us and I think we were just shocked that we got him when we did. We didn’t think he was going to be there and, really, he kind of fell to us. We were excited about it. We felt like that was really for us. Both those first two guys we got. We never thought we’d get both of them like that. We never thought we’d get the first guy (Laremy Tunsil) to begin with but for (Howard) to fall to where he fell to us, I was just surprised because we loved his skill set. We thought he was exactly what we were looking for.”
(On WR Kenny Stills, WR DeVante Parker and G/T Laremy Tunsil all being back at practice today) – “Kenny (Stills), if he would have went down on the first time when we had one of those deep balls and ‘X’ (Xavien Howard) kind of rolled up on his leg, that’s when I thought something was going to happen. He came back. It was just a strange kind of … he went to pull away from ‘X’ (Xavien Howard) and his back locked up. (It’s) something that he’s had in the past and obviously it kind of peeked his head there for a second. He felt a lot better today. DeVante (Parker)’s going to be day to day right now so we’re just going to keep working with him and strengthening him up. When you’re a second-year receiver, I feel like I’ve been through this a couple of times. I just go back to Demaryius (Thomas), when we were in Denver. It just felt like he was always hurt. It was just one of those things, it was just like one thing after the other. The thing is, these guys, the longer they start doing this, the more they realize how much they have to take care of their body, how important it is to practice fast every day and make sure they really push themselves because now, all of a sudden, when you go to turn it on, especially on game day and your body’s not ready for it, this is when you can possibly have these kind of issues. So that’s been our point of emphasis with him is all the little tiny things that you have to do off the field, in the building, and then when you get out to practice you have to treat every day like a game. Sometimes it takes some guys a little longer to learn than others. Eventually it gets to the point where you get tired of being the guy standing on the sideline. I do think he’s a little frustrated as far as he’s been the odd man out all the time. Kenny (Stills) and Jarvis (Landry) have been out there working together now and he’s kind of had to watch. We’ll keep working and he’ll eventually figure it out to where he knows his routine; he knows how to stay healthy. He knows how to push through certain kind of pains where it’s not going to really deter him from where he’s going to miss some games. It’s a fine line there, especially at that position. You really have to be locked into your body.”
(On if WR DeVante Parker will play on Thursday) – “No, he won’t be out there.”
(On G/T Laremy Tunsil) – “Laremy (Tunsil), he’s alright. I think he just got scared more than anything. His foot got caught in the turf when we were doing individuals. It wasn’t like a contact or anything. He took a weird step and his cleats got caught. I think it just scared him a little bit more than anything and we were just being precautionary at the moment. If we were playing a regular season game, he’d be ready to go.”
(On if G/T Laremy Tunsil will play on Thursday night) — “I don’t know. I haven’t talked to him yet.”
Xavien Howard – August 30, 2016
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Tuesday, August 30, 2016
Cornerback Xavien Howard
(On his excitement to play on Thursday night) – “I’m very excited. I can’t wait for the opportunity I can get to play Thursday against the Tennessee Titans.”
(On how he feels physically) – “I feel great. I have no setbacks. I’d say I feel good.”
(On how he feels about his preparation mentally) – “I was getting mental reps during practice with the older guys and stuff like that.”
(On staying with speedy wide receivers and what he attributes that to) – “It’s the technique, I would say. I’m used to playing fast receivers. I went to Baylor so during practice, I had a lot of fast guys (to go against) at Baylor so I’m used to it.”
(On if Cleveland Browns WR Corey Coleman was one of those fast receivers he practiced a lot against at Baylor) – “Yes, sir.”
(On if he thinks it is possible to win a starting job off one preseason game) – “No. Everybody is competing. I’m going to control what I can control right now so I’m just doing my job.”
(On how important it is to him to be a starter) – “It’s a very important role. It’s a big role coming in as a rookie. If I do start, it’s a big step.”
(On which guys in the secondary he is leaning on for advice) – “I’d say all of the guys. I’m learning from all of them. When I was injured on the sideline, I was looking at all of the guys.”
Laremy Tunsil – August 30, 2016
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Tuesday, August 30, 2016
Guard/Tackle Laremy Tunsil
(On how he played as a starter at left guard against the Falcons) – “Looking at the film, I feel like I played pretty good. I still need some improvement. I still need some work. Like I said last week – and like I said the week before – I’m going to keep listening to the coaches, keep listening to the vets and try to get better every day.”
(On whether he has had a breakthrough at left guard) – “Like I said, I’m going to continue to get better every day and keep going through the same things, listen to the vets, listen to the coaches and learn from that.”
(On whether not overthinking his play is considered a breakthrough playing left guard) – “I really don’t know what a breakthrough is. You can have a good game (or) a bad game. I really don’t listen to all the ‘breakthrough’ stuff. There’s room for improvement. I’m trying to get better every day and listen to the coaches.”
(On not finishing yesterday’s practice) – “I’m going to leave that to the coaches, leave that to the head man (Head Coach Adam Gase).”
(On not allowing a sack this preseason) – “I still got one more game to play, man.” (laughter)
(On whether not allowing a sack so far in the preseason is a point of pride for him) – “I’m going to continue to get better. I’m not looking at that. It’s just the preseason so I’m going to still get better at that.”
(On whether or not he will play on Thursday against the Titans) – “Yes.”
(On whether he will play a significant amount in Thursday’s game) – “Probably. It’s up to the coaches. I just know I’m playing.”
(On his run-blocking game) – “I feel like I need to improve in every, single thing – pass blocking, run blocking, screens. I feel like I need to get better in everything at guard.”
(On whether pass blocking is easier than run blocking) – “(There are) some big boys down there (on the defensive line). I need to keep improving at the run game and the pass game.”
(On transitioning to left guard from left tackle) – “It’s a new position, so everything happens quicker; but it’s football. There’s nothing bad about that. (I) just keep working every day.”
(On the challenges of having three interior offensive lineman playing new roles for the team) – “We’re going to work. We’re going to work every day to get better.”
(On how the offensive line has performed this preseason) – “There is always room for improvement, like I’ve said a thousand times. We’re coming together as a group.”
(On whether the offensive line can pat themselves on the back for only allowing one sack in the preseason thus far) – “No, we can’t be. We’ve got to keep working.”
(On the chemistry between him, C/G Anthony Steen and G/T Jermon Bushrod) – “I think it’s coming along pretty good. The whole offensive line is close. We always hang out with each other; we always joke around, so I think we’re pretty close.”
(On whether he is ready to play for an entire game) – “Yes, I think so. I’m going to have the coaches prepare me. The players are going to prepare me. The vets are going to prepare me. We’re going to keep going at that.”
(On whether his conditioning is on point for the regular season) – “I’m going to continue to work every day with the little flaws that I do have and get better every day.”
(On the biggest hurdles he has had to overcome learning to play a new position) – “I wouldn’t say I have any hurdles. It’s just a process. I’m going to continue to keep going through the process and get better every day.”
Adam Gase – August 29, 2016
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Monday, August 29, 2016
Head Coach Adam Gase
(On how much of the offense is installed to sit the starters on Thursday night) – “I’m looking at this game to where I don’t think we’re going to have all the starters sit. I mean were going to still play some guys. There are some guys we want to make sure we get some good work in. But we do have really the majority of this stuff put in and I feel like our guys understand what our philosophy is as far as being able to be flexible from week to week. We’re still kind of tinkering with a few things – seeing what some of the best things to do, whether it is protection, routes, run game. So there always is going to be a little bit of – throughout the year – where it will look a little different, whether it be week to week or if we figure something out to where we’re really starting to excelling in one area, then start leaning on that.”
(On updates about the few players that started practice but didn’t finish) – “I was still with you guys when you guys were in there. I’ll have more of an idea of what’s going on tomorrow. Obviously we’re going to pull them out as soon as we feel like anything’s going on and, precautionary, send them in with (Head Athletic Trainer) Ryan (Grove) and have him check them out and just make sure, ‘Hey are we good? Do we have any kind of issue?’ I’ll have a better idea this afternoon.”
(On the routes he is running appearing different from past years and what the difference is) – “I do think we try to mix it up a little bit. We do have some guys that have very good ability to do multiple things. I think you have, even though how young they are, Kenny (Stills) coming from a program like New Orleans and then being in the system he was in last year, he has quite a bit of experience running different routes. And Jarvis (Landry) coming from the program he did out of college and then being in the system that he was here for a couple of years, that gives him a lot of flexibility as far as inside/outside and then DeVante (Parker), he just seems to have that natural ability to run a variety of routes. Even for a big guy that can move like him you would think it would be limited, but he does have ability to really change it up and for me it’s just keep getting him out there and seeing how far we can help him grow as far as a route runner.”
(On the tight ends running a lot of routes the receivers run) – “It was something that we’ve kind of always done, at least the guys that I’ve worked with in the past, to where you want to coach the receivers and tight ends and the running backs. You want to teach them as many of the same routes as possible so when a wide receiver may run a route, we can still coach the half backs and the tight ends. They can see a wide receiver run it, we can coach off of that and then when they have their opportunity, at least they’ve seen it and know how it’s supposed to be done. You just try to keep making everything to where it’s interchangeable so you don’t get stuck on one thing. The more that those two positions can do outside of the wide receivers, the better it is for us (and) the tougher it makes it for people to basically defend us.”
(On wanting the No. 3 tight end to emerge from the group and where does TE Thomas Duarte stand) – “I think we’re still competing. As far as him (Duarte) not getting that many snaps in the game, it’s just kind of how the game went. We did a lot of 11 personnel, three wide receivers, one tight end and so Dion (Sims) actually got carried in to the second half and we wanted to make sure he got his work and then we had a process as far as how we wanted to do it. We had less snaps in the second half and that was just kind of how it fell. We want to get these guys as many reps as possible just so we can put it on tape. We can make corrections. We can get evaluations and sometimes in that third preseason game it doesn’t always work out that way because your starters are going longer and one slight little thing of we’re not using the two tight end package – because we wanted to work on some other things – it just carried over. He was a little bit of the odd man out on that particular day. Obviously I’ve seen him getting a good amount of reps this week so that would be good for him. That will be good for us as far as an evaluation standpoint.”
(On how much work did QB Matt Moore do today and will he be held out for Thursday night’s game) – “He did individual today and then obviously we need to evaluate to see where he’s at. If he progressed then we can do a little more tomorrow. We’ll hold him out on Thursday. I don’t see any need for him to go out there. We just need to make sure he’s 100 percent when we’re heading into that first game.”
(On if he would consider playing QB Ryan Tannehill on Thursday) – “Right now, I haven’t talked to him as far as what we’re doing. There’s only been a couple of guys that I’ve told, ‘You’re either not going,’ or ‘You’re going.’ We’re just going to probably go through it, at least tomorrow before we hit the practice field, to say ‘Okay, here is the final list of guys that are either playing or not playing.’ Obviously he’s going to have to stay available just in case something crazy happened. As of right now, it doesn’t look like he’s going to be going; but you just never know. Crazy things happen in this last preseason game, but he needs to be available.”
(On if the coaches are comfortable with WR Jakeem Grant returning kicks in the regular season and what strides has he made in that area) – “I think we are comfortable in the role we have him in right now. Obviously when we go up to Seattle, we’ll finalize that. But he’s done everything we’ve asked him to do; he’s done it well. We just got to get him more comfortable to understand that we are not looking for just a specialist. We want a guy that can do both – returns and contribute on offense – and just be ready to go in there, if needed. I think he’s making strides. I know it’s tough when you come to a completely different system than what he’s used to. That’s part of the growing pains of a rookie; but I think he is going in the direction of hit that wall and then he is starting to make some steps now.”
(On where he thinks WR Leonte Carroo and WR Jakeem Grant are in terms of understanding the offense) – “It’s one of those things where when we get in the classroom, they’re good. But then when you start having to make some adjustments, sometimes you just draw a blank – whether it is a signal or a code word – and that’s when it becomes tough because it’s happening fast. When you’re in the classroom and there’s no pressure of a guy lining up across from you, ‘Hey, is he press? Is it cloud? What’s going on as far as my adjustment?’ (In the) run game, there’s a lot of adjustments that you have to make but classroom-wise they’re good. And then we’re obviously always learning something out here every day. There are probably one or two things that come up where they haven’t run a certain concept or a certain route against a DB. That’ll happen every once in a while, but that’s why you practice. You try to get them to do as many things that they haven’t done before. We’re making strides though, because Carroo is about as sharp as they come and he works hard at it to make sure that he’s ready to go, if needed.”
(On how he would describe the performance of the right guard position in the preseason games) – “I think it’s been a little inconsistent. It’s like, we’ll have some really good snaps, but then we’ll have that one snap that’s just not good enough. Nobody has really separated themselves right now and we’re taking that evaluation into this last game. Once we get to the first regular season game, that’ll be for that game. You never know what’s going to happen. One guy could emerge himself after this game to where we can say, ‘This is the guy the whole game.’ Will we have guys rotating in and out? It could happen; it wouldn’t be the first time.”
(On if he feels the offensive line is athletic enough to run gap and zone drop) – “The thing about mixing schemes up is you try to hang your hat on something. At least my experience has been, when you try to do a whole bunch of different things, that’s really when you don’t anything well. Right now, we feel good with what we have going on as far as the run game. We have a few changeups, but for the most part, whatever we ask our players to do I think we have the talent or the ability to be able to do it. It’s just what do we want to focus on? Obviously you guys have watched enough practice to at least see what we are up to and what we’re doing. We’ve put a lot of things on tape, it’s not going to be a secret at what we’d like to do, but we have the ability to do multiple things. Right now we’re just trying to get good at what we’ve been practicing.”
(On CB Tony Lippett getting more reps on the right side) – “We’re moving him around a little bit. He’s been on one side really for the entire time. We just got to make sure that the closer we get to these games of when we make the final decision of who is going to be opposite of (Byron) Maxwell. Whoever’s not out there as a starter has to be able to replace either guy as far as if we have any kind of injury or if a guy needs to come out for a few plays. He has to get some experience on both sides and obviously in the past, at least in OTAs and stuff, ‘X’ (Xavien Howard), we were doing some things like trying to move him around a little bit, as well. Bobby (McCain) can obviously do both. We just need to make sure we do a good job of cross-training guys, so we don’t just have a replacement for one side. We’ve got to be flexible.”
(On how encouraging it is that QB Ryan Tannehill has only been sacked once this preseason and what the biggest key is to that) – “I think he’s done a good job of getting the ball out on time. I think the line has done a good job of trying to avoid letting any kind of leakage. I think any time you have a guy that’s mobile, that helps a little bit as far as actual sacks. The biggest concern I usually have is not necessarily sacks because more times than not he sees those coming, it’s really the hits. When we look at it, pass disruption for us is sacks, hits and pressures. So we kind of really look at that as a whole. In this league, it’s like one out of every three attempts – which doesn’t seem like that many – that occurs. If you’re one out of three attempts, you’re probably in the top five. That’s kind of a scary number if you really think about it but in this league, everybody is throwing the ball. You have to find ways to help the offensive line – whether it be nakeds, run game, screens, quick game – just making sure it’s not a seven-step drop mentality the entire game because that’s when you really put them in a bind.”
(On QB Zac Dysert and if he saw the previous familiarity Dysert had with the offense transfer over to what he’s doing here) – “He was with me last year for a week in Chicago, as well. My experience with him is he’s had ups and downs and obviously when you bounce around a little bit, that’s tough on a guy mentally because you’re trying to figure out, ‘Am I going to get a chance to stick somewhere? Am I going to get a chance to develop?’ That’s the tough thing about that position. When you’re moving to different teams, you’re learning different systems (and) you’re being coached a little different. That’s the toughest part as far as when you’re kind of in that two-three range as quarterbacks. The way the league has been going where most teams are keeping two and keeping one on the practice squad, it’s tough to hang somewhere. Most coaches want to keep a veteran backup or somebody they really trust if something happens. He’s in that stage where he’s just trying to get over the hump and, ‘Hey, when do I get my next step as far as being a two?’ when he’s been a three for as many years as he has. I feel like the other day was a huge step for him. He did a really good job as far as running our offense, getting the ball out on time, getting completions, getting first downs. The whole week he had a different mentality and then he played like he practiced.”
(On if he expects this game to be mostly QB Zac Dysert’s game) – “No, I’m going to split it up between those two guys (Dysert and Brandon Doughty). I want to try to give them both a fair shot to compete both in attempts and play numbers. Obviously it never really works out that way but we’ll just keep an eye on it. If for some reason, Zac has a heavy play amount in the first half then maybe Doughty goes in early. We’ll see how it goes. It’s just one of those things you just can’t predict how the game is going to go. What if they have a couple of really good drives that are long and all of a sudden you lose your play count? You got to kind of guess a little bit and hope you can get an equal amount of reps.”
(On if there is concern about playing veterans in the fourth preseason game because the other team may play guys who are on the roster bubble and will be relentless in their hitting) – “It’s football. Once you step on that field, there’s no half speed. When you’re playing in an NFL game, it doesn’t matter if it’s the first or fourth preseason game, you better strap it up and be ready to go. There’s not going to be any kind of, ‘Hey, you take it easy, I’ll take it easy.’ These guys are all fighting for jobs; they’re fighting for starting spots. Some of them are just fighting to make the roster. Some of them are trying to put out great tape so somebody else sees them and gives them an opportunity. Every snap you take and you’re on film in an NFL game in the preseason, you want to do well because you don’t want to put bad tape out there.”
Ryan Tannehill – August 29, 2016
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Monday, August 29, 2016
Quarterback Ryan Tannehill
(On the different routes receivers are running this season) – “It’s definitely part of our game plan. We have a lot of quick game; we want to get the ball out of the QB’s hands. And then we want to be able to take advantage of shots downfield when we get that opportunity. It’s something we’re working (on) right now, especially as we start the season – getting close to it. We haven’t worked a whole lot on those double moves and down the field big shots so we’re getting a little work in here before we start the season.”
(On the red zone offense looking different to the naked eye this year) – “Yes, (they are) different concepts – some things that I’ve never run before. (We’re) learning the plays throughout this process and we’re still putting new stuff in. (Head) Coach (Adam Gase) comes up with new thoughts all the time and we’ll put it in, in practice, and we’ll see what it looks like. Maybe one time (we run a play) and (we’ll) never run it again and maybe (it’s) a great play (that) we stick with and keep repping. We’re always experimenting, always trying to find an edge and another play to give us an advantage.”
(On if he feels more comfortable running the no-huddle than he does when huddling) – “I feel comfortable. I feel in charge of our offense now (and) in command of what we’re doing out there. I feel like I have a good handle on what we’re trying to accomplish and what we’re doing. It’s fun. It’s fun to get out there and get up to the line, get our guys in the right spots and keep the pressure on the defense.”
(On if he felt the defense was tired when they played Atlanta last week) – “Yes, you can definitely see just the number of plays starting to wear on guys. I think we had 46 plays or something like that in the first half. You add that to another second half and you’re going to be getting over 70, close to 80 plays in a game – possibly 90. Our conditioning level is extremely high. We want to push ourselves in practice and just keep the pressure on the defense, that way when we get into the second half of games, teams do start wearing down and we can get some big plays because of it.”
(On how much of this week has been about preparing for Seattle) – “Not a whole lot so far. We’re ones versus ones and just playing football. We’re looking at some new thoughts so (there) were a lot of new concepts today. (It was the) first time seeing it and going through it so it wasn’t as clean as we’d like it to be but that’s part of the process – just getting those reps and deciding what fits us.”
(On what went through his mind when he saw WR Kenny Stills go down with an injury in today’s practice) – “It was tough. I hope he’s alright; I haven’t gotten to speak with him yet. He’s a heck of a player for us and hopefully he’s back soon.”
(On San Francisco 49ers QB Colin Kaepernick’s decision not to stand for the national anthem and what he would do if that happened on his team) – “There’s nothing you can do. That’s a guy’s right to take a stance how he sees fit. That’s his right as an American. Obviously some people agree with it and some people disagree with it – that’s just the way it is. He felt like that was his best way of taking a stand on things that are going on in America at this time. I’m not saying it is right or wrong but he felt like taking a stand and that’s what he did.”
(On his thoughts of the renovated Hard Rock Stadium) – “I haven’t seen it. You guys are going to see it before I see it so I’m excited to see it. We were going to see it today; we were going to practice down there, but (with) the rain, we had to move it back here. I’m excited to see it. I’m excited to play in it. From what I’ve seen and the guys that I’ve talked to that have been there said it’s really cool and should be a great venue.”
(On why he hasn’t been to the renovated Hard Rock Stadium yet since he’s the quarterback) – “I mean I could if I wanted to. (Laughter) Nothing has taken me down there.”
(On QB Zac Dysert) – “He’s progressed a lot. He’s really playing well right now. I saw a lot of great things out of him this past game. There was a big third down there that sticks out in my mind. It was third-and-9 I think, or third-and-10. He went through his progressions, stood in the pocket, stepped up and made a great throw. Another play, he moved a little bit to his right and found a guy. He’s really done a good job. He knows this offense; he’s been it, I guess, three years now. So he’s seen it, he knows what’s going on and he’s comfortable. He’s finally hitting a rhythm as far as his play goes so it’s fun to see.”
(On if QB Zac Dysert’s experience in this offense has been a resource to him) – “On a few things. I think him just having prior knowledge of some concepts, like ‘What did you call it?’ or signals or ‘How did you see it?’ so it’s been nice to have him around.”
(On how many times QB Brandon Doughty had to correct somebody about the pronunciation of his name) – “I asked him because I don’t know what I called him at first, but I don’t think it was right. (laughter) So I asked him, I was like, ‘How do you say your name?’ And he said ‘DOW-tee.’”
(On if he has been in QB Brandon Doughty’s ear at all) – “He’s a young guy. I just tell him to keep practicing, keep learning the offense and hang in there. He’s going to go through some bumps and bruises as he learns the offense and gets accustomed to not only the offense but the NFL and the speed of the game. He’s learning. He’s getting better and I think I’ve seen some flashes from the kid. It’s really exciting to see. He’s got some talent. Once he settles down and gets comfortable, he’ll be making plays for us.”
(On if it is weird to be referring to teammates as a ‘young guy’) – “It’s different. That’s life, I guess – life in the NFL. It’s fun. It’s fun to be a guy that’s been around and can help the younger guys.”
(On if it’s tough to sit around for two weeks before the regular season starts) – “It’s kind of nice because you get a little chance to let your body recoup before you start the season. I think as camp goes on, just the wear and tear of practicing every day and the preseason games, it’s kind of nice to have just a small reset. Obviously we’re still practicing and still getting better but (it’s nice to have) a small physical reset before you get kicked off on a long season.”
(On how much of the offense he has grasped now) – “I feel like the stuff that we have in, I have a great feel for and a great concept of what we’re trying to accomplish. I think the stuff we added today, I’m not 100 percent on commanding exactly every detail against every coverage; but the stuff that we’ve had in and practiced, I feel in complete control of.”
(On the biggest challenge of learning three offenses in five years) – “Just the changes, as far as how certain plays are read or adjustments you make. You might run a similar play and look at it three different ways in three different offenses. So it’s just re-framing your mind and how to look at that play, how to expect the ball to come out; because it’s a similar play but you might start on the other side of the field or start with the low guy instead of the high guy so you train yourself one way to see it and then flipping your brain to see it another way is probably the toughest thing.”
(On pulling the offense together and saying a few words and if that’s something he has been doing a lot of) – “I just said, ‘Hey guys, just hang in there.’ It’s one of those days where we had a lot of new stuff going in and we’re going against a defense and we’re not really in scout looks; we’re just playing football. Obviously it wasn’t as clean as we’d like it be; but like I said, we’re learning. We’re getting those first reps and we’ll see what sticks and we’ll get better from this tape.”
(On if he’s having more fun in this offense) – “Yes. It’s a fun offense to play in, especially being a quarterback, being able to get up on the line, make the changes at the line of scrimmage, keep the pressure on the defense, communicate at the line of scrimmage – it’s fun. It’s fun to feel like you’re always pushing the defense and keeping them on their heels.”
Ndamukong Suh – August 29, 2016
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Monday, August 29, 2016
Defensive Tackle Ndamukong Suh
(On what he has seen from the defensive line that gives him encouragement heading into the season) – “I think we’ve done some good things. Based on last game (and) some of the run game that we saw, we handled (it) the proper way, as well as in the pass game – hitting the quarterback. The young guys are doing the same thing as well. I think over time, as we continue to grow together through camp – with the last week that we have going into (the regular season) and then going into the preparation week for Seattle – we’ve seen some growth. The true test will come in real games and live bullets when we get into the season.”
(On what he has learned about DE Julius Warmsley during camp) – “I think this is my second year with Warmsley; I think he was with us last year, if I’m not mistaken. He’s a young kid. Obviously he’s very energetic. (He) plays hard, works hard, asks a lot of questions and is a guy who is asking a lot of the right questions and following through on his actions and his play. To me, it’s not necessarily surprising. I’ve seen a lot of young kids do it and wish him the best and success.”
(On the seriousness of his ankle injury in last week’s game) – “You’ll have to ask coach.”
(On if the ankle injury is affecting him at all) – “Ask coach.”
(On if he’s happy how the defensive line is coming together) – “I think you’re never where you want to be. I think at the end of the day, you want to see good progressions and moving forward to stuff that you like and have seen in the past, and see from guys individually, and then make it into a group effort. I think that’s what we’re happy with thus far; but we obviously have a lot more room to grow. It’s not like we had a ton of sacks in the preseason and even if we did, it really doesn’t mean anything because we have to get into the live bullets and really get that true test. But from what I’ve seen, in my own personal view and how we’re at right now, we’re moving in the right direction.”
(On what he thought about San Francisco 49ers QB Colin Kaepernick’s protest) – “You’ve got to respect the man’s opinion as well as his actions. I definitely understand where he’s coming from and him choosing to do what he did.”
(On if he thinks that players should speak out more) – “I think it’s an individual choice. At the same time, I think a lot of (us have a duty) as leaders, especially with young kids, to make a good, proper announcement if you feel the need to. I think that’s what (Kaepernick) is doing. I support him in that and for me, I just have to move forward and go with the punches.”
(On his thoughts about the renovations at Hard Rock Stadium) – “It’s a beautiful stadium. I think the fans will be very excited about the Jumbotrons – obviously there are four amazing ones in there. Hard Rock Stadium is going to be a rocking place, in my opinion. I’m excited to get out on that football field. Like you said before, I was out there with the (naming rights) announcement and it is a pristine field – beautiful. I can’t thank enough our ownership and front office for all the work and time that they put into that. I’m excited to get out there and see it when we have a true home game against the Cleveland Browns.”
Leonte Carroo – August 28, 2016
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Sunday, August 28, 2016
Wide Receiver Leonte Carroo
(On the possibility of getting a lot of snaps on Thursday night) – “It’s a very exciting time – especially (for) young guys like us – to go out there and showcase our talents for a whole entire game (and) show the coaches how we can play in a game-like atmosphere for a whole entire 60 minutes. (It’s) just a great experience. I’m looking forward to the challenge and just going out there and playing.”
(On Dolphins fans seeing him in a game at Hard Rock Stadium for the first time) – “Yes, (it’s) very exciting. (It’s the) first opportunity for the Dolphins fans to see us young guys perform out there, so why not go out there and give it your all and play (hard). At the end of the day, you’re going out there and winning and having fun (with) your teammates.”
(On if he is chomping at the bit to play more) – “Yes, definitely. Just being able to really showcase my talent and go out there and play. I’m just excited for the opportunity.”
(On how comfortable he is with the playbook now) – “A lot more comfortable. The coaching staff and my teammates did a great job of helping us younger guys get adjusted and moving faster. Now you can just go out there and just play.”
(On if his play speed has improved) – “Yes, sir.”
(On if he has gotten reps against CB Xavien Howard and what he has thought of him) – “I think I got a couple reps with him last week. I think I got one rep with him today. He’s back. He’s a spectacular player and a guy that can help us out tremendously this year. I feel like (with) him being out, he got a chance to learn the game mentally and prepare himself in that way. Now that he’s back, he looks back to normal again.”
(On what the fans can expect to see from him on Thursday night) – “Exactly what they expect – a fast, physical guy that’s going to go out there and play hard. (I’m not) going to overthink anything and just do what I do and go out there and play my game.”
(On how much he is looking forward to getting additional action Thursday night) – “I’m looking forward to it. This is something that you want – to be showcased all preseason. (I’ve had) a couple snaps here and there (and) a couple quarters here and there but now you have a chance to go out there and make plays and get an opportunity to play the whole game. So it’s going to be a very exciting time.”
(On where he is with mastering the offense or understanding it to the point where he is playing fast) – “I would say that you’re never 100 percent there. Guys like Kenny (Stills) and Jarvis (Landry) aren’t even 100 percent there. It’s an offense that you have to stay on every single day. I’m learning and meeting with my coaches and getting extra work after practice so I can have a feel for it – better and better every single day.”
(On if any veteran has given him a piece of advice that has stuck with him) – “I wouldn’t say what they said or them talking to us; I would say us watching them practice. The way Jarvis (Landry) and Kenny (Stills) practice – the speed and the level of competitiveness that they go out there and practice with every single day – to watch that speaks for it enough. Just to see that and then as a younger guy, you look at that and try to mock your game and develop that work ethic that they play with.”
(On if leadership by example is a tangible thing) – “Yes, definitely. They’re out there, they’re competing and they’re full speed. When you watch that as a younger guy, you go, ‘Now it’s my turn. It’s time to give it my all because if they can do it, why can’t you?’”
(On how he feels he has performed this training camp and preseason) – “I feel like I’ve been fine. Just taking steps along the way; it wasn’t going to be easy. You just have to go out there and continue to get better and better every single day. I strapped on my helmet every single practice, went out there, competed and got better. I took coaching and my coaches were hard on me, my teammates were hard on me and it was just a great opportunity to go out there and continue to, whether it was special teams or offensively, just do whatever I can to help this team win.”
(On if he thought this training camp might be slower for him because of the talent at his position than if he had gotten drafted by another team) – “Yes, definitely. I knew it was going to be a learning process for me. I knew I was going to be looking up to guys like Jarvis (Landry) and Kenny (Stills) and going out there and taking advice from them – just watching the way they practice – and they were going to slowly bringing me along. That’s what’s happening now. I’m just slowly being brought along and before you know it, I’ll be out there making plays as well.”
