The Miami Dolphins arrived in Detroit this week ahead of joint practices with the Lions, but it appears their doubts were justified. In one session, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and the Dolphins offense struggled, realizing what Lions linebacker Grant Stuard had predicted a day earlier: the team wasn’t ready for Detroit’s high-intensity approach.
Tagovailoa was frustrated by his performance, but declined to criticize himself or others after just one practice. “I wouldn’t give myself a grade,” he said. “I don’t think that’s fair to grade yourself.” Despite not making similar mistakes as in their previous joint practice with the Bears, Tagovailoa lamented the lack of energy and progress from his unit.
Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel echoed concerns about team growth, stating, “I want to see a growth within practice in all three phases… I want to see a growth within practice.” This goal has yet to be fulfilled, with the team struggling to overcome adversity on a play-by-play basis.
The Lions’ tough approach and high standards are part of what drew McDaniel to schedule joint practices. “I love their approach,” he said. “It’s very authentic.” However, after one underwhelming showing, McDaniel may need to take a firmer stance with his team to light a fire under them.
McDaniel acknowledged that the message to his players is to focus on competing against another opponent, but also emphasized the importance of staying focused on the Dolphins. With joint practices set for Thursday, it remains to be seen if Tagovailoa and the offense can find the energy they’ve lacked so far and make progress in their development.
Source: https://www.nfl.com/news/dolphins-encounter-frustrating-day-during-joint-practice-with-lions