-by Erick Coleman

As a former Jay Fiedler supporter, yet current fan, this "article" is difficult to write. The reality of the situation must be faced, and faced quickly, regarding the quarterback position of the Miami Dolphins.

Jay Fielder has to go.

In Jay's first year as the starting QB for the Miami Dolphins, certain things could be forgiven. His best WR was Oronde Gadsden, his running attack featured Lamar Smith, and his offensive line couldn't blow a CFL team off the ball. With the talent around him, or lack there of, those Miami Dolphins posted an 11-5 record and won the AFC East.

What should have been a nice building block has become that box in the living room you trip over in the dark.

Trade in Lamar Smith for Ricky Williams, Gadsden for Chris Chambers. Add quality wide receivers like Derrius Thompson, and James McKnight over Dedric Ward. Replace Ed Perry with Randy McMichael.

In short, give the Miami Dolphins n transfusion of talent.

Where progression should be the result, retrogression is the key term.

While the offensive line is not a superstar caliber line, it is suitable for what Miami needs to get done. In order to properly block for Williams, the passing game needs to prove that it's capable of striking deep at any time.

Or at least on occasion.

Fielder has shown that deep passing game will come as a fluke, and then defending against it a mere formality.

Jay's toughness can't be questioned. His desire to win, his passion, and scrambling skills are all duly noted.

Passion does not replace pure talent. Jay simply doesn't have the talent to make the throws that need to be made. Miami's passing game will not be viewed as a threat as long as Jay is under center.

Brian Griese might not upgrade the position, but he certainly will not make it take a step back. The production will at least be where it is now.

While New England has found Tom Brady buried in third string hell, or Marc Bulger in St. Louis, Miami's coaches have refused to give Sage the proper exposure and time.

Griese needs to be inserted into the starting role, and Miami needs to let the chips fall where they may. They won't be any worse for wear. Jay needs to go, not to the bench, but just go. Sage is a suitable second string QB, and could possibly be a diamond in the rough.

But as long as Jay is starting, and not making plays...we'll never know.

Will we?

Back to Reader Submissions.

The Dolphins Make Me Cry
Email: info@thedolphinsmakemecry.com