The Miami Dolphins traveled to New England on Sunday afternoon and downed the Patriots by a final score of 15-10.
No, it wasn’t a dazzling display of offensive efficiency, however, it was encouraging to see the team play the kind of game they needed to play in order to secure the victory instead of trying to force a square peg into a round hole while asking their newly acquired third string quarterback to “just do what Tua does.”
Head coach Mike McDaniel — a former run game coordinator with the San Francisco 49ers — heard the loud cries from Dolphins fans around the globe and put an emphasis on running the ball, controlling the clock and playing the field position game.
As a result, the Dolphins ran the ball 41 times for 193 rushing yards on the day, and when it mattered most, jammed the ball down the throats of their hated rivals for the game winning score late in the contest.
The man who scored that touchdown is my MVP (Most Valuable ‘Phin) for week five.
Miami Dolphins Week Five MVP – Alec Ingold
Not often will you see a fullback honored for their performance during any given game, however, this fullback isn’t just any fullback. This fullback is Alec Ingold, and this fullback turned in a performance that was “phenomenal” according to his head coach.
“Very fitting [Ingold] got the TD because it was the most snaps he’s played all year. That final drive, it was as good as I’ve seen from a point of attack standpoint for a fullback or tight end,” said McDaniel during his Monday press availability.
Without Ingold as a lead blocker, the Dolphins likely do not march down the field on the backs of their running game for their game-winning score — a drive that went 80 yards and took up 7:36 of playing time. Without Ingold, the Dolphins do not end their three game losing streak while pulling within one game of the Buffalo Bills in the division standings.
MVP TRACKER
Week One – S Jevon Holland
Week Two – RB De’Von Achane
Week Three – DT Zach Sieler
Week Four – DB Jalen Ramsey
Week Five – FB Alec Ingold
