Xavien Howard on Tagovailoa's struggles: "It’s panic mode after we take away his first read."
The Indianapolis Colts dominated the Miami Dolphins with a decisive 33-8 victory, exposing vulnerabilities in quarterback Tua Tagovailoa's performance.
Why it matters: This game highlights ongoing concerns about Tagovailoa's ability to handle pressure and adapt when his primary options are neutralized.
- The Colts aggressive defensive strategy successfully disrupted Tagovailoa’s rhythm, leading to critical turnovers that shaped the game's outcome.
What’s new: Tagovailoa finished the contest with a career-low QBR of 2.7, an alarming statistic for a starting quarterback.
- He completed just 14 of 23 passes for 114 yards, along with two interceptions and a fumble, marking his seventh game with at least three turnovers since entering the league in 2020.
By the numbers: The Colts’ defense was relentless, as evidenced by their ability to stifle Miami’s offense.
- Laiatu Latu's interception and Kenny Moore II's forced fumble on Tagovailoa were pivotal moments that underscored the Colts’ defensive prowess.
Yes, but: While Tagovailoa faced significant pressure, the Dolphins' offensive line also struggled to provide him with adequate protection.
- Despite having shown flashes of brilliance in previous outings, the lack of support on this occasion led to Tagovailoa appearing flustered, as noted by Latu: "You could just tell with the big eyes and him getting flustered."
Between the lines: Xavien Howard, a cornerback for the Colts and former Dolphin, provided keen insight into Tagovailoa’s mentality under duress.
- "Once we take away his first read, I feel like it's panic mode after that," Howard remarked, illustrating how crucial it is for quarterbacks to maintain composure amid defensive adjustments.
What’s next: The Dolphins will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for upcoming matchups, focusing on improving their offensive line and enhancing Tagovailoa’s decision-making under pressure.
- Addressing these issues will be key for Miami if they hope to remain competitive in a tough AFC East division.
The bottom line: The Colts victory not only showcased their defensive capabilities but also raised serious questions about Tagovailoa's readiness to lead the Dolphins in high-stakes situations.
- As the season progresses, both teams will be looking to refine their strategies to better compete against formidable opponents.
