The Miami Dolphins are rolling-and they’re doing it with a ground game that’s not just effective, but downright electric. Winners of four straight, the Dolphins have found their identity on offense, and it’s rooted in speed, creativity, and a whole lot of De’Von Achane.
Head coach Mike McDaniel is drawing up run concepts that look more like choreography than football, and he’s got the perfect lead dancer in Achane. The rookie back has been slicing through defenses with ease, and his recent stretch of dominance has turned heads across the league.
But up next? A real test: a Monday night showdown in Pittsburgh against a Steelers defense that, while missing T.J.
Watt, still brings a physical edge-especially at home in December.
Still, if recent weeks are any indication, Miami’s offense might be built to travel-even into the cold, even into the chaos of Acrisure Stadium.
Orlovsky Breaks Down the Dolphins’ Ground Game Surge
Former NFL quarterback and ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky recently broke down why this Dolphins rushing attack is clicking on such a high level. And while he gave due credit to McDaniel’s creative play design, the heart of his analysis centered on one name: Aaron Brewer.
According to Orlovsky, Brewer isn’t just playing well-he’s playing like the best center in football. His athleticism is unlocking everything Miami wants to do on the ground. Whether he’s pulling, climbing to the second level, or leading the way in space, Brewer is giving this offense a unique edge.
“Watch him get out into space,” Orlovsky said. “They’ve got the most athletic center in football right now, and this is a run game that has the chance to go for over 200 yards against that Pittsburgh Steelers defense.”
And that’s not hyperbole. The Steelers have allowed more first downs via the run than any other team in the NFL this season. Against a Dolphins attack that’s averaging chunk plays on the ground, that’s a matchup McDaniel is surely circling in red.
De’Von Achane: A Walking First Down
Orlovsky also labeled Achane as “a walking first down,” and it’s hard to argue. Over the Dolphins’ four-game win streak, Achane has averaged a staggering 7.2 yards per carry, racking up 520 rushing yards in the process. That’s not just efficient-that’s game-breaking.
McDaniel isn’t just handing Achane the ball and hoping for the best. He’s mixing up personnel, formations, and blocking schemes to keep defenses guessing.
At times, he’ll roll out a two-back set. Other times, he’ll bring in a sixth offensive lineman like Daniel Brunskill or lean on tight ends to seal the edge.
Even fullback Alec Ingold is getting more involved, helping to pave the way for a ground game that’s become the engine of Miami’s offense.
And the result? A more balanced, less predictable, and more physical Dolphins team-one that’s winning games without having to rely on the arm of Tua Tagovailoa.
Tua’s Role in the New-Look Offense
Speaking of Tua, he’s taken a bit of a backseat during this streak. He’s thrown for under 200 yards in each of the past four games, but that’s not necessarily a knock.
If anything, it’s a sign of how well Miami is running the football. When you’re moving the chains on the ground, controlling the clock, and staying ahead of the sticks, there’s no need to air it out.
This isn’t a knock on Tua-it’s a testament to how well McDaniel has built this offense around his personnel. Still, it does raise interesting questions about the future.
Could McDaniel eventually look to add a more mobile quarterback to take this scheme to the next level? Someone who could add a designed run element to the offense without sacrificing passing ability?
That’s a conversation for another time. For now, Tua is the guy, and his contract makes it likely he’ll remain under center through at least 2026.
But it’s worth noting: McDaniel’s system is adaptable. And if the day comes when Miami pivots at quarterback, don’t be surprised if the next version of this offense includes a more dual-threat presence.
The Foundation Is Set
Regardless of who’s taking snaps in the future, the Dolphins have laid down a blueprint that’s working now-and could be sustainable for the long haul. With McDaniel dialing up plays, Brewer anchoring the line, and Achane torching defenses, Miami’s offense is humming.
They’ve got the most creative run game in football right now. They’ve got the personnel to execute it. And they’ve got a chance to prove it travels-especially in a tough road environment on Monday night.
So, yes, the Steelers will be without their defensive centerpiece in T.J. Watt.
But that doesn’t mean Miami’s in for a walk in the park. Pittsburgh still plays with pride, especially in prime time.
But if the Dolphins can impose their will on the ground once again, it’ll be hard to deny that this team is more than just fast-they’re for real.