Quinn Ewers Set for First Dolphins Start: Can He Navigate McDaniel’s Demanding Offense?
In South Florida, quarterback changes have become a familiar storyline - but this time, it's not about Tua Tagovailoa’s health. It’s about performance. And now, it’s Quinn Ewers’ turn to step into the spotlight.
Ewers, making his first NFL start, is walking into a high-pressure situation. That’s par for the course when you’re a young quarterback in this league.
There will be mistakes - maybe a pick, maybe a fumble under pressure - but there’s also the potential for flashes of brilliance. The real question isn’t just whether he can handle the Bengals' defense.
It’s whether he can handle Mike McDaniel’s offense.
A Talented QB Meets a Complex System
McDaniel is known around the league for his creative, often intricate offensive system. It’s been tailor-made to suit Tagovailoa’s quick release, timing, and rhythm.
And when Tua’s been under center, the Dolphins’ offense has looked like a well-oiled machine. But when backups have stepped in?
That machine hasn’t run quite the same.
Since McDaniel took over in 2022, three quarterbacks have started games in Tagovailoa’s absence:
- Teddy Bridgewater: 0-2
- Skylar Thompson: 1-2
- Tyler Huntley: 2-3
Those aren’t the kind of numbers that inspire confidence. Others - like Zach Wilson, Mike White, and Tim Boyle - have seen limited snaps, but none have been asked to shoulder the offense for a full game.
The issue hasn’t been talent; it’s been fit. McDaniel doesn’t simplify his offense when the starter goes down.
He expects every quarterback in the room to execute the same system, regardless of experience or skillset.
That’s the challenge now facing Ewers.
Can Ewers Break the Trend?
Ewers isn’t just stepping in to manage a game. He’s stepping into a system that demands precision, timing, and a deep understanding of a playbook that doesn’t come with training wheels.
McDaniel’s offense thrives on motion, misdirection, and split-second decisions. For a young quarterback, that’s a lot to process - especially against a Bengals defense that will be looking to confuse and pressure him early.
But there’s a glimmer of hope here. Unlike previous years, McDaniel has leaned more heavily on the run game this season.
That shift could be key in easing Ewers into the flow of the offense. De’Von Achane has been electric out of the backfield, and if Miami can establish the run, it may open up opportunities for Ewers to make plays without having to carry the full load.
Still, the Bengals know the assignment. Take Achane out of the game, force Ewers to win it with his arm, and see if he’s really ready to run McDaniel’s offense.
That’s the test - not just for Ewers, but for McDaniel as well. Has the coach found a way to adapt his system to a new quarterback?
Or will we see more of the same struggles that have plagued Miami’s backups in recent seasons?
What to Watch
This game isn’t just about a win or loss. It’s a measuring stick - for Ewers’ readiness, for McDaniel’s flexibility, and for the Dolphins’ depth at the most important position in football.
If Ewers can hold his own, even in a loss, it could be a sign of growth for a team that’s struggled to find answers when their starter goes down. If not, it could be another reminder that in Miami, the offense still lives and dies with Tua.
Either way, all eyes will be on Ewers. The rookie’s first start comes with high stakes, a complex playbook, and a defense ready to test every inch of his preparation. Welcome to the NFL.