The Miami Dolphins need running back De’Von Achane to turn a ball-control plan into actual scoring chances Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs. Miami has shown it can shorten games by staying committed to the ground attack, but Locked On Dolphins host Kyle Crabbs argued that a methodical approach alone will not be enough against an experienced opponent built to punish mistakes.
Crabbs said Miami may need to unveil quarterback-run and RPO looks with quarterback Malik Willis to create hesitation at the line of scrimmage. Even a limited dose of those concepts could add an extra gap for Achane, whose speed gives the Dolphins their best chance to produce the explosive run that changes the complexion of the game.
The Dolphins used the run game to limit possessions in the first half against the San Francisco 49ers, but field goals could not keep pace with touchdowns. That result frames the challenge against Kansas City: Miami wants to control the clock and protect a young defense, but it also must finish drives before the Chiefs force the game into a pass-heavy script.
Locked On Chiefs host Chris Clark said Kansas City should welcome that test by leaning on its own ground game. Chiefs running back Kenneth Walker III has given the offense another dimension, and Clark expects Kansas City to keep the ball on the ground frequently enough to prevent Miami from dictating the tempo.
A two-score deficit would test whether Miami can stay patient with Achane and the rushing attack. Crabbs said the Dolphins regretted moving away from the run after falling behind in their opener, then remained committed to it against San Francisco. The Week 3 question is whether that commitment can finally generate the chunk plays and touchdowns Miami needs.
Miami’s clearest route to making its home opener competitive is to keep Achane involved while using Willis’ mobility selectively. If the Dolphins create explosives without surrendering extra possessions, they can keep the game within reach deep into the afternoon.
Dolphins News and Notes
– Pass protection remains a major concern after Miami allowed nine sacks through two games. Crabbs identified right tackle Austin Jackson as a particular pressure point in obvious passing situations, while Kansas City can move defensive tackle Chris Jones across the front on key downs.
– Miami entered the week without a sack, creating a difficult decision against Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Crabbs said blitzing Mahomes risks exposing the Dolphins’ inexperienced secondary, but relying on a four-man rush has not yet produced enough disruption.
– Wide receiver Caleb Douglas (ankle) has an uncertain status after leaving the San Francisco game following a blocking play, according to Crabbs. His availability matters most if Miami needs to push the ball downfield and complement Achane’s work with vertical plays.
