THREE #‎proCane TDs were scored in Week 11 of the NFL!

#‎Dolphins RB Lamar Miller, #Raiders TE Clive Walford, #Jags WR Allen Hurns,

Lamar Miller’s TD extended the streak to 16 straight weeks a #proCane has scored a TD in the #‎NFL. Allen Hurns has now scored a TD in SEVEN straight weeks!

Despite whispers earlier in the week that rookie Jay Ajayi was going to siphon significant playing time away from 2015 fantasy stud Lamar Miller, the Dolphins rolled out their best running back on 82 percent of the team's offensive snaps. Miller's 22 touches against the Eagles is his highest mark of the season to this point, and while Ajayi may have out-produced him on the ground, Miller made up for it with 50 yards through the air and a receiving touchdown. Miller was also second on Miami with eight receiving targets and hauled in 75 percent of the passes that came his way.

There's really no reason for Miller owners to be alarmed of Ajay's 28 percent share of the offensive snaps. It's clear that the team is dedicated to feeding Miller the ball and he'll continue to be an RB1 in fantasy until further notice. His 840 yards from scrimmage and seven total touchdowns are enough to rank him as fantasy's fourth highest scoring running back of the season. The Dolphins are at home in Week 11 and face the Cowboys who have had trouble stopping running backs, so lock Miller into your lineup and keep Ajayi stashed as a handcuff.


(nfl.com)

Lamar Miller rushed 16 times for just 43 yards in Miami's Week 10 win over the Eagles, but added a 6/50/1 line as a receiver.

Miller once again got fantasy owners their touchdown, but ceded six carries to Jay Ajayi, who actually out-rushed Miller 48-43. Miller has been a bankable RB1 since Dan Campbell took over as head coach, but will be more of an RB2 for Week 11. Ajayi will get more looks, and the Cowboys' run defense is solid.


(rotoworld.com)

SEVEN #‎proCane TDs were scored in Week 10 of the NFL!

#Browns RB Duke Johnson, #‎Dolphins RB Lamar Miller (2), #Panthers TE Greg Olsen, #Raiders TE Clive Walford, #Jags WR Allen Hurns, #Colts RB Frank Gore.

Duke Johnson’s TD extended the streak to 15 straight weeks a #proCane has scored a TD in the #‎NFL. Greg Olsen’s TD was also the 500th reception of his career!

Lamar Miller rushed 12 times for 44 yards and two touchdowns (both from one-yard out) and caught all seven targets for a team-high 97 receiving yards Sunday against the Bills.

Miller has now failed to reach even 15 carries in all but one game this season, but he has been getting in the end zone of late, scoring six touchdowns in the last four games. Up next is a Week 10 matchup against the Eagles, who have allowed just three rushing touchdowns all season.


(cbssports.com)

Lamar Miller is quietly having a strong season.

Chris Trotman Getty Images

Since his days at college, Lamar Miller has never been viewed as a "power" back. He's more of a one-cut slasher who does most of his damage outside the tackles by breaking long runs.

Well, according to the numbers, that narrative has seemingly changed. According to Omar Kelly of the Sun-Sentinel, Miller leads all running backs with an average of 3.7 yards after contact per carry. Le'Veon Bell is second with 3.4 yards after contact per carry.

That number is a testament to how often Miller breaks tackles and is able to carry defenders after being hit. Incredibly, he's averaging 5.5 yards per carry this season, but he has yet to become a workhorse back for the Dolphins. He's only carried the ball 79 times in seven games despite averaging the fourth-highest yards per carry among running backs with at least 20 carries.

He's deserving of more carries, so it will be interesting to see if Dan Campbell rewards him with more touches. In Campbell's first two games, Miller touched the ball 21 and 17 times respectively before his touches dropped to 14 (just nine carries) against the Patriots last week.


(foxbangor.com)

THREE #‎proCane TDs were scored in Week 7 of the NFL!

#‎Dolphins RB Lamar Miller, #Panthers TE Greg Olsen, #Colts WR Andre Johnson

Lamar Miller’s TD extended the streak to 14 straight weeks a #proCane has scored a TD in the #‎NFL.

DAVIE, Fla. - Dolphins running back Lamar Miller picked up a special honor on Thursday ahead of the team's showdown with the Patriots.

Miller was named the FedEx Ground Player of the Week.

Miller put on quite a show against the Texans last Sunday.

The Dolphins running back had 175 yards on 14 carries.

He rushed for one touchdown and had a 54-yard receiving touchdown.

Dolphins QB Ryan Tannehill won the passing award this week, making it a clean sweep.


(local10.com)

FOUR #‎proCane TDs were scored in Week 7 of the NFL!

#‎Jags WR Allen Hurns (1), #‎Dolphins RB Lamar Miller (2), #Raiders TE Clive Walford (1).

Allen Hurns’ game-winning TD, which was the fifth straight week he had a TD, extended the streak to 13 straight weeks a #proCane has scored a TD in the #‎NFL. Walford’s TD was the first of his NFL career!

Dolphins running back Lamar Miller exploded for 175 yards and a touchdown on 14 carries in Sunday's win over the Texans. He added 61 yards and a touchdown on three receptions.

The 24-year-old amazingly fit all of his production into the opening half, ripping off touchdowns on a 54-yard catch and an 85-yard run as Miami took a 41-point lead into the break. Miller has been a new man under coach Dan Campbell, totaling 364 yards and a pair of touchdowns in two games, and he figures to remain heavily involved in the new regime's offense. Miller and company will face a tough test in Week 8, when they travel to take on the Patriots on Thursday night.


(cbssports.com)

Lamar Miller's workload has increased since Joe Philbin was given his walking papers and the running back hasn't disappointed.

Miller continued his hot streak under Dolphins interim coach Dan Campbell by exploding for 236 all-purpose yards and two touchdowns in a 44-26 victory against the Texans on Sunday.

Miller never received more than 15 touches the first four games of the season; with Campbell, the versatile back got the rock 21 times versus the Titans and another 17 times against the Texans.

"Earlier in the year, I was worried about how many opportunities I was going to get," said Miller, per the Miami Herald. "I wasn't getting the ball that much. So every time I got it I was trying to make a big play, and I wasn't reading my keys."

Miller's damage on the Texans could have been a lot worse if the back didn't sit out the second half.

The fourth-year back credited his offensive line for providing the holes against J.J. Watt and Co., but Miller's vision and speed took advantage of the openings for big gains.

The Dolphins' offense all of a sudden is scary with Ryan Tannehill, wide receivers Jarvis Landry, Rishard Matthews carving up secondaries and Miller playing the role of Le'Veon Bell.

Miller has rushed for 175 yards and 113 yards, respectively, the last two outings, but his pass catching has opened up the offense, giving Tannehill a security blanket.

Watch out, AFC wild card contenders. The 3-3 Dolphins and Miller are on the rise.


(nfl.com)

THREE #‎proCane TDs were scored in Week 6 of the NFL!

#‎Jags WR Allen Hurns (1), #‎Dolphins RB Lamar Miller, #Panthers TE Greg Olsen.

Lamar Miller’s TD, which was his first of the 2015 season, extended the streak to 12 straight weeks a #proCane has scored a TD in the #‎NFL.

Dolphins featured back Lamar Miller rushed for 119 yards and a touchdown on 19 carries, and added five receiving yards on two targets Sunday in Tennessee.

Miller had failed to top 53 rushing yards in a game this season coming in, but he exploded in the debut of head coach Dan Campbell. One game isn't a definitive sample size, but it seems that Miller and the Dolphins have been revitalized by the coaching change. Miller will try to take his momentum and run with it next week against Houston.


(cbssports.com)

Lamar Miller says Dolphins interim coach Dan Campbell is placing a renewed emphasis on the running game.

Miami ranks dead last in rushing attempts per game. "(Campbell) pretty much told the whole team that we have to run the ball and stop the run," Miller said. "That’s something that we emphasized, and something we want to get going." The Dolphins have zero rushing touchdowns through four games. Averaging just 3.5 yards per carry after posting a 5.1 clip last season, Miller promises to be "more decisive running the ball" coming out of Miami's bye week.


(rotoworld.com)

The Miami Dolphins have been nothing short of a disappointment this season -- on both sides of the ball. 

The defense has recorded just one sack in four games, while no other team in the league has less than five. On offense, they've rushed for just 69 yards per game, which is second-worst in the NFL.

Lamar Miller is entering the final year of his contract and is out to prove he can be a workhorse back, but he's only carried it 37 times for 131 yards. Needless to say, that won't get it done by any means, but a coaching change could prove to help Miller.

Dan Campbell is the interim head coach after the team fired Joe Philbin, and he brought in Al Saunders to be an offensive consultant to offensive coordinator Bill Lazor. Miller seems to be happy about the changes, as he's telling concerned fantasy owners and fans to "stay tune" on Twitter.

@IamJoeBazzi stay tune!

— Lamar Miller (@millertime_6) October 8, 2015

Does that mean Miller is in line for more carries? It's possible, but nothing is certain. And if he does carry the ball more, it won't be until next Sunday with the Dolphins currently on their bye. As Miller said, stay tuned, folks.

Lamar Miller rushed seven times for 38 yards in Miami's Week 3 loss to the Bills, catching 3-of-3 targets for an additional 27 yards.

Miller averaged 5.4 yards per carry, but formerly run-committed OC Bill Lazor continued his early-season abandonment of the running game. The low point came early in the fourth quarter, where Miller set the Dolphins up with 1st-and-goal from the two with an eight-yard run. Lazor then proceeded to dial up four passes, all of which fell incomplete. It was a baffling sequence on a baffling day. We know Miller is going to get a bigger role at some point, but it's hard to know when the light might switch on for the poorly-coached Dolphins. He'll be a low-end RB2 for next week's London matchup with the Jets' stout run defense.


(rotoworld.com)

NEWS UPDATE
Miller (ankle) said he will be okay, even though he did not return to Sunday's 23-20 loss to the Jaguars, Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald reports.

ROTOWIRE FANTASY ANALYSIS
Miller said he considered going back into the game, but he apparently didn't quite feel good enough. He likely suffered a sprain, as he also said after the game that he won't need an MRI, Adam Beasley of the Miami Herald reports. Damian Williams got most of the snaps in Miller's absence, finishing with two carries for five yards and three catches on four targets for 15 yards and a touchdown.


(rotowire.com)

Lamar Miller rushed 13 times for 55 yards in Miami's Week 1 win over the Redskins, adding a 21-yard reception.

Coach Joe Philbin hinted at a bigger role for Miller in the offseason, but so the 14 touches were a letdown. If there's good news, it's that Miller ceded only two touches to backup Damien Williams. It was sort of a bizarre day for the Dolphins from a game-flow perspective, as they ran 14 fewer plays than the Redskins. That won't happen very often this season. Miller still has high-end RB1 upside in Bill Lazor's fast-paced offense. He has a solid Week 2 matchup in the Jaguars.


(rotoworld.com)

Defender tries to tackle @millertime_6. Defender tackles air. Lamar Miller picks up 35. #MIAvsCAR http://t.co/mQJeqiy4lJ

— NFL (@NFL) August 22, 2015

According to Dave Hyde of the Sun-Sentinel Lamar Miller averaged 6.1 Yards a carry when running in three receiver formations. He also noted that Miller saw 81 percent of his snaps out of the shotgun and added that the Dolphins likely do not trust Miller and the offensive line in short yardage. They passed more than twice as much as they ran with Miller in third/fourth and short situations. (Sun-Sentinel)

Fantasy Impact: Miller excels when the defense is spread out and allows Miller to work in space. Using his speed and putting him in positions where he could succeed may have been the reason the Dolphins limited the amount of work he received last season, prefering to keep up his efficiency. After bulking up, Miller is likely to see an uptick in his usage but whether it will actually benefit Miller or hurt his efficient play remains to be seen.


(fantasypros.com)

DAVIE, Fla. (AP) Miami Dolphins running back Lamar Miller won't mind an increased workload in the regular season.

Entering his fourth season and coming off a career-best 1,099 yards and eight touchdowns in 2014, he might be ready to ask for more carries.

''Yeah, I'm going to start doing that,'' Miller said of asking second-year offensive coordinator Bill Lazor for more carries.

''I'm a team guy, so whatever the coaches call, I just try to do my assignment. But if I feel like we can run the ball this year, I'm going to try to open up a little bit more.''

Miller got 216 carries in 2014 - nearly as many as his first two seasons combined (228).

Only the Ravens' Justin Forsett had a better yards per carry average (5.4) than Miller (5.1) among starting running backs, who tied the Bengals' Jeremy Hill for the second-highest rate.

''I built confidence for myself having the season I had last year,'' said Miller, who also caught 38 passes for 275 yards and a touchdown.

''Coming into this year, I feel more comfortable with the playbook, blocking schemes, the whole 9 yards. I just want to keep being productive, keep making plays for this team - just be accountable. Have my teammates' trust in me to make plays.''

The Dolphins haven't had a running back get more than 241 carries in a season since Ricky Williams had 392 in 2003.

Could Miller get 300 carries this season?

''I know we're running back by committee,'' said Miller, who's joined on the depth chart by Damien Williams, LaMichael James, Jay Ajayi and Mike Gillislee.

''I don't know if we'd be able to get that many carries, but if we do, I'm willing to take on that challenge.''

Dolphins coach Joe Philbin is open to anything that will keep his team's offense on the field.

''The ultimate objective is scoring points on offense, however we have to do that and whatever personnel we have to utilize.'' Philbin said. ''If one person can help us do that and (it means) giving him (22) carries a game to get 350 carries, I have no problem doing that.''

Miller is aiming to join Williams (2002-03) and Larry Csonka (1971-73) as the franchise's only players to rush for 1,000 yards in consecutive seasons.

He should start this season as the team's No. 1 back for the first time after sharing duties going back to his days at University of Miami.

''I have that same mindset as I had as a rookie,'' Miller said. ''I just come here every day and try to get better, compete with the younger guys. I'm the veteran of the group now. I try to push everybody so when that guy gets that opportunity, he'll take advantage of it.''

Lazor said Miller ''done a great job of becoming a student of the game from the backfield.''

Miller, who says he ''tries to lead by example'' has also become more vocal.

''When I first got here, the guy rarely talked to me,'' Lazor said. ''He communicates so much better with me now.''

''He knows what he's doing. He knows what issues we asked him to deal with from, and we've seen those things get better. The guy all year got more and more decisive in the way he ran the football. He played fast from the backfield. I expect nothing but it to keep going.''


(foxsports.com)

Lamar Miller rushed three times for 32 yards in the Dolphins' preseason opener against the Bears.

Miller got three carries to start the game, broke a 27-yarder and also had an eight-yard run called back. A bit of a stir was caused when Miller was pulled for Damien Williams when the Dolphins reached the red zone, but it turned out he was simply done for the day, with Williams taking over thereafter.


(rotoworld.com)

The 2015 season is an important one for Miami Dolphins running back Lamar Miller. He's entering his fourth year in the league and the final year of his rookie contract, and is looking for a long-term deal following this season. According to reports, however, it doesn't sound like Miller and the Dolphins will come to an agreement before the season kicks off.

As Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald noted, the two sides have had negotiations, but none that were "in-depth." This doesn't come as much of a surprise since there haven't been any reports of the two sides being close to an agreement. It's looking like Miller will play out this season and look for a big deal in free agency.
For Miller, an increased workload should help his case for signing a lucrative contract in the offseason. Philbin said earlier this week that Miller could see more carries this season, after failing to carry the ball more than 19 times in 2014.

"I would tell you I've never been in a meeting where I've said to [offensive coordinator] Bill [Lazor] or [running backs coach] Jeff Nixon or the offensive line coaches have said 'Lamar can't carry the ball 20 times a game, he can't do it,'" Philbin said. "I would tell you, if he's cranking and he got it 24 times a game and he's healthy and he's fast and he's explosive, it doesn't bother me one bit."


(foxsports.com)

Lamar Miller played the best football of his life in 2014, setting career highs in rushing yards, yards per carry and touchdowns. The biggest question that came out of this breakout performance was why he didn't see the ball more.

Miller never had more than 19 carries in a game last season. He had nine games where he had 14 carries or less. Dolphins coach Joe Philbin said he's comfortable with giving Miller more a workhorse role in 2015.

"I would tell you I've never been in a meeting where I've said to (offensive coordinator) Bill (Lazor) or (running backs coach) Jeff Nixon or the offensive line coaches have said 'Lamar can't carry the ball 20 times a game. He can't do it,'" Philbin told ESPN.com. "I've never heard that. That's never come out of my mouth."

"I would tell you, if he's cranking and he got it 24 times a game and he's healthy and he's fast and he's explosive, it doesn't bother me one bit," Philbin said. "But I think sometimes it's not taken into account what our run game is all about.

Philbin explained that a lot of Miami's play calls are options. There are called running plays for Miller, but it's not the typical nature of the offense.
"I think that cuts into the carries a little bit," the coach said.

Miller is entering the final year of his contract and a bigger role could set him up well in free agency. He spent the offseason building his body for a bigger workload -- putting on 15 pounds of muscle. He's a player to watch on a compelling Miami team.


(nfl.com)

Lamar Miller of the Miami Dolphins is entering a contract year this season in which he'll look to prove his worth -- whether it's to the Dolphins or another running back-needy franchise. In 2014, Miller began to show just how talented he is, racking up 1,099 yards on just 216 carries, which gave him a 5.1 yard-per-carry average for the season.

Shockingly, Miller never topped 20 carries in a game last season, tallying 19 in the final two games of the season. In his career, he's only done it once. That doesn't mean he can't handle the workload. If anything, it shows the Dolphins' lack of desire to make him the bell cow at running back. That might not bode well for Miller come time to negotiate a contract.

Lamar Miller not content after going over 1,000 yds in 2014 "This year, I’m looking forward to a better year. Try to improve from last year”

— The Finsiders (@TheFinsiders) July 20, 2015

Miller can't control how often he gets handed the ball this season, but he can make the most of his opportunities when they arise. With rookie Jay Ajayi likely Miller's primary backup, Miller could get even fewer carries than he did in 2014. Ajayi has long-term health concerns with his knee, but in the short term, he's good to go.

"This kind of talent — to be there where he was — is a perfect fit in terms of what we want to add and in terms of adding an element of additional power to our running game," Dolphins assistant general manager Eric Stokes said of Ajayi following the draft. "It really was an easy move to turn that card in, and we’re very happy to have him."

By the way Stokes was talking, they seem excited to have Ajayi on the team, yet another reason to pass on extending Miller long term. The way the NFL works nowadays, a running back by committee is gaining popularity, as teams shy away from handing out big contracts to running backs.

So what will it take for Miller to get a big time pay day? Well, if he has a breakout season and rushes for 2,000 yards, he may just become too expensive for Miami to keep. That's not to say another team won't pay him what he deserves, but it may not be the Dolphins with Ajayi on the roster and plenty of backs in the 2016 NFL Draft.

If he eclipses his mark of 1,099 yards from last season with say, 1,500 yards, it will show his consistency and reliability -- and he may be inexpensive enough to stay in Miami. 

In the end, however, it comes down to Miller making the most of his opportunities. He won't get 300 carries like he probably wants, but if he can average 5-plus yards per carry once again, he'll prove his worth. Needless to say, 2015 is the biggest year of Miller's young career.


(foxsports.com)

DAVIE, Fla. -- Lamar Miller seems to have tightened his grip on the starting running back job.

Fellow running backs Jay Ajayi, a fifth-round pick from Boise State; Damien Williams; LaMichael James and Mike Gillislee haven't taken nearly as many snaps with the first team. But Miller, who rushed for 1,099 yards last season and averaged 5.1 yards per carry, is experimenting with more bulk to see if he can carry the load.

The Dolphins signed Knowshon Moreno last year and drafted Ajayi this year in search of someone who can run with a more physical style than the speedy Miller. Noticeably bigger in his chest and arms, Miller is up to 221 pounds, five pounds heavier than his playing weight from last season.

"I'm just trying to find a weight where I'm comfortable right now," Miller said. "I'm undersized. I'm just trying to find something I'm comfortable with."

--Miami signed defensive tackle C.J. Mosley to a one-year contract, providing some run defense reinforcements and reuniting the 11th-year player with fellow tackle Ndamukong Suh. The pair played together the last two seasons in Detroit.

Mosley, who made eight starts last year and finished with 26 tackles and 2.5 sacks, will likely be a reserve. However, there's a chance he could push Earl Mitchell for the starting job.

Either way, Mosley (6 feet 2, 312 pounds) will be part of a rotation that includes reserves Anthony Johnson, a second-year player, and rookie Jordan Phillips, a second-round pick from Oklahoma.

Miami finished 24th in run defense last season and Detroit was No. 1. The Dolphins, who lost tackles Jared Odrick (free agency) and Randy Starks (released) during the offseason, have spent much of OTAs (Organized Team Activities) installing third-down, goal-line and red-zone defense.

Perhaps Mosley's acquisition means they saw a deficiency that needed to be addressed.

--Left tackle Jason Fox, the likely opening day starter while Branden Albert recovers from last season's knee injury, has been on the losing end of his battles with defensive end Olivier Vernon so far.

Granted, players aren't wearing pads, but it bears watching because Fox, a right tackle for most of his previous four NFL seasons, could be the opening day starter. And he acknowledges it's a bigger role protecting quarterback Ryan Tannehill's blind side.

"I think left side maybe the stakes are a little higher," Fox said. "It's Ryan's back side. And obviously you play a great player every game."

The Dolphins are hopeful that Albert will be ready for opening day. But they'll watch Fox closely. Last season, they switched right tackle Ja'Wuan James to left tackle when Albert was injured and inserted Fox at right tackle. But the Dolphins decided it'd be better to leave James at right tackle for the long term.

If Fox can hold down the position until Albert returns, it would go a long way toward keeping some degree of normalcy on an offensive line that's already struggling at both guard spots.


(wdsu.com)

A big source of optimism for the Dolphins offense for the 2015 season, and rightfully so, has been the steady improvement of quarterback Ryan Tannehill since he entered the NFL as a 2012 draft pick.

Another reason should be the fact that running back Lamar Miller has been on that exact same path.

It hasn’t gotten quite as much attention, no doubt in large part because Tannehill plays the most important position on the field, but Miller also has done nothing but get better since he joined the Dolphins as a fourth-round pick in the 2012 NFL draft.

Miller quietly put together a very impressive 2014 season when he recorded the 13th 1,000-yard rushing season in franchise history, but he’s looking for bigger and better things in the fall.

“It was a great personal achievement, but I’ve still got a lot of work to do,” Miller said. “I’ve been watching film, trying to correct myself. I feel I’ve still got more things that I could do to help this team win. I’m just trying to get better every day to try to go to that next level.”

One main focus for Miller this spring has been trying to find the right weight to carry during the 2015 season.

Listed at 224 pounds on the roster, Miller says his weight has been fluctuating throughout the spring.

“It’s been going up and down,” Miller said. “Right now, I’m just trying to find the comfortable weight. I try every day to weigh something different to see how I feel when I’m running the ball, just try to be more comfortable with my right weight.

“I’m still trying to figure it out. By the time the offeason comes, that’s when I’ll find out where I want to play about. I’m going to try to be playing like 219 maybe.”

Miller finished the 2014 season with 1,099 rushing yards, which ranked 10th in the NFL. But Miller accomplished that feat with an average of 13.5 rushing attempts per game, the lowest total among the 13 1,000-yard rushers around the league last season. It also was the lowest total for any of the 13 1,000-yard rushing performances in Dolphins history.

Miller averaged 5.09 yards per carry, which was the second-highest figure among all 1,000-yard rushers around the NFL, behind only the 5.36 turned in by Baltimore’s Justin Forsett.

Also, Miller produced first downs with 26.4 of his rushes, second again among 1,000-yard rushers in the NFLâ€?Cincinnati’s Jeremy Hill had a 27.5 percent figure).

Lastly, there’s the stat about Miller’s work on third-and-1, which is illuminating considering Head Coach Joe Philbin was asked after the OTA practice Monday about those exact situations being difficult for Miller.

Well, as it turned out, Miller was 9-for-11 in third-and-1 runs when it came to producing first downs. That 81.8 success rate happened to be first in the AFC among players with at least eight third-and-1 rushing attempts and third in the entire league behind only Seattle running back Marshawn Lynch (92.3) and Carolina quarterback Cam Newton (90.9).

“I think, when we look closely at his third-and-1, it’s maybe not as low as everybody thinks it is,” Philbin said. “Again, I don’t have the stats in front of me, but I know I’ve looked at them and they’re not as bad as you would think. I can think of a couple of goal-line touchdown runs that he’s had, one in Chicago, one in New England I think he had, Green Bay I believe he scored in a red zone, goal line type situation. Those are just popping into me.

“I thought he played well. The thing I like about Lamar is he rushed for, again, don’t quote me on the exact numbers, but 200 yards as a rookie, 700 yards in his second year, 1,100 yards in his third year. So I think that bodes well for this year coming up and the kind of development that’s a credit to him and the hard work that he’s put in. You’ve seen some definite improvement and results. I’m real pleased with him and looking forward to him having a big season.”

The exact numbers for Miller’s career are 250 rushing yards as a rookie in 2012, 709 yards in 2013 and 1,099 yards last season.

Miller’s reception totals also have gone up each year, from only six in 2012 to 26 and finally 38 last season.

Like everything else, Miller is hoping the numbers just continue to improve in 2015.

The goal, Miller said, is to become an all-around back.

“I’m entering my fourth year; I’m familiar with everything,” Miller said. “Toward the end of the (2014) season I was getting more comfortable with everything, with the blocking scheme, just trusting my guys, the offensive line, and the coaches were giving me the opportunity. I think Year 4, I’m still learning the offense a little bit more, but I’m pretty much familiar with everything now. I’m looking forward to this upcoming season.

“I’m just trying to continue to get better, build off the season that I had last year, just try to be productive and just try to make plays.”


(miamidolphins.com)

After spending time in the film room, Lamar Miller came to the conclusion that he didn't catch enough passes, and that he needed to break more tackles. This offseason he has put on seven pounds of muscle, and now weighs 225 pounds. Miller has been training with the Jugs machine, and has sought to improve his technique by working with fellow Cane, Andre Johnson. He has also been working with his own QB, Ryan Tannehill, and the Miami receivers. (Miami Herald)

Fantasy Impact: It's a bonus for Miller owners if he can improve his route running and rapport with Tannehill. On the other hand, when a running back bulks up, they'll often experience a drop in their burst or speed. Obviously if Miller doesn't lose the speed he's known for, but gains a bit more power improving his yards after contact, both he and fantasy owners will be pleased. We'll see soon enough how this works out.


(fantasypros.com)

In front of reps from all 32 NFL teams, the unquestioned star was receiver Phillip Dorsett. He blazed his way to an unofficial 4.25-second 40-yard dash after running an already-excellent 4.33 at the NFL combine in February. He could have settled on that time and simply performed pass-catching drills for NFL scouts, but Dorsett wanted to put on a show.

“It was just me and my competitive spirit just coming out here and doing everything,” Dorsett said. “Because I know everybody wants to see it. Everybody likes to see a guy go out and compete and do everything.”

Dorsett, who measured in at 5-foot-10 and 184 pounds, said he improved his vertical to 38 inches (he leaped 37 at the combine) and bench-pressed 225 pounds 13 times (he did not lift at the combine).

For me, the star of the day was Phillip Dorsett,” NFL Network analyst Mike Mayock said. “A kid who didn’t have to do anything because he performed so well at the combine. What did he do today? Comes out runs a 4.25, 4.26, jumps 38 inches, 10-9 broad [jump], and then looked fantastic catching the football and getting in and out of breaks. I thought Phillip Dorsett had an outstanding day.”

Dorsett will work out for the Dolphins, Panthers and Falcons. What if the hometown chose him?

“Being a Hurricane and I always was a fan of the Dolphins, too,” said Dorsett, from Fort Lauderdale-St. Thomas Aquinas. “It would be great. It would be a dream come true,” he said.

* Linebacker Denzel Perryman suffered a pulled right hamstring and scratched on his second attempt at running the 40-yard dash. UM did not release official testing results to the media, but according to a group of scouts that got together and compared times, Perryman’s first heat in the 40 was a 4.67 — better than the 4.78 he ran in Indianapolis.

He did not perform in the shuttle, 3-cone and positional drills. He said not being able to finish was “real disappointing, but I think a lot of teams just wanted to see what I could run. I feel I accomplished that today. I answered a lot of questions.”

He said he measured in at 5-11 and 239 pounds and put up 30 reps of 225 pounds. He increased his vertical from 32 (combine) to 33 inches.

Perryman watched film with the Lions hours before pro day began and has three NFL team visits lined up: he will meet with the Dolphins next Thursday, the Falcons on April 12 and the Panthers on April 16. Along with Clive Walford and Dorsett, he ate dinner with Saints brass Tuesday night at Fleming’s Steakhouse in Coral Gables. Perryman said he ate shrimp and scallops (Rob Ryan had a steak, if you were wondering).

* Running back Duke Johnson ran a 4.47 twice, which was a much better result than his combine time (4.54). He also “caught the ball naturally,” according to Mayock.

Why run the 40 again? “I wanted to do it for myself, because I know I can do better, and I know I train too hard to run what I ran at the combine,” he said, adding that his “game speed speaks for itself. … If you run 4.2, 4.3 but you don’t play it, it really doesn’t make a difference.”

Dolphins GM Dennis Hickey agreed.

“When we watch guys play with helmets and shoulder pads, those are the important things,” he said. “Those guys that play fast and also run fast, that’s great. The importance is the speed they play at.” The 40 time is “a measurement — you always judge it against how they play.”

Johnson, who measured in at 5-9 and 203 pounds, said he did 18 reps of 225. He did not lift at the NFL combine.

Tight end Clive Walford did not run because he suffered a hamstring pull last week. Walford (6-4, 250) said he would meet with the Steelers after pro day and the Falcons and Packers in the coming days. He said he has talked to a laundry list of teams, including the Dolphins, Saints, Falcons, Packers, Broncos, Chargers, 49ers, Ravens, Chiefs and Buccaneers.

Walford, a Glades Central grad and South Bay native, on the hometown team: “I talked to them. I wouldn’t say a lot, but I saw that move that they made this offseason. Shout-out to the Dolphins.” He’s talking, of course, about the Fins adding Ndamukong Suh.

Is UM’s tight end tradition helping his draft stock? “We produce great tight ends,” he said. “Look at the history. We’ve got great ones to come. I feel I kept up that legacy. Hopefully the young ones do as well.

* Offensive tackle Ereck Flowers, a projected first-rounder, did not perform lifting drills – he was the top overall bench-presser at the NFL combine, with 37 reps of 225 – but did everything else. Flowers did not speak to the media (he rarely does).

Mayock was very high on Flowers, Jon Feliciano and Shane McDermott‘s performances.

“I counted eight to 10 offensive line coaches, obviously here to see mostly Ereck Flowers, who I think is going to be a first-round draft pick,” he said. “But Feliciano could get drafted. Shane McDermott could get drafted. I thought it was a great day for that whole group of players.”

* Defensive end Anthony Chickillo, who looked even lighter than he did at the combine (when he measured 6-3, 267), looked like a much more explosive player than he was as a 280-pound strong-side defensive end at UM. “Very twitchy” was Walford’s assessment. “Quick. Fast.”

* Quarterbacks Ryan Williams and Jake Heaps threw a variety of routes for scouts. Williams said he checked in at 6-4 and change and 215 pounds, and ran a 4.84 in the 40. Before tearing his ACL last April 4 – 362 days ago – he said he ran in the 5-second range. He definitely looked a lot faster than before. He has several meetings scheduled, but has not worked out with an NFL team.

“I’m always positive,” Williams said. “Regardless if I get drafted or not I’m still going to get a chance somewhere so I’m not really worried about the draft.”

* Cornerback Ladarius Gunter ran a solid 4.56 time in the 40 and looked very rangy in coverage drills.  He’s projected as a mid-round pick.

* Linebacker Thurston Armbrister showed good speed and agility, though he struggled to catch interceptions in drills. Would bet he gets a shot somewhere.

* Defensive tackle Olsen Pierre ran a 5.15 in the 40.

* If you saw my Twitter feed, you’ll get a roll of NFL personnel I spotted, but among the notables were a large contingent of Dolphins personnel (GM Dennis Hickey, VP Mike Tannenbaum, head coach Joe Philbin, offensive coordinator Bill Lazor, defensive coordinator Kevin Coyle, running backs coach Jeff Nixon, special teams coordinator Darren Rizzi), Jets head coach Todd Bowles, Saints head coach Sean Payton and defensive coordinator Rob Ryan and Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin. NFL Network said seven GMs attended, including Hickey. The others: Mickey Loomis (Saints), Mike Maccagnan (Jets), Kevin Colbert (Steelers), Doug Whaley (Bills), Steve Keim (Arizona), Ruston Webster (Tennessee) and Floyd Reese (Giants). Former Dolphins GM Jeff Ireland, now a college scout with New Orleans, was also there.

* Former Hurricanes who attended included Andre Johnson, Frank Gore, Clinton Portis, Edgerrin James, Demarcus Van Dyke, Jacory Harris, Lamar Miller and Tommy Streeter. A slew of players from the 2012 and 2013 teams were there. Jonathan Vilma was also in attendance, working for NBC Sports along with former Dolphins great Jason Taylor. NFL Network had a five-person crew and analyst Mike Mayock interviewed several UM players and coach Al Golden, who did not speak to other media.

* Former Hurricanes running back Damien Berry, a Glades Central grad who won a Super Bowl with Baltimore in 2012, was the oldest of several pre-2014 Hurricanes who worked out (linebacker Tyrone Cornelius and defensive end Shayon Green, both from the 2013 team, also performed).  “I’m still young, 26 years old. I think it’s time to give it another shot,” said Berry, who last played for UM in 2010 and now lives in Boca Raton. Berry, 5-11 and 230 pounds, he said he ran a 4.7 in the 40.


(palmbeachpost.com)

He told reporters at UM’s Pro Day on Wednesday that he’s up to 225 pounds after playing at 218 pounds last year.

A seven-pound gain might not seem that significant, but it is for a running back.

Miller is known for his speed, not his power. Coach Joe Philbin and offensive coordinator Bill Lazor rarely gave Miller more than 15 carries a game last season.

The Dolphins tried pairing Miller with a power back in 2014, but injuries limited to Knowshon Moreno to just one full game.

Even without Moreno in the picture, Miller’s carries were still limited. This year, Miami is believed to be looking for another strong No. 2 back.

Miller clearly wants to get the bulk of the carries.

But it is a smart idea to alter his body? Not necessarily.

Former Dolphins running back Troy Stradford, now an analyst for the Finsiders, said the concern is whether Miller will retain his greatest strength.

“Did he keep his football speed?” Stradford said.

Stradford, the NFL’s offensive rookie of the year in 1987, said he bulked up one season and hated the results. He dropped the weight the following season.

“You can bulk up and still run a fast time vs. the clock but can you really still play at that fast speed with the extra weight?,” Straford said. “There is a difference.”

It’s unclear if the Dolphins asked Miller to gain weight or if he did it on his own, but Stradford said he more than likely would have made the decision himself.

It does, however, raise the question of whether Miami should pair Miller with a power or speed back.

The prevailing logic is that Miami should go the traditional route and add a power back who could help the Dolphins with their red zone woes.

They worked out Stevan Ridley earlier this week and haven’t ruled out bringing back oft-injured Moreno.

It’s also a deep draft class for running back.

The Dolphins could instead consider adding another speedster and creating one of the NFL’s most dynamic playmaking backfields.

Teams rarely pair two speed backs. Last season, Philadelphia featured LeSean McCoy and Darren Sproles — an exception to the rule.

The Eagles, of course, are coached by Chip Kelly. And Lazor studied under Kelly in 2013, so he might be intrigued by the idea of two speed backs.

While the Dolphins have other needs in the draft and are already without a third round pick, University of Miami’s Duke Johnson comes to mind. Like most UM stars, he loves the idea of playing for the Dolphins. And he’s been linked to them in the offseason.

Would the Dolphins be better off with another speed back or adding more power to the backfield?

“That’s the million dollar question,” Stradford said.

And there’s no clear answer.

The Dolphins still have Damien Williams, who plays with power and showed promise as an undrafted rookie last year. But Miami will likely try to bring in another back who will at least compete with Williams.


(palmbeachpost.com)

Lamar Miller's 97-yard touchdown run started off inconspicuously.

The Miami Dolphins' third-year running back lined up to the left of quarterback Ryan Tannehill and went in motion behind Tannehill to the right. The ball was snapped, and a split second later, it was stuffed into Miller's midsection. Miller burst straight ahead through a gap in the New York Jets' front seven, cut to his right to avoid a defender and split the secondary by hitting the X button to accelerate.

It only took Miller 13 seconds to clear an entire football field—he began that highlight-reel run from inside his own end zone—and to show the world exactly what the Dolphins hoped he would do when they drafted him in the fourth round of the 2012 NFL draft. 

But one cannot prove himself to be a workhorse in a quarter of a minute, and therein lies the biggest question facing both Miller and the Dolphins this offseason.
The Dolphins do not have a stocked cupboard of proven talent on their running back depth chart, instead sporting a short list of inexperienced high-upside prospects. 

On one hand, the constitution of their stable of backs is indicative of their evolving offensive philosophy, which focuses on a precision passing game to move the ball downfield with efficiency through high-percentage plays. On the other hand, the harrowing fact is that the Dolphins are an injury away from having nowhere to turn when Tannehill needs to turn around and hand it off.

That's especially concerning considering the consternation over Tannehill's development and progression from a second-rate quarterback to a franchise signal-caller.

He's made that progress slowly over the course of his career, but entering the fourth year of his rookie deal—and with the Dolphins facing a big decision over whether to exercise the fifth-year option in his contract—it's time for the Dolphins' passer to fish or cut bait, and it's time for the organization to do the same with regards to Tannehill.

Independent of that inquietude, the Dolphins must ask themselves whether Miller has what it takes to be the focal point of their running game to take as much pressure off Tannehill as possible.

Miller has most of the skills he will need to be a bellcow, with versatility to play both in the running game and in the passing game as well as the kind of home run potential that forces linebackers and safeties to respect the run, thereby helping the Dolphins execute their offense by opening up the short and intermediate windows in the passing game.

He has also been serviceable in pass protection, though he could stand to improve. He ranked 30th out of 62 running backs in Pro Football Focus' pass-blocking efficiency in 2014, after ranking 14th out of 54 in 2013. 

Fun facts in profile-writing: "Sprinter" Lamar Miller has six runs of 30-plus the past 3 years combined. (Alfred Morris has 9.)

— Christopher Harris (@CHarrisESPN) March 24, 2015

Where Miller struggles most is running between the tackles. The Dolphins know that they need to find someone who excels at taking the ball into a pile of people and still gaining positive yards.

"Yeah, that's something that we're always looking to do and bring those types of guys in," Dolphins general manager Dennis Hickey said when asked whether his team would be looking to the draft for the thunder to complement Miller's lightning. "We're always looking at whatever avenues we can to bring in better players."

Assuming Miller can't pick up short yardage is just lazy. In 2014, the Dolphins converted 11 out of 15 (73.3 percent) of their 3rd-and-1 rush attempts for either a first down or a touchdown (10th in the league), with Miller picking up nine of his 10 tries on 3rd-and-1. They converted 26 out of 35 (74.3 percent) of all runs with one yard remaining for a first down (eighth in the NFL), and Miller moved the chains on 18 of his 21 tries with one yard to go.

With three yards or less to go, the number dips to a modest 63.6 percent—42 out of 66, 16th in the NFL. Miller was successful on 25 of his 40 rush attempts with three yards or fewer to go.

Even still, it would be nice to have an extra back to absorb that punishment so Miller doesn't have to.

The Dolphins could use to round out their depth chart, but that's not the question. The bigger question is consistency. Despite carrying the ball 216 times (15th in the NFL, 13.5 per game), Miller picked up more than 100 rushing yards in a game on only two occasions and more than 70 yards on only five occasions in 2015. That was despite being the Dolphins' leading rusher by a whopping 160 carries more than their second-leading rusher: their quarterback.

Forty-four carries for veteran Daniel Thomas generated 168 yards, and 36 carries for Damien Williams yielded 122 yards, barely putting a dent in the Dolphins' offensive production.

Miller could be asked to carry the ball upwards of 250 times in 2015, so the Dolphins may want to draft a between-the-tackles hammer simply to avoid an ignominous fate in short-yardage situations. The hallmark of so many finesse teams is their ability to kill you with a thousand paper cuts, but their weakness is the inability to wield the heavy artillery it takes to finish the job when papercuts cannot.

We've already seen that Miller has the potential to be the focal point of a rushing attack, but as his role increases, so does the spotlight—and so does the amount of tape which opponents can study to exploit his weaknesses. Miller will continue to make life difficult for opposing defenses, but he needs to become more consistent in the face of more touches in order to be more than just a complementary piece to the passing game.


(bleacherreport.com)

The Buffalo Bills continued their aggressive offseason by working out a trade for three-time Pro Bowl running back LeSean McCoy. Buffalo will send linebacker Kiko Alonso to the Philadelphia Eagles in a move that cannot be made official until next week.

The fallout from this trade means running back and former Bills first-round pick C.J. Spiller will not return to Buffalo. The pending free agent is set to hit the open market on March 10.

According to ESPN's Josina Anderson, the Miami Dolphins are among several teams interested in Spiller. Miami is searching for another tailback to pair with starter Lamar Miller, who rushed for 1,099 yards and eight touchdowns last season.

Is Spiller a good fit for Miami? My reaction is mixed.

Spiller's skills and running style works well with the quick-hitting offense Miami wants under second-year offensive coordinator Bill Lazor. Spiller is a home run hitter who has averaged 5.0 yards per carry over his five-year career in Buffalo. The Dolphins like to spread the field with three- and four-receiver sets to create running lanes for quicker running backs. Spiller makes sense for those reasons.

But on the other hand, Spiller and Miller are similar players and Spiller is less durable. He's missed eight games the past two seasons due to injuries, and although the market for running backs isn't great, Spiller wants to be well compensated in free agency. The Dolphins have too many larger needs (linebacker, defensive tackle, safety, guard, cornerback) to overspend for a backup running back.

The Dolphins are better off finding a running back with power that is much cheaper in the NFL draft. This is a deep position this year with good talent in the second, third and maybe fourth rounds.

Spiller is a dynamic talent when healthy and should help a team next season. But the Dolphins shouldn't press and overspend to sign another Lamar Miller clone.


(espn.com)

Lamar Miller had a season-high 150 all-purpose yards against the Vikings, but the Dolphins' second-year starter wasn't on the field for the final two offensive series. Miller limped off the field late in the fourth and never returned. But Lazor insinuated that rookie tailback Damien Williams finished the game because he's the team's best third down back.

Williams did provide some sensational blocks and produced a 3-yard touchdown catch that tied the game 35-35.

"I wouldn't call it an injury but just the wear and tear of a game," Lazor said of Miller's status.

Miller is 79 yards away from becoming the Dolphins' first tailback to rush for 1,000 yards since Reggie Bush did it in 2011.


(sun-sentinel.com)

DAVIE, Fla. -- The Miami Dolphins (7-7) are on a path towards their sixth consecutive non-playoff season. But one player who is having a consistent season is starting tailback Lamar Miller.

Miami’s third-year tailback already set new career highs for rushing yards (829) and touchdowns (six) this season. Miller is just 171 yards shy of his first 1,000-yard season, and that goal is within reach with two games remaining against the Minnesota Vikings (6-8) and New York Jets (3-11).

“You know, it would be great just to reach 1,000 yards,” Miller said. “I just have to continue to do what I do, come to work every day and try to get better.”

Miller has thrived in first-year offensive coordinator Bill Lazor's new scheme. Miami’s spread, quick-hitting offense has allowed Miller to find more creases in the defense and make plays in open space, which are strengths.

This season Miller is doing a much better job of getting to the second level. He's run for a career-high 45 first downs, nearly doubling his previous career best of 26 first downs in 2013. Miller also increased his yards per carry from 4.0 last season to 4.7 this season.

“I think he’s made better decisions running the ball,” Dolphins head coach Joe Philbin said. “It’s not always perfect, like the quarterback is not perfect every single time in decision-making. He does a good job, and I think he's done a better job. Less shuffling, less dancing, more running.”

Although Miller has improved in several areas, he mentioned there are still things he must work on to become a complete running back. For example, Miller citied pass protection and catching out of the backfield. Taking on blockers has been a struggle for Miller throughout his career, and he's dropped a few passes this season.

But running is Miller's biggest priority and he's done it well. Perhaps what is most impressive is Miller is approaching 1,000 yards rushing without getting nearly as many carries as other feature tailbacks around the NFL. Miller only received more than 16 carries once in a game this season while constantly rotating with backups Damien Williams and Daniel Thomas. But Miller is making the most of his opportunities.

Miller needs to average 85.5 rushing yards in the final two weeks to reach the 1,000-yard milestone.

“Every time I get the ball, I try to make a big play for this team,” Miller said. “Once I get it, I just try to be decisive, make the right reads and use my vision.”


(espn.com)

Dolphins running back Lamar Miller failed to make much of an impact during Sunday's 41-13 defeat to New England in Week 15.

Miller carried the ball 16 times for 47 yards, averaging 2.9 yards per attempt. He caught just one pass for a gain of 10 yards.

Miller has been held under 60 rushing yards in six of his last seven games. He has 829 yards and six touchdowns on the ground this season. He'll have two games to surpass the 1,000-yard threshold for the first time in his three-year career, starting Week 16 vs. Minnesota and Week 17 vs. N.Y. Jets.


(cbssports.com)

Lamar Miller has not uttered one syllable of complaint about the fact the Miami Dolphins don't use him as much as seems logical. But his agent Drew Rosenhaus has.

Rosenhaus, who represents multiple Dolphins players including Miller, was on his usual Sunday night appearance on WSVN-7's Sports Xtra show when the frequency of Miller's use became a topic.

Rosenhaus said it was "disappointing" the Dolphins have not used Miller more. Rosenhaus went on to make a case why more use of his client seems more logical for the Dolphins.

Rosenhaus mentioned the idea that getting into rhythm is difficult for any back, including Miller, when he's getting only 10-12 carries a game. He made the point that at a time the Dolphins are struggling with their pass protection due to a troubled offensive line play, running the football more with Miller would be an easy way to keep defenders off the quarterback.

And all those points are valid.

The fact is Miller is No. 12 in the NFL with 782 yards. He's averaging a hefty 4.8 yards per carry.

But he's only carried the football 162 times, an average of 12.4 carries per game. The number of totes ties Miller for No. 16 in the NFL.

So why not maximize Miller? If 162 carries is good, wouldn't 182 be better at 4.8 yards a pop? Might that take some throws away from Tannehill? Maybe. Might that take some runs away from either Daniel Thomas or Damien Williams? Maybe.

I can live with that.

You must understand that at a time much of the NFL is bent on passing, passing, passing, the league's better teams have for several weeks been going in the other direction. The Patriots, Broncos, Seahawks and Packers can throw the dickens out of the football but for weeks they've emphasized the running game.

That running game makes it easier to get into the playoffs and tougher to bounce those teams from the playoffs.

But the Dolphins aren't on that course. Indeed, the Dolphins are going in the exact opposite direction.

Miami has run the ball fewer than the game before in three consecutive weeks. They've gone from 24 runs against Buffalo, to 21 against Denver, to 18 against New York, to 16 against Baltimore. Not exactly insistent and tough-minded December football, folks.

Fewer carries for everyone obviously means fewer carries for Miller because the Dolphins long ago decided they want to split the number of carries rather than rely on just one back. That's fine. A large majority of NFL teams divide their carries. It's part of keeping everyone fresh, I suppose.

My problem is the Dolphins are taking carries away from someone who needs more carries and giving them (not many, but some) to players who haven't shown they deserve more carries.

That's because what precious few carries Miller doesn't get in Miami's run-quantity-challenged offense go to Daniel Thomas and Damien Williams. And neither is setting the world on fire.

Thomas has 41 carries this year for 162 yards. Got your calculator? Punch the numbers. That's a 3.9 yard per carry average or about a yard less per carry than Miller.

Williams has 33 carries for 104 yards this season. That's 3.1 yards per carry.

Why are these guys getting the football at all when the better back is easily able to carry it more often and do it better?

I recognize the Dolphins have roles for each player. Williams, for example, has been getting a lot of work on third down. (He dropped a pass last week).

But there is nothing more frustrating than watching Miller get a carry for, say, five yards, another for 4 yards, another two or three plays later for 3 yards, and then he gets taken out of the game. How does that help him get his rhythm?

Sometimes Miller will have a really good series and not be seen in the next series. And the way these games sometimes go, the next time he carries the ball is sometimes a quarter later.

I know Miller isn't worn down. He is not tired. Why do the Dolphins do this?

I ask here because I've asked the Dolphins and the answer one gets is something about making decisions that are best for the team. Instead of clearing things up those kind of answers make me think of the IRS hearings when the dude insisted nothing was wrong after he announced all the emails had been lost.

It is frustrating.

Glad Rosenhaus made that obvious.


(miamiherald.com)

Dolphins running back Lamar Miller was able to practice in full Wednesday.

Miller is dealing with a shoulder injury, but was able to go Wednesday. As long as he continues to practice, Miller should be good to go Week 12.




(cbssports.com)

Heading into Thursday night’s game between the Bills and Dolphins, Buffalo cornerback Leodis McKelvin — who has had a good 2014, with four interceptions and 48 tackles — was pretty confident in his team’s chances.

“SHIT, WE’RE GOING TO GO OUT AND BEAT THAT ASS. POINT BLANK. PERIOD.”

Then he crossed paths with Lamar Miller in the second quarter:



Ouch. McKelvin is out indefinitely with a fractured ankle, and the Bills are considering putting him on injured reserve, which would end his season. This was a complete freak play (and in fact, it doesn’t look like it was Miller’s cut that broke McKelvin as much as his slip on the soft field), but once again, the time-worn adage “Karma’s a bitch” comes to mind.


(sportsgrid.com)

NEWS UPDATE
Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald relays that Miller says his shoulder feels "good" and that the running back plans to play Thursday against the Bills.

ROTOWIRE FANTASY ANALYSIS
That said, Miller's Week 11 status is worth monitoring, given that the Dolphins added LaMichael James to their backfield mix Monday. After being limited this past Sunday, seeing just 11 snaps, it's not hard to imagine Miller -- who was limited at Monday's walk-through -- remaining in a Thursday RB timeshare in the Dolphins' short week, assuming he suits up.


(rotowire.com)

Dolphins tailback Lamar Miller's participation in this week's practices has been significantly limited, which raises concern about his availability for Sunday's road game against the Detroit Lions.

Miller injured his left shoulder in last Sunday's 37-0 win over the San Diego Chargers. The former University of Miami standout has started 24 games for the Dolphins, and 23 since 2013, when he replaced his former mentor, Reggie Bush, who is now the starter for the Lions.

"I thought he moved around well," said coach Joe Philbin, who has missed two practices this week attending his father's funeral. "He looked good, but we'll have to see, take it one day at a time."

Miller has gained 518 rushing yards and scored five touchdowns on 106 carries, and he's averaging 4.9 yards per carry. He's also caught 21 passes for 144 yards and one touchdown. Miller caught passes on Thursday during the portion of practice the media is allowed to watch.

If Miller doesn't play or can't play much, Daniel Thomas would likely receive a larger workload. And expect rookie tailback Damien Williams to get more involved too.

Thomas has gained 101 rushing yards on 27 carries and has caught nine passes for 97 yards in the five games he's played. Throughout his four- year NFL career with the Dolphins, Thomas, a former second-round pick, has rushed for 1,413 yards and 392 carries and he's scored 13 touchdowns.

Williams, a former Oklahoma standout the Dolphins signed as a rookie free agent, has gained 66 rushing yards on 24 carries, and he's brought down four receptions for 35 yards.

If Miller isn't cleared to play, the Dolphins might promote one of two tailbacks — Orleans Darkwa or LaMichael James — from the practice squad.

James, who the San Francisco 49ers picked in the second-round of the 2012 draft, was added to Miami's practice squad a month ago after he was released by the 49ers.

Darkwa, an undrafted rookie from Tulane, spent the first couple weeks on the Dolphins' 53-man roster. He gained 2 yards on four carries and caught three passes for 31 yards. Darkwa also provides some special teams value.

"He's just a tough instinctive football player," Philbin said of Darkwa. "That's why he made the team. Some of it was special teams, but he ran the ball hard in the preseason when he had opportunities. LaMichael brings some different skills, and he's picked up the offense well….I see progress."


(sun-sentinel.com)

Dolphins running back Lamar Miller was able to practice Wednesday, according to the Palm Beach Post.

Miller is dealing with an injured shoulder, but was able to get out on the practice field Tuesday. Miller was listed as a limited participant on Wednesday's injury report. He's expected to play despite the injury.


(cbssports.com)

Dolphins running back Lamar Miller seems likely to play in Week 10 against the Lions despite a sprained shoulder, but health concerns aren't the only reason Fantasy owners should approach him with caution this weekend.

Miller has rushed the ball well as the team's featured back, but is set to run into arguably the league's toughest defense this week. The Lions are allowing just 3.2 yards per carry to opposing running backs, and have not allowed any of their last four opponents to average better than 3.0 yards per carry.

Miller has done a fine job for Miami this season, improving his yards per carry mark from 4.9 to 4.0 since last season. However, he should be viewed as more of a low-end starting option for Week 10, against this kind of matchup.


(cbssports.com)

Although Dolphins running back Lamar Miller is considered day to day with an AC joint sprain, there is a good chance he will play Week 10 against the Lions, according to the Miami Herald.

Offensive coordinator Bill Lazor provided no insight Monday about Miller's availability for Sunday's game, but he didn't seem overly concerned about the team being without Miller. If Miller is sidelined, Daniel Thomas or Damien Williams will start at running back.

"If Lamar needs [rest] and he comes out, very infrequently do I start calling the game differently," Lazor said. "Sometimes if it is long-term, we would have to think about it and consider what they do best because I think that's what the smart thing is -- to do what guys do best. For the most part, we don't have a million different runs. For the most part, they all have been working out all the runs that we do well. I think we'll be able to trust all of them."

Miller has started every game this season for the Dolphins. He is the team's leading rusher with 518 yards. He is averaging 4.9 yards per carry and has six touchdowns (five rushing) through eight games.


(cbssports.com)

The MRI results are back for Lamar Miller.

They reveal he has an AC joint sprain. He is day to day.

An AC joint sprain is also more commonly known as a shoulder separation.

An AC joint sprain is a relatively common sporting injury affecting the shoulder and is characterized by tearing of the connective tissue and ligaments of the Acromio-Clavicular joint.

The AC joint is responsible for connecting the shoulder blade with the clavicle and allows for some shoulder movement. During certain activities, stretching forces are placed on the AC joint. When these forces are excessive and beyond what the AC joint can withstand, tearing of the ligaments and connective tissue of the AC joint may occur. This condition is known as an AC joint sprain.

Miller suffered the injury to his left shoulder in the third quarter of Sunday victory over San Diego. It seems unlikely he will be practicing Tuesday when Miami players return to work.


(miamiiherald.com)

Dolphins running back Lamar Miller got back in the end zone, but was forced out of Sunday's game against the Chargers in Week 9 with a shoulder injury.

Miller barreled into the end zone from 2 yards out in the second quarter. He sustained the injury in the second half and was ruled questionable to return to the game. With the lead well in hand for Miami, it seems unlikely that Miller will play again on Sunday, which means Daniel Thomas and Damien Williams will likely close out the game. According to the Miami Herald, Miller was unable to lift his left arm above his head when he was being checked out by team trainers.

Miller rushed for 49 yards and a touchdown on 11 carries and caught 1 of 2 targets for 8 yards before departing. He'll look to return to action Week 10 at Detroit.

Although Dolphins running back Lamar Miller told reporters he just has a stinger and will be fine, the Miami Herald reports Miller will get an MRI on his injured left shoulder. His status for Week 10 at Detroit is uncertain.


(cbssports.com)

Dolphins running back Lamar Miller had his scoring streak come to an end at three games on a comfortable Week 8 victory over the Jaguars on Sunday.

Miller ripped a 30-yard run late in the third quarter and fell just 3 yards shy of the end zone. On the ensuing play, Ryan Tannehill found Rishard Matthews for a touchdown. He rushed for 78 yards on 14 carries, averaging 5.6 yards per attempt. He caught all three of his targets for 21 yards in a 27-13 victory.

Miller has 469 yards on the ground through seven games. He'll look to keep rolling in Week 9 at home against the Chargers.


(cbssports.com)

Dolphins running back Lamar Miller continues to produce, as he put together yet another solid effort in Week 8 against the Jaguars.

Miller rushed the ball 14 times for 78 yards en route to a 9-Fantasy-point game, his sixth game with at least that many in seven tries. He has emerged as a solid option as the team's top back, and Fantasy owners who bought low on him as a post-hype sleeper are certainly reaping the rewards.

Unfortunately, things might get ugly for Miller in the second half of the season, with a slew of tough matchups on the way. Among Miami's final nine opponents, just two rank in the bottom half of the league in Fantasy points allowed to running backs, and they don't come up until Weeks 15 and 16.

Miller has proven he can be a solid option, so there is no reason to panic. However, the upcoming schedule is pretty unforgiving, so you may want to recalibrate expectations moving forward.


(cbssports.com)

Jamey Eisenberg and Dave Richard both love Dolphins running back Lamar Miller at Jacksonville this week, and it makes sense. It's the Jaguars, after all. They lose all the time, often by a lopsided score, which gives opposing running backs plenty of chances to carry the ball in the second half.

Of course, the same logic applied for the Browns last week, and you see what happened with Ben Tate. He had only 36 yards on 16 carries. Granted, the Jaguars ended up winning that game, so it didn't follow the usual script. But looking back further, the Titans' Bishop Sankey had 61 yards on 18 carries in Week 6, the Steelers' Le'Veon Bell had 82 yards on 15 carries in Week 5, and the Chargers' Branden Oliver and Donald Brown combined for 42 yards on 19 carries in Week 4. Some of those performances were OK, but you have to go back to Week 2, when the Redskins' Alfred Morris ran for 85 yards and two touchdowns, to find a time when a running back really lit it up against the Jaguars. Not surprisingly, they rank a respectable 15th against the run, allowing 110.3 yards per game and just 3.8 yards per carry.

Of course, in standard 12-team leagues, you've been content with 60 yards and a touchdown from Miller, and he's probably still good for that. I just wouldn't expect more based on the matchup.


(cbssports.com)

Dolphins running back Lamar Miller practiced Tuesday wearing a brace on his right knee, reports the South Florida Sun Sentinel. Miller has been on the injury report lately with a knee injury, but it's not believed to be serious. He has not missed a game.




(cbssports.com)

Dolphins running back Lamar Miller found the end zone for the third straight game in Week 7 against the Bears, as he continues to operate as the top option in the running game.

Sunday's was probably Miller's least impressive game so far, as he rushed for a season-low 3.4 yards per carry. Miller ripped a 2-yard run to get in the end zone in the third quarter. He registered 83 yards of total offense, rushing for a team-high 61 yards and a score on 18 carries, averaging 3.4 yards per attempt. He was thrown to three times and finished with two catches for 22 yards. There was nearly even more for his Fantasy owners to cheer about, as he had a touchdown wiped out by a holding penalty.

The Dolphins' revamped offensive line has made life much easier for Miller, and he has become a reliable Fantasy option as a result. With few contenders for playing time, there is little reason to think he will be unable to keep this kind of production up. Consider Miller a strong Fantasy option in all formats for Week 8 against the Jaguars.


(cbssports.com)

NEWS UPDATE
Miller (knee) was a limited participant at Wednesday's practice, the Dolphins' official site reports.

ROTOWIRE FANTASY ANALYSIS
Miller was one of 11 players listed as limited by the Dolphins on Wednesday, with his status worth tracking as Sunday's game against the Bears approaches. With Knowshon Moreno now out for the season, Miller's status as the Dolphins' lead back looks secure, assuming his health. That said, those looking to insure Miller, whose knee issue isn't believed to be serious or who are simply of a mind to secure a back that is an injury away from an expanded role, are advised to consider Damien Williams, who currently slots in as Miller's top backup.


(rotowire.com)

Dolphins running back Lamar Miller did not participate in the start of practice Tuesday and rode an exercise bike instead, reports the Palm Beach Post. It's unclear if Miller was limited or held out of practice entirely, the report said.

Miami won't issue an injury report until after Wednesday's practice.


(cbssports.com)

Knowshon Moreno's to return this past week was supposed to boost an already strong Dolphins run game. Instead, his return was the last we'll see of the running back as he's done for the season with a torn ACL.

Moreno returned to the Fins after dealing with an elbow injury that caused him to miss two games earlier this year. He played against the Packers in Week 6's loss but only carried the ball six times for 10 yards, including a stuff on fourth and goal from the one.

Signed as a free agent away from the Broncos in the offseason, Moreno was supposed to be the answer to the Dolphins rushing woes. He came out blazing for the Fins in Week 1, rushing for 134 yards and a touchdown on 24 attempts.

The season-ending nature of his injury means it's Lamar Miller's time to shine. Heretofore, the former Miami Hurricanes star hasn't met expectations; he was supposed to pair with Daniel Thomas as a lightning/thunder combo.

That ... hasn't exactly worked out.

Theoretically a modern-day, explosive feature back (a.k.a. an "air back"), Miller didn't impress out of the gate. Part of that was his running style and inability to break off big plays, and part of that was the offensive line issues that've plagued the Dolphins over the past few years.

He totaled just 959 yards in his first two seasons and looked like a major disappointment. In Bill Lazor's offense this season, and with Moreno sidelined, Miller has been revitalized.

The former fourth-round pick is averaging 5.2 yards per carry with two scores plus 15 catches for 93 yards and a receiving touchdown to boot.

Miller is quietly 13th in the NFL in rushing yards during a season in which few feature backs have stepped up.

In games without Moreno, Miller has averaged 5.74 yards per carry (13 carries, 73 yards) and nearly a touchdown per game.

With Moreno gone, the Dolphins have to adjust their plan of attack -- Miller hasn't topped 15 carries yet this season and might not be an ideal "workhorse" back -- but they've got a talented enough back in the young ex-Cane that the rushing offense could continue to thrive.


(cbssports.com)

Dolphins running back Lamar Miller got the start and received the majority of the carries while scoring a touchdown in his team's 27-24 defeat to the Packers in Week 6.

Miller rotated series with his running mate Knowshon Moreno, but solidified himself as the top back when it mattered the most late in the game. Moreno barreled into the end zone from 5 yards out in the fourth quarter. He took 14 handoffs for 53 yards and a score, averaging 3.8 yards per carry. He also caught three passes for 27 yards. Miller has 330 yards and three rushing touchdowns through five games.

The Dolphins will travel to Chicago to face the Bears in Week 7.


(cbssports.com)

Lamar Miller was added to the Dolphins' Thursday injury report with a foot issue, but practiced in full.

It suggests Miller tweaked something in practice, but the "full" designation means his status isn't a concern. What is a concern is the potential return of Knowshon Moreno (elbow), but Moreno's Week 6 status has yet to be settled. Miller will be a boom-or-bust RB2 if Moreno is back, but borderline RB1 if he sits.


(rotoworld.com)

The story of Lamar Miller's improvement this season isn't told by the number of 20-yard runs the Dolphins' third-year running back has amassed.

His success is more subtle.

Look at the way the speedy Miller has been breaking tackles, running downhill. Look at his improvement as a receiver and in pass protection.

Miller, the starter since Knowshon Moreno went down with an elbow injury in Week 2, has always been able to peel off long runs. You see his improvement when you see the other things in his game.

"There were some areas that the coaches who were here in the past felt like Lamar needed to improve in the offseason," offensive coordinator Bill Lazor said, "and he's done everything that we've asked him to do.

"Probably all those opportunities haven't shown up yet, but, as they do, I think we're very confident that he's still an improving player and he's very willing to do what we ask him to do. So I have great hope for him."

Miller has an impressive 49 carries for 277 yards and two touchdowns for the season, including a career-best 108 yards rushing against Kansas City.

But here's where you get an appreciation for how Miller could be changing from a year ago: He's done a better job of keeping the offense ahead of the chains, so to speak.

Last week against Oakland, he had a 21-yard gain on second-and-1. He had a 4-yard gain on first-and-10. He had a 3-yard gain on second-and-5. Miller has done a better job of keeping the offense in manageable situations.

That wasn't the case a year ago, or even early this season. All too often Miller would have a few too many 2-yard gains on first-and-10, or 1-yard gains on second-and-6. And he didn't run with authority. He didn't break tackles or elude tacklers.

Against Kansas City and Oakland — he had 12 carries for a rugged 64 yards against the Raiders — Miller was aggressive.

"Going into these past two games I've just been trying to be more physical and break tackles, and try to get positive yards and be more decisive," he said.

Miller also seems to be progressing as an all-around back. In pass protection he shows better recognition (knowing who to block) and better still actually executing the block).

That means he can stay on the field on third downs.

There's still room to grow.

Miller lost a fumble in the end zone against Oakland. And he still has to work on making yards after his receptions.

But for the last two games he's showed he can be a reliable source of rushing yards for an offense that thrives on play-calling versatility.

The Dolphins are No. 6 in the NFL in rushing at 142.3 yards per game, and Miller is a big part of that. His newfound ability to break tackles allows him to get to the second-level, past the defensive line. And his newfound decisiveness allows him to use his speed better on outside runs.

"I think Lamar has done some good things," coach Joe Philbin said. "He's had an opportunity to get into the second level. We've gotten him on the perimeter on occasion, and he's taken advantage of those runs. We've had, for early in the season, a fair number of explosive runs. Those things, they all add up."

Miller will likely return to being the No. 2 back in a two-back system when Moreno is healthy.

For the foreseeable future, however, including the Oct. 12 game against Green Bay, Miller will be the Dolphins' main ball carrier.

"I think I've made some improvement from last year," Miller said, "but I still have a lot of room for improvement. This only my third year. I'm still trying to learn a lot."


(sun-sentinel.com)

For the first time since Week 4 of last season, Dolphins running back Lamar Miller scored a rushing touchdown. In fact, he got in the end zone twice in a convincing 38-14 victory over the Raiders at Wembley Stadium in London.

Miller got off to a fast start, ripping a 21-yard run on his first touch of the night. On a fourth and inches, Miller gashed Oakland's line for an 8-yard score in the second quarter. He finished the first half with 38 yards and a touchdown on six carries.

In the second half, Miller fumble just inches shy before crossing the end zone. Luckily, the Dolphins picked off Derek Carr three plays later and Miller got redemption, scoring from 1-yard out in the third quarter for his first multi-touchdown performance of his career.

Miller took 12 handoffs for 64 yards and two touchdowns, averaging 5.3 yards per carry. He caught all two of his targets for three yards. He has 277 yards on the ground through four games.

The Dolphins have a bye next week before hosting the Packers in Week 6.


(cbssports.com)

LONDON —Anyone expecting Knowshon Moreno to get healthy and immediately take over as the Miami Dolphins starting tailback might want to put those thoughts on pause.

The way Lamar Miller has been playing this season — which includes a 64-yard and two-touchdown rushing performance in Sunday's 38-14 win over the Oakland Raiders — the former University of Miami standout might be proving he's a legitimate NFL starter.

After four games Miller is averaging 5.7 yards on his 49 carries. He produced his first 100-yard rushing performance in last week's loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. And this week Miller had his first multiple touchdown performance, scoring on a 9-yard run, and a 1-yard run against the Raiders.

"I think I did pretty good. Obviously I fumbled the ball in a critical situation, and you can't have that," Lamar Miller said, referring to a goal line fumble in the third quarter. "The offensive line did a good job. I just tried to use my speed and tried to break tackles to get positive yards.

"I give all the credit to the offensive line," said Miller, who has also caught 12 passes for 53 yards this season. "I've been trying to use my abilities to get positive yards."

But Miller hasn't been Miami's only productive back the past two weeks.

Daniel Thomas remains the Dolphins' third down back, handling the passing game workload in Bill Lazor's offense. It's a role he held last year, and regained two weeks ago when he was re-signed by the team.

Thomas had 35 rushing yards on five carries, and caught one pass for 25 yards.


(sun-sentinel.com)

Lamar Miller rushed 15 times for 108 yards and caught 4-of-5 targets for 24 yards in the Dolphins' Week 3 loss to Kansas City.

Sunday's playcalling performance by Fins OC Bill Lazor was very disappointing. While Miller ripped off over seven yards per carry, Ryan Tannehill was head-scratchingly allowed to attempt 43 passes despite almost complete ineffectiveness. Tannehill averaged 4.8 yards per pass attempt. Lazor has a run-devoted background, so look for him to get this ratio corrected when the Dolphins take on the Raiders in London next week. As long as Knowshon Moreno is out -- and he's expected to miss at least three more games -- Miller will offer upside as a weekly RB2. Miller is now averaging 5.76 yards per carry on the season.


(rotoworld.com)

Miami Dolphins starting tailback Lamar Miller practiced on Tuesday despite having suffered a right ankle injury in Sunday's 29-10 loss to the Buffalo Bills.

Miller, who has gained 105 rushing yards on 22 carries this season, is ranked 23rd in rushing.

As long as he doesn't suffer a setback, Miller will likely carry the bulk of the Dolphins' tailback workload despite the re-signing of Daniel Thomas on Monday. But coach Joe Philbin actually hinted that rookie tailback Damien Williams might have his role on offensive expanded during the four weeks Knowshon Moreno is sidelined his dislocated left elbow.

"[Damien] didn't have a lot of carries in the game Sunday, but we thought the runs that he did have, he didn't look out of place," Philbin said. "So we'll see how it shakes out during the practice week."


(sun-sentinel.com)

Dolphins OC Bill Lazor indicated Monday that he will continue to shuffle and rotate Lamar Miller and Knowshon Moreno.

Both Miller and Moreno played well in Sunday's upset of New England, with Miller more involved in the passing game and as a change-of-pace back. Moreno was the clear-lead back on early downs. "I expect them both to contribute," said Lazor. "There might be days (where) sometimes they may rotate by series and sometimes they may rotate by play if there are particular things they want." For now, we'd view Moreno as an RB2 and Miller as a weekly flex option.


(rotoworld.com)

Lamar Miller started the Dolphins' third preseason game, rushing for 34 yards on seven carries and catching two passes for three yards.
Despite the start, Miller rotated fairly evenly with Knowshon Moreno throughout the first half. Moreno ran well on Saturday night, but Miller put in a good showing as well. Miller may lose some work to Moreno, but he will remain an important part of the Dolphins' offense. Miller has 76 total yards on 20 preseason touches.


(rotoworld.com)

MIAMI (CBSMiami) – Miami Dolphins running back Lamar Miller is entering his third season in the NFL after a successful college career at the University of Miami.

Miller has shown that he has the skill and ability to thrive as a running back is poised for a big year in the Dolphins new offense run by Bill Lazor.  He has continued to be involved in the South Florida community throughout his young career and recently volunteered his time to help out at Zoo Miami.

Despite having a childhood fear of animals, Miller enjoyed his time at the zoo meeting lots of new friends and even conquering his fear and feeding some of the exotic creatures that call Zoo Miami home.

During his visit, Miller was joined by CBS Miami’s Rhiannon Ally and discussed everything from his time working at the zoo to the upcoming Dolphins season and the expectations that he is could be on the verge of a breakout year.  Miller grew up in South Florida and is very grateful that he has the opportunity to play in his hometown.




(miami.cbslocal.com)

Lamar Miller managed three yards on three carries in the Dolphins' second preseason game Saturday night.

He did secure both of his targets for 20 yards, but Miami's offensive line continues to stumble, failing to clear running alleys. Through two preseason affairs, Miller has just 14 yards on seven carries (2.0 YPC). It's obviously a small sample size, one that should grow considerably in the third week of the exhibition season. Knowshon Moreno (knee) remains squarely in the picture.


(rotoworld.com)

Lamar Miller managed 11 yards on four carries in the Dolphins' preseason opener against the Falcons, adding two catches for eight yards.

He was the every-down back on Miami's opening possession; the starters only played one series, marching downfield on a 10-play touchdown drive. With Knowshon Moreno (knee) and Daniel Thomas (hamstring) nursing injuries, Miller is locked in atop the depth chart. In Friday night's exhibition matchup with Atlanta, Mike Gillislee and UDFA Damien Williams worked with the twos.


(rotoworld.com)

DAVIE, Fla. –  Miami running back Lamar Miller plans to maximize his speed and quickness in the new offense the Dolphins are implementing.

With veteran free agent Knowshon Moreno unable to participate in camp due to a knee injury, the starting job right now is Miller's to lose. The Dolphins conducted their sixth practice of training camp Thursday and so far Miller has made a strong case in the eyes of new offensive coordinator Bill Lazor and head coach Joe Philbin.

"We're still primarily a zone-blocking team," Philbin explained. "That's still the starting point and so in the zone game if you incorporate the read aspect to it sometimes you're hoping to create a little crease and slow a little bit of the pursuit down on the backside and utilize Lamar's speed to hit that hole and go."

Miller, entering his third year in the league, led the team in rushing last season with 709 yards and two touchdowns on 177 carries. He also caught 26 passes for 170 yards, which is something that the Dolphins could do more of with the former Miami Hurricane.

The Philadelphia Eagles, where Lazor came from, had the league's leader in total yards from scrimmage last season in running back LeSean McCoy. He rushed for 1,607 yards and added 539 receiving yards for a combined 2,146 yards and Miller spoke with McCoy during the offseason to get some tips on what Lazor was bringing to Miami.

"I think Lazor is doing a great job with the offense, just opening the offense for me and the running backs to get into the open field to make big plays for this offense," Miller said. "One of my main goals was just to get bigger and stronger and I feel like this past offseason helped me out a lot.

"I want to become more of a well-rounded running back and you've got to have that mindset of just coming out here and getting better and competing."

Even though Lazor didn't coach Miller last season and only was able to watch film of him, he sees a similar skill set as McCoy and the potential of having a player capable of making some big plays.

"Lamar, I think, has a chance to be a really good player in this league because I think he has a good mix of, number one, being a space player, having the ability to use his speed," Lazor said. "In our short-yardage situations, I thought he got downhill. If he'll put those things together, I think he's got chance to be a real productive player."


(foxnews.com)

According to the Miami Herald, "there's a hope in Dolphins camp" that Lamar Miller "can play the role of LeSean 'Shady' McCoy" in new OC Bill Lazor's offense.

Lazor spent 2013 on Chip Kelly's staff as Philly led the NFL in rushing and yards per carry (5.1). Miller lacks McCoy's lateral explosiveness, but he is a speed back who's dangerous in space. Earlier in July, Miller met with McCoy to discuss "how to thrive in the system Lazor has brought from Philly to South Florida," and also watched Shady's game tape. Per beat writer Adam Beasley, Miller "has been clearly ahead" of Knowshon Moreno "every step of the way." "He looks good, he looks stronger than he’s ever been," said coach Joe Philbin of Miller, who gained 6-8 pounds of offseason muscle. "I don’t think he’s sacrificed any speed whatsoever." Miller is shaping up as a potential steal at his seventh-round ADP.


(rotoworld.com)

Miami Dolphins RB Knowshon Moreno (knee) will undergo arthroscopic knee surgery this week, according to sources. Moreno is expected to miss four to five weeks.

Fantasy Tip: The Dolphins backfield was getting messy before this news, but now Lamar Miller will have every opportunity to seize the No. 1 running back role. Moreno's prognosis gives him ample time to recover and be ready for Week 1, but if there are setbacks, Daniel Thomas stands to be the beneficiary and receive more touches.


(kffl.com)

After landing on our "Making the Leap" list last summer, Miami Dolphins running back Lamar Miller hopes to make good on those expectations one year later.

The third-year back has spent the past three weeks as the starter in Bill Lazor's Eagles-inspired attack. It's no surprise to see Miller earning snaps ahead of the plodding Daniel Thomas, but free-agent signee Knowshon Moreno was expected to lead the way.

Moreno, though, has toiled behind Thomas with the third- and fourth-string, telling The Miami Herald last week that he's "definitely not there" physically.
"I've been competing my whole life," Miller said Tuesday, per the South Florida Sun Sentinel. "Whether it was at the University of Miami or in the NFL. (Competition will) bring the best out of all players. ... I want to get better as a player, too, so I'm up to the competition."

As Chris Wesseling pointed out in last year's "Making the Leap" feature, Miller led all runners at the 2012 NFL Scouting Combine with a 4.4-second 40-yard dash. His burst and change of direction are tantalizing, but when handed a bigger role last season, Miller's rookie average of 4.9 yards per carry tumbled down to 4.0.

It's a fool's game to put too much weight into backfield pecking order in June. The lasting change in Miami, though, should be an offense that attacks opponents the way Philadelphia did in 2013. Chip Kelly's Eagles finished first in rushing yards (2,566) and yards per attempt (5.1) last season after ranking 13th in total ground yards the season before with the same stable of backs.

Lazor told Around The League this month that he plans to unleash a "pretty deep group of proven guys" in a running attack that figures to suit Miller's speed.
"Every single day we're pushing them to see them make big plays in the running game," Lazor said. "And I think that's what separates some teams in this league, is the ability to get those backs in space."

Miami's runner-friendly scheme, as much as anything, tells us Miller is going to eat come September.


(nfl.com)

DAVIE - Lamar Miller has no intentions of backing down to Knowshon Moreno.

Moreno, who accounted for 1,586 total yards and 13 touchdowns in his fifth NFL season, is far more accomplished as a NFL tailback than Miller. But Miller has no interest in stepping aside, relinquishing the starting spot he held last season with the Miami Dolphins.

That explains why Miller has spent the past three weeks as the Dolphins starting running back. During day one of the team's three-day minicamp Moreno sparingly worked, and when he did get reps during team drills he was working behind Miller and Daniel Thomas.

“I’ve been competing my whole life. Whether it was at the University of Miami or in the NFL,” said Miller, who accounted for 879 total yards and two touchdowns last season. “[Competition] bring the best out of all players….I want to get better as a player too, so I’m up to the competition.”

Miller had a couple of impressive runs during the Dolphins' team period on Monday. One of them would have been a 40-yard sprint for a touchdown out of a draw. Miller was so quick getting away from the trenches he wasn't touched by any of the second-team defenders.

Head coach Joe Philbin stiff armed questions about Moreno, who signed a one-year, $3 million deal as a free agent, saying the coaching staff has been pleased with what they've seen from the former Broncos starter.

However, Philbin wouldn't explain why the former University of Georgia standout has been working with the third team offense for the past few practices. He simply pointed out Miller and Thomas are tailbacks Miami's giving the reps to.

"Knowshon's had a good camp. He brings a lot of energy into the building every single day. He's very good in the meeting rooms," Philbin said of Moreno, whom he previously admitted could be in better shape physically. "He's picked up the system well and he's competed hard on the practice field."


(sun-sentinel.com)

In the competition between Lamar Miller and Knowshon Moreno to be the starting running back in Miami, Miller has taken a big early lead.

A week ago we noted that Moreno was off to an unimpressive start and didn’t appear to be in great shape. Now word out of the Dolphins’ Organized Team Activities is that Miller is having a strong offseason.

“He’s had a very good camp,” Dolphins head coach Joe Philbin said of Miller, via ESPN. “This is the time as a third-year player that you’re ready to make a big contribution.”

Reporters on the scene have described Miller as looking like a better fit in new coordinator Bill Lazor’s offense, and have described Moreno as looking a little overweight. When the Dolphins signed Moreno it was with the idea that he’d come in and replace Miller as the starter, but that no longer appears to be the case.

Moreno is coming off his best season, with 241 carries for 1,038 yards and 10 touchdowns last year in Denver. But it’s a lot easier to put up big numbers in Denver’s offense than it will be in Miami’s offense. Miller has only been so-so in two seasons since the Dolphins took him in the fourth round of the 2012 NFL draft, but Miller just turned 23 and is only entering his best years as a running back. If Miller continues to improve while Moreno continues to struggle with his conditioning, the job will be Miller’s when the season starts.


(espn.com)

It’s early June, but Dolphins tailback Knowshon Moreno doesn’t look game ready. He’s currently working as a backup behind starter Lamar Miller and didn’t look sharp at OTAs. Moreno also looks a little thicker than usual. Philbin was asked Monday about Moreno’s conditioning. “I think my instincts tell me for this time of the year it’s pretty good,” Philbin said. “But I think there is certainly some room [for improvement] as we get rolling.”


(espn.com)

The Miami Dolphins have a collection of running backs on their roster, so it was a little odd when they showed interest in veteran free agent Knowshon Moreno. Even more strange? They actually decided to sign the running back, adding to their amass of backfield talent.

Miami didn’t likely sign Moreno to sit on the bench or be a change of pace back, at least not out of the gates, but the team seemed to confirm his starting status on Tuesday afternoon when he was given first team reps during the Dolphins OTA’s.

With Lamar Miller, Daniel Thomas and Mike Gillislee on the roster, Moreno will certainly have to play at a high level to maintain his starting status though the Dolphins coaching staff has seemingly yet to fall in love with Lamar Miller who is likely the best runner out of the group. Thomas could potentially be a goal line vulture while Gillislee is probably the best pass catching back out of the group, leaving a mixed collection of talent behind Moreno.

New offensive coordinator Bill Lazor, who comes from the Philadelphia Eagles, is notoriously run-heavy so it’s possible that Moreno could be named the starter while mixing in a heavy dose of change of pace backs, giving the aforementioned players plenty of field time regardless of the depth chart.

For now though, the starting gig looks to be Moreno’s to lose. That could change if he struggles out of the gate however given the viable alternatives breathing down his neck.


(fansided.com)

Miller needs to break tackles: Now that Knowshon Moreno is calling Miami home, there is expected to be a running back battle between him and Lamar Miller, according to head coach Joe Philbin. What does Miller need to do in order to emerge victorious? Break more tackles. That’s a noble idea for a player whose scouting report touted his speed and shiftiness. But will it be enough to overcome his lack of work near the goal-line. In 2013, Daniel Thomas led the Dolphins with 24 carries in the red zone. The good news for Miller is that Thomas could be pushed out of Miami. The bad news is that Moreno led Denver’s running backs with 42 touches inside the 20-yard line and scored eight rushing TDs — tied for sixth among all NFL running backs. The competition will certainly play out in the preseason, but on paper, the deck is stacked against Miller.


(nfl.com)

Miami Dolphins head coach Joe Philbin said the team wants RB Lamar Miller to play more consistently and be able to break more tackles.

Fantasy Tip: The team reportedly has been looking to add a running back in free agency, which would hurt Miller's value. Owners could consider Miller as an occasional matchup play depending on how the team uses him in 2014.


(kffl.com)

Dolphins coach Joe Philbin threw some support behind Lamar Miller at the league meetings Tuesday, stating "He can do all three things you want a running back to do."
That would ostensibly be run, catch, and block. The Fins could show more support by declining to make a significant running back signing or using an early-round pick at tailback, but they recently hosted Knowshon Moreno for a free agent visit, and could target running backs as early as the No. 50 overall pick. Miller is very lightly penciled in as the Dolphins' current lead back.


(rotoworld.com)

New Miami Dolphins general manager Dennis Hickey likely is spending these next few weeks being briefed not only on players to watch at the NFL Scouting Combine, but also his own players.

The Miami Herald's Barry Jackson got a taste of some of the evaluations Hickey might hear from Dolphins staffers.

One of the most interesting positions to monitor in Miami this offseason will be running back. The combination of Lamar Miller and Daniel Thomas was disappointing last season, to put it kindly.

"They're a good complement to each other, and we like Miller's speed and explosiveness," one Dolphins staffer told Jackson. "Miller has the higher ceiling, but you wish he ran with a more physical (style). And both have to improve as blockers."

The comment on Miller's physicality is interesting -- especially considering that was the team's feeling when letting Reggie Bush walk last offseason.

Miller clearly is the better back, but he had huge boom-or-bust performances last season (putting up three games in which he had fewer than one yard per carry). He finished with 709 rushing yards on 177 carries.

In Pro Football Focus' elusive rating (in which the website ranks a runner's success beyond the point of a blocker's aid), Miller was ranked 27 out of 32 running backs who took 50 percent or more of a team's carries.

The Dolphins are likely to add a running back, either via free agency or the NFL draft.


(nfl.com)

One Dolphins staffer told the Miami Herald that Lamar Miller didn't run with enough physicality in 2013.
We noticed Miller's tendency to run "soft" on 2012 game tape, but the problem was much clearer when he got to a bigger sample size in 2013. "We like Miller’s speed and explosiveness," the staffer said. "Miller has the higher ceiling, but you wish he ran with a more physical [style]," adding that Miller must improve as a blocker. Miller's role under new OC Bill Lazor is up in the air.


(rotoworld.com)

Lamar Miller rushed three times for eight yards and caught no passes in Sunday's Week 16 loss at Buffalo.
Miller appears to have hit absolute rock bottom. The Dolphins announced no injury, so it looks like he simply got demoted behind Daniel Thomas (10 touches) early on and stayed there. It's the seventh time this season Miller has been held to 20 rushing yards or fewer, a result of both play-calling and ineffective play. Perhaps he's simply not physical enough to be an NFL feature back. Miller will wrap his wildly disappointing second season against the Jets in Week 17.


(rotoworld.com)

Considering the recent cases of Jordan Reed and Rashad Jennings, you know not take too much away from a Wednesday practice report regarding a concussed player. But it is worth noting that Dolphins running back Lamar Miller , who suffered a concussion in Week 14, was healthy enough to put in a full practice Wednesday.

Fantasy Analysis:
Daniel Thomas should be scooped up if you are looking for a lottery ticket at running back this week. The Dolphins are at home against the Patriots, who have been very generous opposing running backs recently. I'd throw out last week's effort against the Browns since they can't run the ball. If Miller doesn't experience any reoccurrence of concussion symptoms, he will likely be the Dolphins' lead back. If he is out, Thomas would fall into that starting role, one week after topping 100 yards versus the Steelers. Basically, whoever starts here for Miami is a nice flex option.


(fftoolbox.com)

DAVIE, Fla. -- The Miami Dolphins received some good news when starting running back Lamar Miller returned to practice on Tuesday.

Miller received a concussion in the third quarter of Sunday’s victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. Miller’s status for this week against the New England Patriots remains up in the air. However, Miller was at least limited in the portion of Tuesday’s practice open to the media.

Dolphins backup tailback Daniel Thomas filled in admirable for Miller against Pittsburgh. Thomas rushed for a season-high 105 yards and a touchdown.

Miller must pass all the concussion tests this week in order to return to the field Sunday against New England.


(espn.com)

DAVIE Dolphins starting tailback Lamar Miller must pass an NFL mandated baseline concussion test before he'll be cleared to return to the practice field this week.

Miller, who left Sunday's 34-28 win over the Steelers because of a concussion he suffered in the third quarter, is the second Dolphins player to suffer a head injury the past two weeks.

Starting right guard John Jerry suffered a concussion in Miami's 23-3 win over the Jets and missed all but one practice before playing against the Steelers.
Miller and the Dolphins must follow the league's protocol, which requires Miller's brain activity to match a baseline sample taken from him before this season. The baseline test will be compared with test results taken after Sunday's injury to help assess the severity, and indicate when the symptoms subside.

The Dolphins are optimistic Miller, who leads the team with 567 rushing yards on 142 carries, will be cleared to play in time for Sunday's home game against the New England Patriots. But the season-high 105 rushing yards Daniel Thomas contributed as Miller's replacement on Sunday helps alleviate some concern.

"He really stepped up and made some good plays in the game. He did a good job blocking as well," coach Joe Philbin said of Thomas, who played two weeks after suffering what was initially diagnosed as a torn ligament in his left ankle. "He's a hard-working guy."

Offensive coordinator Mike Sherman acknowledged that the Dolphins initially thought Thomas' season was over because of the ankle injury, but Thomas has pushed his rehab to the point he was able to practice for the first time last Friday. The Dolphins needed Thomas active because of a pectoral injury Miller was nursing last week.

Sherman credited Thomas for being "diligent" in his rehab, but acknowledged that the former Kansas State standout was playing hurt against the Steelers.

"There is a certain amount of mental toughness that plays a part in it," Sherman said of Thomas, who has rushed for 384 yards and scored five touchdowns this season. "He wasn't 100 percent but he played as if he was. There's one thing to play with some pain and another things to play well with some pain, and he certainly played well."

Thomas' participation in this week's practice could be limited because his ankle isn't fully healed. That could lead to Marcus Thigpen and rookie Mike Gillislee handling a heavier workload in practice if Miller isn't cleared to work during the team's three practices this week.


(sun-sentinel.com)

PITTSBURGH -- Miami Dolphins starting running back Lamar Miller suffered a concussion in Sunday's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers and will not return.

Miller rushed for 2 yards in the third quarter and was hit hard by Pittsburgh safety Ryan Clark.

Miller immediately left the game after that play and was replaced by Dolphins backup running back Daniel Thomas.

Miller leads the Dolphins in rushing this year with 567 yards on 142 carries and two touchdowns.


(espn.com)

The Dolphins' leading rusher was limited in practice once again this week with a pectoral injury. We break down the fantasy implications.

Miami Dolphins running back Lamar Miller was limited for the second straight day of practice due to a pectoral injury.

The Dolphins are suddenly thinner at running back after rolling with a committee approach for much of the season with Miller and backup Daniel Thomas. Thomas is expected to miss his second straight game with an ankle injury, though Miller is not in any danger of missing Week 14's bout with the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday.

Fantasy Spin: The main bullet point for fantasy owners to take away from all of this is the fact that Thomas is out of commission, once again paving the way for Miller to be featured. A true test comes Miller's way on Sunday versus a Steelers defense that has suddenly clamped down on runners, allowing an average of 3.7 yards per carry and just one touchdown over the past four weeks.

Despite that, with Miller in line to receive 15-20 touches, fantasy owners could do far worse than him as a flex option against a team that has given up 12 rushing touchdowns to running backs this season despite its recent hot streak. Miller remains a fringe RB2/RB3 with upside.


(philly.com)

The Dolphins went with Lamar Miller to supply most of their ground attack Sunday. He gained 72 yards on a season-high 22 carries, but that actually tied for the most rushing yards the Jets had allowed to any back all season. With Daniel Thomas sidelined, the young and explosive Miller will most likely continue to get a large number of carries. And that's a scenario that apparently never entered the imagination of offensive coordinator Mike Sherman.
From the Miami Herald's Barry Jackson on Monday: "Sherman said he and (head coach Joe) Philbin have never discussed what Lamar Miller might be able to do with more carries."
In his only two other games this season with more than 14 carries, Miller rushed for 89 and 105 yards. He is averaging 4.9 yards per carry.

Fantasy Analysis:
There are so many things about this offense that makes you want to smash your head into a wall -- Ryan Tannehill inexplicably underthrowing receivers consistently; Mike Wallace 's poor play; the offensive line's woes and overwhelming drama; the play calling in general -- but that quote is the most frustrating and tells you a lot about the 2013 Dolphins. Their coaches have done an incredibly poor job of getting their best offensive players regularly involved. The silver lining to all of this is that Thomas may not play again this season, leaving Sherman pretty much no choice but to ride Miller. He has some favorable matchups against the Steelers, Patriots, and Bills. Miller could give your team quite an unexpected boost during the playoffs. That is unless Sherman or Philbin wants Mike Gillislee or Marcus Thigpen to handle the rock more often. If that happens, I quit.


(rotoworld.com)

According to the South Florida Sun-Sentinel, Daniel Thomas (ankle) is likely done for the season.

Thomas reportedly tore ligaments in his left ankle on an awkward tackle from Captain Munnerlyn during Sunday's loss to the Panthers. It leaves Lamar Miller as the unquestioned feature back and every-down player for the final five games of the year, with Mike Gillislee and Marcus Thigpen as backups. Thomas did show improvement this season as he forged a committee with Miller, rushing 77 times for 279 yards (3.62 YPC) with three touchdowns. We've still seen nothing to suggest the 2011 second-round pick will ever be a plus running back in the NFL. Thomas will be back in 2014 for the final year of his rookie contract.


(rotoworld.com)

Lamar Miller rushed 10 times for eight yards and caught four passes for 39 yards in Sunday's Week 12 loss to the Panthers.

Miller had no shot against the Panthers' elite front seven, routinely taking hits behind the line of scrimmage and getting knocked back for huge losses when he tried to escape. The only silver lining for owners is that Daniel Thomas went down with what looked like a serious ankle injury. There's potential for Miller to finally be an every-down back come Week 13, but he'll be facing an elite Jets run defense while playing with an inept offensive line.


(rotoworld.com)

Miami Dolphins offensive coordinator Mike Sherman said RB Lamar Miller could be given more work after his recent production. Miller is only averaging 11 carries per game through nine weeks.

Fantasy Tip: Miller looked solid in his effort against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 9 Thursday night. If Sherman holds true to his word, Miller's stock is rising at the expense of Daniel Thomas.


(kffl.com)

Miami Dolphins offensive coordinator Mike Sherman said RB Lamar Miller could be given more work after his recent production. Miller is only averaging 11 carries per game through nine weeks.

Fantasy Tip: Miller looked solid in his effort against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 9 Thursday night. If Sherman holds true to his word, Miller's stock is rising at the expense of Daniel Thomas.


(kffl.com)

Miller gained 105 yards on 16 carries and 24 yards on four receptions in Thursday's 22-20 overtime win over the Bengals.

Miller looked good throughout the night, though his longest run (41 yards) ended with a costly red zone fumble. He also lost a significant amount of work to Daniel Thomas, who took 10 carries for 39 yards. Neither running back reached the end zone, as Miami's only offensive touchdown came on a one-yard Ryan Tannehill quarterback sneak. While the huge breakout performance has yet to happen, Miller does have 34 carries over the last two weeks, which creates some optimism about his prospects moving forward. Unfortunately, he hasn't scored since Week 4, and has caught just 12 passes this season.


(rotowire.com)

NFL Network's Jeff Darlington reports that some Dolphins players "are starting to wonder about this offensive gameplan."
"Let me not overstate this: The locker room is still together," Darlington explained. "There's still a good vibe in there. I talked to several players today and they still feel like they can get this season back on track. However, there is some question of what OC Mike Sherman is starting to do and it really started to come to a head after Sunday's loss to the Patriots." Featuring Lamar Miller, the Dolphins ran the ball 22 times for 120 yards in the first half last Sunday and jumped out to a 17-3 lead. In the third quarter, Sherman dialed up just six run plays and the game was quickly tied up at 17-17. While we'd like to think the Dolphins are starting to see the light with Miller, only time will tell.


(rotoworld.com)

Lamar Miller rushed 18 times for 89 yards and caught three passes for 23 yards in the Dolphins' Week 8 loss to the Patriots.

This was probably Miller's best effort of the season from an all-purpose perspective. He started, played ahead of Daniel Thomas, was used frequently in the screen game, and broke off some big runs between the tackles. The Dolphins have not been committed to their run game for the majority of the season, but were on Sunday. Only time will tell whether this is a sign of things to come. Miller will remain a dicey flex option when Miami faces the Bengals on Thursday Night Football in Week 9.


(rotoworld.com)

DAVIE – Dolphins defensive end Olivier Vernon, who attended the University of Miami, said Tuesday he thought UM losing three scholarships a year for the next three years was a bit too harsh of a penalty.

Vernon, who served a six-game suspension in 2011 for his role in the scandal, said he thinks UM’s self-imposed penalties should have sufficed. But he also understood the NCAA had to do something.

“I don’t think they should have (received any additional penalty),” Vernon said, “but they were under that scrutiny for a while so they had to do something.”

Vernon, however, said Tuesday’s announcement was palatable.

“I think it was better than what was expected,” he said. “You only got a few scholarships taken away for three years. So that’s better than what was expected was going to come down on us. I’m happy for those guys.”

Running back Lamar Miller, a former UM player, said, “losing three scholarships later on will be a big factor, but right now it really doesn’t matter.”

Miller said he thinks the self-imposed bowl ban was successful judging from Tuesday’s announcement.

“I thought it was going to be a bowl ban, too,” he said, “but the last two years they didn’t go to a bowl game.”

Miller played with the cloud of NCAA sanctions and scrutiny hanging over his head in his junior season, and possible sanctions were one of the factors that made him enter the draft a year early.

“I think it’s a relief for (the players),” he said. “When I was there we really didn’t know much about it until after the season.

“Everyone wants to play in a bowl game. That’s what you work hard for the entire season. Now it gives (the players) more motivation to want to go to a BCS bowl because we haven’t been there for a while now. I think they will be more motivated and hungry to go get it.”

Recently-acquired offensive tackle Bryant McKinnie also said the end of the bowl ban is a good thing.

“I’m glad they get to go to a bowl game because they’ve had a good season so far,” he said. “I’m glad it is behind them and they can move forward now. I’m happy for them.”

That seems to be the bottom-line thought of all the Dolphins that are former ’Canes.

“It’s done with,” Vernon said. “It’s finally overwith, behind, so now those guys can move forward and play for something.”


(sun-sentinel.com)

Lamar Miller rushed nine times for 43 yards and caught a four-yard pass in Miami's Week 7 loss to Buffalo.
After giving Miller a heavy majority if Week 5 snaps, the Dolphins emerged from their Week 6 bye using Daniel Thomas as their lead back and Miller essentially as a change of pace. Miller broke off a 30-yard run on an inside zone play during the first half, and was bottled up on his other nine touches. It's probably time to stop hoping the coaching staff will commit to Miller as their running back horse. The rotation is here to stay.


(rotoworld.com)

We knew Brian Hartline was a skilled receiver. We didn't realize he was good at punting as well.

When asked by Terrell Davis on NFL Network's "NFL AM" on Wednesday whether or not he thought Dolphins teammate Lamar Miller was a 25-carry-per-game running back, Hartline kicked it to the coaches.

"Luckily, at this point in my career, I don't have to make those decisions," Hartline said.

That isn't exactly a ringing endorsement of the most talented running back on the roster. After five weeks, the Dolphins seemingly are at the same place they were during training camp.

"I would say our coaches are really wanting one of the guys to step up," Hartline continued. "You want someone to take the bull by the reins, and the coaches feel like that hasn't happened yet. So, until that happens, we are going to see multiple guys coming out of the backfield."

Miller carried the ball just seven times for 15 yards in Sunday's loss to the Baltimore Ravens, and he hasn't carried it more than 14 times in a game this season.

The running back hasn't made the leap this year, but it hasn't all been on him. The porous offensive line has failed to do its job, which likely is why the Dolphins sit in the bottom five of the league in rushing attempts (95).

The Dolphins rarely have run the ball 25 times in a game as a team this year, let alone one player. It's not a great sign that we've reached Week 6, and Miller hasn't done enough for his teammates to declare him "the man."


(nfl.com)

Asked if he believed Lamar Miller was "distancing himself" from Daniel Thomas, Dolphins OC Mike Sherman said "I don't get that (sense)," and reiterated he wants to continue using both backs.
Miller rushed 11 times for 62 yards and a touchdown Monday, Thomas, four times for five yards. Sherman must not be watching the same games as the rest of us, as the talent gap between his two backs was on full display against the Saints. Given the ball on 3rd-and-inches on the Dolphins' opening possession — a drive in which Miller had been chewing up yards — Thomas got slammed for a two-yard loss. He later failed to convert a goal-line carry. For the season, Miller is averaging 4.6 yards on his 43 carries, while Thomas has averaged 2.8 yards on his 25 totes. It's painfully clear Miller needs a bigger role while Thomas needs to be phased out, but the Dolphins appear poised to remain stubborn for the time being.


(rotoworld.com)

Coach Joe Philbin reiterated that he wants to keep Lamar Miller and Daniel Thomas in an even timeshare in the Dolphins' backfield.
Philbin plans to keep it that way for the foreseeable future unless "one guy is breaking tackles left and right and taking the ball a long way, and the other guy is not being productive." Through two weeks, Miller has rushed for 72 yards and a touchdown on 24 carries (3.0 YPC) and caught three passes for 13 yards. Thomas has tallied 44 yards and a touchdown on 16 carries (2.75 YPC) while reeling in two passes for 15 yards. Miller remains a borderline RB2. Thomas isn't start-able. We like Miller's chances of taking over by season's end.


(rotoworld.com)

Lamar Miller rushed 14 times for 69 yards and a touchdown and caught two passes for six yards in Miami's Week 2 win at Indianapolis.
Miller got downhill with explosion, exploiting lanes particularly on outside zone runs and ripping off the game-clincher for eight yards deep in the fourth quarter. Despite a slow opener, Miller is an every-week flex starter in fantasy leagues with a high-end RB2 ceiling if he can continue to distance himself from RBBC partner Daniel Thomas. The Dolphins host the Falcons in Week 3.


(rotoworld.com)

Lamar Miller received words of encouragement by phone from Frank Gore after Miller’s poor opener Sunday (10 carries, 3 yards). “He said things will work out," Miller said. "I could have run harder. [But] it doesn’t affect my confidence because I know what I’m capable of.” 




(miamiherald.com)

The Miami Dolphins’ running back competition appears to be over, and the guy expected to win it all along — Lamar Miller — has done just that.

Late Monday afternoon, the Dolphins released their depth chart for this weekend’s season opener in Cleveland, and Miller — the homegrown talent from the University of Miami — occupied the top line.

Meaning: Short of a last-minute change in plans, Miller — and not Daniel Thomas — will start against the Browns.

If so, Miller will officially succeed Reggie Bush as the Dolphins’ featured back, which should come as little surprise. His soaring potential was a major factor in the team letting Bush walk in free agency back in March.

“It would be a great accomplishment,” Miller said, when asked about that scenario earlier in the day. “Everybody dreams about it.”

The Dolphins’ other position battles also played out as expected. John Jerry essentially won the right guard job when the Dolphins cut Lance Louis.

Dimitri Patterson did the same at corner when Miami released Richard Marshall. Both moves were made official by Monday’s depth chart.

As for defensive tackle, Jared Odrick and Randy Starks were again listed as co-starters, as they’ve been all summer.

So the only real intrigue was at running back, and even that played out as most predicted.

Miller, who starred at Killian High and UM before joining the Dolphins in 2012, won the job after being the statistically superior back in the preseason.

In five games, Miller had more yards (72 to 52), more touchdowns (1 to 0) and a better yards-per-carry average (4.2 to 2.7) than Thomas.

Miller was even a comparable pass blocker, according to Pro Football Focus, which had been a weakness early in his rookie season.

Still, the Dolphins held off on naming a starter until game week, saying recently that Thomas, a third-year back out of Kansas State, had a legitimate shot to start.

And on Monday, offensive coordinator Mike Sherman made clear he expects both to get significant carries this fall.

“I think because they are so different they offer ... a different dynamic when in the game,” Sherman. “I think there will be a challenge defensively to be able to put both running backs on the field separately.”

What remains unclear: Who will be the team’s short-yardage back. Intuitively, the job would belong to Thomas, who outweighs Miller by 17 pounds. But don’t discount Miller, who got most of the goal line work in the preseason.

Whoever plays that role needs to do it better than the Dolphins did a year ago, when they converted just 60 percent of their third or fourth-and-2 or shorter situations.

Tyler Clutts, the fullback claimed off waivers Sunday, believes he’s on the team for that very reason.

“That’s what they brought me in, to be a traditional fullback and to move guys and give some space for a running back to get through,” Clutts said. “That’s my job.”

Miller’s job will be to gain yards on most every down and distance. Center Mike Pouncey thinks he will, predicting a 1,300-yard season for Miller, and believes the offense will be at its best when Dolphins run the ball some 30 times a game.

“I think we have to,” Pouncey said. “Our biggest advantage is running the football. We’ve got a big offensive line. We’ve got the right zone scheme. And now we’ve got the speed on the outside so guys can’t stack the box. Our run game should be really good.”


(miamiherald.com)

In the world of hoaxes, the Miami Dolphins' running back "competition" and the Cleveland Browns' quarterback "battle" pale in comparison to England's Piltdown Man and Cottingley Fairies.

They are football farces nonetheless.

The Browns have ceased with their charade, but the Dolphins have yet to reach the foregone conclusion that Lamar Miller is in control of their backfield.

Dolphins coach Joe Philbin said "not necessarily" Monday, via the Palm Beach Post, when asked if he's made a decison.

As far as Miller is concerned, the job is his after outplaying an underwhelming Daniel Thomas in Saturday's 17-16 preseason loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

"I do feel like I won the job," Miller said, via The Miami Herald.

The Dolphins can insist the two backs remain "neck-and-neck" due to equal performances in practices, but Thomas never has come through once the lights go on.

We don't begrudge general manager Jeff Ireland's reluctance to concede Thomas isn't the player the Dolphins thought they were getting when the team traded up to select him at No. 62 overall in the 2011 NFL Draft. The evidence is overwhelming, however.

Thomas has averaged a damning 3.5 yards on 256 career carries. If the play is blocked for three yards, Thomas will get three, whereas Miller has a chance at 40 or 50. No matter what Thomas shows in practice, the game tape reveals a tentative, soft runner with ball security issues.

Miller isn't without his own weaknesses, but it's only a matter of time before his obvious talent edge leads to the starting job he believes is already his.

(nfl.com)

Lamar Miller rushed eight times for 35 yards and caught a two-yard pass in the Dolphins' Saturday night preseason game against the Bucs.
We keyed on Miller (and Daniel Thomas) in the game, and Miller was not only impressive on his rushing attempts, he excelled in blitz pickups and made a difficult reception on a throw behind him made by Ryan Tannehill. Based on preseason usage, it appears the Fins will open the year with a possession-by-possession rotation of Miller and Thomas that probably won't last because Miller is the clear-cut superior player. Through four preseason games, Miller has 17 carries for 72 yards (4.24 YPC) and one touchdown. He's caught four passes. Miller has also received more deep red-zone carries than Thomas, and was Miami's go-to back in the two-minute offense Saturday night.


(rotoworld.com)

There's growing talk that Lamar Miller doesn't exactly have the primary running back job sewed up in Miami. Dolphins radio analyst Joe Rose, for one, says coaches told him, via Finsiders.com, that Daniel Thomas is "neck-and-neck" with Miller to be the starter.





(nfl.com)

Miami Dolphins RB Lamar Miller has not earned the starting running back job yet because the team believes RB Daniel Thomas can have a big season if he is able to stay healthy. Miller has received most of the reps with the first-team offense, but Thomas has received some reps with the starters.

Fantasy Tip: Miller appears to have the edge for the starting job, but Thomas could receive the chance to win the job. Miller should be seen as a low-end No. 2 fantasy running back if he wins the job while Thomas should be considered a high-end No. 3 running back if he starts.


(kffl.com)

Lamar Miller rushed five times for 10 yards and a touchdown in Saturday's preseason game against the Texans, adding two catches for three yards.
It wasn't an impressive night for a player trying to bury Daniel Thomas, but it's worth noting Miller had an eight-yard run negated by penalty. Miller was the lead dog for Miami's first two series before alternating with Thomas the rest of the first half. Thomas finished with four rushes for 25 yards, but received zero goal-line carries to Miller's one, which he executed. Miller is by no means running away with every-down duties, but we're still not buying talk Miami is lining up a committee backfield. Miller would do well to put on a show in next week's regular season dress rehearsal. He's certainly talented enough to.


(rotoworld.com)

DAVIE – Dolphins running back Lamar Miller has a goal of 1,500 yards rushing.

But don’t judge him on his rushing total.

When you judge Miller, the second-year player from the University of Miami, pay closer attention to his yards per carry because that’ll be the more accurate gauge of his effectiveness.

Realistically, Miller should look to average somewhere around 4.0 yards per carry, maybe a bit more.
If Miller averages 4.3 yards per carry it’ll be a wildly successful season. He’d probably be in the top 20 in the NFL in that category and would almost certainly rush for around 1,000 yards.

Everyone would be happy with those numbers.

And it’s more realistic than 1,500 yards.

For Miller to rush for 1,500 yards he needs to put up crazy numbers in carries and yards per carry.

Houston’s Arian Foster led the NFL with 351 carries last season.  We’ll be generous and give Miller an optimistic 300 carries, which is nearly 19 per game.

He’d still need to average 5.0 yards per carry.

That’s not happening – not the 300 carries, not the 19 carries per game, or the 5.0 yards per carry.

Reggie Bush, who played two seasons for the Dolphins, averaged 14.4 carries per game in 2011. He averaged 5.0 yards per carry (216 total carries) while rushing for a career-best 1,086 yards.

Last season Bush averaged 14.2 carries per game (227 total). He rushed for 986 yards in 16 games and averaged 4.3 yards per carry.

Miller can set his goals where ever he wants, and it’s nice that he sets them high. But fans should simply hope Miller, a first-year starter, isn’t a drop-off from Bush.

Let’s face it, Miller is a first- and second-down back. He usually won’t be in the game on third downs. Daniel Thomas is the third-down back. He’s a better pass blocker, receiver, and short-yardage runner.

Plus, you’d expect quarterback Ryan Tannehill to pass more frequently than a year ago with new toys such as wide receivers Mike Wallace and Brandon Gibson and tight end Dustin Keller. That’ll cut down Miller’s carries.

Beyond that, the offensive line is shaky, which also works against Miller. You’ll recall Miller was slowed by nagging injuries in college. He has to prove he’s durable enough for a 16-game NFL season as the primary ball carrier and a leaky offensive line won’t help in that regard.

Miller has the speed and moves to be an effective back in the NFL, but so do about 30 or 40 other guys. Miller has to prove he’s an effective ball carrier.

The best way to judge Miller is to look at his yards per carry, and if he’s around 4.3, and he stays healthy, it’s been a fairly productive year.


(oralndosentinel.com)

Lamar Miller rushed twice for six yards and caught a six-yard pass in the Dolphins' second preseason game Friday night at Jacksonville.

Miller's stats through two exhibition contests are four carries for 27 yards (6.75 YPC) and the lone reception. He's been used sparingly because the Fins' coaching staff is planning on a huge regular season role for their best running back. Meanwhile, onetime alleged "competitor" Daniel Thomas has 24 yards on eight carries (3.0 YPC) through a pair of preseason affairs.


(rotoworld.com)

Dolphins OC Mike Sherman told reporters Sunday he wants a running back who can "do it all" and function as an every-down player.

"Yeah, we need someone who does it all," said Sherman. "You hate to just substitute, he’s this guy, he’s that guy, we want complete players back there. I’m not a believer in the third-down back necessarily, I think you tip your hand." Sherman also stated he wants his offense's "identity" to be run-based. This is all good news for Lamar Miller, assuming he beats out Daniel Thomas. (He will.)


(rotoworld.com)

Back in 1988, 12-year-old Josh Baskin wanted to make an impression on Cynthia Benson. Unfortunately he was told that he wasn't tall enough to get on a carnival ride, thus his chance to woo his dream girl was as out of reach as a toddler trying to get cookies from the top of the refrigerator.

Josh's answer was to drop a quarter in Zoltar's slot and wish to be big. He woke up the next morning as Tom Hanks, picked up a job at a toy company, started dating Elizabeth Perkins, got in a fist fight with John Heard and played the piano at FAO Schwarz with Robert Loggia. All in all, things worked out pretty well for Josh.

If Dolphins fans and fantasy owners are Cynthia Benson, Lamar Miller is Josh Baskin. The second-year running back dropped in on NFL Fantasy LIVE earlier this week and told Jason Smith that he was aiming for 1,500 yards and 15 touchdowns this season. That certainly qualifies as thinking big.

So we got to thinking here at Going Deep about which running backs have accomplished that feat in recent seasons and what did they do for an encore?
Dating back to 2008, the list of rushers who have gone 1,500/15 is pretty short. In fact, that list has just three names -- Arian Foster (2010), Michael Turner (2008) and DeAngelo Williams (2008). That begs the question: which back will Miller more closely resemble in 2013 and beyond?

The first thing you'll notice is that all three players who've reached this plateau were able to stay on the field for a full 16 games. Seems pretty obvious, but it's certainly worth noting. On the one hand, it's easy to say that durability is an underrated quality in fantasy running backs. But on the other hand ... Darren McFadden.

While injury concerns followed Miller into the draft (he had shoulder surgery following his final collegiate season), he showed no ill effects during his rookie season. On three occasions last year, the young runner was a healthy scratch from the Dolphins lineup, so presumably he could have played a full 16-game season.

Okay...so he's healthy. But will he get the touches? Every name on this list saw 270-plus carries, with two of the three posting more than 300 attempts. For Williams to top 1,500 yards with just 273 rushes (5.5 yards per carry average) is pretty astounding. The other remarkable thing about Williams' 2008 campaign is that he shared quite a bit of his workload. Foster and Turner were the undisputed No. 1 options in their running games, taking 78 and 68 percent of their teams' carries, respectively. By contrast, Williams took just 54 percent of Carolina's rushes with Jonathan Stewart handling 36 percent of the workload.

What does that mean for Miller? Last season, Reggie Bush was Miami's go-to rusher but he had just 227 carries -- or just 53 percent of the team's rushing attempts. Neither one of those numbers works in Miller's favor. When you factor in that the Dolphins made a splash in free agency by adding WRs Mike Wallace and Brandon Gibson and TE Dustin Keller, it's pretty likely that the Fins are going to feature the passing game a little more.

That's one more thing working against the young runner in an offense that threw the ball 55 percent of the time in 2012. Of the three rushers to hit the heights in their career, only Foster's 2010 Texans threw the ball more than they ran it. Yes...Foster was just that productive.

So we've highlighted all the reasons that it's going to be tough for Miller to reach his stated goals. But hey, we can't blame a guy for aiming high. Yet we still haven't figured out which player he'll more closely resemble.

Based on first-year production alone, Miller and Foster match up nicely -- although it took Foster far fewer games to log those numbers. But similar to Houston's lone star, Miller will have his chance to be a featured back in his second season. That's something it took Turner five seasons (and a new team) to achieve. It's also a luxury that Williams has really never enjoyed in his career -- in his first season as a full-time starter, he had to contend with Stewart as a backfield complement.

And even though it's assumed Miller will be the go-to guy on South Beach, there is still always the chance that Daniel Thomas could have a significant role in the running game this season. That would tend to align him a little closer to Williams.

Of course, in a brave new NFL world where featured backs are as rare as fat guy touchdowns, there are plenty of reasons to be excited about Lamar Miller as a fantasy sleeper back -- though it's getting harder to stick that label on him as the hype continues to grow. Nonetheless, signs point to the second-year runner being a sought after commodity as the year continues.

But becoming the next dominant fantasy rusher? That seems a little more unlikely. Then again, after putting the question to our new Fantasy Genius, it appears that most of you aren't of the same mind. One thing is certain: plenty of us will be watching.

As for Josh Baskin, he certainly enjoyed his time being big, but eventually reverted. We'll see if Miller can stay big for awhile.


(nfl.com)

DAVIE, Fla. -- The South Florida sun is beaming on the Miami Dolphins this week during training camp. They were among the first handful of teams to kick off the 2013 NFL season, and the July weather is unrelenting.

But no spotlight in Miami is hotter or brighter right now than it is on Lamar Miller. The Dolphins, who have playoff aspirations, are banking on their second-year tailback to carry the running game despite a small sample size in Miller's rookie season.

Miller is a proud Miami product through and through. He grew up in Miami, played high school football in the city and was a star running back in college for the Miami Hurricanes. Last year, Miller completed the Miami football trifecta when he was drafted by the Dolphins in the fourth round.

This year, Miller gets the rare opportunity to be the featured runner for his hometown NFL team. The Dolphins showed a lot of confidence in Miller this offseason by letting leading rusher Reggie Bush walk in free agency. It was Miller, not Bush, who led Miami with 4.9 yards per attempt last season, and the Dolphins expect more of the same in 2013.

Miller appears ready for the challenge. He certainly has a quiet confidence about him in Year 2 that he didn't have as a rookie.

“I feel very comfortable just getting used to running the ball, the offensive line scheme and just being [involved] more,” Miller said. “I just know what I’m doing. I’m not second-guessing too much, and I’m just doing what the coaches are telling me to do. Last year, I was thinking about it too much.”

Are the Dolphins making the right decision? It’s too early to tell whether Miller can handle the load after just 51 carries last season.

Miller ranked 10th among rookie rushers last season with 250 rushing yards. Other drafted running backs such as Alfred Morris (1,613 yards) of the Washington Redskins, Doug Martin (1,454 yards) of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Trent Richardson (950 yards) of the Cleveland Browns had far more productive rookie campaigns and are safer bets as starters in 2013.

However, Miller has been praised by the Dolphins all offseason. Miami’s coaching staff and front office are seemingly as high on Miller as Washington is on Morris and Cleveland is on Richardson. It's a calculated risk, but Miller is doing all the right things at this point to make the Dolphins feel secure in their decision.

“[Miller] is very, very fundamentally sound,” Dolphins head coach Joe Philbin said. “He is a guy where we talk to our team about ball security. ...There were a lot of good clips we showed the ball club yesterday of him in practice executing the fundamental of where we want to.

“I think his knowledge of the system has definitely increased. He appears to be a lot more comfortable in what he is doing. [There] doesn’t appear to be much indecision in his play. He’s doing a nice job.”

The hunger for more is what’s fueling Miller. He made a wise decision this offseason to train with four-time Pro Bowl tailback and fellow University of Miami alum Frank Gore. Miller looks up to Gore, 30, because they have a lot of similarities. Gore also is a Miami native who took a similar path to the NFL by starring at the University of Miami. Similar to Miller, who suffered a shoulder injury in college, Gore (knees) also entered the NFL with injury concerns but went on to have a stellar career.

Miller believes his time with Gore will make him a better NFL player in 2013.

“He gave me a lot of advice, going from his first year to now,” Miller explained. “He taught me how to pass protect, catch the ball out of the backfield and take whatever the defense is giving me.”

Being a starting running back in Philbin’s offense isn’t easy. The player must have multiple talents, many of which do not include just running the ball.

Philbin and offensive coordinator Mike Sherman run a quarterback-heavy West Coast system that requires running backs to do a lot of pass protecting and catching the football in open space. The closest comparison would be Pro Bowl quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ offense in Green Bay, where Philbin served as offensive coordinator from 2007-11. Philbin is trying to mold the Dolphins into a similar attacking-style offense.

The Bush safety net is no longer available for Miller. He is the focal point of Miami’s running game and must prove he can be a complete tailback. Miller averaged just 3.2 carries per game last season, and that number could get into the 20s on most weeks this year.

There is certainly a buzz in Miami that Miller is ready to produce his first 1,000-yard season. But Miller isn’t focusing on his own preseason hype.

“I hear people talking about it, but I really try not to get into it,” Miller said. “I’m just staying humble and just staying focused on what the team wants me to do.”


(espn.com)

There are NFL players with decent fantasy football buzz this season, and then there is Lamar Miller. The presumptive Miami Dolphins starting running back is The Guy among fans looking for a breakout player. Miller knows it.

"I hear a lot of fans talking about their fantasy teams," Miller told the crew on NFL Network's "NFL Fantasy Live" on Tuesday. "I'm really not trying to pay too much attention to it. I'm just trying to do whatever's best to help this team win, put points on the scoreboard."

This is the healthy approach. (The non-Jaguars approach.)

Being the fantasy "it" guy for an offseason can be precarious. For every trendy fantasy breakout that happens -- remember Matt Forte in 2008? -- there are guys like Ryan Mathews or Kevan Barlow, broken down on the side of the fantasy football sleeper highway. Miller knows exactly what to say to get the folks overexcited.

"My goal is 1,500 (yards)," Miller said. "We have great offensive linemen, so hopefully we can get the job done. I'm aiming for 1,500."

That sounds like a stretch, but those aren't the words of a guy worried about competition on his own team. (Like, say, Daniel Thomas.) Our guy Chris Wesseling has been driving the Miller bandwagon all offseason, and it's not too late to jump aboard.

The NFL.com draft guide indicates Miller still isn't going in the top-50 fantasy picks, which means he's still getting taken too late.


(nfl.com)

Miami Dolphins RB Lamar Miller has not earned the starting running back job yet because the team believes RB Daniel Thomas can have a big season if he is able to stay healthy. Miller has received most of the reps with the first-team offense, but Thomas has received some reps with the starters.

Fantasy Tip: Miller appears to have the edge for the starting job, but Thomas could receive the chance to win the job. Miller should be seen as a low-end No. 2 fantasy running back if he wins the job while Thomas should be considered a high-end No. 3 running back if he starts.


(kffl.com)

Coach Joe Philbin praised Lamar Miller for being "very fundamentally sound" as the Dolphins began training camp.
One trait we noticed on Miller's rookie-year game tape was composed play, consistently running within the design of the offense. The same couldn't be said for David Wilson and Bryce Brown. "I think his knowledge of the system has definitely increased," Philbin said of Miller. "He appears to be a lot more comfortable with what he’s doing. There doesn’t seem to be a lot of indecision in his play." Miller is a prime 2013 fantasy football breakout candidate.

Miller said he’s not listening to the pundits who are considering him a possible breakout player this year. But he admitted that “everybody wants that star position.”

“I’m just getting more hungrier so that position be mine,” Miller said.


(rotoworld.com)

San Francisco 49ers starting quarterback Colin Kaepernick adamantly defended his right to wear a Dolphins hat a week ago. Now, starting running back Frank Gore is in Miami, personally helping the team's running back improve.
During a period of six weeks usually reserved for NFL vacations -- and legal problems -- Gore is doing two-a-days with Lamar Miller and reports indicate the 22-year-old Dolphins running back is benefiting significantly.

"It has been great working with Frank, and it is going to help me in my game," Miller told the Miami Herald. "He has given me a lot of tips."

Miller reportedly joined Gore's offseason regimen at the advice of shared agent Drew Rosenhaus. Now, they are spending mornings working out with a group of players before splintering off to work with a trainer in the evenings.

Miller, who in one fewer season came up 57 yards and two touchdowns short of Gore's impressive Miami numbers, grew up less than 15 minutes from the man he idolized through college.

"I used to look up to all the UM running backs growing up because that’s where I wanted to go," Miller said. "I want to keep the legacy of the University of Miami going."

Former Hurricanes have a history of training together, and Gore and Miller's partnership hasn't gone unnoticed.

"The way Lamar is learning from Frank, it’s a beautiful thing," said Steelers' Sean Spence, who played two seasons at Miami with Miller.

Those who have trained Miller, according to the Herald, cite his improved "work ethic and mentality," say "his footwork got a lot better," and indicate he now knows "how to take care of his body (and) what to do beyond what is required."

The developed characteristics are all hallmarks of Gore's successful eight-year NFL career, in which he has averaged 4.6 yards per carry and over six touchdowns a season.

Miller is hoping the hard work will help him sustain his rookie success; he earned an average of 4.9 yards over 51 carries last year.

"I’ve gotten quicker doing lateral work," Miller was quoted. "And I’ve become more explosive by training every day doing squats on my legs. I’m stronger."

But his strength isn't what's turning heads in Florida -- it's his speed.

The list of accomplished backs produced by Miami is impressive, boasting the likes of Edgerrin James ('96-'98), Clinton Portis ('99-'01), Willis McGahee ('01-'02) and Gore ('01-'04). But the 49ers' 30-year-old feature back reserved the highest praise for Miller.

"Lamar is probably the fastest," Gore said. "And he’s a good kid. We motivate each other.”

As long as it's a two-way street, and 49ers fans don't feel like their players are offering unreciprocated support, there shouldn't be a problem -- especially when you consider all the other ways Gore could be spending his six weeks off before the team convenes in Santa Clara for training camp on July 24.


(csnbayarea.com)

With the Dolphins depth chart thinned after Reggie Bush's departure to the Lions, there are high expectations for second-year running back Lamar Miller. It sounds like the former Miami Hurricane is doing his best to fulfill them, too.

According to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald, Miller's in North Miami Beach being mentored by 49ers running back -- and fellow former 'Cane -- Frank Gore. The pair are working out twice daily along with other NFL players, including another former Hurricane: Steelers linebacker Sean Spence.

“The way Lamar is learning from Frank, it's a beautiful thing," Spence said.

The backs are also working with Pete Bommarito, who runs Bommarito Performance Systems and has trained a who's who list of running backs in the NFL. And Bommarito's praise of Miller is even higher.

“He's the fastest running back I've ever seen,” Bommarito said.

The trainer also noted that working with Gore has done positive things for Miller's "work ethic and mentality" toward the game of football.
“Since Lamar started gravitating toward Frank, his work ethic and mentality are unparalleled," Bommarito said.

It's easy to understand how working with Gore can help Miller: There's arguably not a more underrated running back in the league than Gore, and he also happens to be a guy who's been counted out and dismissed more times than you can count. He had multiple knee surgeries (right and left ACLs) in college, a slew of injuries in the pros, and people expected drop-offs in production every season. (And yet, since being named the 49ers starter, Gore has averaged 15 games, 1,176 yards and seven touchdowns a season.)

I digress, but you get the point here: Gore's a great role model. Per Bommarito, Gore's also showing Miller “how to take care of his body, what to do beyond what is required.”

So is the work paying off? Gore praised Miller, saying he's the "fastest" Hurricanes running back of the last 20 years (a group that includes Edgerrin James, Gore, Clinton Portis and Willis McGahee) and likened the youngster to Portis.

Miller says the result of his work with Gore is that he's "stronger" and "more explosive" than he was in his rookie season.

"I've gotten quicker doing lateral work, and I've become more explosive by training every day doing squats on my legs,” Miller said. "[And] I'm stronger. Last year, I was kind of lost getting adjusted to the speed of the game and knowing where I'm supposed to be at all times. Now I'm very comfortable with the system."
That's a terrifying thought for opponents looking to stop the second-year back. For the Dolphins, though, it provides early justification for their decision to let Bush walk on the open market and put their faith in a young running back who appears eager to live up to the expectations that surround his 2013 season.


(cbssports.com)

Miami Dolphins second-year quarterback Ryan Tannehill has an offense that looks a whole lot different, and it’s for the better given the new pass-catchers around him. Mike Wallace is one of the best deep threats in the game, Brandon Gibson is an interesting No. 3 receiver, and Dustin Keller was Mark Sanchez‘s only reliable target. A new running back is taking the Dolphins role as a feature back next season, and the organization couldn’t seem higher on another second-year player in the backfield in Lamar Miller, who looked great in limited carries last season. Miller has a world of potential, and he’s looked as good as advertised thus far this offseason. The Dolphins are hoping that they won’t miss Reggie Bush‘s playmaking ability, and, for what it’s worth, LaDainian Tomlinson thinks Miller is even more explosive than Bush.

But what impresses Tannehill the most about Miller is his improved pass protection, which is something the Dolphins organization has also been quick praise. Tannehill told Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald,  ”he’s picking up pass protections a lot better. Now that he’s got that, he’s going to be a great player.”

Pass protection is something that gets overlooked at the running back position, especially with backs who are better known for other qualities. Three examples that come to mind are feature backs Fred Jackson, Frank Gore, and Ahmad Bradshaw, who aren’t as widely recognized as being elite pass blockers since they are just such great rushers (and receivers) overall. I wonder if Miller is in-line to be that kind of an all-around feature back for the Dolphins, and the team does seem to talk him up like that.

It’s no secret that Miller is a potential breakout star in 2013, and those who watched him coming out of college at Miami know that Miller has the ability to be a great running back in this league. It’s a good thing the New England Patriots have one of the best run defenses in the NFL.


(musketfire.com)

Miami Dolphins RB Lamar Miller will have to show he can pass protect and stay healthy during training camp in order to hold off RBs Daniel Thomas and Mike Gillislee for the starting job.




(kffl.com)

Coach Joe Philbin says Lamar Miller has "really progressed" over the course of OTAs and minicamp.

"He is very smart," Philbin said. "I think he has really progressed from a mental standpoint as a professional in his second season. He has very good hands. We like a lot of the things he is doing in pass protection. Again, we have to temper our enthusiasm based on how he does in pads, but I think his understanding of how he fits in the protection scheme is very good. We use that term, ‘closing the distance.’ He has done an excellent job in that regard in the spring, so we’ll have to see how that carries over to the fall." Miller is the favorite for lead-back duties in the Miami backfield. We have him as a mid-to-low RB2.


(rotoworld.com)

In a limited role, typically in relief of the since-departed Reggie Bush, Lamar Miller was an explosive, change-of-pace back last season, averaging 4.9 yards per carry.

Now, heading into his second season, Miller appears ready to take over as the team’s full-time starter, earning confidence from Ryan Tannehill and others this offseason.

While he’s ready to help a Dolphins’ reloaded offense try to put up more points this year, personally, he has a number in mind.

“My goal is to rush over 1,500 (yards),” Miller said, “and just help this organization get back to where it used to be.”

It’s quite an audacious goal, one that the second-year running back will need a combination of skill, opportunity and, yes, luck to accomplish. For one, the NFL isn’t what it used to be; teams are throwing more than they ever have before. Six of the seven highest single-season totals for pass attempts by a quarterback have occurred the last three seasons.

When teams do run, they — to the chagrin of fantasy owners everywhere — are more likely to spread carries around — we are in the running back-by-committee era. To put it in a numerical context: running backs have eclipsed 1,500 rushing yards just ten times during the past six seasons (2007-12); there were 27 1,500-yard seasons in the six years prior to this stretch (2001-06), though.

The question — if Miller can prove to be effective as a starter — is whether he will get enough carries. The four running backs that rushed for 1,500 yards in 2012 — Adrian Peterson, Alfred Morris, Marshawn Lynch and Jamaal Charles — combined to carry the ball on an average 32.2 percent of their team’s plays. Compare that to Bush, who only carried the ball 23.1 percent of the time in the Dolphins’ West Coast offense last season, and it may be tough for Miller to get enough attempts this year, especially with Daniel Thomas and Mike Gillislee helping out.

But if the additions of Mike Wallace, Brandon Gibson, Dustin Keller, et al. open up running lanes for Miller, and he gets enough opportunities, the Dolphins running back, a potential fantasy sleeper, could give 1,500 yards a run.


(thefinsiders.com)

There seems to be a new starting running back in Miami, and it is someone quite familiar with South Florida.

Lamar Miller has been turning some heads during spring workouts, picking up the carries that were left when Reggie Bush signed as a free agent with the Detroit Lions.

And he is picking them up just fine.

“Well, that’s everybody’s goal, to be a great running back in this league,” Miller told reporters. “I’m just trying to get better every day. I got a great offensive line that should make my job easier. I’m just trying to get better as a player overall.”

That is what the Miami Dolphins were hoping when they let Bush go to Detroit in the offseason.

The Dolphins drafted Miller in the fourth round of the 2012 draft. The University of Miami standout has been getting the ball a lot early in the workouts, and quarterback Ryan Tannehill has liked what he has seen, saying on NFL Network that Miller was “way ahead” of the other running backs.

Miller showed flashes during his rookie campaign, rushing for 250 yards, an average of nearly 5 yards per carry.

But head coach Joe Philbin is quick to point out it is early and the race to be the starting running back is “wide open.”

But he likes what he has seen.

“We liked the guys we had. We like the guys we have in the locker room — we thought there was potential there,” Philbin told reporters in Miami. “We thought there was opportunity for growth and development out of those guys, and we’ll see how that goes here in the next couple weeks and months.”

The team still has Daniel Thomas, and drafted University of Florida running back Mike Gillislee.

While some may take a quick look and say the Dolphins are in trouble at running back, Miller says, “let them talk.”

“It just pushes you more. It’s a motivation just to show the guys who doubt you,” Miller said. “You just try to take your game to the next level to show them what you’re capable of doing.”


(floridatoday.com)

We knew as far back as February that the Miami Dolphins were giving Reggie Bush the cold shoulder because they believe 2012 fourth-round draft pick Lamar Miller can be a bigger, faster, better version in this year's backfield.

Although Dolphins coach Joe Philbin recently described the running back competition as "wide open," those close to the team understand that Miller is the runaway leader.

Appearing on NFL Network's "NFL Total Access" on Monday, Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill stated without equivocation that Miller is well ahead of 2011 second-rounder Daniel Thomas and rookie Mike Gillislee.

Asked who the Dolphins' starting running back is, Tannehill replied without hesitation: "Lamar Miller right now. He's doing a great job this offseason, really has a great handle on the offense and he's doing a great job protecting. ... They can (all) run the ball but being able to understand the pass game, understand the checkdowns and where they're protecting really makes a big difference and makes me more comfortable."

Fantasy leaguers take note: With deep-threat option Mike Wallace on the scene to keep extra defenders out of the box, there isn't a better breakout candidate than Miller this season.


(nfl.com)

Lamar Miller, RB, Miami Dolphins: Miller carried the football a mere 51 times as a rookie, but he showed some flashes of potential with a solid 4.9-yards-per-carry average. With Reggie Bush now in Detroit, the Miami (FL) product is in a great spot to take over the No. 1 role in the backfield for coach Joe Philbin. He also has the best schedule among running backs based on fantasy points for 2013. In a best-case scenario, Miller could turn into a legitimate No. 2 fantasy runner.


(nfl.com)

One of the more intriguing position battles this offseason is taking place in the Miami Dolphins' backfield.

Right now, it seems like Lamar Miller is the runaway leader to get Reggie Bush's old touches.

"Everybody's mindset is to start," Miller said Wednesday, via the Miami Herald. "We've just got to come out here and compete every day and get each other better, so whoever gets into a starting position, just help this team win."

Miller is getting the bulk of the snaps with the first team over Daniel Thomas, Mike Gillislee, Jonas Gray and Marcus Thigpen.

On Wednesday, coach Joe Philbin defined the competition as "wide open" and warned not to make too much out of who is getting reps with which unit.

"We're going to watch the tape and see how our players pick up the blitz, run routes, see how they run the ball when they have the opportunity and go from there," Philbin said.

It is interesting Philbin mentioned pass protection first. As the Herald points out, Miller's struggles in protecting the quarterback probably kept him off the field toward the beginning of the 2012 season. If he shores up his blocking, he might end up seeing the majority of snaps this year.


(nfl.com)

Lamar Miller didn’t hesitate. The hole was there. So he hit it. Hard.

And a heartbeat later, Miller was in the end zone, proving — at least in shorts and helmets — that 218 pounds is plenty big enough to be an effective short-yardage back.

Of course, Miller hopes his role is far more expansive than that. The Dolphins’ second-year rusher doesn’t want any prefix attached to his title except one: every-down.

“Everybody’s mind-set is to start,” Miller said Wednesday after the day’s 90-minute organized team activities. “We’ve just got to come out here and compete every day and get each other better, so whoever gets into a starting position, just help this team win.”

Technically, the competition to succeed Reggie Bush as the Dolphins’ featured back is “wide open,” as Dolphins coach Joe Philbin said Wednesday. Daniel Thomas, Mike Gillislee, Jonas Gray and Marcus Thigpen also are in the mix.

But through May, Miller appears to have a leg up on the field, both in repetitions and in production.

He is taking the bulk of snaps with the first team, and when he does, he has been effective, showing the same explosiveness he did at the University of Miami.
“I think he’s just more comfortable,” quarterback Ryan Tannehill said. “He knows the offense. He’s been in it for a year. He knows the protections. Now he can just go out and let his athletic ability shine for itself.”

In March, before free agency began, the Dolphins sent out signals that they were ready to move on from Bush, who averaged more than 1,000 yards in each of his two seasons with the Dolphins.

On Wednesday, Philbin explained why.

“We liked the guys we had,” he said.

“We thought there was potential there. We thought there was opportunity for growth and development out of those guys, and we’ll see how that goes here in the next couple weeks and months.”

Philbin said that despite the open competition at this point, too much should not be read into who’s working the most with which unit. Instead, the springtime is about installation as much as it is evaluation, and exposing the players to as many situations as possible.

“We’re going to watch the tape and see how our players pick up the blitz, run routes, see how they run the ball when they have the opportunity and go from there,” Philbin said.

It’s telling that Philbin mentioned pass protection first in the list of skills. For Miller, that probably kept him off the field early in the 2012 season.
Miller said he is focused on improving his blocking this offseason and expects that to show up when the competition begins in earnest come training camp.

As for the workload associated with a No. 1 running back — 250 or so carries over the course of the season — he doesn’t think that will be a problem. Miller rushed the ball 227 times in his final season at UM, and that was during a shorter season than in the NFL.

“It’s about staying in better condition and staying healthy,” Miller said, adding, “I feel like I’m more of an explosive, speed type of guy. I’m just trying to keep it going.”


(miamiherald.com)

Miami Dolphins RB Lamar Miller worked predominantly with the first-team offense, but RBs Daniel Thomas, Mike Gillislee and Marcus Thigpen also saw carries Tuesday, May 21, in organized team activities (OTAs).




(kffl.com)

The AFC East blog will begin its 2013 "Show and Prove" series this week. We will examine key players in the division who have a lot to prove this upcoming season.

Let’s start with Miami Dolphins tailback Lamar Miller, who will be a first-year starter.

2012 stats: 51 carries, 250 yards, one TD

What he has to prove: Miller must prove that he can carry the load in his second season. He showed a lot of potential in 2012 by leading the Dolphins with 4.9 yards per carry, but this year will be different with the departure of former starter Reggie Bush to free agency. Miller’s carries could increase from 51 last season to more than 200. That's a big jump. Miller had injury issues in college and must prove his durability. Miller also is a bit undersized and struggled mightily with pass protection. That’s a major focus for Miller if he wants to be the long-term solution at tailback in Miami.

Walker’s 2013 outlook: I liked what I saw from Miller last season. He has good burst and vision, which are two things needed from a tailback running behind Miami’s zone-blocking scheme. Miller is a better fit in that respect that Bush, who had a penchant to run east and west too often for zero or negative yards. However, I do have serious doubts about Miller as a pass blocker. Teams identified and exposed Miller last year in that area when he was in the game. He has a long way to go with taking on blocks, and I’m not sure he can make huge strides in just one offseason. Otherwise, Miami’s backfield of Miller, Daniel Thomas and potentially rookie Mike Gillislee should be solid and better than advertised.


(espn.com)

Daniel Thomas believes he's a legitimate contender for the Dolphins' starting running back job.

Thomas must not be watching much of his own film. "I don’t know why (Lamar Miller) would have the inside track," Thomas said incredulously Tuesday. "It’s an open competition. Everybody has a fair shot. The best player is going to get the job. Nobody has a leg up." Thomas does admit he's been "inconsistent" since being the No. 62 overall pick of the 2011 draft. All signs suggest the Dolphins want and expect Miller to be their No. 1 back.


(rotoworld.com)

Miami Dolphins RB Lamar Miller has been working out with San Francisco 49ers RB Frank Gore during the offseason. Gore, a fellow University of Miami alum, counseled Miller on lessons learned in the NFL. Miller said Tuesday, May 14, he is staying at 215 pounds, but adding more muscle mass.

Fantasy Tip: Miller is viewed by some as having a leg up in the competition for the starting tailback job in Miami, although Daniel Thomas is not ready to go quietly. Whoever emerges as the top dog will be a low-end RB2 or flex fantasy option in most formats.


(kffl.com)

Dolphins Center Mike Pouncey "guarantees" Lamar Miller will top 1300 yards next year, which shouldn’t be too difficult for Miller if he is given around 16-20 carries per game.

Dolphins GM Jeff Ireland says he has a "high, high degree of excitement for" Lamar Miller and Daniel Thomas.

Most, if not all, of Ireland's excitement should lie with Miller, the No. 97 overall pick in last year's draft. We already know what Thomas is, and he's a fumbling, concussion-prone, straight-ahead plodder who has averaged 3.5 YPC on 256 career carries. Miller is expected to get every chance to win the starting job this summer, and it would be a disappointment if he didn't succeed.


(rotoworld.com)

The changing of the guard at tailback in Miami was nearly a year in the making.

Following Day 3 of the 2012 NFL draft, Miami Dolphins general manager Jeff Ireland gushed about fourth-round pick Lamar Miller. Ireland traded up six spots to draft Miller, who played at nearby University of Miami. Ireland knew Miller well and believed he was a first- or second-round talent. But Miller’s stock dropped due to a lingering shoulder injury he suffered in college.

Miller flashed plenty of ability throughout Miami's training camp. He saw his first action in Week 2 against the Oakland Raiders and rushed for 65 yards and a touchdown. Miller also rushed for a career-high 73 yards on 10 carries against the Buffalo Bills in Week 16. Miller received just 51 carries last season but averaged a team-high 4.9 yards per rush.

This is why it was no surprise that Miami will not re-sign starting running back Reggie Bush. The Dolphins believe Miller is ready to take on a bigger role at a more affordable rate than Bush. Miller will pair with former second-round pick Daniel Thomas in Miami next season.

Bush developed into a leader in Miami and rushed for more than 2,000 yards the past two seasons. Bush should get a nice contract elsewhere in free agency. He's earned it, but Bush is far from irreplaceable in Miami.

The Dolphins have plenty of depth at running back and should be fine with Miller, Thomas and perhaps a third running back via the draft or free agency. Miami’s primary focus should be adding depth at weaker positions such as cornerback, wide receiver and tight end.


(espn.com)

Thank you to Harry Rothwell @mrallcanes for sending us this photo of proCanes: Lamar Miller Dolphins, DeMarcus Van Dyke Steelers, Allen Bailey Chiefs, Sean Spence Steelers, Travis Benjamin Browns, Brandon Harris Texans.

The Miami Dolphins are not considering having RB Daniel Thomas compete with RB Lamar Miller for the starting running back job next season and are not expected to sign a veteran running back to compete with Miller. The team likes Miller's ability to make jump-cut moves, which allows him to get to the second level in the team's zone-blocking scheme.


(kffl.com)

Omar Kelly of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel says it's "universally understood" that Lamar Miller will be given "every opportunity" to start in 2013.
It's becoming clearer that Reggie Bush will not be re-signed no matter how much he wants to return. The money just won't be right for both sides. Miller has been the offseason's running back darling, and has been mentioned several times by GM Jeff Ireland as a guy he expects to take a major leap. Miller's fantasy stock is steadily rising.


(rotoworld.com)

Impending free-agent running back Reggie Bush's agents are reportedly "confused" by the Miami Dolphins' indifference  about his status since the end of the season. The team has yet to make him a contract offer.

Bush's camp should look no further than Lamar Miller for an explanation, as the Dolphins believe the 97th pick in the 2012 draft can be a bigger, faster, better version in this year's backfield.

While the expectations remain low for 2011 second-rounder Daniel Thomas, general manager Jeff Ireland recently singled out the more talented Miller for a bigger role.

"Lamar really showed some great signs of really some explosive play opportunity," Ireland said last week, according to The Palm Beach Post. "He kind of shoots out of the cannon when he hits the hole. He's got very good hands. I thought he did a very good job in his pass protection, which keeps him on the field all three downs."

The Dolphins think highly enough of Miller as their lead running back that they likely will ignore looking for another player at the position in free agency.

Any list of 2013 NFL breakout candidates should start with Miller. He has the playmaking ability to emerge as the Dolphins' top offensive weapon.


(nfl.com)

Dolphins GM Jeff Ireland singled out Lamar Miller as the player he's expecting the most growth from in 2013.

The fog is starting to clear, and it's looking more and more likely that free agent Reggie Bush will not be re-signed. "Lamar really showed some great signs of really some explosive-play opportunity," Ireland said. "He kind of shoots out of the cannon when he hits the hole. He’s got very good hands. I thought he did a very good job in his pass protection, which keeps him on the field all three downs." Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald recently reported that Miami thinks Miller can be an upgrade on Bush as a system fit in Joe Philbin's zone-run scheme. Daniel Thomas, or another veteran, would likely be Miller's backup. Miller's fantasy stock is on the upswing.


(rotoworld.com)

According to Armando Sagluero of the Miami Herald, the Dolphins like running back Lamar Miller better than Reggie Bush because they believe he can be better.  And of course it helps that Miller is six years younger than Bush while also being faster and bigger.

Bush is turning 28 years-old in March, which means he probably only has another few good years in him.  NFL running backs fall off a cliff very quickly when it comes to their production.

Daniel Thomas’ mid-December knee injury required surgery, according to his representation – he should be fine by the spring – and the second-round pick has fallen behind Lamar Miller in the organization’s eyes. Disconcerting: His three fumbles were the most by any NFL back with fewer than 100 carries, and only four backs with as many attempts had a lower per-carry average than Thomas’ 3.6. Incidentally, Reggie Bush tied for the league lead among backs with five fumbles.


(miamiherald.com)