Miami Dolphins’ Third-and-1 Struggles Could Be Solved by RB Alexander Mattison
The Miami Dolphins, a team known for their explosive offense under head coach Mike McDaniel, have had one glaring weakness in their offensive game: short-yardage situations, specifically third-and-1. While the Dolphins boast one of the most high-powered passing attacks in the league, their inability to consistently convert in critical short-yardage scenarios has become a concerning issue.
To address this weakness, Miami recently signed former Minnesota Vikings running back Alexander Mattison. The addition of Mattison could be a game-changer for the Dolphins, providing them with a reliable power back capable of converting those crucial downs and adding a new dimension to their offensive attack.
Dolphins’ Short-Yardage Woes in 2023
Despite being one of the most efficient offenses in the league last season, the Dolphins struggled mightily in short-yardage situations. Their inability to consistently convert on third-and-1 or fourth-and-1 forced them into difficult decisions and often disrupted their offensive rhythm.
Miami’s rushing attack was one of the best in the NFL in terms of yards per carry, thanks to the explosiveness of Raheem Mostert and rookie sensation De’Von Achane. However, their success came primarily on outside zone runs, where speed and scheme were the primary factors. In contrast, their inside running game, particularly in short-yardage situations, lacked the necessary power and push to convert at a high rate.
According to advanced analytics, the Dolphins ranked in the bottom half of the league in short-yardage conversion rate. They relied heavily on finesse and misdirection plays, which often backfired against disciplined defenses. While Mostert and Achane were exceptional in open space, neither possessed the power-running ability needed for tough, between-the-tackles conversions.
Why Alexander Mattison Could Be the Solution
Alexander Mattison, who spent the first five seasons of his career with the Minnesota Vikings, arrives in Miami with a reputation as a powerful, between-the-tackles runner. While he never fully emerged as a feature back in Minnesota, he proved to be highly effective in short-yardage and goal-line situations.
Here’s why Mattison could be the missing piece for the Dolphins in these crucial situations:
1. Power Running Ability
Mattison’s physical running style is exactly what the Dolphins have lacked in short-yardage scenarios. At 5-foot-11 and 215 pounds, he possesses the size and strength to push through defenders and fight for extra yards. Unlike Mostert and Achane, who rely on speed and agility, Mattison thrives in situations where brute force is required to move the chains.
2. Success in Short-Yardage Situations
Throughout his tenure with the Vikings, Mattison was frequently utilized in third-and-short and goal-line situations. In 2023, he converted a high percentage of his third-and-1 attempts, demonstrating his ability to keep drives alive. His powerful leg drive and low center of gravity allow him to break tackles and gain necessary yardage even when defenses stack the box.
3. Experience in a Zone-Blocking Scheme
Miami’s offensive system is heavily based on outside-zone blocking, a scheme Mattison is familiar with from his time in Minnesota. While he isn’t as explosive as Mostert or Achane, he is adept at making quick reads and hitting the hole with authority. His experience in similar schemes should allow him to transition smoothly into the Dolphins’ offense.
4. Durability and Reliability
One of the concerns surrounding Miami’s backfield has been durability. Mostert, despite his stellar 2023 season, has a history of injuries, while Achane also dealt with multiple injuries in his rookie season. Mattison, on the other hand, has been a reliable and durable player throughout his career, making him a valuable asset for a team looking to avoid running back attrition late in the season.
How Mattison Fits into Miami’s Backfield
With the addition of Mattison, the Dolphins now have a well-balanced backfield with three distinct styles of running backs:
- Raheem Mostert: The veteran speedster who excels in outside-zone runs and big-play potential.
- De’Von Achane: The electrifying young back with game-breaking speed, capable of turning any touch into a long gain.
- Alexander Mattison: The bruising power back who can handle short-yardage situations and provide a physical presence in the backfield.
McDaniel’s offense thrives on versatility, and the addition of Mattison allows Miami to be more unpredictable in key situations. Instead of being forced to rely on trick plays or outside runs on third-and-short, the Dolphins can now confidently hand the ball off to Mattison and trust him to gain the necessary yardage.
The Impact on the Dolphins’ Offense in 2024
If Mattison performs as expected, the Dolphins’ offense could become even more dangerous in 2024. The ability to consistently convert on third-and-1 situations would allow Miami to extend drives, control the tempo of the game, and keep their defense off the field.
Additionally, Mattison’s presence could benefit Miami’s red-zone offense. The Dolphins were effective in scoring touchdowns last season, but their struggles in short-yardage situations sometimes led to settling for field goals instead of touchdowns. With a physical back like Mattison, Miami could see an improvement in their red-zone efficiency, making them an even more formidable opponent.
Final Thoughts
The Dolphins’ decision to bring in Alexander Mattison addresses one of the most glaring weaknesses in their otherwise potent offense. While he may not be the flashiest signing, his skill set perfectly complements Miami’s existing backfield and provides a much-needed solution to their third-and-1 struggles.
If Mattison can live up to expectations, the Dolphins will be better equipped to handle tough, grind-it-out situations, making them an even stronger contender in the AFC. While the speed and explosiveness of Mostert and Achane will continue to define Miami’s rushing attack, Mattison’s power and reliability could be the final piece that helps the Dolphins take their offense to the next level.
