In the world of NFL football, the backup quarterback position is often overlooked, yet it is one of the most critical roles on any team. For the Miami Dolphins, the competition between veteran Zach Wilson and rookie Quinn Ewers has been a focal point of discussion throughout the preseason. With the regular season approaching, many fans and analysts are keen to understand whether anything has changed in this pivotal situation.
Current Backup QB Situation
As of now, Zach Wilson appears to firmly hold the No. 2 spot behind starter Tua Tagovailoa. In response to a query during a press conference, Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel confirmed the pecking order: “Zach is the backup quarterback, and it’s up to players to adjust that.” This statement, made back on July 30, still rings true as neither quarterback has made significant strides to change the established hierarchy in subsequent games.
Through two preseason games, the statistics highlight the current state of play:
- Zach Wilson: 20 of 32 completions (62.5%), 247 yards, 1 touchdown, no interceptions, and a passer rating of 96.7.
- Quinn Ewers: 16 of 35 completions (45.7%), 207 yards, 2 touchdowns, no interceptions, with a passer rating of 83.9.
While Wilson has displayed more reliability and efficiency, Ewers has shown flashes of potential, including a notable deep pass during practice that showcased his arm strength. However, both quarterbacks have had their share of issues, including fumbles, which complicate the judgment on their performances.
Evaluating Performance and Progress
The Dolphins’ recent practices and preseason games have provided insights into each quarterback’s abilities and readiness for the season. A closer examination reveals that Wilson has executed the offense more effectively than Ewers. Despite having some missteps, including overthrown passes, he has also demonstrated better control over the offense—especially in red zone drills.
Ewers has certainly shown moments of competence, but time is running out for him to make a move. With only one preseason game remaining before the regular season opener against the Indianapolis Colts on September 7, the pressure is undoubtedly mounting.
During their latest practices, both quarterbacks displayed some progress compared to their previous outings against the Chicago Bears. Their footwork and reads improved significantly, suggesting they are absorbing the coaching and adapting to the system.
Coaching Perspectives
Offensive coordinator Frank Smith, while acknowledging the growth both quarterbacks have shown, dodged providing a definitive answer when pressed about the backup position. He emphasized the overall progress of the offense as a whole, hinting that the evaluation goes beyond individual statistics:
“I think ultimately the growth that they’ve shown throughout training camp has been outstanding,” Smith stated. This broad assessment suggests that the Dolphins’ coaching staff values collective team performance over isolated quarterback metrics.
His comments hint at a cautious optimism about the backup quarterback situation’s potential, but they also reflect the uncertainty that remains.
Competitiveness in the Preseason
With the Dolphins preparing for joint practices against the Jacksonville Jaguars and a pivotal preseason finale, the coaching staff will closely monitor both Wilson and Ewers. The competition is fierce, and neither player can afford to rest on their laurels. Last-minute changes could entirely shift the dynamics, depending on how they perform in these crucial moments.
The stakes are high, especially as the season approaches. The Dolphins have had their struggles in the past when it comes to their backup situation, making it vital for them to ensure they have a reliable option behind Tagovailoa. As Wilson enters this role with significant experience—being the No. 2 pick of the 2021 NFL Draft—he brings a level of expectation and familiarity to the table. Conversely, Ewers, despite being a rookie, possesses a skill set that excites both fans and coaches.
Future Considerations
As the season opener approaches, both Wilson and Ewers must put their best foot forward if they wish to secure a position on the roster. It is impossible to overlook the value of having a dependable backup, particularly in the high-stakes environment of the NFL, where injuries can strike unexpectedly.
The coaching staff’s decisions will be pivotal. Will they continue to stick with Wilson as the reliable backup, or will Ewers make enough of an impression to challenge this status? The coaches will likely reflect on their preseason performances, decision-making, and adaptability in concluding who is best suited for the No. 2 role.
Conclusion
For fans and analysts alike, the Dolphins’ backup quarterback situation remains fluid and intriguing. With Zach Wilson currently holding the edge as the established backup, the anticipation around Quinn Ewers adds depth to the storyline as the season approaches. Ultimately, the decisions made in the coming days will do more than just finalize the roster—they will influence the Dolphins’ season aspirations.
As training camp and preseason games draw to a close, the Miami Dolphins will need to assess their quarterback landscape wisely, ensuring they have the right players lined up for what lies ahead. The promise of a new season is tangible, and with it comes the hope that the backup quarterback situation will not only provide stability but also elevate the entire offense.
