The Miami Dolphins were hoping to have a two-headed running back scheme to help take the pressures of quarterback Ryan Tannehill, but it appears that may no longer be an option for the team. With one of the worst offensive lines in the league, getting the running game going to took players instead of one. However, after an injury to Daniel Thomas, the Dolphins are down to just one back.
The Orlando Sun-Sentinel is reporting that Thomas tore a ligament in his ankle during the loss to the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. They expect him to be sidelined a few weeks if not miss the entire season. This hurts the team's offensive plan going forward. The running back was mainly used in short-yardage situations, averaging 3.6 yards per game. He was responsible for one-third of the ground game work, but was by far the best blocker the team had on the roster. Thomas had 279 yards on the season, along with three touchdowns.
The Dolphins are in the midst of final playoff push. They are trying to earn the final spot in the AFC playoff race, sitting tied with the Titans, Jets, Ravens, Chargers and Steelers. The injury to Thomas not only changes the game for the Dolphins' offense, but it has a big fantasy outlook as well.
With Thomas out, the pressure is on Lamar Miller to step up and carry the offense. The running back has 475 yards on the season and two touchdowns as he has struggled behind the weak offensive line that Miami is working with. However, he now becomes the work horse for the Dolphins and should be an every-down back moving forward.
Marcus Thigpen could also see some time at running back. The return man has just two carries out of the backfield, but has shown some ability during practice. Rookie Mike Gillislee could also see some playing time. He has yet to take the field, but in wake of the injuries could be expected to step in as a rotational guy.
Miller is not an RB1 candidate, but his increased workload makes him a strong pickup. The Dolphins run game has been nothing to brag about this season. They average just 85.4 yards on the ground per game, putting up just 4.1 yards per carry. They have just seven rushing touchdowns this season.