Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill stumbled through a poor 2015 season, but new head coach and quarterback whisperer Adam Gase remains confident in the young gunslinger.
During an interview on the Joe Rose Show (h/t Palm Beach Post), Gase said Tannehill’s disappointing campaign was merely an outlier in a promising career.
“I know last year was a hiccup and I know he was disappointed in last year and obviously every Dolphin fan was frustrated with the situation that occurred. We feel really good with the staff we’re putting together, how we’re going to build this thing offensively.”
Gase added that the key to a resurgent year from Tannehill will be cutting down the number of hits the quarterback has taken.
Since Tannehill entered the league in 2012, only the Jacksonville Jaguars have allowed more sacks. He’s been dropped 184 times, just shy of three sacks per game during 64 appearances.
Miami surrounded Tannehill with more weapons than ever last season, adding tight end Jordan Cameron as well as wide receivers DeVante Parker and Kenny Stills. However, the inconsistent offensive line affected Tannehill and Co. throughout the year.
Gase has proved he can build a system to reduce those struggles.
While serving as the Denver Broncos offensive coordinator, he utilized Peyton Manning’s quick-passing ability and surrounding weapons to help the line surrender 37 sacks in two seasons. Gase also kept Jay Cutler upright at the second-highest rate of his Chicago Bears tenure.
The Dolphins must improve the O-line for Tannehill to reach his full potential in future seasons, but Gase’s tutelage should allow the 27-year-old to overcome the problematic hiccup of 2015.