The Miami Dolphins kick off a week of practice with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Tuesday — setting the stage for two days of intense practices before the two teams meet at Raymond James Stadium for Miami’s second preseason contest. And while some Dolphins are undoubtedly facing a stiff challenge this week, others should have success neutralizing a new opponent — someone other than a teammate after several weeks of facing the same players over and over.
Here are three Miami Dolphins who should win their one on one reps vs. Tampa Bay at practice.
OT Laremy Tunsil (vs. Tampa’s EDGEs)
The Bucs’ outside pass rush features Carl Nassib, Noah Spence and Shaq Barrett as their headline pass rushers. Barrett has been a good rotational rusher for several years and Spence came to Tampa with the expectation of being a strong starter — but Tunsil should comfortably hold serve on the edge vs. each of these three challengers this week.
WR DeVante Parker (vs. Tampa’s CBs)
Vernon Hargreaves III? He’s better off as a nickel defender inside. The Buccaneers have invested heavily at cornerback over the last two seasons — adding Jamel Dean, Sean Murphy-Bunting and Carlton Davis all as top-100 picks over the last two years. But Parker has had himself a strong camp and is currently healthy — he should give these young corners some run this week.
LB Jerome Baker (vs. Tampa’s RBs)
In coverage, in space, in the hole. You name it. Baker’s got it. The Bucs backfield showcases Peyton Barber and Ronald Jones as their top two options — neither of which should be able to consistently work over Baker in any specific area of the game. Look for Baker to show out well vs. Tampa’s backs in one on ones.
