Brian Flores and defensive coordinator Josh Boyer have crafted an impressive defense this season for the Miami Dolphins, and secondary play is a big reason for their success. Cornerback Xavien Howard grabbed his NFL-leading eighth interception early against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, and it is a perfect example of a cornerback finding the football and then high-pointing the pass for an interception.
On this 1st and 10 play midway through the first quarter the Dolphins bring pressure and play straight man coverage behind it, as they have done so often this season. The Bengals try and run a switch verticals concept, with Brandon Allen trying to hit the wheel route out of the slot.
Howard was having none of it:
Xavien Howard grabs his 8th INT of the season! (leads NFL) #FinsUp
📺: #CINvsMIA on CBS
📱: NFL app // Yahoo Sports app: https://t.co/nO8DOddpx2 pic.twitter.com/GtdNvR00Vi— NFL (@NFL) December 6, 2020
This is tremendous from the cornerback. First he has to fight through the traffic created by the route design, as he needs to pick through the matchup on the outside. Then he needs to recover and eliminate the separation between himself and the receiver. To cap off the play, he has to turn, pinpoint the football, and make the play at the catch point.
Textbook.
