NFL Rumors: Daniel Thomas OUT (concussion) Lamar Miller IN

The word out of Florida is that the Miami Dolphins will be without the services of 2nd year RB Daniel Thomas this weekend as they host the St. Louis Rams (3-2). For the 2nd time in five weeks Thomas sustained a concussion and so far has yet to be cleared to return to practise.

Clearly 2 concussions is bad, plus add in the small time frame of just 5 weeks. Yikes. When you watch Thomas run you get the feeling that his size (6-footer 230 pounds) and his technique, combined with his power-running style, lead to problematic moments where he is vulnerable to a bit hit. A head high/head level hit.

In his career Thomas will have missed 5 games in his 1+ season if he in fact cannot play this weekend. He has 2 career rushing TDs, and they came in the past 3 weeks.

Miami can turn to Jorvorskie Lane in short-yardage situations, and we are going to see more of rookie Lamar Miller.

Miller has struggled in pass-protection/blitz pickups, but A) most rookies do – he will improve…and B) he is a home-run threat with every touch. Miami is starting to use Reggie Bush in the slot as a WR more often than they were so Miller can be a legit RB in those formations, and I think he can establish that he is going to be a legit NFL running back.

Miller did not play week 1 vs the Houston Texans, or last week vs the Cincinnati Bengals. He played weeks 2,3, and 4. His numbers declined with each game.

Impressive debut vs the Oakland Raiders. 10 carries for 65 yards and a TD.

That dropped to 9 carries for 48 yards vs the New York Jets, but still a good contribution.

In the Arizona Cardinals game he had 4 carries for 13 yards.

I would anticipate the ‘Phins wanting to run the ball a good amount of plays vs the Rams. St.Louis has a good pass-rush and good CBs so establishing the run will be important. This should be a game where Miami has a lead which could also result in a lot of running-plays being called. I am anticipating career-highs in this game for Miller. I certainly anticipate a new career-high in carries at least.

Bush is sure to get the majority of carries, but if the rumors are accurate then we will see more and more of Miller this weekend.

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