Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
After the Miami Dolphins opened up the 2013 NFL season with a victory over the Cleveland Browns, the team already found themselves a distraction going into week two. Big-time free agent signing Mike Wallace was reportedly unhappy about his involvement in the offense on Sunday.
After the game, Wallace was instigated by reporters who wanted to know his thoughts on the game plan. Wallace responded with a simple: ”Ask coach. Not my game plan. I don’t feel like talking about it. Ask coach.”
It wasn’t necessarily what he said, but the way he said it, that was notable. He seemed obviously upset with his one reception for 15 yards.
Offensive coordinator Mike Sherman was more understanding than I am.
“He wants to feel a part of the game, as I hope that he would,” Sherman said. “He came here to be a factor in our season and our success. The fact that he’s disappointed he only caught one ball, that’s expected. I have no problem with that.”
Wallace’s fellow starter on the opposite end, Brian Hartline, ended with nine receptions for 114 yards and an all-important touchdown. Three players had more than Wallace’s five targets, with Hartline leading the way at a total of 15 and Brandon Gibson getting 10.
Here’s the problem: Wallace is a selfish diva. That’s that.
There really isn’t need for much more explaining than that. I don’t know many guys that would complain after getting a win other than Wallace. Sure, he should be upset to an extent. But it’s only week one. If the Dolphins prove they can win without Wallace being the number one factor, he should consider that a positive. That means Miami has more weapons than expected.
Wallace will get his looks as the season goes on, but for now he needs to stay quiet. Even just a few words and an attitude after the game showed his immaturity and unwillingness to operate on a team-centric mentality.
Ryan Heckman is a Senior Writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @ryanmheckman, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.
Related:
Of Course, Mike Wallace Was Mad at Himself
Miami Dolphins’ Worst Nightmare: Mike Wallace Spouts Off After Game
