Dan Marino has some clear-cut advice for the Miami Dolphins as they look to advance next season. Speaking with confidence on the Pat McAfee Show during Super Bowl LIX festivities in New Orleans, the Dolphins legend emphasized the critical need to keep quarterback Tua Tagovailoa healthy.
Tagovailoa was sidelined for six games in 2024, battling injuries that included a concussion early in the season against the Buffalo Bills and a troublesome hip pointer later on. Marino elaborated, “He had a hip pointer and it really hampered him for a few weeks.
But looking ahead, he’s going to be fine.” Marino acknowledged that the Dolphins showcased significant potential this past season until injuries, particularly late in the campaign, hindered their playoff push and chances for home-field advantage.
He underscored Tua’s role as the franchise quarterback and stressed, “The priority has to be keeping him healthy, especially when games that determine playoff positions are on the line.”
Marino also tackled the persistent notion that the Dolphins struggle in cold weather games. Addressing this with a touch of humor and determination, he pointed out, “To change the narrative, you just have to start winning.”
Reflecting on his own playing days, Marino mentioned the strategic aim of securing home-field advantage to avoid playing in places like Buffalo, Pittsburgh, or Kansas City in frigid temperatures. “We’re not accustomed to that kind of cold, but the real answer is simply winning more games to earn home field.”
Before diving into team specifics, Marino brushed off the idea that distractions in South Florida contribute to the team’s challenges. His message was one of optimism and patience: “We’ll get there.”
In a lighter note, Marino is set to take the mound for the ceremonial first pitch at the Miami Marlins’ season opener against the Pittsburgh Pirates on March 27 at loanDepot Park. Considering Marino’s Pittsburgh roots, this matchup feels like a homecoming of sorts for the Dolphins icon, adding a nostalgic twist to the event.