The Miami Dolphins are set to face off against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in their final preseason game on Friday night at 7:30 p.m. at Raymond James Stadium.
In this matchup, the Buccaneers are expected to field more of their starters early in the game compared to the Dolphins, with many of Miami’s key players likely not participating at all. Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel confirmed that quarterbacks Mike White and Skylar Thompson will both play in the game as they compete for the backup position behind Tua Tagovailoa, who will not see action.
Tua expressed confidence in his readiness for the regular season following the last preseason game and emphasized that he is prepared for the season opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars on September 8, which will take place at Hard Rock Stadium.
During the preseason warmups, multiple players are not expected to play tonight, including quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, running backs Raheem Mostert, De’Von Achane, Chris Brooks, fullback Alec Ingold, and wide receivers Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, and Erik Ezukanma, among others. The defensive lineup will also be missing several key players.
Conversely, some players anticipated to participate include quarterbacks Mike White and Skylar Thompson, and running backs Jaylen Wright and Jeff Wilson.
Additionally, wide receiver Erik Ezukanma and safety Patrick McMorris are both in walking boots, which could affect their chances of making the final 53-man roster.
In an interesting development, tight ends coach and assistant head coach Jon Embree will take on head coaching duties during the second half of the game, while McDaniel remains responsible for calling offensive plays. This provides Embree an opportunity to prepare for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise during the season.
As the Dolphins approach their final preseason game, they also prepare to finalize their 53-man roster by Tuesday at 4 p.m.