Removing one of the best defensive tackles of this generation from a defense that was already statistically mediocre would seemingly be a recipe for disaster.
Yet these Dolphins — without Pro Bowler Ndamukong Suh but augmented by several key additions — today find themselves fourth best in the league in points per game allowed, best in passer rating against and tied for most interceptions.
The fact this defense has been a strength, and not a shortcoming, stands as the most pleasantly surprising development of this 2-0 Dolphins start.
“There’s something special going on here,” defensive end Robert Quinn said.