Dolphins Backup Quarterback Battle: Zach Wilson Wins Job Over Quinn Ewers

The Miami Dolphins have resolved their ongoing backup quarterback competition, with Zach Wilson securing the role over rookie Quinn Ewers as the team heads into Week 9, per ESPN.

The Dolphins’ backup quarterback situation has been a point of discussion throughout the season, with Wilson and Ewers both competing for the position. Head coach Mike McDaniel acknowledged the fluid nature of the competition, suggesting that things could change over time, but for now, Wilson is seen as the best fit for the team. Wilson, a veteran playing with his third NFL team, has edged out Ewers, who led Texas to the College Football Playoff last season. Despite his strong college performance, the rookie’s transition to the NFL has been challenging.

Miami is navigating a turbulent season at 2-6, with head coach McDaniel’s job security being questioned amid the team’s struggles. Star quarterback Tua Tagovailoa recently called out his teammates for lapses in practice and tardiness to team meetings, adding to the internal pressure. As the Dolphins prepare for their Thursday Night Football matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, the team will be looking to build on their most recent win while also preparing for Lamar Jackson’s return to action.

After a tough start to the season, the Dolphins are coming off what was arguably their best performance of the year. Miami defeated the Atlanta Falcons 34-10 in Week 8, with Tagovailoa throwing for four touchdown passes. Despite the encouraging win, McDaniel emphasized the importance of continued improvement as the team looks to regain its footing and address the challenges that have plagued their season.

1. Backup Quarterback Decision Settled—For Now

The Miami Dolphins’ backup quarterback position has been a point of contention this season, with Zach Wilson ultimately winning the job over Quinn Ewers. The competition has been close, with both quarterbacks showcasing their skills in practices and preseason games. Wilson, a former first-round pick who has played for three different NFL teams, is seen as a veteran option who can step in if needed. Ewers, on the other hand, is a promising rookie who had a stellar college career at Texas, leading the Longhorns to the College Football Playoff last season. Despite the competition, head coach Mike McDaniel emphasized that the situation could change over time. For now, Wilson is considered the better option, given his experience and familiarity with the NFL. While Ewers has shown potential, McDaniel seems to believe that the team’s current needs are best met with Wilson as the backup. Still, the Dolphins’ coaching staff remains open to reevaluating the decision as the season progresses. The decision to stick with Wilson also reflects the Dolphins’ immediate focus on the present, as they attempt to navigate a difficult season. With Miami’s playoff hopes hanging in the balance, McDaniel and the coaching staff are prioritizing stability at key positions, including backup quarterback. Wilson’s ability to step into the starting role if necessary gives the team a level of comfort, even if he’s not yet been asked to play a major role this season. While Ewers remains a promising prospect, the Dolphins are likely content to develop him at a slower pace, allowing him to learn behind Wilson and starter Tua Tagovailoa. This decision allows the Dolphins to focus on their immediate goals while keeping their future quarterback prospects in mind.

2. Dolphins Seek Consistency Amid Struggles

At 2-6, the Miami Dolphins are facing a season filled with frustration and uncertainty. While the team has shown flashes of promise, their inconsistency has kept them from finding any rhythm. Head coach Mike McDaniel, who was hired to bring stability to the organization, is now under pressure as questions about his job security emerge. Star quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has been outspoken about the team’s struggles, calling out teammates for not giving their best in practice and being late to meetings. These comments have highlighted the internal challenges Miami faces, with some players failing to meet the expectations set by the coaching staff. As the season wears on, McDaniel and the Dolphins must find a way to address these issues and build cohesion within the team. Despite the adversity, the Dolphins are coming off what could be considered their best performance of the season. In a dominant 34-10 win over the Atlanta Falcons, Tagovailoa threw for four touchdowns, showcasing his potential when the team plays at a high level. The victory provided some much-needed momentum, but McDaniel remains focused on making incremental improvements as the team prepares for the second half of the season. The Dolphins’ road to recovery will require more than just solid performances from Tagovailoa; the entire team must pull together. McDaniel has stressed that improvement is a continuous process and that the Dolphins’ mindset will ultimately determine their success moving forward. As Miami looks to stay competitive in the AFC playoff race, consistency on both sides of the ball will be key.

3. Preparing for Lamar Jackson and Ravens

As Miami prepares for its Week 9 showdown against the Baltimore Ravens, much of their attention is focused on the return of quarterback Lamar Jackson. While Jackson’s numbers have been down this season due to injury, his potential impact on the game is undeniable. Head coach Mike McDaniel acknowledged the challenge of preparing for such a dynamic player, emphasizing the importance of assuming Jackson will be on the field and preparing accordingly. Jackson, a former MVP, is known for his playmaking ability both in the air and on the ground. While his passing numbers have dipped this season, he remains one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in the NFL. McDaniel’s strategy will likely involve focusing on limiting Jackson’s ability to extend plays with his legs while also being mindful of his arm strength and accuracy as a passer. While the Ravens have struggled to find consistency this season, they remain a dangerous team when Jackson is healthy and playing at his best. The Dolphins are coming off a strong win, but facing the Ravens with a fully healthy Jackson represents a significant challenge. McDaniel’s focus will be on preparing his defense to handle the multidimensional threat posed by Jackson while also ensuring his offense continues to operate efficiently. With both teams having struggled at times this season, the Week 9 matchup between the Dolphins and Ravens will be crucial for their playoff hopes. Miami will need to build on its recent success and maintain focus, particularly when dealing with a quarterback as talented as Jackson.