Tyler “Snoop” Huntley, a new addition to the Miami Dolphins, has impressed his teammates and coaching staff even before officially joining the team. Coach Mike McDaniel noted how Huntley’s former Ravens teammates supported him during the 2022 season when he filled in for Lamar Jackson, guiding Baltimore to the playoffs. Receiver Tyreek Hill praised Huntley’s running abilities, while quarterbacks coach Darrell Bevell recognized his underrated passing skills. These factors influenced the Dolphins’ decision to start Huntley as quarterback against the Tennessee Titans on Monday night.
With Tua Tagovailoa on injured reserve and backup Skylar Thompson nursing a rib injury, the Dolphins’ quarterback choices were narrowed down to Huntley and Tim Boyle, both relatively new to the Miami team. Huntley, arriving on Sept. 17, has been diligently studying the Dolphins’ playbook, which features complex pre-snap motions and timing-based throws. McDaniel stated that rather than designing new plays for Huntley, they would incorporate elements that align with his strengths into the existing system.
McDaniel drew parallels to his experience with Jimmy Garoppolo joining the San Francisco 49ers midseason in 2017 and becoming the starting quarterback, leading the team to five consecutive wins. The coach emphasized the importance of team belief in the quarterback’s leadership, a quality he sees in Huntley. Despite Huntley’s limited time with the Dolphins, McDaniel trusts in his abilities to make a positive impact.
Known for his dual-threat capabilities, Huntley brings a dimension of mobility to the Dolphins’ offense that has struggled in previous games. His career statistics show a 64.6% completion rate, a 79% passer rating, eight passing touchdowns, and 509 rushing yards with an average of 4.4 yards per carry and three rushing touchdowns. Huntley’s preparedness and commitment to learning the playbook thoroughly have earned him the starting role.
As Huntley gets set to lead the Dolphins against the Titans, the Tennessee defense is gearing up to face him, expecting a similar style of play to when he filled in for Lamar Jackson. Defensive end Jeffery Simmons acknowledged the challenge of containing Huntley’s dynamic skill set. Despite the Titans’ defensive strength, Huntley’s versatility poses a unique threat.
In Monday night’s game, Huntley will have Boyle as his backup, with Thompson potentially available as an emergency third quarterback. The Titans will be without defensive passing game coordinator/cornerbacks coach Chris Harris, with secondary coach Steve Jackson assuming his responsibilities.