The Miami Dolphins are off to a 1-0 start after overcoming a 14-point deficit to win in a dramatic finish. They now face a big matchup against division rival Buffalo on Thursday night.
Under normal circumstances, Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel would be focusing on the upcoming game. But these are not ordinary circumstances.
The major news from Sunday involved wide receiver Tyreek Hill being handcuffed and seen on the ground near the stadium before the season opener. Defensive lineman Calais Campbell was also briefly handcuffed when he tried to intervene.
Despite the commotion, both Hill and Campbell played and contributed to the 20-17 win over Jacksonville. The team came together strongly after learning about the incident.
McDaniel, who appeared emotional, talked about how being involved in the NFL and preparing for a game provides a welcome distraction from difficult situations.
“I think a lot of times, it’s therapeutic to be in the process of NFL game week, a Thursday night division opponent.
There’s a lot of very constructive things to think about. Sometimes, that can be our greatest gift, that gift of supreme distraction,” McDaniel said.
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava stated that an investigation into the officers’ actions will address concerns and is part of a broader discussion on police use of force.
Despite the major distraction, the Dolphins managed to beat the Jaguars. The issue will certainly continue to affect the team as they prepare for Thursday’s game.
McDaniel expressed that he was deeply troubled by the incident and his feelings remained strong. “It’s been hard for me not to find myself more upset, the more I think about it,” McDaniel said.
Nevertheless, he was pleased with the result of Sunday’s game and the team’s response in the locker room.
