Browns' humiliation of Tua Tagovailoa somehow got even worse
Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel told reporters he doesn't see how things "could be worse" following their regular-season opening blowout loss to the Indianapolis Colts. But those are usually the famous last words before getting hit by an avalanche of misfortune, which has proven true. Look no further than the team's Week 7 31-6 demolition at the hands of the Cleveland Browns.
Cleveland's defense put McDaniel and the Dolphins in a blender from the outset of the game, forcing four turnovers and not allowing a touchdown. The final Miami giveaway was quarterback Tua Tagovailoa's third interception of the day, which Browns safety Ronnie Hickman ostensibly saw coming.
"Give it to me, Tua," Hickman muttered while mic'd up before and after picking off Tagovailoa. The Browns' third-year defensive back spoke the play into existence and consequently sent Miami's signal-caller to the bench, putting a bow on a lopsided affair.
Ronnie Hickman caps off Browns' bludgeoning of Tua Tagovailoa, Dolphins by manifesting INT
Hickman gets tackled by Dolphins wide receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, then gets up and proceeds to celebrate in the end zone with his Browns comrades. It felt as though Cleveland was dancing on the Tagovailoa-Miami era's grave – literally and figuratively – further adding to the embarrassment.
To make matters worse, Hickman’s takeaway happened as the CBS broadcast was highlighting Tagovailoa’s other two interceptions. The timing was an odd yet hilarious coincidence, albeit presumably not for Dolphins fans, who continue to be the butt of everyone’s jokes. Nevertheless, members of the Browns’ stop unit being able to call their shots speaks to how dire the situation in Miami has gotten.
The Browns may have just pushed the Dolphins toward existential crisis, regardless of what intel since the contest has suggested. McDaniel, who said Tagovailoa will remain Miami’s starter “moving forward,” according to ESPN's Marcel Louis-Jacques, appears to be safe for now. Yet, Hickman and Cleveland may have done irreparable damage.
Make no mistake, the Browns boast arguably the NFL’s premier stop unit. However, it’s not like they’re this mighty foe who manhandles opponents, considering they improved to 2-5 by beating the Phins. How Tagovailoa bounces back from this low point and whether Hickman and Cleveland shattered his confidence will say a lot about him.
Red Sox Set to Trade for $8.6 Million Gold Glove Winner, Aiming to Strengthen Support for Trevor Story with Alex Bregman
The Boston Red Sox are reportedly eyeing a significant trade to bolster their roster, with plans to acquire a Gold Glove winner valued at $8.6 million to support Trevor Story’s efforts this season. Sources suggest that Alex Bregman, the standout third baseman from the Houston Astros, is at the center of the trade talks, a move that would greatly enhance the Red Sox’s infield depth and defensive capabilities.
Bregman, known for his exceptional fielding and offensive consistency, could be the missing piece in the Red Sox's quest to strengthen their defensive game. The addition of a Gold Glove-caliber player would provide valuable support to Story, who has been carrying a heavy load in the middle of the diamond.
The Red Sox are committed to improving their defensive unit as part of their long-term strategy, and adding a player of Bregman’s caliber would undoubtedly make an immediate impact. With the Astros reportedly open to discussions, the Red Sox are eager to finalize the trade, ensuring that their infield defense remains among the league’s best.
The proposed trade could be a pivotal move for the Red Sox as they continue to build a competitive roster, with Bregman’s leadership and experience offering a strong complement to Story’s talents. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see if the deal will materialize, which could significantly elevate the Red Sox's prospects for the season ahead.
