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We've learned a little insight into how rookie quarterback Ryan Tannehill was able to throw for more yards than any Dolphins rookie on Sunday, and just a yard shy of the NFL rookie record (set last season by Cam Newton). 

According to Ben Volin with the Palm Beach Post, much of the credit can go to how the QB practices.  Head coach Joe Philbin has Tannehill's offensive coordinator Mike Sherman bring on the blitzes in practice.

They are structured around simulating the most difficult game situations, including the blitz on more practice reps than most teams would likely use. 

Sherman believes that is what is slowing down the game for the rookie, who threw for 306 yards against the Arizona Cardinals' blitz.  One more stat to throw your way: That was the most yards thrown against the blitz by any NFL quarterback since 2008. 

Coaches admit Tannehill is still making his share of mistakes, but he seemed more confident heading into Sunday's game and shows maturity in how he handles the few bad decisions that he does make. 

Keeping it in Stride

Just so there are no "knee-jerk reactions", Click Here to read what the Bleacher Report has to say about Tannehill's 431 yard Sunday in Tempe, Arizona.  They break down the performances of all four rookie QBs and there is no sugar coating involved. 

Comments include "Even though he (Tannehill) only threw one interception in the third quarter, there could have been three others, just in that quarter alone". 

Also consider this one: "Tannehill's 431 yards against the Cardinals weren't a very effective 431 passing yards.  With a couple better decisions, we would be talking about more than 431 yards and a win."

Of course, we could take that in a positive direction and say that Tannehill has the skill set to pass for 431 yards against a good Arizona defense, and just needs work on his decision-making. 

Remember the tipped passes in Tannehill's first game this season?  If he can fix his decision-making as fast as he seems to have turned that around, maybe this is the franchise quarterback Dolphins fans have been waiting for since Marino retired. 

Joel Malkin