{{Short description|46th season in franchise history}} {{Use American English|date=March 2026}} {{Unreliable sources|date=December 2022}} {{Use mdy dates|date=December 2013}} {{Infobox NFL team season | logo = | team = Miami Dolphins | year = 2011 | record = 6–10 <!-- Do not add zero ties --> | division_place = 3rd AFC East | coach = Tony Sparano (fired on December 12; 4–9 record)<br />Todd Bowles (interim; 2–1 record) | general_manager = Jeff Ireland | stadium = Sun Life Stadium | playoffs = ''Did not qualify'' | pro_bowlers = T Jake Long<br />WR Brandon Marshall<br />DT Paul Soliai | uniform = | shortnavlink = Dolphins seasons }} The 2011 season was the Miami Dolphins' 42nd in the National Football League (NFL), their 46th overall, and their fourth and final season under head coach Tony Sparano.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d81d84147/article/sparano-told-hell-stay-with-dolphins-despite-harbaugh-talks?module=HP_headlines|title=Sparano told he'll stay with Dolphins despite Harbaugh talks|publisher=National Football League|work=Wire Reports|date=January 6, 2011|access-date=April 27, 2013|archive-date=November 6, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121106110748/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d81d84147/article/sparano-told-hell-stay-with-dolphins-despite-harbaugh-talks?module=HP_headlines|url-status=dead}}</ref> The Dolphins made their first-round selection with the 15th pick of the 2011 NFL draft on Florida center Mike Pouncey. The team lost each of their first seven games but went 6–3 in their final nine to finish with an overall 6–10 record. However, this result failed to improve on their record from 2010, and Sparano was fired on December 12. Assistant head coach and secondary coach Todd Bowles served as interim head coach for the final three games. {{TOC limit|3}}
==Offseason==
===2011 NFL draft=== {{Main|2011 NFL draft}}
DraftKing.com, NFLMocks.com, and ''The Palm Beach Post'' predicted that the Dolphins would use their first round pick to choose Gabe Carimi, a left tackle for the Wisconsin Badgers who won the 2010 Outland Trophy as the nation's top collegiate interior lineman, and was a Consensus All-American.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://nflmocks.com/2011/02/16/mock-my-mock-1st-round/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110714180158/http://nflmocks.com/2011/02/16/mock-my-mock-1st-round/ |archive-date=July 14, 2011 |title=1st Round « NFL Mocks | Covering the 2011 NFL Draft |date=February 16, 2011 |publisher=NFLmocks|access-date=February 18, 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://blogs.palmbeachpost.com/thedailydolphin/2011/03/15/mock-draft-v-20-predicting-the-first-round-of-the-2011-nfl-draft/ |title=Mock Draft v. 2.0: Predicting the first round of the 2011 NFL Draft |publisher=The Palm Beach Post |work=The Daily Dolphin |author=Ben Volin |date=March 14, 2011 |access-date=March 18, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110319035842/http://blogs.palmbeachpost.com/thedailydolphin/2011/03/15/mock-draft-v-20-predicting-the-first-round-of-the-2011-nfl-draft/ |archive-date=March 19, 2011 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all }}</ref> Charles Davis of NFL.com predicted they would draft Mark Ingram II from the University of Alabama.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/post-combine-projection-has-panthers-taking-aim-at-newton-09000d5d81e9431a |title=Post-combine projection has Panthers taking aim at Newton |work=Nfl.com |date=March 2, 2011 |author=Charles Davis |access-date=March 18, 2011| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110307195111/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d81e9431a/article/postcombine-projection-has-panthers-taking-aim-at-newton| archive-date= March 7, 2011 | url-status= live}}</ref>
{{NFL team draft start | year = 2011 | teamname = Miami Dolphins }} {{NFL team draft entry | round = 1 | pick = 15 | player = Mike Pouncey | position = C | college = Florida | notes = | maderoster = yes | hof = | probowl = yes }} {{NFL team draft entry | round = 2 | pick = 62 | player = Daniel Thomas | position = RB | college = Kansas State | notes = Pick from DEN{{#tag:ref|The Dolphins traded its second-round selection (#46 overall) and a 2010 second-round selection to the Denver Broncos in exchange for WR Brandon Marshall.|group=dr}}{{#tag:ref|The Dolphins traded its third-round selection (#79 overall), fifth-round selection (#146 overall) and a seventh-round selection (#217 overall) to the Washington Redskins in exchange for a second-round selection (#62 overall).|group=dr}} | maderoster = yes | hof = | probowl = }} {{NFL team draft entry | round = 4 | pick = 111 | player = Edmond Gates | position = WR | college = Abilene Christian | notes = | maderoster = | hof = | probowl = }} {{NFL team draft entry | round = 6 | pick = 174 | player = Charles Clay | position = FB/TE | college = Tulsa | notes = Pick from GB{{#tag:ref|The Dolphins traded its sixth-round selection (#179 overall) and seventh-round selection (#218 overall) to the Green Bay Packers for their sixth-round selection (#174 overall) and seventh-round selection (#231 overall).|group=dr}} | maderoster = yes | hof = | probowl = }} {{NFL team draft entry | round = 7 | pick = 231 | player = Frank Kearse | position = DT | college = Alabama A&M | notes = Pick from JAC{{#tag:ref|The Dolphins acquired this seventh-round selection (#218 overall) in a May 2010 trade that sent G Justin Smiley to the Jacksonville Jaguars.|group=dr}} | maderoster = | hof = | probowl = }} {{NFL team draft entry | round = 7 | pick = 235 | player = Jimmy Wilson | position = CB | college = Montana | notes = Compensatory{{#tag:ref|Compensatory selection|group=dr}} | maderoster = yes | hof = | probowl = }} {{NFL team draft end}}
{{reflist|group="dr"}}
===Personnel changes=== Brian Daboll joined the team as offensive coordinator. Karl Dorrell moved to quarterbacks coach from wide receivers coach. Jeff Nixon wasadded as the running backs coach. Steve Bush moved to wide receivers coach from offensive quality control. Ike Hilliard was added as an assistant wide receivers coach. Dan Campbell moved to tight ends coach from intern. Bryan Cox was added as a defensive pass rush coach.
===Roster changes===
====Re-signings==== * '''March 4''' — Re-signed guard Richie Incognito three years<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.palmbeachpost.com/sports/dolphins/dolphins-resign-lineman-richie-incognito-place-free-agent-1296300.html|date=March 4, 2011|archive-date=March 5, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110305185548/http://www.palmbeachpost.com/sports/dolphins/dolphins-resign-lineman-richie-incognito-place-free-agent-1296300.html|author=Ben Volin|title=Dolphins resign lineman Richie Incognito, place free-agent tender on backup QB Tyler Thigpen}}</ref> * '''July 30''' — Re-signed defensive end Tony McDaniel two years<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thephinsider.com/2011/7/28/2299444/dolphins-wednesday-recap|title=Dolphins' Wednesday Recap|date=July 28, 2011|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=November 16, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111116061806/http://www.thephinsider.com/2011/7/28/2299444/dolphins-wednesday-recap|url-status=live}}</ref> * '''August 5''' — Re-signed offensive tackle Nate Garner, running back Lex Hilliard, offensive tackle Lydon Murtha, running back Kory Sheets<ref>{{cite web|url=http://insidepulse.com/2011/08/09/nfl-team-transactions-from-august-as-of-august-8-1000-pm-et/|title=NFL: Team Transactions From August as of August 8, 10:00 PM ET - Inside Pulse|website=insidepulse.com|date=August 9, 2011|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=August 30, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110830053351/http://insidepulse.com/2011/08/09/nfl-team-transactions-from-august-as-of-august-8-1000-pm-et/|url-status=live}}</ref>
====Signings==== * '''July 26''' — Signed quarterback Pat Devlin<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=Inquirer |title=QB Pat Devlin signs with Miami Dolphins |url=https://www.inquirer.com/philly/blogs/sportsinq/QB-Pat-Devlin-signs-with-Miami-Dolphins.html |access-date=2023-02-03 |website=inquirer.com |language=en |archive-date=February 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230203123445/https://www.inquirer.com/philly/blogs/sportsinq/QB-Pat-Devlin-signs-with-Miami-Dolphins.html |url-status=live }}</ref> * '''July 29''' — Signed linebacker Kevin Burnett<ref>{{Cite web |date=2011-07-30 |title=Source: Dolphins sign LB Kevin Burnett |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/6818378 |access-date=2024-12-29 |website=ESPN.com|agency=Associated Press |language=en}}</ref> * '''July 30''' — Signed linebacker Jason Trusnik,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/redskins/dolphins-bolster-defense-by-signing-tony-mcdaniel-jason-trusnik/2011/07/30/gIQAbrB9iI_story.html|title=Jason Trusnik|newspaper=The Washington Post }}</ref> quarterback Matt Moore<ref>{{cite news | url=http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2011/07/matt-moore-is-headed-to-the-dolphins.html | work=Los Angeles Times | title=The Fabulous Forum | date=July 29, 2011 | access-date=August 14, 2011 | archive-date=July 30, 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110730185128/http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2011/07/matt-moore-is-headed-to-the-dolphins.html | url-status=live }}</ref> * '''July 31''' — Signed defensive end Ronald Fields<ref>{{cite web|url=http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/2011-07-31/sports/sfl-miami-dolphins-sign-ronald-fields-11_1_miami-dolphins-sign-frank-kearse-sparano|title=Miami Dolphins sign defensive lineman Ronald Fields|first=Andrew|last=Carter|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=September 13, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120913044540/http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/2011-07-31/sports/sfl-miami-dolphins-sign-ronald-fields-11_1_miami-dolphins-sign-frank-kearse-sparano|url-status=dead}}</ref> * '''August 1''' — Signed offensive tackle Marc Colombo<ref>{{cite web|url=http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/2011-08-01/sports/sfl-miami-dolphins-sign-marc-colombo-0801_1_vernon-carey-tony-sparano-dolphins|title=Dolphins sign Marc Colombo, leave Vernon Carey in limbo|first=Omar|last=Kelly|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=September 13, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120913044527/http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/2011-08-01/sports/sfl-miami-dolphins-sign-marc-colombo-0801_1_vernon-carey-tony-sparano-dolphins|url-status=dead}}</ref> * '''August 2''' — Signed linebacker Jason Taylor<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/sfl-jason-taylor-miami-dolphins-reunite-0801,0,5943424.story |work=Chicago Tribune |title=Jason Taylor }} {{dead link|date=May 2013}}</ref> * '''August 5''' — Signed quarterback Kevin O'Connell<ref>{{Cite web |last=Galicia |first=Thomas |title=Miami Dolphins Sign Former Jets and Patriots Backup QB Kevin O'Connell |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/793695-miami-dolphins-sign-former-jets-and-patriots-backup-qb-kevin-oconnell |access-date=2023-02-03 |website=Bleacher Report |language=en |archive-date=February 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230203120526/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/793695-miami-dolphins-sign-former-jets-and-patriots-backup-qb-kevin-oconnell |url-status=live }}</ref> * '''August 6''' — Signed offensive tackle Ray Willis<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nelson |first=Chris J. |title=Miami Dolphins Sign OT Ray Willis; Work out QB Troy Smith |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/794326-miami-dolphins-sign-ot-ray-willis-work-out-qb-troy-smith |access-date=2023-02-03 |website=Bleacher Report |language=en |archive-date=February 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230203095337/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/794326-miami-dolphins-sign-ot-ray-willis-work-out-qb-troy-smith |url-status=live }}</ref> * '''August 9''' — Signed linebacker David Nixon, cornerback K.J. Gerard<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nelson |first=Chris J. |title=Miami Dolphins Sign DB K. J. Gerard, LB David Nixon |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/799255-miami-dolphins-sign-db-k-j-gerard-lb-david-nixon |access-date=2023-02-03 |website=Bleacher Report |language=en |archive-date=February 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230203121410/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/799255-miami-dolphins-sign-db-k-j-gerard-lb-david-nixon |url-status=live }}</ref> * '''August 15''' — Signed wide receiver John Matthews,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.profootballweekly.com/2011/08/16/dolphins-sign-wr-matthews |title = ProFootballWeekly.com - Dolphins sign WR Matthews |access-date=2011-08-24 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120406023527/http://www.profootballweekly.com/2011/08/16/dolphins-sign-wr-matthews |archive-date=April 6, 2012 |df=mdy }}</ref> linebacker Marvin Mitchell<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blogs.palmbeachpost.com/thedailydolphin/2011/08/15/miami-dolphins-talking-points-for-the-2nd-straight-year-the-better-qb-may-be-on-the-bench/ |title = Miami Dolphins Talking Points: For the 2nd straight year, the better QB may be on the bench {{!}} The Daily Dolphin |access-date=2011-08-24 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111007020552/http://blogs.palmbeachpost.com/thedailydolphin/2011/08/15/miami-dolphins-talking-points-for-the-2nd-straight-year-the-better-qb-may-be-on-the-bench/ |archive-date=October 7, 2011 |df=mdy }}</ref> * '''August 22''' — Signed guard Tyler Donohue * '''August 23''' — Signed running back Larry Johnson<ref>{{Cite web |last=Murray |first=Rob |title=Miami Dolphins Sign Running Back Larry Johnson |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/818759-miami-dolphins-sign-running-back-larry-johnson |access-date=2023-02-03 |website=Bleacher Report |language=en |archive-date=February 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230203095339/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/818759-miami-dolphins-sign-running-back-larry-johnson |url-status=live }}</ref> * '''August 29''' — Signed safety Gerald Alexander * '''September 4''' — Signed tight end Will Yeatman<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/miami-dolphins/fl-miami-dolphins-0905-20110904,0,5286436.story |title=Miami Dolphins plan to keep churning the roster, as usual - Sun Sentinel |website=www.sun-sentinel.com |access-date=26 January 2022 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130203112304/http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/miami-dolphins/fl-miami-dolphins-0905-20110904,0,5286436.story |archive-date=3 February 2013 |url-status=dead}}</ref> * '''September 5''' — Signed tight end Dante Rosario and center/guard Ryan Cook * '''September 8''' �� Signed running back Larry Johnson * '''September 14''' — Signed cornerback Will Allen<ref>{{Cite web |title=Will Allen Signs With Miami Dolphins |url=https://cuse.com/news/2006/3/21/0321Allen |access-date=2023-02-03 |website=Syracuse University Athletics |language=en |archive-date=February 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230203095345/https://cuse.com/news/2006/3/21/0321Allen |url-status=live }}</ref> * '''September 20''' — Signed defensive end Igor Olshansky and cornerback Nate Jones<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/dolphins-sign-dl-olshansky-cb-jones-to-shore-up-defense-09000d5d8226c540|title=Dolphins sign DL Olshansky, CB Jones to shore up defense|website=NFL.com|access-date=September 23, 2011|archive-date=September 24, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110924182133/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d8226c540/article/dolphins-sign-dl-olshansky-cb-jones-to-shore-up-defense|url-status=live}}</ref> * '''September 28''' — Signed running back Steve Slaton<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/redskins/with-dolphins-still-winless-reggie-bush-knows-the-time-is-now-to-turn-things-around/2011/09/28/gIQAISPO5K_story.html|title=With Dolphins still winless, Reggie Bush knows the time is now to turn things around|newspaper=The Washington Post }}</ref> * '''October 6''' — Signed quarterback Sage Rosenfels<ref>{{cite web |url=http://eye-on-football.blogs.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/22475988/32540035 |title=Dolphins ink Sage Rosenfels, Henne done for year |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111008173803/http://eye-on-football.blogs.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/22475988/32540035 |archive-date=October 8, 2011 }}</ref>
====Departures==== * '''July 29''' — UFA quarterback Tyler Thigpen,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rosenthal |first=Gregg |date=2011-07-27 |title=Tyler Thigpen headed to Buffalo |url=https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/07/26/tyler-thigpen-headed-to-buffalo/ |access-date=2023-02-03 |website=ProFootballTalk |language=en-US |archive-date=February 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230203094500/https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/07/26/tyler-thigpen-headed-to-buffalo/ |url-status=live }}</ref> UFA quarterback Chad Pennington<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wvmetronews.com/marshall.cfm?func%3Ddisplayfullstory%26storyid%3D47064 |title = Pennington Gets New Gig - Marshall University News, Scores and Coverage from WVMETRONEWS.COM |access-date=2011-08-14 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120329152127/http://www.wvmetronews.com/marshall.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=47064 |archive-date=March 29, 2012 |df=mdy }}</ref> * '''August 2''' — UFA running back Ronnie Brown,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/42767|title=Eagles sign running back Ronnie Brown|date=August 2, 2011|website=ESPN.com|access-date=November 2, 2018|archive-date=February 4, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230204204725/https://www.espn.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/42767|url-status=live}}</ref> Released linebacker Channing Crowder<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.palmbeachpost.com/sports/dolphins/linebacker-channing-crowder-released-by-the-miami-dolphins-1719176.html |title=Linebacker Channing Crowder, released by the Miami Dolphins, retires at 27. |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121011143928/http://www.palmbeachpost.com/news/sports/football/linebacker-channing-crowder-released-by-the-miami-/nLwsh/ |archive-date=2012-10-11 |access-date=2023-01-06}}</ref> * '''August 3''' — Terminated the contract of linebacker Tim Dobbins<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thephinsider.com/2011/8/1/2310203/the-dolphins-waived-tim-dobbins-his-contract-was-terminated-he-was|title=The Dolphins waived Tim Dobbins. His contract was terminated. He was due $1.5 in 2011 and was...|date=August 1, 2011|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=March 30, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120330182651/http://www.thephinsider.com/2011/8/1/2310203/the-dolphins-waived-tim-dobbins-his-contract-was-terminated-he-was|url-status=live}}</ref> * '''August 8''' — UFA running back Ricky Williams<ref>{{cite web|url=http://articles.philly.com/2011-08-09/sports/29867512_1_borderline-personality-disorder-ronnie-brown-fan-appreciation|title=Archives - Philly.com|website=The Philadelphia Inquirer|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=September 3, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120903022900/http://articles.philly.com/2011-08-09/sports/29867512_1_borderline-personality-disorder-ronnie-brown-fan-appreciation|url-status=dead}}</ref> * '''August 15''' — Waived wide receiver Brooks Foster * '''August 23''' — Waived running back Kory Sheets * '''August 26''' — Waived corner back K.J. Gerard, defensive tackle Johnny Jones, corner back Jose Perez * '''August 27''' — Waived/Injured linebacker Mike Rivera * '''August 30''' — Waived tackle Tyler Donahue * '''September 2''' — Waived tight end Dedrick Epps and wide receiver John Matthews. Terminated contract of safety Gerald Alexander. * '''September 3''' — Waived quarterback Kevin O'Connell, safety Mark Restelli, cornerback Vincent Agnew, tight end Brett Brackett, wide receiver Patrick Carter, guard Garrett Chisolm, quarterback Pat Devlin, linebacker Jonathan Freeny, running back Nic Grigsby, tackle D.J. Jones, tackle Matt Kopa, wide receiver Phillip Livas, cornerback Nate Ness, linebacker David Nixon, wide receiver Julius Pruitt, linebacker Robert Rose, tight end Mickey Shuler, and linebacker Quinton Spears. Terminated contracts with corner back Will Allen, nose tackle Ronald Fields, running back Larry Johnson, full back Lousaka Polite, and tackle Ray Willis.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nogle |first=Kevin |date=2011-09-03 |title=Miami Dolphins Complete Roster Cuts |url=https://www.thephinsider.com/2011/9/3/2403609/miami-dolphins-complete-roster-cuts |access-date=2023-02-03 |website=The Phinsider |language=en |archive-date=February 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230203095344/https://www.thephinsider.com/2011/9/3/2403609/miami-dolphins-complete-roster-cuts |url-status=live }}</ref> * '''September 4''' — Waived defensive tackle Frank Kearse * '''September 5''' — Released linebacker A.J. Edds and terminated the contract of center Joe Berger * '''September 8''' — Waived guard Ray Feinga * '''September 13''' — Terminated the contract of corner back Benny Sapp * '''September 20''' — Terminated the contracts of running back Larry Johnson and tight end Dante Rosario * '''September 28''' — Cut defensive end Ryan Baker
====Trades==== * '''July 29''' — Traded reserve safety Jonathon Amaya and an exchange of undisclosed draft picks for running back Reggie Bush<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/6811714|title=Bush dealt to Dolphins, agrees to two-year deal|date=July 28, 2011|website=ESPN.com|access-date=November 2, 2018|archive-date=May 7, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190507231621/http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/6811714|url-status=live}}</ref>
===Team captains=== The team voted the following as their 2011 team captains.
'''Offense''' * Chad Henne * Jake Long
'''Defense''' * Yeremiah Bell * Karlos Dansby
Head coach Tony Sparano decided that the special teams captain would be selected on week to week basis.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.miamiherald.com/2011/09/09/2398895/henne-elected-dolphins-captain.html |title=Henne Elected Dolphins Captain |website=Miami Herald }}{{dead link|date=June 2023}}</ref>
==Staff== {| class="toccolours" style="text-align: left;" |- ! colspan="7" style="background:#066; color:white; text-align:center; border:2px solid #df6108;"|'''Miami Dolphins 2011 staff''' |- |colspan=7 align="right" | |- |valign="top"| | style="font-size: 95%;" valign="top" | '''Front office''' * Chairman/managing general partner – Stephen Ross * Vice chairman/partner – Jorge Perez * Vice chairman – Don Shula * CEO – Mike Dee * General manager – Jeff Ireland * Senior vice president of football operations – Dawn Aponte * Director of player personnel – Brian Gaine * Director of college scouting – Chris Grier * Assistant director of pro scouting – Chris Shea
'''Head coaches''' * Interim head coach/secondary – Todd Bowles
'''Offensive coaches''' * Offensive coordinator – Brian Daboll * Quarterbacks – Karl Dorrell * Running backs – Jeff Nixon * Wide receivers – Steve Bush * Assistant wide receivers – Ike Hilliard * Tight ends – Dan Campbell * Offensive line – Dave DeGuglielmo * Offensive quality control – Tony Sparano, Jr. |width="35"| |valign="top"| | style="font-size: 95%;" valign="top" | '''Defensive coaches''' * Defensive coordinator – Mike Nolan * Defensive line – Kacy Rodgers * Pass rush – Bryan Cox * Linebackers – Bill Sheridan * Assistant linebackers – David Corrao * Assistant secondary – Joe Danna
'''Special teams coaches''' * Special teams coordinator – Darren Rizzi * Assistant special teams – Dave Fipp
'''Strength and conditioning''' * Head strength and conditioning – Darren Krein * Assistant strength and conditioning – David Puloka |}
==Final roster== {{NFL final roster |Year=2011 |TeamName=Miami Dolphins |BC1=#006666 |FC1=white |BDC1=#DF6108 |Active=53 |Inactive=6 |PS=8
|Quarterbacks= {{NFLplayer| 9|Pat Devlin|d=American football|rookie=y}} {{NFLplayer| 6|J. P. Losman}} {{NFLplayer| 8|Matt Moore|d=American football}}
|Running Backs= {{NFLplayer|22|Reggie Bush}} {{NFLplayer|31|Charles Clay|d=American football|rookie=y|FB}} {{NFLplayer|26|Lex Hilliard|FB}} {{NFLplayer|38|Richard Medlin|rookie=y}} {{NFLplayer|23|Steve Slaton}} {{NFLplayer|33|Daniel Thomas|d=running back|rookie=y}}
|Wide Receivers= {{NFLplayer|15|Davone Bess|PR}} {{NFLplayer|10|Clyde Gates|rookie=y|KR}} {{NFLplayer|82|Brian Hartline}} {{NFLplayer|19|Brandon Marshall}} {{NFLplayer|11|Julius Pruitt}}
|Tight Ends= {{NFLplayer|80|Anthony Fasano}} {{NFLplayer|88|Jeron Mastrud}} {{NFLplayer|89|Will Yeatman|rookie=y}}
|Offensive Linemen= {{NFLplayer|61|Will Barker|d=American football|T}} {{NFLplayer|72|Vernon Carey|G}} {{NFLplayer|71|Marc Colombo|T}} {{NFLplayer|62|Ryan Cook|d=American football|G}} {{NFLplayer|69|Ray Feinga|G}} {{NFLplayer|75|Nate Garner|G/T}} {{NFLplayer|68|Richie Incognito|G}} {{NFLplayer|74|John Jerry|G/T}} {{NFLplayer|51|Mike Pouncey|rookie=y|C}}
|Defensive Linemen= {{NFLplayer|90|Ryan Baker|DE}} {{NFLplayer|70|Kendall Langford|DE}} {{NFLplayer|78|Tony McDaniel|NT}} {{NFLplayer|97|Phillip Merling|DE}} {{NFLplayer|98|Jared Odrick|DE}} {{NFLplayer|94|Randy Starks|DE}} {{NFLplayer|96|Paul Soliai|NT}}
|Linebackers= {{NFLplayer|59|Ikaika Alama-Francis|OLB}} {{NFLplayer|56|Kevin Burnett|ILB}} {{NFLplayer|58|Karlos Dansby|ILB}} {{NFLplayer|50|Marvin Mitchell|ILB}} {{NFLplayer|53|Austin Spitler|ILB}} {{NFLplayer|99|Jason Taylor|d=American football|OLB}} {{NFLplayer|93|Jason Trusnik|OLB}} {{NFLplayer|91|Cameron Wake|OLB}}
|Defensive Backs= {{NFLplayer|25|Will Allen|d=cornerback|CB}} {{NFLplayer|37|Yeremiah Bell|SS}} {{NFLplayer|28|Nolan Carroll|CB}} {{NFLplayer|30|Chris Clemons|d=safety|FS}} {{NFLplayer|29|Tyrone Culver|FS/SS}} {{NFLplayer|21|Vontae Davis|CB}} {{NFLplayer|20|Reshad Jones|FS}} {{NFLplayer|24|Sean Smith|d=cornerback|CB}} {{NFLplayer|27|Jimmy Wilson|d=American football|rookie=y|CB}}
|Special Teams= {{NFLplayer| 5|Dan Carpenter|K}} {{NFLplayer|92|John Denney|LS}} {{NFLplayer| 2|Brandon Fields|P}}
|Reserve Lists= {{NFLplayer| 7|Chad Henne|QB|IR}} {{NFLplayer|77|Jake Long|T|IR}} {{NFLplayer|55|Koa Misi|OLB|IR}} {{NFLplayer|14|Marlon Moore|WR|IR}} {{NFLplayer|76|Lydon Murtha|T|IR}} {{NFLplayer|18|Roberto Wallace|WR|IR}}
|Practice Squad= {{NFLplayer|95|Isaako Aaitui|rookie=y|NT}} {{NFLplayer|43|Vince Agnew|rookie=y|CB}} {{NFLplayer| 4|McLeod Bethel-Thompson|rookie=y|QB}} {{NFLplayer|32|Marcus Brown|d=cornerback, born 1987|CB}} {{NFLplayer|49|Jonathan Freeny|rookie=y|LB}} {{NFLplayer|81|Chris Hogan|d=American football|rookie=y|WR}} {{NFLplayer|41|Ian Johnson|d=American football|RB}} {{NFLplayer|40|Anderson Russell|S}} }}
==Schedule== ===Preseason=== thumb|right|The Dolphins' defensive backs huddle during the preseason opener in Atlanta. {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" |- ! style="{{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|year=2011|border=2}}"| Week ! style="{{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|year=2011|border=2}}"| Date ! style="{{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|year=2011|border=2}}"| Opponent ! style="{{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|year=2011|border=2}}"| Result ! style="{{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|year=2011|border=2}}"| Record ! style="{{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|year=2011|border=2}}"| Game site ! style="{{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|year=2011|border=2}}"| NFL.com<br />recap |- style="background:#cfc" ! 1 | {{dow tooltip|August 12, 2011}} | at Atlanta Falcons | '''W''' 28–23 | 1–0 | Georgia Dome | [https://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2011081252/2011/PRE1/dolphins@falcons#tab:recap Recap] |- style="background:#cfc" ! 2 | {{dow tooltip|August 19, 2011}} | Carolina Panthers | '''W''' 20–10 | 2–0 | Sun Life Stadium | [https://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2011081952/2011/PRE2/panthers@dolphins Recap] |- style="background:#fcc" ! 3 | {{dow tooltip|August 27, 2011}} | at Tampa Bay Buccaneers | '''L''' 13–17 | 2–1 | Raymond James Stadium | [https://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2011082760/2011/PRE3/dolphins@buccaneers Recap] |- style="background:#cfc" ! 4 | {{dow tooltip|September 1, 2011}} | Dallas Cowboys | '''W''' 17–3 | 3–1 | Sun Life Stadium | [https://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2011090155/2011/PRE4/cowboys@dolphins Recap] |}
===Regular season=== {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" |- ! style="{{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|year=2011|border=2}}"| Week ! style="{{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|year=2011|border=2}}"| Date ! style="{{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|year=2011|border=2}}"| Opponent ! style="{{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|year=2011|border=2}}"| Result ! style="{{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|year=2011|border=2}}"| Record ! style="{{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|year=2011|border=2}}"| Game site ! style="{{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|year=2011|border=2}}"| NFL.com<br />recap |- style="background:#fcc" ! 1 | {{dow tooltip|September 12, 2011}} | '''New England Patriots''' | '''L''' 24–38 | 0–1 | Sun Life Stadium | [https://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2011091200/2011/REG1/patriots@dolphins Recap] |- style="background:#fcc" ! 2 | September 18 | Houston Texans | '''L''' 13–23 | 0–2 | Sun Life Stadium | [https://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2011091813/2011/REG2/texans@dolphins Recap] |- style="background:#fcc" ! 3 | September 25 | at Cleveland Browns | '''L''' 16–17 | 0–3 | Cleveland Browns Stadium | [https://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2011092503/2011/REG3/dolphins@browns Recap] |- style="background:#fcc" ! 4 | October 2 | at San Diego Chargers | '''L''' 16–26 | 0–4 | Qualcomm Stadium | [https://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2011100213/2011/REG4/dolphins@chargers Recap] |- ! 5 ! colspan=8| ''Bye'' |- style="background:#fcc" ! 6 | {{dow tooltip|October 17, 2011}} | at '''New York Jets''' | '''L''' 6–24 | 0–5 | MetLife Stadium | [https://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2011101700/2011/REG6/dolphins@jets Recap] |- style="background:#fcc" ! 7 | October 23 | Denver Broncos | '''L''' 15–18 {{small|(OT)}} | 0–6 | Sun Life Stadium | [https://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2011102300/2011/REG7/broncos@dolphins Recap] |- style="background:#fcc" ! 8 | October 30 | at New York Giants | '''L''' 17–20 | 0–7 | MetLife Stadium | [https://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2011103000/2011/REG8/dolphins@giants Recap] |- style="background:#cfc" ! 9 | November 6 | at Kansas City Chiefs | '''W''' 31–3 | 1–7 | Arrowhead Stadium | [https://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2011110602/2011/REG9/dolphins@chiefs Recap] |- style="background:#cfc" ! 10 | November 13 | Washington Redskins | '''W''' 20–9 | 2–7 | Sun Life Stadium | [https://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2011111309/2011/REG10/redskins@dolphins Recap] |- style="background:#cfc" ! 11 | November 20 | '''Buffalo Bills''' | '''W''' 35–8 | 3–7 | Sun Life Stadium | [https://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2011112002/2011/REG11/bills@dolphins Recap] |- style="background:#fcc" ! 12 | November 24 | at Dallas Cowboys | '''L''' 19–20 | 3–8 | Cowboys Stadium | [https://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2011112401/2011/REG12/dolphins@cowboys Recap] |- style="background:#cfc" ! 13 | December 4 | Oakland Raiders | '''W''' 34–14 | 4–8 | Sun Life Stadium | [https://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2011120403/2011/REG13/raiders@dolphins Recap] |- style="background:#fcc" ! 14 | December 11 | Philadelphia Eagles | '''L''' 10–26 | 4–9 | Sun Life Stadium | [https://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2011121107/2011/REG14/eagles@dolphins Recap] |- style="background:#cfc" ! 15 | December 18 | at '''Buffalo Bills''' | '''W''' 30–23 | 5–9 | Ralph Wilson Stadium | [https://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2011121801/2011/REG15/dolphins@bills Recap] |- style="background:#fcc" ! 16 | {{dow tooltip|December 24, 2011}} | at '''New England Patriots''' | '''L''' 24–27 | 5–10 | Gillette Stadium | [https://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2011122401/2011/REG16/dolphins@patriots Recap] |- style="background:#cfc" ! 17 | January 1 | '''New York Jets''' | '''W''' 19–17 | 6–10 | Sun Life Stadium | [https://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2012010100/2011/REG17/jets@dolphins Recap] |}
===Game summaries=== ====Week 1: vs. New England Patriots==== {{Americanfootballbox |titlestyle={{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|border=2}};text-align:center; |state=autocollapse |title= Week One: New England Patriots at Miami Dolphins – Game summary |date=September 12 |time=7:00 p.m. EDT |road='''Patriots''' |R1=7|R2=7|R3=14|R4=10 |home=Dolphins |H1=7|H2=0|H3=10|H4=7 |stadium=Sun Life Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida |attendance=66,860 |weather={{convert|82|F|C|1|disp=or}}, partly cloudy |referee=Pete Morelli |TV=ESPN |TVAnnouncers=Mike Tirico, Jon Gruden & Ron Jaworski, Suzy Kolber & Wendi Nix |reference= |scoring= '''First quarter''' * MIA – Chad Henne 9-yard run (Dan Carpenter kick), ''Dolphins 7–0'', '''''Drive: 12 plays, 84 yards, 7:18.''''' * NE – BenJarvus Green-Ellis 4-yard run (Stephen Gostkowski kick), ''Tied 7–7'', '''''Drive: 6 plays, 78 yards, 3:28.''''' '''Second quarter''' * NE – Rob Gronkowski 10-yard reception from Tom Brady (Stephen Gostkowski kick), ''Patriots 14–7'', '''''Drive: 7 plays, 65 yards, 2:54''''' '''Third quarter''' * MIA – Brian Hartline 10-yard reception from Chad Henne (Dan Carpenter kick), ''Tied 14–14'', '''''Drive: 2 plays, 9 yards, 0:44''''' * NE – Wes Welker 2-yard reception from Tom Brady (Stephen Gostkowski kick), ''Patriots 21–14'', '''''Drive: 10 plays, 73 yards, 4:06''''' * MIA – Dan Carpenter 20-yard field goal, ''Patriots 21–17'', '''''Drive: 10 plays, 87 yards, 4:47.''''' * NE – Aaron Hernandez 1-yard reception from Tom Brady (Stephen Gostkowski kick), ''Patriots 28–17'', '''''Drive: 8 plays, 78 yards, 3:26''''' '''Fourth quarter''' * NE – Stephen Gostkowski 20-yard field goal, ''Patriots 31–17'', '''''Drive: 9 plays, 62 yards, 3:35.''''' * NE – Wes Welker 99-yard reception from Tom Brady (Stephen Gostkowski kick), ''Patriots 38–17'', '''''Drive: 1 plays, 99 yards, 0:13''''' * MIA – Reggie Bush 2-yard reception from Chad Henne (Dan Carpenter kick), ''Patriots 38–24'', '''''Drive: 8 plays, 74 yards, 2:05''''' |stats= '''Top passers''' * NE – Tom Brady – 32/48, 517 yards, 4 TDs * MIA – Chad Henne – 30/49, 416 yards, 2 TDs '''Top rushers''' * NE – Danny Woodhead – 14 rushes, 69 yards * MIA – Chad Henne – 7 rushes, 59 yards, 1 TD '''Top receivers''' * NE – Wes Welker – 8 receptions, 160 yards, 2 TDs * MIA – Brandon Marshall – 7 receptions, 139 yards '''Top tacklers''' * NE – Devin McCourty – 10 tackles, 1 assist * MIA – Reshad Jones – 8 tackles, 4 assists }}
The Dolphins began their 2011 campaign at home, for a Week 1 AFC East duel with the New England Patriots in the first game of Monday Night Football's doubleheader. Miami delivered the game's opening splash with a 9-yard touchdown run from quarterback Chad Henne. The Patriots answered with running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis getting a 4-yard touchdown run. New England took the lead in the second quarter as quarterback Tom Brady completed a 10-yard touchdown pass to tight end Rob Gronkowski.
The Dolphins struck back in the third quarter as Henne found wide receiver Brian Hartline on a 10-yard touchdown pass, but New England came right back with Brady completing a 2-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Wes Welker. Miami replied with a 20-yard field goal from kicker Dan Carpenter, but the Patriots came right back with Brady completing a 1-yard touchdown pass to tight end Aaron Hernandez. New England added onto their in the fourth quarter as kicker Stephen Gostkowski got a 20-yard field goal, followed by Brady completing a 99-yard touchdown pass to Welker. The Dolphins would close out the game with Henne finding running back Reggie Bush on a 2-yard touchdown pass.
With the loss, Miami began their season at 0–1.
====Week 2: vs. Houston Texans==== {{Americanfootballbox |titlestyle={{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|border=2}};text-align:center; |state=autocollapse |title= Week Two: Houston Texans at Miami Dolphins – Game summary |date=September 18 |time=4:15 p.m. EDT |road='''Texans''' |R1=6|R2=10|R3=0|R4=7 |home=Dolphins |H1=3|H2=0|H3=7|H4=3 |stadium=Sun Life Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida |attendance=51,032 |weather={{convert|87|F|C|1|disp=or}}, sunny |referee=John Parry |TV=CBS |TVAnnouncers=Ian Eagle and Dan Fouts |reference= |scoring= '''First quarter''' * '''Second quarter''' * '''Third quarter''' * '''Fourth quarter''' |stats= '''Top passers''' * HOU – Matt Schaub 21/29 230 Yds 2 TD * MIA – Chad Henne 12/30 170 Yds 1 TD 1 Int. '''Top rushers''' * HOU – Ben Tate 23 Rushes 103 Yds 4.5 Avg 16 * MIA – Daniel Thomas 18 Rushes 107 Yds. 5.9 Avg 14 '''Top receivers''' * HOU – Andre Johnson 7 Rec 93 Yds 13.3 Avg 43 Lng 1 TD * MIA – Brandon Marshall 6 Rec 79 Yds 13.2 Avg 29 Lng 1 TD '''Top tacklers''' * HOU – Brian Cushing 7 Tack 3 Ast * MIA – Randy Starks 6 Tack 0 Ast }} With the loss, the Dolphins dropped to 0–2.
====Week 3: at Cleveland Browns==== {{Americanfootballbox |titlestyle={{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|border=2}};text-align:center; |state=autocollapse |title= Week Three: Miami Dolphins at Cleveland Browns – Game summary |date=September 25 |time=1:00 p.m. EDT |road=Dolphins |R1=7|R2=3|R3=3|R4=3 |home='''Browns''' |H1=0|H2=7|H3=3|H4=7 |stadium=Cleveland Browns Stadium, Cleveland, Ohio |attendance=66,651 |weather={{convert|70|F|C|1|disp=or}}, sunny |referee=Walt Anderson |TV=CBS |TVAnnouncers=Don Criqui and Randy Cross |reference= |scoring= '''First quarter''' * MIA (8:09) – Daniel Thomas 10 yd pass from Chad Henne (Dan Carpenter kick). (MIA 7-0) Drive: 4 plays, 43 yds, 1:56 '''Second quarter''' * CLE (7:16) – Joshua Cribbs 33 yd pass from Colt McCoy (Phil Dawson kick). (Tied 7-7) Drive: 6 plays, 59 yds, 2:43 * MIA (0:27) – Dan Carpenter 23 yd field goal. (MIA 10-7) Drive: 11 plays, 75 yds, 3:38 '''Third quarter''' * CLE (10:37) – Phil Dawson 30 yd field goal. (Tied 10-10) Drive: 9 plays, 68 yds, 4:23 * MIA (2:29) – Dan Carpenter 41 yd field goal. (MIA 13-10) Drive: 14 plays, 70 yds, 8:08 '''Fourth quarter''' * MIA (3:23) – Dan Carpenter 38 yd field goal. (MIA 16-10) Drive: 8 plays, 39 yds, 2:57 * CLE (0:43) – Mohamed Massaquoi 14 yd pass from Colt McCoy (Phil Dawson kick) (CLE 17-16) Drive: 13 plays, 80 yds, 2:40 |stats= '''Top passers''' * MIA – Chad Henne 19/29, 255 yds, 1 TD, 1 INT * CLE – Colt McCoy 19/39, 210 yds, 2 TD, 1 INT '''Top rushers''' * MIA – Daniel Thomas 23 carr, 95 yds * CLE – Montario Hardesty 14 carr, 67 yds '''Top receivers''' * MIA – Brian Hartline 4 rec, 87 yds * CLE – Benjamin Watson 5 rec, 64 yds '''Top tacklers''' * MIA – Will Allen 5 tackles * CLE – Ahtyba Rubin 8 tackles, 1.5 sacks }} With the loss, the Dolphins fell to 0–3.
====Week 4: at San Diego Chargers==== {{Americanfootballbox |titlestyle={{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|border=2}};text-align:center; |state=autocollapse |title= Week Four: Miami Dolphins at San Diego Chargers – Game summary |date=October 2 |time=4:15 p.m. EDT/1:15 p.m. PDT |road=Dolphins |R1=7|R2=3|R3=3|R4=3 |home='''Chargers''' |H1=7|H2=6|H3=10|H4=3 |stadium=Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, California |attendance=63,002 |weather={{convert|84|F|C|1|disp=or}}, sunny |referee=Jeff Triplette |TV=CBS |TVAnnouncers=Ian Eagle and Dan Fouts |reference= |scoring= '''First quarter''' * '''Second quarter''' * '''Third quarter''' * '''Fourth quarter''' |stats= '''Top passers''' * MIA – Matt More * SD – Philp Rivers '''Top rushers''' * MIA – * SD – '''Top receivers''' * MIA – * SD – '''Top tacklers''' * MIA – * SD – }} With the loss, the Dolphins went into their bye week 0–4.
====Week 6: at New York Jets==== {{Americanfootballbox |titlestyle={{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|border=2}};text-align:center; |state=autocollapse |title= Week Six: Miami Dolphins at New York Jets – Game summary |date=October 17 |time=8:30 p.m. EDT |road=Dolphins |R1=3|R2=3|R3=0|R4=0 |home='''Jets''' |H1=7|H2=7|H3=3|H4=7 |stadium=MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey |attendance=78,912 |weather={{convert|62|F|C|1|disp=or}}, clear |referee=Tony Corrente |TV=ESPN |TVAnnouncers= Mike Tirico, Ron Jaworski, Jon Gruden and Suzy Kolber |reference= |scoring= '''First quarter''' * '''Second quarter''' * '''Third quarter''' * '''Fourth quarter''' |stats= '''Top passers''' * MIA – Matt Moore- 16/34, 204, 2INT * NYJ – Mark Sanchez- 14/25, 201 yards, 1TD '''Top rushers''' * MIA – Reggie Bush- 10 rushes, 71 yards * NYJ – Shonn Greene- 21 rushes, 74 yards '''Top receivers''' * MIA – Brandon Marshall- 6 receptions, 106 yards * NYJ – Santonio Holmes- 3 receptions, 63 yards, 1TD '''Top tacklers''' * MIA – Yeremiah Bell- 7 tackles * NYJ – Jim Leonhard- 7 tackles<br /> Calvin Pace- 7 tackles, 2 sacks, 1 tackle for loss }} With the loss, the Dolphins fell to 0–5.
====Week 7: vs. Denver Broncos==== {{Americanfootballbox |titlestyle={{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|border=2}};text-align:center; |state=autocollapse |title= Week Seven: Denver Broncos at Miami Dolphins – Game summary |date=October 23 |time=1:00 p.m. EDT |road='''Broncos''' |R1=0|R2=0|R3=0|R4=15|R5=3 |home=Dolphins |H1=0|H2=6|H3=0|H4=9|H5=0 |stadium=Sun Life Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida |attendance=63,800 |weather={{convert|77|F|C|disp=or}}, sunny |referee=Clete Blakeman |TV=CBS |TVAnnouncers=Kevin Harlan and Solomon Wilcots |reference= |scoring= '''First quarter''' * '''Second quarter''' * '''Third quarter''' * '''Fourth quarter''' |stats= '''Top passers''' * DEN – * MIA – '''Top rushers''' * DEN – * MIA – '''Top receivers''' * DEN – * MIA – '''Top tacklers''' * DEN – * MIA – }}
The Broncos overcame a 15–0 fourth-quarter deficit and won on a game-winning field goal in overtime. With the loss, the Dolphins fell to 0–6 and recorded their first home loss to the Broncos in eight meetings.<ref>{{cite web |title=Miami Dolphins vs. Denver Broncos |url=https://www.footballdb.com/teams/nfl/miami-dolphins/teamvsteam?opp=10&ha=H |website=The Football Database}}</ref>
====Week 8: at New York Giants==== {{Americanfootballbox |titlestyle={{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|border=2}};text-align:center; |state=autocollapse |title= Week Eight: Miami Dolphins at New York Giants – Game summary |date=October 30 |time=1:00 p.m. EDT |road=Dolphins |R1=7|R2=7|R3=3|R4=0 |home='''Giants''' |H1=3|H2=7|H3=0|H4=10 |stadium=MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey |attendance=79,302 |weather={{convert|45|F|C|1|disp=or}}, sunny |referee=Ron Winter |TV=CBS |TVAnnouncers=Greg Gumbel and Dan Dierdorf |reference= |scoring= '''First quarter''' * '''Second quarter''' * '''Third quarter''' * '''Fourth quarter''' |stats= '''Top passers''' * MIA – * NYG – '''Top rushers''' * MIA – * NYG – '''Top receivers''' * MIA – * NYG – '''Top tacklers''' * MIA – * NYG – }} With the loss, the Dolphins fell to 0–7.
====Week 9: at Kansas City Chiefs==== {{Americanfootballbox |titlestyle={{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|border=2}};text-align:center; |state=autocollapse |title= Week Nine: Miami Dolphins at Kansas City Chiefs – Game summary |date=November 6 |time=1:00 p.m. EST/12:00 p.m. CST |road='''Dolphins''' |R1=7|R2=7|R3=14|R4=3 |home=Chiefs |H1=3|H2=0|H3=0|H4=0 |stadium=Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri |attendance=72,263 |weather={{convert|62|F|C|1|disp=or}}, cloudy |referee=Walt Anderson |TV=CBS |TVAnnouncers=Kevin Harlan and Solomon Wilcots |reference= |scoring= '''First quarter''' * '''Second quarter''' * '''Third quarter''' * '''Fourth quarter''' |stats= '''Top passers''' * MIA – * KC – '''Top rushers''' * MIA – * KC – '''Top receivers''' * MIA – * KC – '''Top tacklers''' * MIA – * KC – }} With the win, the Dolphins improved to 1–7 and made the Colts the only winless team.
====Week 10: vs. Washington Redskins==== {{Americanfootballbox |titlestyle={{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|border=2}};text-align:center; |state=autocollapse |title= Week Ten: Washington Redskins at Miami Dolphins – Game summary |date=November 13 |time=1:00 p.m. EST |road=Redskins |R1=3|R2=3|R3=3|R4=0 |home='''Dolphins''' |H1=7|H2=3|H3=3|H4=7 |stadium=Sun Life Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida |attendance=57,007 |weather={{convert|79|F|C|1|disp=or}}, mostly cloudy |referee=Carl Cheffers |TV=Fox |TVAnnouncers= Chris Myers & Tim Ryan |reference= |scoring= '''First quarter''' * '''Second quarter''' * '''Third quarter''' * '''Fourth quarter''' |stats= '''Top passers''' * WAS – * MIA – '''Top rushers''' * WAS – * MIA – '''Top receivers''' * WAS – * MIA – '''Top tacklers''' * WAS – * MIA – }} With the win, the Dolphins improved to 2–7.
====Week 11: vs. Buffalo Bills==== {{Americanfootballbox |titlestyle={{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|border=2}};text-align:center; |state=autocollapse |title= Week Eleven: Buffalo Bills at Miami Dolphins – Game summary |date=November 20 |time=1:00 p.m. EST |road=Bills |R1=3|R2=3|R3=0|R4=2 |home='''Dolphins''' |H1=14|H2=14|H3=7|H4=0 |stadium=Sun Life Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida |attendance=57,531 |weather={{convert|80|F|C|1|disp=or}}, mostly cloudy |referee=Walt Coleman |TV=CBS |TVAnnouncers=Marv Albert and Rich Gannon |reference= |scoring= '''First quarter''' * BUF – Dave Rayner 30-yard field goal, ''Bills 3–0'', '''''Drive: 9 plays, 70 yards, 4:47.''''' * MIA – Anthony Fasano 10-yard reception from Matt Moore (Shayne Graham kick), ''Dolphins 7–3'', '''''Drive: 12 plays, 87 yards, 6:45''''' * MIA – Reggie Bush 5-yard run (Shayne Graham kick), ''Dolphins 14–3'', '''''Drive: 4 plays, 59 yards, 1:40.''''' '''Second quarter''' * MIA – Charles Clay 12-yard reception from Matt Moore (Shayne Graham kick), ''Dolphins 21–3'', '''''Drive: 5 plays, 23 yards, 2:09''''' * MIA – Davone Bess 4-yard reception from Matt Moore (Shayne Graham kick), ''Dolphins 28–3'', '''''Drive: 5 plays, 4 yards, 0:32''''' * BUF – Dave Rayner 56-yard field goal, ''Dolphins 28–6'', '''''Drive: 8 plays, 39 yards, 1:36.''''' '''Third quarter''' * MIA – Lex Hilliard recovered blocked punt in the end zone (Shayne Graham kick), ''Dolphins 35–6'' '''Fourth quarter''' * BUF – Daniel Thomas tackled in end zone by Kelvin Sheppard, Safety |stats= '''Top passers''' * BUF – * MIA – '''Top rushers''' * BUF – * MIA – '''Top receivers''' * BUF – * MIA – '''Top tacklers''' * BUF – * MIA – }}
Coming off their win over the Redskins, the Dolphins stayed at home for a Week 11 AFC East showdown with the Buffalo Bills. Miami trailed early in the first quarter as Bills kicker Dave Rayner made a 30-yard field goal, yet the Dolphins immediately answered with quarterback Matt Moore finding tight end Anthony Fasano on a 1-yard touchdown pass, followed by a 5-yard touchdown run from running back Reggie Bush. Miami would add onto their lead in the second quarter with Moore connecting with fullback Charles Clay on a 12-yard touchdown pass, followed by wide receiver Davone Bess on a 4-yard touchdown pass. Buffalo would close out the half with Rayner booting a 56-yard field goal.
The Dolphins continued their dominating day in the third quarter with running back Lex Hilliard recovering a blocked punt in the endzone for a touchdown (the team's first TD off of a blocked punt since 1990). The Bills tried to rally as linebacker Kelvin Sheppard tackled rookie running back Daniel Thomas in the endzone for a safety, but Miami's lead proved to be too much to overcome.
With the win, the Dolphins improved to 3–7.
This game also marked the first time since 1990 that Miami allowed 10 points or fewer in three straight games. They became the third team in NFL history to win 3 straight after starting the season at least 0–7 (1978 Cardinals and 1986 Colts).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thefinsiders.com/blog/2011/game-recap-dolphins-35-bills-8|title=Game Recap: Dolphins 35, Bills 8 « Dolphins Digital – Assets|website=thefinsiders.com|access-date=November 20, 2011|archive-date=November 23, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111123192750/http://thefinsiders.com/blog/2011/game-recap-dolphins-35-bills-8|url-status=live}}</ref>
====Week 12: at Dallas Cowboys==== '''Thanksgiving Day game''' {{Americanfootballbox |titlestyle={{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|border=2}};text-align:center; |state=autocollapse |title= Week Twelve: Miami Dolphins at Dallas Cowboys – Game summary |date=November 24 |time=4:15 p.m. EST/3:15 p.m. CST |road=Dolphins |R1=3|R2=3|R3=10|R4=3 |home='''Cowboys''' |H1=0|H2=10|H3=0|H4=10 |stadium=Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, Texas |attendance=87,418 |weather=Played indoors (retractable roof closed) |referee=Pete Morelli |TV=CBS |TVAnnouncers=Jim Nantz & Phil Simms |reference= |scoring= '''First quarter''' * '''Second quarter''' * '''Third quarter''' * '''Fourth quarter''' |stats= '''Top passers''' * MIA – * DAL – '''Top rushers''' * MIA – * DAL – '''Top receivers''' * MIA – * DAL – '''Top tacklers''' * MIA – * DAL – }}
Coming off their win over the Bills, the Dolphins flew to Cowboys Stadium for a Week 12 interconference duel with the Dallas Cowboys on Thanksgiving. Miami delivered the game's opening punch in the first quarter with a 26-yard field goal from kicker Shayne Graham, but the Cowboys answered in the second quarter with kicker Dan Bailey getting a 32-yard field goal, followed by quarterback Tony Romo completing a 5-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Laurent Robinson. The Dolphins would close out the half with a 28-yard field goal from Graham.
Miami would regain the lead in the third quarter with a 27-yard field goal from Graham, followed by quarterback Matt Moore finding wide receiver Brandon Marshall on a 35-yard field goal. Dallas struck back in the fourth quarter with Romo completing an 18-yard touchdown pass to Robinson. The Dolphins would reply with a 23-yard field goal from Graham, but the Cowboys got the last laugh with Bailey nailing the game-winning 28-yard field goal.
With the loss, Miami fell to 3–8.
====Week 13: vs. Oakland Raiders==== {{Americanfootballbox |titlestyle={{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|border=2}};text-align:center; |state=autocollapse |title= Week Thirteen: Oakland Raiders at Miami Dolphins – Game summary |date=December 4 |time=1:00 p.m. EST |road=Raiders |R1=0|R2=0|R3=0|R4=14 |home='''Dolphins''' |H1=6|H2=7|H3=21|H4=0 |stadium=Sun Life Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida |attendance=57,225 |weather={{convert|80|F|C|1|disp=or}}, sunny |referee=Mike Carey |TV=CBS |TVAnnouncers= Greg Gumbel & Dan Dierdorf |reference= |scoring= '''First quarter''' * '''Second quarter''' * '''Third quarter''' * '''Fourth quarter''' |stats= '''Top passers''' * OAK – * MIA – '''Top rushers''' * OAK – * MIA – '''Top receivers''' * OAK – * MIA – '''Top tacklers''' * OAK – * MIA – }} With the win, the Dolphins improved to 4–8.
====Week 14: vs. Philadelphia Eagles==== {{Americanfootballbox |titlestyle={{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|border=2}};text-align:center; |state=autocollapse |title= Week Fourteen: Philadelphia Eagles at Miami Dolphins – Game summary |date=December 11 |time=1:00 p.m. EST |road='''Eagles''' |R1=0|R2=24|R3=0|R4=2 |home=Dolphins |H1=7|H2=0|H3=3|H4=0 |stadium=Sun Life Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida |attendance=67,823 |weather={{convert|75|F|C|1|disp=or}}, cloudy |referee=Ron Winter |TV=Fox |TVAnnouncers=Chris Myers, Tim Ryan and Jaime Maggio |reference= |scoring= '''First quarter''' * '''Second quarter''' * '''Third quarter''' * '''Fourth quarter''' |stats= '''Top passers''' * PHI – * MIA – '''Top rushers''' * PHI – * MIA – '''Top receivers''' * PHI – * MIA – '''Top tacklers''' * PHI – * MIA – }} With the loss, the Dolphins dropped to 4–9, and were officially eliminated from postseason contention. One day later (December 12), head coach Tony Sparano was fired and replaced by assistant coach Todd Bowles on an interim basis for the remainder of the season.
====Week 15: at Buffalo Bills==== {{Americanfootballbox |titlestyle={{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|border=2}};text-align:center; |state=autocollapse |title= Week Fifteen: Miami Dolphins at Buffalo Bills – Game summary |date=December 18 |time=1:00 p.m. EST |road='''Dolphins''' |R1=0|R2=13|R3=7|R4=10 |home=Bills |H1=7|H2=0|H3=0|H4=16 |stadium=Ralph Wilson Stadium, Orchard Park, New York |attendance=60,988 |weather={{convert|31|F|C|1|disp=or}}, cloudy/snow |referee=John Parry |TV=CBS |TVAnnouncers=Kevin Harlan and Solomon Wilcots |reference= |scoring= '''First quarter''' * '''Second quarter''' * '''Third quarter''' * '''Fourth quarter''' |stats= '''Top passers''' * MIA – * BUF – '''Top rushers''' * MIA – * BUF – '''Top receivers''' * MIA – * BUF – '''Top tacklers''' * MIA – * BUF – }}
====Week 16: at New England Patriots==== {{Americanfootballbox |titlestyle={{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|border=2}};text-align:center; |state=autocollapse |title= Week Sixteen: Miami Dolphins at New England Patriots – Game summary |date=December 24 |time=1:00 p.m. EST |road=Dolphins |R1=3|R2=14|R3=0|R4=7 |home='''Patriots''' |H1=0|H2=0|H3=17|H4=10 |stadium=Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts |attendance=68,756 |weather={{convert|30|F|C|1|disp=or}}, sunny and cold |referee=Alberto Riveron |TV=CBS |TVAnnouncers=Ian Eagle and Dan Fouts |reference= |scoring= '''First quarter''' * '''Second quarter''' * '''Third quarter''' * '''Fourth quarter''' |stats= '''Top passers''' * MIA – * NE – '''Top rushers''' * MIA – * NE – '''Top receivers''' * MIA – * NE – '''Top tacklers''' * MIA – * NE – }}
====Week 17: vs. New York Jets==== {{Americanfootballbox |titlestyle={{NFLPrimaryStyle|Miami Dolphins|border=2}};text-align:center; |state=autocollapse |title= Week Seventeen: New York Jets at Miami Dolphins – Game summary |date=January 1 |time=1:00 p.m. EST |road=Jets |R1=7|R2=3|R3=0|R4=7 |home='''Dolphins''' |H1=3|H2=3|H3=0|H4=13 |stadium=Sun Life Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida |attendance=65,811 |weather={{convert|78|F|C|1|disp=or}}, sunny |referee=Jerome Boger |TV=CBS |TVAnnouncers= Greg Gumbel & Dan Dierdorf |reference= |scoring= '''First quarter''' * '''Second quarter''' * '''Third quarter''' * '''Fourth quarter''' |stats= '''Top passers''' * NYJ – Mark Sanchez 21/32, 207 yds, 2 TDs * MIA – Matt Moore 22/32, 135 yds, 1 TD '''Top rushers''' * NYJ – L. Tomlinson 11 rushes, 56 yds * MIA – Steve Slaton 11 rushes, 55 yds '''Top receivers''' * NYJ – Jeremy Kerley 4 receptions, 71 yds * MIA – Brandon Marshall 5 receptions, 50 yds '''Top tacklers''' * NYJ – * MIA – }}
The Dolphins closed out their season with a 19–17 win over the Jets that knocked the Jets out of playoff contention. The Dolphins intercepted Mark Sanchez three times and limited him to 235 passing yards. The win was the 400th in Miami Dolphins franchise history and the final game for Jason Taylor, held to one tackle in the game; he recovered what was initially ruled a fumble by the Jets and raced to a touchdown, but the score was nullified when the ball was ruled down by contact.
==Standings== {{2011 AFC East standings}}
==References== {{reflist|30em}}
{{Miami Dolphins}} {{Miami Dolphins seasons}} {{2011 NFL season by team}}
Miami Category:Miami Dolphins seasons Miami Dolphins