Dolphins use Wildcat to beat Panthers

In their second preseason game, the Miami Dolphins defeated the Carolina Panthers, 27-17. Unveiling the Wildcat offense for the first time in the preseason, the Dolphins gained some big plays out of the formation, including a 35-yard flea flicker. Even more promising than the success of the Wildcat was the effectiveness of the running game, held in check in the first game. Against the Panthers, the trio of Ronnie Brown, Ricky Williams, and Patrick Cobb led the ground attack, raking up 141 yards, averaging 5.0 yards per carry. They also accounted for over 100 yards in receptions.

The quarterbacks also performed well. Chad Pennington completed 8 of 11 passes for 105 yards and a touchdown. Backup Chad Henne went 10 of 16 for 75 and a touchdown of his own. Pat White threw 3 passes, completing 2 for 4 yards. None of the QBs threw an interception.