Dolphins second-string quarterback Matt Moore finished out Sunday night’s 24-20 loss to Dallas in the Hall of Fame Game.
That wasn’t the plan, it appears.
Per multiple reports, coach Joe Philbin said an injury to third-string QB Pat Devlin was the reason for Moore’s return.
With just three quarterbacks on the roster, the Dolphins will have to add a passer if Devlin can’t play in Friday’s game at Jacksonville.
Here’s a few more observations and notes after the NFL’s preseason opener:
-- Both clubs’ first-round picks got some valuable experience out of the Hall of Fame Game. Dolphins defensive end Dion Jordan’s talent is obvious, and he could be tough to keep off the field. Cowboys center Travis Frederick got most of his work in the middle but also got a look at right guard.
-- Cowboys RBs Phillip Tanner and Joseph Randle both got plenty of opportunities in the opener, and each seem to fare well. Tanner racked up 59 yards on 10 carries, while Randle rushed for 70 yards on 13 attempts. Both played behind Lance Dunbar, who got four early carries and gave way to the other backs.
-- When he held on to the ball, Dolphins running back Lamar Miller was quite impressive in limited action. The question is, do the Dolphins have a capable backup for him?
-- Neither team much played their front-line skill-position players in the opener. We know what Dallas’ offense can do. More needs to be learned about Miami, however. That said, the Dolphins need to protect Tannehill in the process.
-- Initial impression from tonight: the Cowboys can probably get by just fine with two quarterbacks on the roster and either Nick Stephens or Alex Tanney on the practice squad.
-- The Dolphins’ depth chart suggests a numbers crunch could be coming at tight end / fullback. Ex-Bears tight end Evan Rodriguez showed pretty well in some second-half action. It will be interesting to see whom the Dolphins keep at those spots.
-- Give Cowboys reserve defensive end George Selvie credit: he produced on Sunday, notching a pair of sacks. He also lined up inside at least once.