Rookie Storm Duck played 55% of the defensive snaps last week, and should see more action against the Patriots in Fuller’s absence. When asked if Duck earned this role over second year defensive back Cam Smith, McDaniel explained to reporters earlier in the week, “A little assignment related, matchup related that week, yes.”
McDaniel elaborated, “There’s no crowning of – it wouldn’t be factual to say one of those guys is over the other. We’ll see what they do with the situation and the opportunity. It was very specific and that one is a great example.”
He added, “I’m really happy with, especially in the last month, the development of Cam. So it renders one to think that we might be down on him because Storm played, (but) that was because what Storm was doing and the assignments and kind of our game plan for that particular opponent.”
Fullback Alec Ingold is listed as questionable, who has missed the last two games with a calf injury. McDaniel seemed confident on Friday in Ingold’s Sunday availability saying, “I’m feeling as optimistic as I’ve felt in the last three weeks, but that will be subject to setbacks or just how I feel, so it’s an important day for him.”
Ingold is a vital cog in Miami’s offensive attack with his blocking as well as timely versatility and usage as a runner and receiver. Also questionable for Miami as per Friday’s report are left tackle Terron Armstead (knee), safety Patrick McMorris (Calf) and offensive lineman Isaiah Wynn.
The Patriots are dealing with a slew of questionable players who were limited in Friday’s practice, and have already designated defensive tackle Jaquelin Roy out with a neck injury. Defensive tackle Christian Barmore did not participate Friday, and listed as questionable for Sunday.
