Tutelage of secret QB guru is key for Dolphins' Tua Tagovailoa

Is an unheralded assistant coach the secret quarterback guru Miami's Tua Tagovailoa needs to solidify his status as the face of the franchise? 

The Dolphins QB coach and passing game coordinator Darrell Bevell isn't a big name, but he has an impressive résumé. In 15 seasons as an OC, he's worked with quarterbacks such as Hall of Famer Brett Farve, Russell Wilson and Matthew Stafford. 

"His reputation preceded him," Miami head coach Mike McDaniel said of Bevell, per Yahoo Sports' Jori Epstein. "I knew I needed someone who had been through the journey with at least one, but preferably multiple quarterbacks at a high level, [who] understood the amount of demands that are on the player and then was a human being that connected with him."

McDaniel hired Bevell in 2022, and it paid dividends. In 13 games, Tagovailoa went 8-5 as a starter, finishing with career highs in passing TDs (25) and passer rating (105.5). Also, Miami improved from 22nd in points scored in 2021 to 11th last season. 

Concerns about Tagovailoa remain since he suffered three concussions in 2022. Nonetheless, the 25-year-old will keep blossoming under Bevell if he can stay healthy.

"He brings value in all areas," Dolphins offensive coordinator Frank Smith said. "He can paint a picture of why we're doing what we're doing, the intent for the quarterback, and the intent they wanted to use." 

Tagovailoa continuing to benefit from the teaching of the QB coach is key, as the Dolphins need him to play at an elite level this season.

Making the playoffs for a second consecutive season is a bigger challenge in 2023 since Miami has the second-most difficult schedule in the league, via NFL research.