Sherman: Tannehill must step up

Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill was sacked three times and intercepted three times. The rookie starter produced a 39.0 passer rating. It's not a

Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill was sacked three times and intercepted three times. The rookie starter produced a 39.0 passer rating.

It's not a surprise to hear offensive coordinator Mike Sherman say Tannehill has to get better if the Dolphins are to compete in the AFC East. Sherman coached Tannehill for each of this 19 career starts at Texas A&M.

"He's got to find the passing lane. Guys (are) a little taller, a little bigger at this level," Sherman said. "The window is a little bit smaller, and these guys have a lot of range. He hasn't had a problem with it in practice. It has not been an issue, and (if it was a problem) you would think it would be a recurring issue in practice."

Tannehill posted a passer rating of 39, averaged a paltry 6 yards per attempt and the Dolphins' only touchdown came on a punt return.

Texans defensive end J.J. Watt tipped two of the 6-foot-4 Tannehill's passes that resulted in interceptions in a 30-10 loss at Houston.

Tannehill had a total of 19 tipped passes last season for the Aggies.

-- The Sports Xchange