bleacherreport
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The Cincinnati Bengals may have uncovered a pre-snap tendency of Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis, but the element of surprise is gone. Safety Jordan Battle shared the observation with reporters on Thursday, revealing that Willis has a subtle tap before every pass attempt.
"He has a little slight little tap before every throw though, so I feel like we could use that as a key to break on the ball," Battle said. "He likes to tap the ball before he throws it, or he takes his hand off, and that gives the read the break. He's obviously dangerous with his feet. We know we got to be alert for that. Third and longs, they will run quarterback draws, and in the passing game, he will extend plays. So we got to be good downfield. DBs are plastering, so we got to be alert for that. He will take chances. We just got to be on, be alert on guys where they line up."
By making this information public, Battle has given Willis an opportunity to correct the tell before Sunday's game. It would be unsurprising if Willis eliminates the habit, rendering Battle's insight less useful. The tell might also explain Willis's struggles this season: he has completed 56.3 percent of his passes for 712 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions in four losses for the Dolphins. Last week was particularly rough, as Miami scored only 10 points and Willis threw for 85 yards in a loss to the Minnesota Vikings.
Key Analysis
With the tell now exposed, Willis could make adjustments and target a Bengals defense that ranks 26th in passing yards allowed per game. The Dolphins will need Willis to improve if they hope to secure their first win.
Originally reported by bleacherreport.