Chris Perkins: What Mike McDaniel's return would mean for Dolphins

"But now positive changes have been made. This team has a new identity. The new-school Dolphins (6-7) are on a four-game winning streak and have won five of their last six games because they're playing old-school football - run game and defense . That's right. That fancy, big-play, highlight reel-making, social media-friendly passing game is gone. This is a hard-working, blue-collar, grinding Dolphins team. Turnover margin is improved, penalties have decreased. I like this new identity."

"Plus, there's harmony in the administrative building, and players never quit after an 0-3 and 1-6 start. But i f McDaniel returns, which seems likely, you have to ask whether it'd be another prime example of the Dolphins celebrating the status quo after owner Stephen Ross said status quo isn't good enough. Ross greatly values process. And McDaniel is winning Ross over in that area."

The Dolphins began with stagnation in offensive strategy and poor results, prompting doubt about Mike McDaniel's return. The team adopted an old-school identity emphasizing the run game and defense, sparking a four-game winning streak and five wins in six. Turnover margin improved and penalties decreased as player resilience and harmony in the administrative building emerged after an 0-3 and 1-6 start. Owner Stephen Ross prioritizes process, and McDaniel has gained favor there. The ultimate decision on McDaniel's return hinges on whether process or improved December/January and playoff-caliber results determine the team's direction.

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