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Preseason Week 1 Takeaways:
Atlanta Falcons 14-33 Miami Dolphins

De'Von Achane was one of the highlights in the preseason win



The Miami Dolphins won their preseason opener at home vs. the Atlanta Falcons.

Here are three takeaways from the 33-14 victory:

Defense, LB Anthony Walker Jr stand tall

The defensive unit set the tone in the victory, limiting the Falcons to one offensive touchdown while recording five sacks and two turnovers off of fumbles. The defense also made three stops in the red zone, including one at the end of the first half to force the clock to expire before the Falcons could score to get within reach and another that led to an 80-yard fumble return for a touchdown.

Walker Jr was the defensive player with that score and he finished the game with a game-high 12 total tackles and two fumble recoveries, demonstrating the type of focus and determination that might just allow him to take the next step in his career this year.

One question that remains, however, is the status of outside lineacker Shaquil Barrett, who did not suit up due to mysterious reasons that were not clarified postgame by head coach Mike McDaniel.

De'Von Achane impresses in RB2 role

Achane ran well for 66 yards with the second offensive unit, averaging 7.3 yards a carry on his nine attempts in addition to making two catches for 21 yards. His speed caused Atlanta all sorts of problems, especially on runs to the outside, but he also showed he could run between the tackles on his short-yardage touchdown. If he keeps this up, he might really push incumbent halfback Raheem Mostert for the starting role.

Mike White struggles as QB2

Mike White somewhat surprisingly beat out Skylar Thompson for the back-up quarterback spot during training camp, but questions about that position will abound after his poor performance.

White looked out of sorts during his time on the field, struggling to make his reads en route to throwing three interceptions to eagle-eyed Falcons free safety Dane Cruikshank. Those picks resulted in Thompson checking into the game earlier than planned and could have allowed Atlanta to get back into things if not for the resolute defense, leaving plenty of concern for McDaniel with the regular season fast approaching.