Former No. 1 overall draft pick Jake Long had the worst day of his career Sunday, according to Pro Football Focus statistics reported by the Orlando Sun Sentinel.
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Long allowed three hits on Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill during a 23-20 loss to the Indianapolis Colts. The left tackle also gave up two hurries and a sack.
"It starts with me," Long said. "I've got to do better. That wasn't good enough."
The Colts haven't exactly been swarming quarterbacks in 2012, but they got to Tannehill plenty.
"We had an off day, and it's tough to get into a rhythm when you're getting hit," left guard Richie Incognito said. "I just know as an offensive line, we got him hit way too much."
The protection begins with Long, the cornerstone of the line and the franchise. He's allowed three sacks in eight games and is on pace to match a career-high of six.
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"I hate it," Long said. "It kills me. I'm going to make sure I don't let it happen again."
The Dolphins have overachieved in 2012. Tannehill has played better than expected. Reggie Bush and the run game has improved. The defense is ranked No. 6 in points allowed.
With things going smoother than planned, the Dolphins need Long to be the dominant player expected of his draft position. Especially if they want to keep Tannehill healthy and allow him to thrive. Long has been that guy in the past and certainly can return to that form.
Follow Kareem Copeland on Twitter @kareemcopeland.
