"If you're searching for at least one formidable excuse for the Dolphins' often-ugly preseason debut Friday, start with this: Receiver Brandon Marshall and running back Reggie Bush did not play.

Coach Tony Sparano kept them on the sideline to remove any risk of injury. Both players, considered the most dynamic weapons on the team's new offense, warmed up but didn't take the field with the rest of the starters.

Bush has only been practicing with the team since Aug. 4, and rookie Daniel Thomas needs as many repetitions as he can get before the regular season.

The risk-reward for getting Marshall on the field isn't worth it right now.

Receiver Roberto Wallace probably benefited the most from Marshall's absence. Wallace got repetitions late into the first half, including a 28-yard touchdown catch. It isn't yet known when Marshall or Bush will make their preseason debuts, but don't expect to see much of Bush before the start of the season."