Well, the Jim Zorn Error -- I mean Era -- is officially over.
And the least-guarded secret in Washington is that former Denver coach Mike Shanahan will be the next head coach of the Redskins.
The only thing I can say right here is that Shanahan's tenure in D.C. will undoubtedly be more effective than Zorn's.
Zorn's 6-2 start was a blatent mirage. He had six wins in his first eight games and then six wins over his last 24 games.
Above all, though, the Zorn era will be remembered, I think, a lot like the Spurrier era was in D.C. A supposedly offensive coach comes to D.C. and the Redskins start well -- remember Osaka? -- but ultimately, there was fighting in the locker room and there systemic lack of discipline.
I admit I didn't pay a lot of attention to Shanahan's Denver teams, but the guy has won a Super Bowl before, and his teams were almost always competitive. Both of Zorn's teams ...well, weren't.
Truthfully, I am fairly sure that Shanahan's time in D.C. could not possibly be any worse than Zorn's.
Showing posts with label 2009 Season. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2009 Season. Show all posts
Monday, January 4, 2010
Monday, December 21, 2009
Why bother?
There really isn't much to say about the Redskins loss to the Giants Monday night.
From the opening drive, it was quite clear the Giants were an experienced, sound playoff team. The Redskins are about as far from that as you can get.
When it was over, it was 45-12, certainly the most embarrassing Redskins loss of the year and rivaling the 52-7 walloping the Patriots put on the them back in 2007.
The talk going into the game, about Redskins players with the arrival of new GM Bruce Allen, was "These guys are playing for their jobs."
If so, a lot of guys lost their job today. There's not one player who had a good game. Marcus Mason -- who should not be playing for the Redskins next year -- had a decent game running the ball.
Also, I should mention that Fred Davis had a heck of a game as well. He continues to impress replacing Cooley.
The Redskins defense, especially, was eaten alive. The Giants completely owned the first quarter. They had a 10-minute drive. Most of the first half was controlled by N.Y. The second half wasn't much better.
The Redskins were better off not even stepping on the field. All there was Monday night was a giant embarrassment on national TV.
From the opening drive, it was quite clear the Giants were an experienced, sound playoff team. The Redskins are about as far from that as you can get.
When it was over, it was 45-12, certainly the most embarrassing Redskins loss of the year and rivaling the 52-7 walloping the Patriots put on the them back in 2007.
The talk going into the game, about Redskins players with the arrival of new GM Bruce Allen, was "These guys are playing for their jobs."
If so, a lot of guys lost their job today. There's not one player who had a good game. Marcus Mason -- who should not be playing for the Redskins next year -- had a decent game running the ball.
Also, I should mention that Fred Davis had a heck of a game as well. He continues to impress replacing Cooley.
The Redskins defense, especially, was eaten alive. The Giants completely owned the first quarter. They had a 10-minute drive. Most of the first half was controlled by N.Y. The second half wasn't much better.
The Redskins were better off not even stepping on the field. All there was Monday night was a giant embarrassment on national TV.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
The witch is dead
Sing it now, friends.
Vinny Cerrato, the universally despised president of football operations for the Washington Redskins, resigned early Thursday morning.
Vinny Cerrato, the universally despised president of football operations for the Washington Redskins, resigned early Thursday morning.
Ding Dong! The Witch is dead. Which old Witch? The Wicked Witch!
Ding Dong! The Wicked Witch is dead.
Wake up - sleepy head, rub your eyes, get out of bed.
Wake up, the Wicked Witch is dead. He's gone where the goblins go,
Below - below - below. Yo-ho, let's open up and sing and ring the bells out.
Ding Dong' the merry-oh, sing it high, sing it low.
Let them know
The Wicked Witch is dead!
Ding Dong! The Wicked Witch is dead.
Wake up - sleepy head, rub your eyes, get out of bed.
Wake up, the Wicked Witch is dead. He's gone where the goblins go,
Below - below - below. Yo-ho, let's open up and sing and ring the bells out.
Ding Dong' the merry-oh, sing it high, sing it low.
Let them know
The Wicked Witch is dead!
By the way, I'm giggling like a schoolgirl that the best way to describe Cerrato is "universally despised." God.
But, the rumor is that the Redskins have hired for Tampa Bay general manager Bruce Allen to run the show. Allen is the son of former Redskins coach George Allen.
To me, it's pretty clear that Dan Snyder really wanted a big change. If he didn't want a change, he wouldn't have fired Cerrato (which is what happened, regardless of whether Cerrato "resigned.")
So, goodbye Jim Zorn. Goodbye Jason Campbell (probably).
Allen was the GM in Tampa for a long time. His former head coach in Tampa was Jon Gruden, who, coincidentally, is calling the Redskins-Giants Monday Night Football game this Monday night in D.C. Do you guys really believe in coincidence?
Look for Gruden in D.C. next year.
But, the rumor is that the Redskins have hired for Tampa Bay general manager Bruce Allen to run the show. Allen is the son of former Redskins coach George Allen.
To me, it's pretty clear that Dan Snyder really wanted a big change. If he didn't want a change, he wouldn't have fired Cerrato (which is what happened, regardless of whether Cerrato "resigned.")
So, goodbye Jim Zorn. Goodbye Jason Campbell (probably).
Allen was the GM in Tampa for a long time. His former head coach in Tampa was Jon Gruden, who, coincidentally, is calling the Redskins-Giants Monday Night Football game this Monday night in D.C. Do you guys really believe in coincidence?
Look for Gruden in D.C. next year.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Jason Campbell deserves more time
As the season comes to a close, one of the more pertinent questions for the Redskins is that of their quarterback.
Do the bring back Jason Campbell, or do they go in another direction?
Earlier this year, I would bet some good money that the team was planning on going in another direction. After all, Campbell and the offense as a whole had not played well. Even last week, de facto GM Vinny Cerrato scouted both Notre Dame QB Jimmy Clausen and Texas QB Colt McCoy.
I myself have been long calling for Campbell to be benched. I still think he holds the ball too long and doesn't make quick reads and decisions.
But maybe it was too soon to start looking elsewhere.
Since Sherman Lewis started calling the plays and especially over the past four games, Campbell and the offense have thrived.
Has it saved his job?
It's undeniable that Campbell is not a perfect quarterback. He will never be a Brett Favre or a Peyton Manning. But he is better than Trent Dilfer, who quarterbacked the 2000 Ravens to a Super Bowl championship.
As the weeks go on, the more and more I think that the Redskins SHOULD bring Campbell back.
No, he probably will never put the team on his back and will it to a come-from-behind victory, but he's good enough to manage the game and won't lose many games by himself.
The Redskins have spent much of the last 15 years tearing everything down and rebuilding. Maybe it's time to just let things coast and see where it takes the team.
Sherman Lewis seems to be having an effect. Let he and Zorn run things awhile longer with Campbell in place.
But please, dear god, solidify the offensive line.
Do the bring back Jason Campbell, or do they go in another direction?
Earlier this year, I would bet some good money that the team was planning on going in another direction. After all, Campbell and the offense as a whole had not played well. Even last week, de facto GM Vinny Cerrato scouted both Notre Dame QB Jimmy Clausen and Texas QB Colt McCoy.
I myself have been long calling for Campbell to be benched. I still think he holds the ball too long and doesn't make quick reads and decisions.
But maybe it was too soon to start looking elsewhere.
Since Sherman Lewis started calling the plays and especially over the past four games, Campbell and the offense have thrived.
Has it saved his job?
It's undeniable that Campbell is not a perfect quarterback. He will never be a Brett Favre or a Peyton Manning. But he is better than Trent Dilfer, who quarterbacked the 2000 Ravens to a Super Bowl championship.
As the weeks go on, the more and more I think that the Redskins SHOULD bring Campbell back.
No, he probably will never put the team on his back and will it to a come-from-behind victory, but he's good enough to manage the game and won't lose many games by himself.
The Redskins have spent much of the last 15 years tearing everything down and rebuilding. Maybe it's time to just let things coast and see where it takes the team.
Sherman Lewis seems to be having an effect. Let he and Zorn run things awhile longer with Campbell in place.
But please, dear god, solidify the offensive line.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Orakpo's coming out party
On a big day in many ways, Brian Orakpo's performance stood out. The rookie out of Texas finally had a breakout performance, a game to remember.
Four sacks.
Whatever you want to say about the Redskins - they've definitely had a down season - Orakpo will be a great player. He already is.
All together, it was a great defensive performance by the Redskins. They totaled eight sacks. Orakpo led with four, Andre Carter had two and Lorenzo Alexander and Doughty had one each.
The offense performed as well as it had since Sherman Lewis took over the play calling. Quinton Ganther, the Redskins fourth starting running back this season, came through for two touchdowns.
Offensive thoughts
Defensive thoughts
Overall, a big victory and something to build off of.
Four sacks.
Whatever you want to say about the Redskins - they've definitely had a down season - Orakpo will be a great player. He already is.
All together, it was a great defensive performance by the Redskins. They totaled eight sacks. Orakpo led with four, Andre Carter had two and Lorenzo Alexander and Doughty had one each.
The offense performed as well as it had since Sherman Lewis took over the play calling. Quinton Ganther, the Redskins fourth starting running back this season, came through for two touchdowns.
Offensive thoughts
- Fred Davis came through again with two touchdowns. That tight end play next season should be interesting. I think the Redskins could come up with a very good two tight end set and create big mis-matches with Cooley and Davis. When Cooley was healthy, we never saw Davis. With Cooley out, Davis has suddenly shown up big.
- Ganther was a bright spot. The Redskins continue to get more production out of backup running backs than they got out of Portis. Ganther ran for 50 yards on 14 carries with two touchdowns. Great, great play. He also had a few catches.
- Campbell's play -- 16 of 28 for 222 yards and two touchdowns -- was solid. He was pressured throughout the game but came out alright. He's still got to get rid of the ball quicker.
- I loved, loved, that the Redskins went for the throat up 27-13. Instead of settling for a FG, the coaches called a good drive to get another TD.
- Graham Gano -- the new kicker -- did a good job. Made some solid kicks and had two good kickoffs for touchbacks. I'll reserve final judgment for when he makes a pressure kick to win or lose a game. That'll tell me who he really is, but it was a good start.
Defensive thoughts
- I really can't say enough about Orakpo, but he had a tremendous game.
- The Redskins seemed to want to be more aggressive on defense -- more blitzes, lots of pressure. It worked, especially by the end of the game. The Raiders' offensive linemen didn't know who to block. Definitely worked out well for the Skins, who had eight sacks - the most in... as long as I can remember.
- I think this is a plus - Landry only got burnt on one double move. I really want to like the guy, he was a 6th overall pick, but the guy isn't impressing. The Redskins seemed to move him closer to the line and play him like a linebacker. I think this was a good move. Landry can hit well and has a lot of speed. Keep him up near the line of scrimmage.
Overall, a big victory and something to build off of.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Redskins finding new ways to lose games
For once, the Redskins offense showed up.
For once, Jason Campbell played well.
For once, the play-calling was perfect.
But the Redskins found yet another way to lose a game. In perhaps the Redskins most painful loss of the year, it was the kicking game and turnovers which burned the Skins late.
Points:
Question
How the heck did the Saints get the ball back in OT after Sellers' fumbled?
Sellers did fumble - not going to argue that - but the play was called dead. So Sellers stops even going for the ball. The Saints player - McAlister? - stops as well and picks up the ball about four seconds after the play was called dead. So the refs blew the whistle and Sellers stops going for the ball and the refs give the ball to the Saints? Maybe I'm wrong about this one, but I call that ridiculous.
Definitely a tough loss to swallow. The Redskins should have won this game. There were many plays in there - the punt where the ball hit Kevin Barnes and the Saints recovered; the strip after the INT that was returned for a Saints TD - that should have doomed the Redskins.
But the Redskins did play well today. They played well enough to win. I guess that's something.
For once, Jason Campbell played well.
For once, the play-calling was perfect.
But the Redskins found yet another way to lose a game. In perhaps the Redskins most painful loss of the year, it was the kicking game and turnovers which burned the Skins late.
Points:
- I continue to be incredibly unhappy with the Redskins red-zone offense. It's almost like the Skins coaches are afraid to make a mistake. It's the same with the way the Redskins play with a lead. They have a lead and seem to not to want to make a mistake.
- You can't win too often in the NFL when you play scared.
- Shaun Suisham, for as well as he's played for the most part this year, the guy just can't make a field goal when it really matters. He failed against the Cowboys two weeks ago, and he failed today. His miss from 23 yards sealed the Redskins' loss.
- Laron Landry had a mixed game. He had several very good tackles up near the line of scrimmage. He's a natural strong safety, and he plays like it. But he got burned deep twice in coverage.
- I thought Jason Campbell played very well for most of the afternoon. It also helps that the Saints' defense is missing a few defensive backs. He threw for a career-high 367 yards, but his interception on a potentially game-winning drive was perhaps the worst possible thing that could have happened.
- I thought Devin Thomas had a terrific game - the best of his young career. He needs to do this every game, and the Redskins need to get him the ball and allow him to consistently have that success. It was also another good game for Fred Davis. I'm not sure how the Redskins will handle the tight end position when Chris Cooley comes back next year. Davis is a starter and potentially a Pro Bowl player. Cooley is already a Pro Bowler.
Question
How the heck did the Saints get the ball back in OT after Sellers' fumbled?
Sellers did fumble - not going to argue that - but the play was called dead. So Sellers stops even going for the ball. The Saints player - McAlister? - stops as well and picks up the ball about four seconds after the play was called dead. So the refs blew the whistle and Sellers stops going for the ball and the refs give the ball to the Saints? Maybe I'm wrong about this one, but I call that ridiculous.
Definitely a tough loss to swallow. The Redskins should have won this game. There were many plays in there - the punt where the ball hit Kevin Barnes and the Saints recovered; the strip after the INT that was returned for a Saints TD - that should have doomed the Redskins.
But the Redskins did play well today. They played well enough to win. I guess that's something.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Offense offensive
When a defense plays as well as the Redskins defense did against the Cowboys, one would expect that team to win.
And the Redskins defense did a very good job against the Cowboys offense.
As usual, however, the Skins offense and special teams let the defense down.
Kicker Shaun Suisham missed two field goals, his first two all season. His two kicks would have given the team at least a two-score lead, changing the game.
In the second half, the Redskins burned two timeouts unnecessarily. Timeouts that the Redskins needed in the closing seconds.
"It's on me," said Jim Zorn, talking about the missing timeouts in his post-game press conference.
Yes, yes it is.
Game balls
I'm also growing increasing annoyed with Zorn's eternal optimism. The team failed to score a touchdown in the game - AGAIN! - and Zorn was all about how hard the team played.
Zorn, get real. The team is now 3-7 and the schedule is not going to get any easier. Come on. Let's start re-thinking how the Redskins are trying to attack teams.
That's going to be the key going forward. The Redskins need to re-think their offense, because what they've been doing this entire season is not working.
And the Redskins defense did a very good job against the Cowboys offense.
As usual, however, the Skins offense and special teams let the defense down.
Kicker Shaun Suisham missed two field goals, his first two all season. His two kicks would have given the team at least a two-score lead, changing the game.
In the second half, the Redskins burned two timeouts unnecessarily. Timeouts that the Redskins needed in the closing seconds.
"It's on me," said Jim Zorn, talking about the missing timeouts in his post-game press conference.
Yes, yes it is.
Game balls
- While it's hard to single out someone on the Redskins' defense, Andre Carter really had a great game pressuring Romo and stopping the run
- Rock Cartwright knew he'd be getting some carries Sunday, but with Ladell Betts out with an injury, Cartwright was all the offense had. He totaled career-high numbers: 67 rushing yards and 73 receiving.
- London Fletcher led the team again in tackles with nine and had a key interception. The Redskins didn't exactly stop the run well, but overall, they stopped the Cowboys when they needed to.
- Suisham's game was disappointing to say the least. Some kickers are clutch - Matt Stover comes to mind - but then some kickers are simply un-clutch. Suisham hadn't missed a kick this season, but today, when it really matters, he couldn't hit two.
- Zorn made too many bad decisions. The second-half timeout issues, combined with clock mismanagement to end the first half, did not look good for His Medium-ness.
I'm also growing increasing annoyed with Zorn's eternal optimism. The team failed to score a touchdown in the game - AGAIN! - and Zorn was all about how hard the team played.
Zorn, get real. The team is now 3-7 and the schedule is not going to get any easier. Come on. Let's start re-thinking how the Redskins are trying to attack teams.
That's going to be the key going forward. The Redskins need to re-think their offense, because what they've been doing this entire season is not working.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Quick reaction: Big win, good win
It figures the Redskins would beat the Broncos.
The Skins have been playing bad teams all throughout the first half of the season - five straight games against winless teams and all - and the Redskins have just two wins and six losses.
But the Broncos - 6-2 - come in, and suddenly the Redskins find themselves a rhythm on offense and win 27-17.
Maybe this second half of the season will be good for the Skins after all.
Sunday, Washington finally found the combination of offensive linemen and running backs for a great running game. A season high 174 rushing yards, mostly behind Ladell Betts.
Jason Campbell didn't make any mistakes. I would not say he played well by any means, but he did not make any mistakes.
But the play of the game might have been when Brian Orakpo knocked Kyle Orton out of the game. Orton had burned the Redskins with two deep 1st-quarter throws.
But Chris Simms was not ready for primetime, completing just 3 of 13 passes for 13 yards and an INT. His play, or lack thereof, allowed the Redskins to stay in the game.
I want to take nothing away from Ladell Betts. He should start again next week in place of Clinton Portis. But Levi Jones made an immediate impact for the offensive line. His play in left tackle allowed Stephon Heyer to move to right tackle (his natural position), and the running game exploded.
The Skins have been playing bad teams all throughout the first half of the season - five straight games against winless teams and all - and the Redskins have just two wins and six losses.
But the Broncos - 6-2 - come in, and suddenly the Redskins find themselves a rhythm on offense and win 27-17.
Maybe this second half of the season will be good for the Skins after all.
Sunday, Washington finally found the combination of offensive linemen and running backs for a great running game. A season high 174 rushing yards, mostly behind Ladell Betts.
Jason Campbell didn't make any mistakes. I would not say he played well by any means, but he did not make any mistakes.
But the play of the game might have been when Brian Orakpo knocked Kyle Orton out of the game. Orton had burned the Redskins with two deep 1st-quarter throws.
But Chris Simms was not ready for primetime, completing just 3 of 13 passes for 13 yards and an INT. His play, or lack thereof, allowed the Redskins to stay in the game.
I want to take nothing away from Ladell Betts. He should start again next week in place of Clinton Portis. But Levi Jones made an immediate impact for the offensive line. His play in left tackle allowed Stephon Heyer to move to right tackle (his natural position), and the running game exploded.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
DeAngelo Hall needs to shut up
Ladies and gents, I give you DeAngelo Hall after the loss, talking about his skirmish with the Falcons:
I have been a fan of Hall, but this, combined with his poor tackling, hasn't exactly endeared him to me.
Even if Mike Smith did grab him in a "harmful" way and everything happened as Hall said, it's time to just let it go.
Just let it go.
(Thanks to RealRedskins and CSN for the vid).
I have been a fan of Hall, but this, combined with his poor tackling, hasn't exactly endeared him to me.
Even if Mike Smith did grab him in a "harmful" way and everything happened as Hall said, it's time to just let it go.
Just let it go.
(Thanks to RealRedskins and CSN for the vid).
It almost was
For once, the Redskins' defense could not save the Redskins.
The Falcons, behind Michael Turner (166 yards), were able to run - quite literally - over the Redskins for a 31-17 victory.
The Skins were down 24-3 at halftime, but were able to pull back to 24-17. So close, yet so far. Turner went long on another TD run on the Falcons' next drive and Atlanta pulled away.
First, some points:
1. Ladell Betts should start next week over Clinton Portis, even if Portis is healthy. Betts showed way more speed and power than Portis had all season. Start Betts. Sit Portis.
2. The defense really let the team down. Haven't seen the running defense exposed so badly.
3. Campbell continues to be a lame-duck QB. He won't be around next season. I'd bench him as well. Right now, I trust Todd Collins much more than I do Campbell.
Some other quick thoughts...
I love that Marko Mitchell got into the game and made a few catches. I'd bench Antwaan Randle El and put in Mitchell a lot more. Not sure if Malcolm Kelly and Devin Thomas will ever make it here, now. Randle El continues to add very little to this team.
Jim Zorn looked like he was bored from time to time on the sideline. I don't think he's very happy right now without being able to call plays.
DeAngelo Hall may be a very good cover corner, but he can't tackle worth a lick. Hall missed more than a few tackles today. Ditto for Laron Landry, who has no excuse. I know Landry is playing out of position, but the guy needs to wrap up players, not go for the big hit.
I have a feeling that unless the Redskins make some significant changes to the way the offense works (big name changes, or something similar), I think the team is seriously looking at a 2-14 season.
Doing the same thing has gotten the Redskins to 2-6. They can't keep doing the same thing and hoping something clicks.
The Falcons, behind Michael Turner (166 yards), were able to run - quite literally - over the Redskins for a 31-17 victory.
The Skins were down 24-3 at halftime, but were able to pull back to 24-17. So close, yet so far. Turner went long on another TD run on the Falcons' next drive and Atlanta pulled away.
First, some points:
1. Ladell Betts should start next week over Clinton Portis, even if Portis is healthy. Betts showed way more speed and power than Portis had all season. Start Betts. Sit Portis.
2. The defense really let the team down. Haven't seen the running defense exposed so badly.
3. Campbell continues to be a lame-duck QB. He won't be around next season. I'd bench him as well. Right now, I trust Todd Collins much more than I do Campbell.
Some other quick thoughts...
I love that Marko Mitchell got into the game and made a few catches. I'd bench Antwaan Randle El and put in Mitchell a lot more. Not sure if Malcolm Kelly and Devin Thomas will ever make it here, now. Randle El continues to add very little to this team.
Jim Zorn looked like he was bored from time to time on the sideline. I don't think he's very happy right now without being able to call plays.
DeAngelo Hall may be a very good cover corner, but he can't tackle worth a lick. Hall missed more than a few tackles today. Ditto for Laron Landry, who has no excuse. I know Landry is playing out of position, but the guy needs to wrap up players, not go for the big hit.
I have a feeling that unless the Redskins make some significant changes to the way the offense works (big name changes, or something similar), I think the team is seriously looking at a 2-14 season.
Doing the same thing has gotten the Redskins to 2-6. They can't keep doing the same thing and hoping something clicks.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Things that need to change
Since the Redskins' season is nearing its halfway point (bye week this week, and the team's 8th game next week against Atlanta), it's as good a time as any to go through what I'd like to see from the team for the rest of the season.
It appears increasingly unlikely the Redskins (2-5) will turn their season around. At this point, they'd need a good 7-game win streak to turn it around, and looking at the team's upcoming schedule, that seems highly unlikely.
With that in mind, here are some things I'd like to see in the coming weeks ...
1. Who is Marko Mitchell?
The rookie receiver stood out in the preseason. That is to say that no one else played well. But Mitchell does have some promise. He's tall, he's fast and he seems to have good hands. I'd go so far as to say that he's played better than either Malcolm Kelly or Devin Thomas in his one year than they have in their two. So let's get him some reps. Antwaan Randle El is not long for this team, that much is clear. Get Mitchell some reps.
2. Free Brian Orakpo.
It's fairly obvious that the Redskins were fooling themselves thinking that Orakpo was going to be some fierce defensive end/linebacker combo linebacker in the mold of some Pittsburgh linebackers of old. I think the Giants picked up a linebacker - former Virginia LB Clint Sintim - who could be that guy for them, but Orakpo - from his first day on the team - always seemed to be more comfortable on the line. I still say that any play that doesn't have him on the line is a wasted play. In Orakpo's place, try out Chris Wilson. He's a former defensive end who has looked decent as a linebacker.
3. Time for a curtain call, Mr. Portis.
Truthfully, I feel really bad for Clinton Portis. The guy came to Washington coming off a pair of 1,500-yard seasons with Denver. He was young and dangerous. In Denver, he was a smallish, quick, break-away running back. When he leaves Washington, he'll still be relatively young (he's only 28), but god, what did the Redskins do to him? He has lost at least two steps (did you see his long run a few weeks ago? He had one guy to beat and a blocker, and still got caught from behind), and he's not small or quick. He beefed up for Gibbs' offense, and took pounding after pounding. He's injured every week, and it shows. I do think the guy has been a warrior for the Redskins, but the Redskins have burned him out.
It's time for the team to look at younger options. I'd even like to see Ladell Betts get more carries.
4. It's Collins time - yeah, I said it.
Todd Collins, that is. I've seen enough of Jason Campbell over the years here to know that he isn't going to be the guy - ever. He's never been consistent, but he's had flashes of genius that have buttered our opinion of the guy. Truth is, he hasn't improved in any way since his first year in the NFL. Collins won't be the Redskins' guy in the long term, but I do think that he'll give the team a better chance to win this year. Next year? Probably try Colt Brennan and finally see what he has, and bring in a veteran for some insurance. Draft a big-time QB in 2011 if need be.
5. Pray for our offensive line.
Seriously, I am pretty sure there is nothing that can be done about this group of fat guys. Stephon Heyer is obviously not a long-term answer at left tackle. He might be decent at right tackle, but the Redskins probably will be looking for a premier LT in next year's draft. Luckily it's looking like they'll have a relatively high pick to spend on that LT. Mike Williams hasn't looked horrible (that I can remember), but he hasn't exactly looked like a former 1st round pick. It's hard to count on anyone on that line right now. Randy Thomas has been injured quite a bit over the past few years. Chris Samuels sounds like he'll retire. Casey Rabach isn't getting any younger. Dockery has been solid, but that's about it. Questions with no answers right now.
It appears increasingly unlikely the Redskins (2-5) will turn their season around. At this point, they'd need a good 7-game win streak to turn it around, and looking at the team's upcoming schedule, that seems highly unlikely.
With that in mind, here are some things I'd like to see in the coming weeks ...
1. Who is Marko Mitchell?
The rookie receiver stood out in the preseason. That is to say that no one else played well. But Mitchell does have some promise. He's tall, he's fast and he seems to have good hands. I'd go so far as to say that he's played better than either Malcolm Kelly or Devin Thomas in his one year than they have in their two. So let's get him some reps. Antwaan Randle El is not long for this team, that much is clear. Get Mitchell some reps.
2. Free Brian Orakpo.
It's fairly obvious that the Redskins were fooling themselves thinking that Orakpo was going to be some fierce defensive end/linebacker combo linebacker in the mold of some Pittsburgh linebackers of old. I think the Giants picked up a linebacker - former Virginia LB Clint Sintim - who could be that guy for them, but Orakpo - from his first day on the team - always seemed to be more comfortable on the line. I still say that any play that doesn't have him on the line is a wasted play. In Orakpo's place, try out Chris Wilson. He's a former defensive end who has looked decent as a linebacker.
3. Time for a curtain call, Mr. Portis.
Truthfully, I feel really bad for Clinton Portis. The guy came to Washington coming off a pair of 1,500-yard seasons with Denver. He was young and dangerous. In Denver, he was a smallish, quick, break-away running back. When he leaves Washington, he'll still be relatively young (he's only 28), but god, what did the Redskins do to him? He has lost at least two steps (did you see his long run a few weeks ago? He had one guy to beat and a blocker, and still got caught from behind), and he's not small or quick. He beefed up for Gibbs' offense, and took pounding after pounding. He's injured every week, and it shows. I do think the guy has been a warrior for the Redskins, but the Redskins have burned him out.
It's time for the team to look at younger options. I'd even like to see Ladell Betts get more carries.
4. It's Collins time - yeah, I said it.
Todd Collins, that is. I've seen enough of Jason Campbell over the years here to know that he isn't going to be the guy - ever. He's never been consistent, but he's had flashes of genius that have buttered our opinion of the guy. Truth is, he hasn't improved in any way since his first year in the NFL. Collins won't be the Redskins' guy in the long term, but I do think that he'll give the team a better chance to win this year. Next year? Probably try Colt Brennan and finally see what he has, and bring in a veteran for some insurance. Draft a big-time QB in 2011 if need be.
5. Pray for our offensive line.
Seriously, I am pretty sure there is nothing that can be done about this group of fat guys. Stephon Heyer is obviously not a long-term answer at left tackle. He might be decent at right tackle, but the Redskins probably will be looking for a premier LT in next year's draft. Luckily it's looking like they'll have a relatively high pick to spend on that LT. Mike Williams hasn't looked horrible (that I can remember), but he hasn't exactly looked like a former 1st round pick. It's hard to count on anyone on that line right now. Randy Thomas has been injured quite a bit over the past few years. Chris Samuels sounds like he'll retire. Casey Rabach isn't getting any younger. Dockery has been solid, but that's about it. Questions with no answers right now.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
For the good of the team, Snyder must make a decision
Danny Snyder and Vinny Cerrato's special relationship has been well documented.
It's a relationship that has spanned almost 10 years and over that time, the Redskins have been nothing if not mediocre. Some years a little more, some a little less. But doubtlessly mediocre.
And it's a relationship that, for the good of the Redskins, must end.
The roster
The Redskins have the oldest roster in the league with an average age of 27.60 and average NFL experience of 5.55 years.
But who on the roster right now is absolutely isn't expendable? Certainly not Campbell. Portis hasn't converted a third- or fourth-down (and 1) seemingly all year. Maybe Samuels or Dockery on the line. Not sure about any of the receivers. Maybe Moss, but he's wildly inconsistent. Anyone on defense? Maybe Haynesworth, but he hasn't proved his worth yet. Neither has Orakpo.
Everyone else could be replaced.
While we're talking about Orakpo, why the heck did we draft him to play a typical linebacker? He's a passrushing fiend, yet we have him playing basically a drop-back, read-and-react linebacker? Makes no sense.
Why does Cerrato have five running backs on the roster? We have Portis, Betts and Cartwright - who are basically the same type of back and very little upside - and then Alridge, who the Redskins haven't used yet but has a lot of upside. Betts and Cartwright are veterans who are not needed. They're good running backs, but provide the same thing that Portis brings to the table.
Campbell is not a West Coast Offense QB. Not sure why Cerrato brought in a WCO coach to teach a deep-ball passer how to run a WCO. Collins is too old to be anything other than a backup right now. Brennan has a lot of upside but really hasn't shown it quite yet. Oh, and he's on IR. Daniel showed a lot of upside, but Cerrato decided to jettison him.
Alright, I'll say it
First off, Snyder must fire Cerrato, and this time not bring him back. It'll be a tough decision to fire Cerrato, but it's something that Snyder must do if he wants the Redskins to ever get better on the field.
This team needs a complete overhaul. It's full of aging veterans - take a look at the defensive line (Wynn, Carter, Daniels) - who, while they have great experience - aren't exactly helping this team out right now.
It's pretty clear that Campbell probably won't be the Redskins starter next season (unless for some reason he has a great rest-of-the-season. Maybe take the time now to overhaul the team. It's going to take some time, but in the longhaul, it'll be worth it. Fix the offensive line first. Then get a quarterback who can make quick decisions and run the team from the line of scrimmage. He doesn't have to necessarily have a big arm. Don't worry too much about the running back or receivers - they are very easy to find.
Defensively, I think there are some key young guys in place. Horton and Doughty are playing well. Orakpo has potential, but please, use him wisely. I like Rocky McIntosh. The Redskins need to find a replacement for Fletcher, who is getting a little up there.
All is not lost
This year isn't over by a long shot, and the team can turn it around and avert disaster. I don't necessarily think Zorn is a bad coach. I just think he's trying to do too much and failing at everything. If he wants to truly be a head coach, he can't be the one calling the plays. He also can't be coaching QBs.
He has to manage the game.
The team needs to do a better job at using the weapons it has. Use Fred Davis more. The guy is a great athlete, but he's only had five catches in his two-year career. Create a few packages a game for him. Use Kelly and Mitchell more on high, deep stuff. There's some young talent there.
Use Alridge with what he does best. Get him out in space and let him run. He's the only speed runner on the team. Use that.
Use Orakpo better. Have him be pretty much a pass-rushing linebacker. Bulk him up. Don't worry about dropping him back in coverage, that's not what he does well. Move him around and blitz him from multiple angles to confuse offenses. The guy is a weapon. Use him.
Play some more bump-and-run on the defense. Be more aggressive. Attack with Landry more. The guy is a rocket when blitzing. He is a natural aggressive safety, should be playing close to the line and attacking it. Don't drop him back in coverage too much, you're taking him out of the game.
If the Redskins start looking like they'll be out of the playoffs, which I'm not saying they'll be, look for some big changes on the way.
The team can turn it around this year, but they must start playing smarter football.
It's a relationship that has spanned almost 10 years and over that time, the Redskins have been nothing if not mediocre. Some years a little more, some a little less. But doubtlessly mediocre.
And it's a relationship that, for the good of the Redskins, must end.
The roster
The Redskins have the oldest roster in the league with an average age of 27.60 and average NFL experience of 5.55 years.
But who on the roster right now is absolutely isn't expendable? Certainly not Campbell. Portis hasn't converted a third- or fourth-down (and 1) seemingly all year. Maybe Samuels or Dockery on the line. Not sure about any of the receivers. Maybe Moss, but he's wildly inconsistent. Anyone on defense? Maybe Haynesworth, but he hasn't proved his worth yet. Neither has Orakpo.
Everyone else could be replaced.
While we're talking about Orakpo, why the heck did we draft him to play a typical linebacker? He's a passrushing fiend, yet we have him playing basically a drop-back, read-and-react linebacker? Makes no sense.
Why does Cerrato have five running backs on the roster? We have Portis, Betts and Cartwright - who are basically the same type of back and very little upside - and then Alridge, who the Redskins haven't used yet but has a lot of upside. Betts and Cartwright are veterans who are not needed. They're good running backs, but provide the same thing that Portis brings to the table.
Campbell is not a West Coast Offense QB. Not sure why Cerrato brought in a WCO coach to teach a deep-ball passer how to run a WCO. Collins is too old to be anything other than a backup right now. Brennan has a lot of upside but really hasn't shown it quite yet. Oh, and he's on IR. Daniel showed a lot of upside, but Cerrato decided to jettison him.
Alright, I'll say it
First off, Snyder must fire Cerrato, and this time not bring him back. It'll be a tough decision to fire Cerrato, but it's something that Snyder must do if he wants the Redskins to ever get better on the field.
This team needs a complete overhaul. It's full of aging veterans - take a look at the defensive line (Wynn, Carter, Daniels) - who, while they have great experience - aren't exactly helping this team out right now.
It's pretty clear that Campbell probably won't be the Redskins starter next season (unless for some reason he has a great rest-of-the-season. Maybe take the time now to overhaul the team. It's going to take some time, but in the longhaul, it'll be worth it. Fix the offensive line first. Then get a quarterback who can make quick decisions and run the team from the line of scrimmage. He doesn't have to necessarily have a big arm. Don't worry too much about the running back or receivers - they are very easy to find.
Defensively, I think there are some key young guys in place. Horton and Doughty are playing well. Orakpo has potential, but please, use him wisely. I like Rocky McIntosh. The Redskins need to find a replacement for Fletcher, who is getting a little up there.
All is not lost
This year isn't over by a long shot, and the team can turn it around and avert disaster. I don't necessarily think Zorn is a bad coach. I just think he's trying to do too much and failing at everything. If he wants to truly be a head coach, he can't be the one calling the plays. He also can't be coaching QBs.
He has to manage the game.
The team needs to do a better job at using the weapons it has. Use Fred Davis more. The guy is a great athlete, but he's only had five catches in his two-year career. Create a few packages a game for him. Use Kelly and Mitchell more on high, deep stuff. There's some young talent there.
Use Alridge with what he does best. Get him out in space and let him run. He's the only speed runner on the team. Use that.
Use Orakpo better. Have him be pretty much a pass-rushing linebacker. Bulk him up. Don't worry about dropping him back in coverage, that's not what he does well. Move him around and blitz him from multiple angles to confuse offenses. The guy is a weapon. Use him.
Play some more bump-and-run on the defense. Be more aggressive. Attack with Landry more. The guy is a rocket when blitzing. He is a natural aggressive safety, should be playing close to the line and attacking it. Don't drop him back in coverage too much, you're taking him out of the game.
If the Redskins start looking like they'll be out of the playoffs, which I'm not saying they'll be, look for some big changes on the way.
The team can turn it around this year, but they must start playing smarter football.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
What we learned, Vol 1, Chapter 5
The Redskins lost, but it's okay.
The Skins did indeed fall, 23-17, in New York against the Giants. The Redskins - especially in the first half - didn't look like a complete football team. New York controlled the game and the Redskins never led. But it's not so bad.
What we learned:
1. The Giants are really good.
Maybe I am overestimating how good the Redskins are, but the Giants looked like a very, very good team. Their defense is their calling card, and they had three sacks, harassed Jason Campbell all day, and shut down the Redskins' running game. That's not to say the Skins didn't have their chances against the Giants, and I'm not absolving them of the loss simply because the Giants are good. But the Giants do have a great defense, and Eli Manning ain't too shabby either. They are the conference favorites, and they showed why on Sunday.
2. The offense is a work in progress (again).
It wasn't just one thing. It was everything, but the problems Sunday could have a lot to do with the Giants' defense. The Redskins had trouble protecting Campbell as well as running the ball. That added up to the Redskins having trouble moving the ball, especially in the first half. The team's top receiver, Santana Moss, had just two catches for 6 yards, and one of those catches was for -2 yards. Clinton Portis managed 62 rushing yards on 16 carries, but he gained 34 of those yards on his first carry of the day. The team did make a late push, and maybe against a lighter defense, the Redskins might have been able to show more. But one bright spot on offense ...
3. Randle El is a heck of a slot receiver.
The Redskins demoted Antwaan Randle El from a starter to a third receiver, similar to what he did in Pittsburgh. The spot opposite Moss went to Malcolm Kelly. Randle El responded with seven catches for 98 yards, one of his best games as a Redskin. One of the best things about Randle El is his speed and quickness, and he showed those attributes to the max. While he didn't work too well as an outside receiver, he's absolutely perfect in the slot.
4. Training camp reports are highly suspect, but the defense isn't THAT bad.
Reports out of training camp said that the Redskins defense was super. Well, maybe that had more to do with the Redskins offense than the defense. The Giants were able to keep drives alive, especially in the first half. What's worse, the Redskins missed several tackles. But, the defense did a good job of holding the Giants to field goals instead of giving up touchdowns. And in the second half, the Redskins defense kept the team in the game, including an interception by DeAngelo Hall. But where was rookie Brian Orakpo? The guy was all over the field in the preseason, he disappeared Sunday. Maybe the DVR will explain some things.
5. The kids aren't all right.
Devin Thomas, Malcolm Kelly and Fred Davis had a combined one catch - Kelly's 6-yarder. Is this just another symptom of the Redskins' poor offense? I'd hate to think the Redskins wasted three second-round draft picks.
The Skins open at FedEx Field next weekend against the St. Louis Rams, which presents a better matchup with the Redskins than the Giants do.
Hey, at least it's football season.
The Skins did indeed fall, 23-17, in New York against the Giants. The Redskins - especially in the first half - didn't look like a complete football team. New York controlled the game and the Redskins never led. But it's not so bad.
What we learned:
1. The Giants are really good.
Maybe I am overestimating how good the Redskins are, but the Giants looked like a very, very good team. Their defense is their calling card, and they had three sacks, harassed Jason Campbell all day, and shut down the Redskins' running game. That's not to say the Skins didn't have their chances against the Giants, and I'm not absolving them of the loss simply because the Giants are good. But the Giants do have a great defense, and Eli Manning ain't too shabby either. They are the conference favorites, and they showed why on Sunday.
2. The offense is a work in progress (again).
It wasn't just one thing. It was everything, but the problems Sunday could have a lot to do with the Giants' defense. The Redskins had trouble protecting Campbell as well as running the ball. That added up to the Redskins having trouble moving the ball, especially in the first half. The team's top receiver, Santana Moss, had just two catches for 6 yards, and one of those catches was for -2 yards. Clinton Portis managed 62 rushing yards on 16 carries, but he gained 34 of those yards on his first carry of the day. The team did make a late push, and maybe against a lighter defense, the Redskins might have been able to show more. But one bright spot on offense ...
3. Randle El is a heck of a slot receiver.
The Redskins demoted Antwaan Randle El from a starter to a third receiver, similar to what he did in Pittsburgh. The spot opposite Moss went to Malcolm Kelly. Randle El responded with seven catches for 98 yards, one of his best games as a Redskin. One of the best things about Randle El is his speed and quickness, and he showed those attributes to the max. While he didn't work too well as an outside receiver, he's absolutely perfect in the slot.
4. Training camp reports are highly suspect, but the defense isn't THAT bad.
Reports out of training camp said that the Redskins defense was super. Well, maybe that had more to do with the Redskins offense than the defense. The Giants were able to keep drives alive, especially in the first half. What's worse, the Redskins missed several tackles. But, the defense did a good job of holding the Giants to field goals instead of giving up touchdowns. And in the second half, the Redskins defense kept the team in the game, including an interception by DeAngelo Hall. But where was rookie Brian Orakpo? The guy was all over the field in the preseason, he disappeared Sunday. Maybe the DVR will explain some things.
5. The kids aren't all right.
Devin Thomas, Malcolm Kelly and Fred Davis had a combined one catch - Kelly's 6-yarder. Is this just another symptom of the Redskins' poor offense? I'd hate to think the Redskins wasted three second-round draft picks.
The Skins open at FedEx Field next weekend against the St. Louis Rams, which presents a better matchup with the Redskins than the Giants do.
Hey, at least it's football season.
Friday, September 11, 2009
The Redskins have no shot against Giants
Let's get one thing straight right out of the gates: The Redskins will lose Sunday against the Giants. The Redskins will start the season 0-1; the Giants 1-0. It is almost inevitable.
You disagree? Why? What gives you any clue that the Redskins are any better than the Giants, a team that cruised past D.C. twice last year? The Skins couldn't score more than a touchdown in both games. Do you think the Redskins improved that much? Or the Giants fell that much?
Do you honestly believe that receiver Plaxico Burress - who is no longer with N.Y. - meant that much to the Giants? Let me remind you that Burress did not play when the teams met Nov. 30, and the Giants still won 23-7.
Will Albert Haynesworth make that much of an impact? Gosh, I hope so, because the Skins will need all the help they can get. I can already see Giants running back Brandon Jacobs literally running over Laron Landry. Again.
I can already see the Redskins stuffing the line of scrimmage with nine players, and Giants QB Eli Manning doing some sort of trick and abusing DeAngelo Hall for 55 yards to Hakeem Nicks.
I can already see Jason Campbell being flattened over and over again by the Giants superb defensive line, which, despite its relative thinness, has been pretty adept at shutting down the Redskins' rushing attack. (The Skins averaged just 3.3 yards per rush last season against the G-men.)
Why can I see all of these things? Because they've all happened before. The Giants have had the Redskins' number. Let's face it.
But, there is hope. Haynesworth, a monster defensive tackle, was brought in to stop the Giants from doing what they Giants like to do - run the ball down your throat, and then play-action pass you to death. If Haynesworth and the defense can stop the Giants running game - no easy task - then the Redskins might have a chance. Manning isn't his brother.
Offensively, I have less confidence that the Skins will succeed. QB Jason Campbell has been known to get flustered under pressure, and that's exactly what the Giants do. Rush the passer. They even drafted a kid out of Virginia - Clint Sintim - who is very, very good at rushing the passer. The Redskins will need to get their ground game going against the Giants to have success, in my opinion. I don't see it happened, but there's always hope. The Redskins need to challenge the Giants with the deep pass.
Honestly, though, my prediction?
Giants, 30-14.
You disagree? Why? What gives you any clue that the Redskins are any better than the Giants, a team that cruised past D.C. twice last year? The Skins couldn't score more than a touchdown in both games. Do you think the Redskins improved that much? Or the Giants fell that much?
Do you honestly believe that receiver Plaxico Burress - who is no longer with N.Y. - meant that much to the Giants? Let me remind you that Burress did not play when the teams met Nov. 30, and the Giants still won 23-7.
Will Albert Haynesworth make that much of an impact? Gosh, I hope so, because the Skins will need all the help they can get. I can already see Giants running back Brandon Jacobs literally running over Laron Landry. Again.
I can already see the Redskins stuffing the line of scrimmage with nine players, and Giants QB Eli Manning doing some sort of trick and abusing DeAngelo Hall for 55 yards to Hakeem Nicks.
I can already see Jason Campbell being flattened over and over again by the Giants superb defensive line, which, despite its relative thinness, has been pretty adept at shutting down the Redskins' rushing attack. (The Skins averaged just 3.3 yards per rush last season against the G-men.)
Why can I see all of these things? Because they've all happened before. The Giants have had the Redskins' number. Let's face it.
But, there is hope. Haynesworth, a monster defensive tackle, was brought in to stop the Giants from doing what they Giants like to do - run the ball down your throat, and then play-action pass you to death. If Haynesworth and the defense can stop the Giants running game - no easy task - then the Redskins might have a chance. Manning isn't his brother.
Offensively, I have less confidence that the Skins will succeed. QB Jason Campbell has been known to get flustered under pressure, and that's exactly what the Giants do. Rush the passer. They even drafted a kid out of Virginia - Clint Sintim - who is very, very good at rushing the passer. The Redskins will need to get their ground game going against the Giants to have success, in my opinion. I don't see it happened, but there's always hope. The Redskins need to challenge the Giants with the deep pass.
Honestly, though, my prediction?
Giants, 30-14.
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