***Official*** 2009 Washington Redskins Thread (2 Viewers)

[sinatravolta]

Scoring rule tweaks I would recommend:

INTs: -2 (I don't get why many leagues have them only at -1). QBs can score a lot of points in FF, if anything -2 is kind of a marginal penalty for INTs. If a guy throws for 2 TDs and 3 INTs that is generally not seen as a great day. But disregarding yards that would be worth 9 points right there with current rules. Cutting that down to 6 seems more appropriate. Fumbles lost should also be -2 in my opinion - same reasoning. Is an RB fumbling the ball the equivalent of losing 10 yards? I don't think so. You could easily argue that it's even worse than losing 20 yards and should count even more harshly, but I think -2 at least makes it hurt.

I am for some sort of different values for receptions. Something like 0.5 for RBs, 1 for WRs, 1.5 for TEs (I don't care about the exact numbers). When you do this the top RBs still go off the board first, but it takes less time before WRs and TEs become options. That adds strategy because you're not just taking the next RB on your cheatsheet early, but doesn't make the positions all equal so there's still definitely thought to when you want to draft each position. I think it even makes sense from a football perspective because often RB catches are just slightly longer handoffs so they really aren't worth much. TEs have to split their time between blocking and pass receiving - and usually have to catch their passes over the middle - so their catches are worth more than a WRs since for WRs - catching is almost all of what they do.

 

[buster c]

Biz:

Let's have 16 teams so Tank & NL are in.

 

[Bizkiteer]

Biz:Let's have 16 teams so Tank & NL are in.

Both stated that they were fine with being on the sidelines and needed to only come in, IF someone else couldn't at the last second.

 

[Bizkiteer]

Scoring rule tweaks I would recommend:INTs: -2 (I don't get why many leagues have them only at -1). QBs can score a lot of points in FF, if anything -2 is kind of a marginal penalty for INTs. If a guy throws for 2 TDs and 3 INTs that is generally not seen as a great day. But disregarding yards that would be worth 9 points right there with current rules. Cutting that down to 6 seems more appropriate. Fumbles lost should also be -2 in my opinion - same reasoning. Is an RB fumbling the ball the equivalent of losing 10 yards? I don't think so. You could easily argue that it's even worse than losing 20 yards and should count even more harshly, but I think -2 at least makes it hurt. I am for some sort of different values for receptions. Something like 0.5 for RBs, 1 for WRs, 1.5 for TEs (I don't care about the exact numbers). When you do this the top RBs still go off the board first, but it takes less time before WRs and TEs become options. That adds strategy because you're not just taking the next RB on your cheatsheet early, but doesn't make the positions all equal so there's still definitely thought to when you want to draft each position. I think it even makes sense from a football perspective because often RB catches are just slightly longer handoffs so they really aren't worth much. TEs have to split their time between blocking and pass receiving - and usually have to catch their passes over the middle - so their catches are worth more than a WRs since for WRs - catching is almost all of what they do.

Great points! I concur in that INT's probably could be weighted more by giving an extra -1. I think it's also important that fumbles are not as clear cut because it doesn't just affect RB's, though your point regarding RB's makes sense. QB's fumble a lot when they are hit or even when there is a bad exchange from the center. Add that WR's get rocked and sometimes barely had possesion before it technically counted as a fumble. My first impression is -2 for those things seems a bit harsh. I'm not stuck in concrete either way on it though.PPR topic is about to clearified via email shortly...check your inbox fellas!

 

[Sebowski]

Would you guys mind doing most of your league talk in another thread?

Sure. We wouldn't want to liven up discussion or anything. Bizkiteer is more polite than I am. I don't apologize for talking about it here. Once the league starts up 90% of the talk will be on the league site. That's why we chose MFL, so we can chat there easily. There's not one bit of Redskin discussion that the league talk stopped. The last loss was discouraging, the Steelers are up next and we all expect just about the same result, there were no player moves this week, so what harm exactly has been done?Jeez.

Oof. Nevermind. You are obviously free to have this discussion wherever you want. It was just a request. Sorry.

I agree that it is fairly annoying.

 

[thayman]

I've been busy the last few days, if you need another owner for whatever reason you can put me down as a replacement as well.

 

[T Bell]

I've been busy the last few days, if you need another owner for whatever reason you can put me down as a replacement as well.

Look, chief, nobody likes scabs, mkay?

 

[southeastjerome]

I am cool with doing the league, but I am already in 4 other leagues. I'd be cool with stepping down if someone really wants in.

 

[Ripleys]

and I can step down too if need be. Excited to do it, but I'm also in 13 other leagues.

 

[fatness]

From Jason Reid:

When the season begins, the Redskins plans for top corner DeAngelo Hall to assume Springs's former duties in the slot.

So, will that leave Fred "I give 20 yards of cushion" Smoot on the outside? Tryon? Barnes?

I don't really understand that. Hall and Rogers are the 2 starters, period. Maybe Elfin's talking about 3 WR formations only?

 

[DCThunder]

Will you guys please set up a seperate thread for your league so this one can stay talk about the team and the games and stuff. TIA and I'll hang up and listen to your answer.

 

[dgreen]

From Jason Reid:

When the season begins, the Redskins plans for top corner DeAngelo Hall to assume Springs's former duties in the slot.

So, will that leave Fred "I give 20 yards of cushion" Smoot on the outside? Tryon? Barnes?

I don't really understand that. Hall and Rogers are the 2 starters, period. Maybe Elfin's talking about 3 WR formations only?

Yes, when an opponent goes to 3 (or 4) WRs, Hall will lineup on someone in the slot. They did that with Springs a lot last year and maybe the year before. I don't get it, though. Why put your best corner in the slot when the slot WR may not be your opponent's best WR? What is it about the slot that makes it tougher to cover? If the Skins put ARE in the slot, I'd love it Dallas put Newman on him and left a lesser CB outside on Moss.

 

[Bizkiteer]

From Jason Reid:

When the season begins, the Redskins plans for top corner DeAngelo Hall to assume Springs's former duties in the slot.

So, will that leave Fred "I give 20 yards of cushion" Smoot on the outside? Tryon? Barnes?

I don't really understand that. Hall and Rogers are the 2 starters, period. Maybe Elfin's talking about 3 WR formations only?

Yes, when an opponent goes to 3 (or 4) WRs, Hall will lineup on someone in the slot. They did that with Springs a lot last year and maybe the year before. I don't get it, though. Why put your best corner in the slot when the slot WR may not be your opponent's best WR? What is it about the slot that makes it tougher to cover? If the Skins put ARE in the slot, I'd love it Dallas put Newman on him and left a lesser CB outside on Moss.

Good point, unless the team doesn't have a good strong armed QB. Since most teams do, then the better WR's usually are on the outside. This also says a lot in that the coaches either think highly enough of Smoot on the outside or that he has fallen in their view to be able to play the slot.Would most slot WR's require more man-to-man coverage? Isn't that not DHall's strength? Wasn't that the problem in OAK..too much man-to-man and not enough zone, where DHall really excels at?

 

[T Bell]

The slot WR is more important than ever before, and often in 3 WR sets the best WR or at least best possession WR will get put there. This often gives the offense the best opportunity for mismatches. Hines Ward is used this way, as is Wes Welker.

 

[Sebowski]

Marko Mitchell is really impressing. I'd rather they keep things like this quiet in case he needs to get stashed on the practice squad for a year because he can't play special teams. I'd hate to see this guy get signed off our practice squad. Can someone refresh my memory on how that works? If a team wants any practice squad layer for a reguilar roster spot he is gone, right?

Mitchell catches eyes of coachesDate published: 8/21/2009BY RICH CAMPBELLASHBURN-- Rookie wideout Marko Mitchell spent the last day of training camp proving why he has been one of the Washington Redskins' biggest surprises during the past three weeks.With a handful of catches again yesterday during team drills, Mitchell continued to build momentum in his quest to make the 53-man roster.The seventh-round pick provided the offensive highlight of the morning practice when he used his wiry frame to box out Carlos Rogers on a slant and jump for an acrobatic catch. He also beat rookie Kevin Barnes on a deep touchdown pass from quarterback Chase Daniel."I think Marko is just coming on strong," running back Clinton Portis said. "I think he's that addition that we need along with [receivers] Malcolm [Kelly] and Devin [Thomas]. We were looking for a surprise, and I think he's it."Mitchell's sure hands have garnered some attention from coaches. He has been fairly reliable when it comes to catching the football.Offensive coordinator Sherman Smith said he challenged Mitchell after the Aug. 8 intra-squad scrimmage to go a week without a drop."It's funny, he dropped a pass a week later," Smith said. "I should have said two weeks! This guy has dropped only a few passes since he's been here."Mitchell is 6-foot-5 and 218 pounds, with legs that might disappear if he stood behind a pool cue. He may need to bulk up to be a successful NFL receiver, but he believes he's already grasping the mental part of the game."I'm feeling a lot more comfortable," Mitchell said. "I understand the whole offense and everything. I understand where I've got to be on the field when the play is called to my side." Mitchell caught 61 passes for 1,142 yards and 10 touchdowns last season at Nevada, including five catches for 130 yards and a score against Maryland in the Humanitarian Bowl.Mitchell would help his chances of earning the fifth wide receiver spot by playing well on special teams. He said he never played on that unit at Nevada, though, so that's another aspect of the game he must master."He's starting to get it," coach Jim Zorn said. "He even made a couple of adjustments [Wednesday] in practice that showed that he pays attention and can adjust. I think that's a sign of a guy progressing to make this football team."

 

[T Bell]

Marko Mitchell is really impressing. I'd rather they keep things like this quiet in case he needs to get stashed on the practice squad for a year because he can't play special teams. I'd hate to see this guy get signed off our practice squad. Can someone refresh my memory on how that works? If a team wants any practice squad layer for a reguilar roster spot he is gone, right?

Mitchell catches eyes of coachesDate published: 8/21/2009BY RICH CAMPBELLASHBURN-- Rookie wideout Marko Mitchell spent the last day of training camp proving why he has been one of the Washington Redskins' biggest surprises during the past three weeks.With a handful of catches again yesterday during team drills, Mitchell continued to build momentum in his quest to make the 53-man roster.The seventh-round pick provided the offensive highlight of the morning practice when he used his wiry frame to box out Carlos Rogers on a slant and jump for an acrobatic catch. He also beat rookie Kevin Barnes on a deep touchdown pass from quarterback Chase Daniel."I think Marko is just coming on strong," running back Clinton Portis said. "I think he's that addition that we need along with [receivers] Malcolm [Kelly] and Devin [Thomas]. We were looking for a surprise, and I think he's it."Mitchell's sure hands have garnered some attention from coaches. He has been fairly reliable when it comes to catching the football.Offensive coordinator Sherman Smith said he challenged Mitchell after the Aug. 8 intra-squad scrimmage to go a week without a drop."It's funny, he dropped a pass a week later," Smith said. "I should have said two weeks! This guy has dropped only a few passes since he's been here."Mitchell is 6-foot-5 and 218 pounds, with legs that might disappear if he stood behind a pool cue. He may need to bulk up to be a successful NFL receiver, but he believes he's already grasping the mental part of the game."I'm feeling a lot more comfortable," Mitchell said. "I understand the whole offense and everything. I understand where I've got to be on the field when the play is called to my side." Mitchell caught 61 passes for 1,142 yards and 10 touchdowns last season at Nevada, including five catches for 130 yards and a score against Maryland in the Humanitarian Bowl.Mitchell would help his chances of earning the fifth wide receiver spot by playing well on special teams. He said he never played on that unit at Nevada, though, so that's another aspect of the game he must master."He's starting to get it," coach Jim Zorn said. "He even made a couple of adjustments [Wednesday] in practice that showed that he pays attention and can adjust. I think that's a sign of a guy progressing to make this football team."

If this team has any aspirations to have a great and not merely a good WR corps for years to come, it needs to start keeping and developing young guys like this. Frankly, we should have 6 WR's in the roster, with the 6th being Hackett.

 

[buster c]

Marko Mitchell is really impressing. I'd rather they keep things like this quiet in case he needs to get stashed on the practice squad for a year because he can't play special teams. I'd hate to see this guy get signed off our practice squad. Can someone refresh my memory on how that works? If a team wants any practice squad layer for a reguilar roster spot he is gone, right?

Mitchell catches eyes of coachesDate published: 8/21/2009BY RICH CAMPBELLASHBURN-- Rookie wideout Marko Mitchell spent the last day of training camp proving why he has been one of the Washington Redskins' biggest surprises during the past three weeks.With a handful of catches again yesterday during team drills, Mitchell continued to build momentum in his quest to make the 53-man roster.The seventh-round pick provided the offensive highlight of the morning practice when he used his wiry frame to box out Carlos Rogers on a slant and jump for an acrobatic catch. He also beat rookie Kevin Barnes on a deep touchdown pass from quarterback Chase Daniel."I think Marko is just coming on strong," running back Clinton Portis said. "I think he's that addition that we need along with [receivers] Malcolm [Kelly] and Devin [Thomas]. We were looking for a surprise, and I think he's it."Mitchell's sure hands have garnered some attention from coaches. He has been fairly reliable when it comes to catching the football.Offensive coordinator Sherman Smith said he challenged Mitchell after the Aug. 8 intra-squad scrimmage to go a week without a drop."It's funny, he dropped a pass a week later," Smith said. "I should have said two weeks! This guy has dropped only a few passes since he's been here."Mitchell is 6-foot-5 and 218 pounds, with legs that might disappear if he stood behind a pool cue. He may need to bulk up to be a successful NFL receiver, but he believes he's already grasping the mental part of the game."I'm feeling a lot more comfortable," Mitchell said. "I understand the whole offense and everything. I understand where I've got to be on the field when the play is called to my side." Mitchell caught 61 passes for 1,142 yards and 10 touchdowns last season at Nevada, including five catches for 130 yards and a score against Maryland in the Humanitarian Bowl.Mitchell would help his chances of earning the fifth wide receiver spot by playing well on special teams. He said he never played on that unit at Nevada, though, so that's another aspect of the game he must master."He's starting to get it," coach Jim Zorn said. "He even made a couple of adjustments [Wednesday] in practice that showed that he pays attention and can adjust. I think that's a sign of a guy progressing to make this football team."

If this team has any aspirations to have a great and not merely a good WR corps for years to come, it needs to start keeping and developing young guys like this. Frankly, we should have 6 WR's in the roster, with the 6th being Hackett.

a legitimate NFL quarterback would help, tooI'd not be surprised if MM is a more valuable WR to the team in 3 years than either #11 or #12. As a Terp fan, I recall he tore up the UM secondary in that bowl game (in which MD made minced meat of the NV D, running the ball down their throat). I believe new rookie teammate Barnes was injured and not playing in that game.

 

[Dexter Manley]

Interesting that it appears Betts may be the primary 3rd down back. While they need to keep Portis fresh, he's so great at pass pro I'm not sure if I'm on board with him not playing on 3rd down.

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2009/...es-from-portis/

Betts to take third down duties from Portis

Posted by Gregg Rosenthal on August 21, 2009 1:22 PM ET

Clinton Portis wasn't happy late last season when Jim Zorn kept him on the sidelines for some snaps in December.

This time, he's going to have fair warning.

The Redskins confirmed to the Washington Post Friday that Ladell Betts is going to take over primary duties on third downs. Previously, Portis rarely came off the field in any situation unless he asked for a break. (Which rarely happened.)

This move has been foreshadowed all offseason, but it's interesting to hear the Redskins vocalize their desire to transition to a two-back system.

"You have to make a commitment to it. You really do," Smith said about a two back system.

"If we have 2 minutes and 4 seconds before the halftime, Ladell Betts should do that," Smith said. "That's another place Clinton can get some rest. So this is twofold: You want to get Portis rest, but you also want to take advantage of Ladell Betts. He's a good player."

Betts is talented enough to handle the role, and the move should help Portis close the season stronger than he did last season. It remains to be seen if Portis feels the same way.

Portis has said all offseason he has no problem with coach Zorn, and how he handles a drop in playing time will be his chance to prove it.

 

[Bizkiteer]

Interesting that it appears Betts may be the primary 3rd down back. While they need to keep Portis fresh, he's so great at pass pro I'm not sure if I'm on board with him not playing on 3rd down.

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2009/...es-from-portis/

Betts to take third down duties from Portis

Posted by Gregg Rosenthal on August 21, 2009 1:22 PM ET

Clinton Portis wasn't happy late last season when Jim Zorn kept him on the sidelines for some snaps in December.

This time, he's going to have fair warning.

The Redskins confirmed to the Washington Post Friday that Ladell Betts is going to take over primary duties on third downs. Previously, Portis rarely came off the field in any situation unless he asked for a break. (Which rarely happened.)

This move has been foreshadowed all offseason, but it's interesting to hear the Redskins vocalize their desire to transition to a two-back system.

"You have to make a commitment to it. You really do," Smith said about a two back system.

"If we have 2 minutes and 4 seconds before the halftime, Ladell Betts should do that," Smith said. "That's another place Clinton can get some rest. So this is twofold: You want to get Portis rest, but you also want to take advantage of Ladell Betts. He's a good player."

Betts is talented enough to handle the role, and the move should help Portis close the season stronger than he did last season. It remains to be seen if Portis feels the same way.

Portis has said all offseason he has no problem with coach Zorn, and how he handles a drop in playing time will be his chance to prove it.

I found that odd for the same reason too. Though I completed understand because CP looks like he gets gas'd much more often and much quicker last year than before.

 

[buster c]

I don't see "Bettis" as a 3rd down back. He's more of a 1st & 2nd down plower, then you bring in a Kelvin Bryant or a Joe Washington - someone with quicks who can take a rocket screen to the house.

 

[dgreen]

I don't see "Bettis" as a 3rd down back. He's more of a 1st & 2nd down plower, then you bring in a Kelvin Bryant or a Joe Washington - someone with quicks who can take a rocket screen to the house.

The words "rocket screen" should never be used in a Redskins thread.

 

[fatness]

Interesting that it appears Betts may be the primary 3rd down back. While they need to keep Portis fresh, he's so great at pass pro I'm not sure if I'm on board with him not playing on 3rd down.

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2009/...es-from-portis/

Betts to take third down duties from Portis

There have been articles like this the 2 previous seasons, and we know how it worked out. The articles are useful only if they appear right before a draft, and people in your league then let Portis drop to you.

 

[Sebowski]

Interesting that it appears Betts may be the primary 3rd down back. While they need to keep Portis fresh, he's so great at pass pro I'm not sure if I'm on board with him not playing on 3rd down.

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2009/...es-from-portis/

Betts to take third down duties from Portis

There have been articles like this the 2 previous seasons, and we know how it worked out. The articles are useful only if they appear right before a draft, and people in your league then let Portis drop to you.

I love these articles. I have the 2nd pick and am hoping Portis there at 2.11

One reason Zorn likes Betts in on third downs though is that he leaves pass pro earlier than Portis to run a route whereas Portis stays in to try and light someone up. Personally, I like that. The receivers need to be getting open in a blitz situation and Campbell needs to get the ball out quickly.

 

[jbz]

So Zorn like Betts better because he bails on Campbell to let him get killed while Portis stays back and usually flattens some unsuspecting blitzing LB? i don't see the logic. Campbell takes forever to release the ball and diagnose plays, one would think Portis back there is far more beneficial.

 

[fatness]

So Zorn like Betts better because he bails on Campbell to let him get killed while Portis stays back and usually flattens some unsuspecting blitzing LB? i don't see the logic. Campbell takes forever to release the ball and diagnose plays, one would think Portis back there is far more beneficial.

I don't think that's it. I think it mostly depends on the playcall. If it's a pass play designed to go to a back Betts is more likely to be in. If it's more likely that the back will stay in to pass protect Portis is more likely to be in. Of course if that's the case then defensive coordinators probably know that.

 

[Bizkiteer]

Interesting that it appears Betts may be the primary 3rd down back. While they need to keep Portis fresh, he's so great at pass pro I'm not sure if I'm on board with him not playing on 3rd down.

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2009/...es-from-portis/

Betts to take third down duties from Portis

There have been articles like this the 2 previous seasons, and we know how it worked out. The articles are useful only if they appear right before a draft, and people in your league then let Portis drop to you.

I love these articles. I have the 2nd pick and am hoping Portis there at 2.11

One reason Zorn likes Betts in on third downs though is that he leaves pass pro earlier than Portis to run a route whereas Portis stays in to try and light someone up. Personally, I like that. The receivers need to be getting open in a blitz situation and Campbell needs to get the ball out quickly.

Good luck with that, but I highly doubt he'll be there at the 2.11...unless it's some random yahoo league.

 

[Bizkiteer]

Interesting that it appears Betts may be the primary 3rd down back. While they need to keep Portis fresh, he's so great at pass pro I'm not sure if I'm on board with him not playing on 3rd down.

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2009/...es-from-portis/

Betts to take third down duties from Portis

There have been articles like this the 2 previous seasons, and we know how it worked out. The articles are useful only if they appear right before a draft, and people in your league then let Portis drop to you.

It is true that every year some info gets out that Bettis...errr...Betts will play more of role on the team and then...same ol same old. Mark it down in the believe it when I see it category.

 

[buster c]

quite simply:

Portis is a better runner than Betts

Portis is a better receiver than Betts

Portis is a better blocker than Betts

Portis is less of a fumbler than Betts

other than this, I like Betts

 

[Sebowski]

So Zorn like Betts better because he bails on Campbell to let him get killed while Portis stays back and usually flattens some unsuspecting blitzing LB? i don't see the logic. Campbell takes forever to release the ball and diagnose plays, one would think Portis back there is far more beneficial.

I don't think that's it. I think it mostly depends on the playcall. If it's a pass play designed to go to a back Betts is more likely to be in. If it's more likely that the back will stay in to pass protect Portis is more likely to be in. Of course if that's the case then defensive coordinators probably know that.

That was the reason Zorn gave for playing Betts so much in the Baltimore game.

 

[Sebowski]

quite simplyortis is a better runner than BettsPortis is a better receiver than BettsPortis is a better blocker than BettsPortis is less of a fumbler than Bettsother than this, I like Betts

It's funny because it's true

 

[fatness]

quite simplyortis is a better runner than BettsPortis is a better receiver than BettsPortis is a better blocker than BettsPortis is less of a fumbler than Bettsother than this, I like Betts

You have a way with words.

 

[fatness]

The daily e-mail from footballguys is helping out people who want to draft Portis.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1. WAS - RB Ladell Betts has had a strong offseason and training camp, now third-down back

2. ATL - TE Tony Gonzalez still trying to fit in, blocking more

3. WAS - RB Ladell Betts expected to have a bigger role

4. DEN - TE Tony Scheffler becoming QB Kyle Orton's favorite target

5. WAS - Less could mean more for RB Clinton Portis

[ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ OUR VIEW ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ] ]

Remember this story if you're sitting at the end of the first round and considering Clinton Portis for your fantasy team. The Redskins want to keep Portis healthy, and will expand the role of Ladell Betts in order to do so. Portis could see a decline in production, especially as a receiver. We suggest that if you're sitting at the turn you should look to draft one of the elite wide receivers first.

 

[fatness]

At 6 feet 4, Mitchell brings size that none of the others do. Hixon said despite not making any catches against Baltimore he ran good routes. He drew praise from teammates after standing up to veteran cornerback DeAngelo Hall in a scuffle last week.

After practice Thursday, Clinton Portis told reporters, "Marko Mitchell is killing [starting cornerback] Carlos Rogers in practice."

Moss said Mitchell has gained the respect of the Redskins' secondary, earning the nickname Lanky Love-a-spin, and that defensive backs such as safety LaRon Landry "talk about him every day."

"That goes to show you're doing something interesting to him and those guys are watching you," Moss said. "You're important on their daily plan when it comes to stopping someone in practice. He's been getting the best of them."

Washington Post

 

[fatness]

One of the players to watch against the Steelers tonight is London Fletcher. Supposedly he looked terrible against the Colts, doing a poor job stopping RB's.

 

[fatness]

The Redskins' first-team offense could play early into the second quarter or until Coach Jim Zorn sees enough "production" Saturday night against the Pittsburgh Steelers at FedEx Field.

Jason Reid

 

[fatness]

John Pappas, Warpath Confidential

While there will be a lot to look at this evening, here are five players to keep an eye on.

1. Defensive Tackle Albert Haynesworth – This game will be the first live contact Haynesworth has had since joining the team. In camp he has looked every bit like the 100 million dollar man. Tonight however, he actually gets to hit the quarterback. For those who wondered if Haynesworth would get soft after getting paid, the question begins to be answered in this game.

Look for Haynesworth to eat up blocks on running downs and collapse the pocket on passing plays. This should free up other rushers to get to the quarterback. One sack from the defense when Haynesworth is in will be a good omen for the season.

2. Linebacker/Defensive End Brian Orakpo – With Haynesworth in the game, look at Brian Orakpo on pass rush downs. Orakpo looked impressive in his debut last week against Baltimore. He harassed the Ravens’ left tackle and quarterback last Thursday, to the extent that they began to double team him. Next to Haynesworth however, Orakpo will get one-on-one matchups.

Look for Orakpo to hurry, knock down, and sack the quarterback. An Orakpo sack will be an encouraging sign for Redskins’ fans.

 

[dgreen]

So Zorn like Betts better because he bails on Campbell to let him get killed while Portis stays back and usually flattens some unsuspecting blitzing LB? i don't see the logic. Campbell takes forever to release the ball and diagnose plays, one would think Portis back there is far more beneficial.

I don't think that's it. I think it mostly depends on the playcall. If it's a pass play designed to go to a back Betts is more likely to be in. If it's more likely that the back will stay in to pass protect Portis is more likely to be in. Of course if that's the case then defensive coordinators probably know that.

But even on plays where the RB is supposed to be the dump off route, Portis stays in too long...according to Zorn. Betts is a much worse blocker, but he gives the QB an option for dumping the ball. There are multiple ways to protect the QB. One is obviously having a RB to pick up rushers. Another is having an extra receiver (RB) out to receive the ball before the QB is sacked. Either way can work. Portis laying out a LB is more fun to watch. But, Betts catching a pass in the flat and picking up 6 yards may provide more production on some plays.And, I disagree with buster about Portis being a better receiver than Betts. Betts has great hands for a RB and runs pretty good routes. Portis is certainly better after the catch, but Betts is better with everything before that. I do, however, believe Portis is a better receiver than the Redskins show. Screens and dump off routes is pretty much all they give him. He's pretty much always standing still when he catches it. Betts tends to get the routes where he catches it on the run. I'd love to see Portis get a few more of those.

 

[dgreen]

John Pappas, Warpath Confidential

While there will be a lot to look at this evening, here are five players to keep an eye on.

1. Defensive Tackle Albert Haynesworth – This game will be the first live contact Haynesworth has had since joining the team. In camp he has looked every bit like the 100 million dollar man. Tonight however, he actually gets to hit the quarterback. For those who wondered if Haynesworth would get soft after getting paid, the question begins to be answered in this game.

Look for Haynesworth to eat up blocks on running downs and collapse the pocket on passing plays. This should free up other rushers to get to the quarterback. One sack from the defense when Haynesworth is in will be a good omen for the season.

2. Linebacker/Defensive End Brian Orakpo – With Haynesworth in the game, look at Brian Orakpo on pass rush downs. Orakpo looked impressive in his debut last week against Baltimore. He harassed the Ravens’ left tackle and quarterback last Thursday, to the extent that they began to double team him. Next to Haynesworth however, Orakpo will get one-on-one matchups.

Look for Orakpo to hurry, knock down, and sack the quarterback. An Orakpo sack will be an encouraging sign for Redskins’ fans.

I've said it several times already, but that was against backups. And, as I've also said, I don't have any problems with that domination of backups, but I'm not sure why nobody in the media points that out when praising his performance.

 

[dgreen]

Starting OL looked pretty good again.

Campbell looked like he's made no progress. (Would anyone else mind seeing what Collins does with the first team?)

Orakpo looked very good against starters. Haynesworth is very disruptive. These two together is going to be awesome.

DBs, far too often, are nowhere near receivers. Batch was under pressure, but all he had to do was sidestep the rush and he could easily find open receivers.

 

[ChrisCooleyFan]

Well after 6 qrts. We have 3 points. We play the Ravens, Steelers, Patriots, Jags then the Giants. We might not score a TD untill week 2 against the Rams.

1st half

Offense D+ (good 1st drive, but that comes off the fake punt)

Defense B+ (Orakpo is everything we wanted Lavar to be.)

Special Teams D (would of been an F if the fake didnt work.)

I have ZERO confidence in JC, the 3rd and 10 to Cooley was good, but other then that POO POO.

IFFFFFF Kelly can stay healthy he starts opposite of Moss, with ARE in the slot. And as I said earlier Orakpo is gonna be a stud!!!!!!

 

[Sebowski]

Are they selling Marko Mitchell jerseys yet? I know someone who may be interested

 

[buster c]

Chase Daniels has a nice presence. Granted, it was against 3rd stringers, but his swing passes are in rhythm, the TD to 84 was a perfect pass, and he seemed to know where to go with the ball.

And he's shorter than the Comcast interview girl

 

[Bizkiteer]

Chase Daniels has a nice presence. Granted, it was against 3rd stringers, but his swing passes are in rhythm, the TD to 84 was a perfect pass, and he seemed to know where to go with the ball.And he's shorter than the Comcast interview girl

I kept thinking that he looked smaller than small. He sure did look like a boy amoungst men, but performed pretty good.

 

[Bizkiteer]

I know it's pre-season and all, but I watched the entire game and one thing kept annoying the living crap out of me. Danny Smith, our ST coach. I wished someone would run down there and slap him everytime he laughed and smiled when his ST's performed horribly. PIT would run back the kick 40 yds and Danny Smith just laugh it off. Next time, #41 on the Steelers would return it 50+ yds and we'd get more laughs and a wide smile. HEY IDIOT, YOUR UNIT IS PEFRORMING LIKE #### AND YOU ARE THE REASON WHY!!!!! As CooleyFan gave them a D because of the fake punt, but I still give them an F, the fake punt raised it from an F-.

Rak is a beast and he's only going to get better...watch out for him! Marko Mitchell looked as good a recently advertised, I am starting to like that kid. DHall played pretty physical and that penalty was bogus. I like Dorsey and I wouldn't be surprised if he stuck and Mason didn't. OL performed pretty good in passing down and rocked when they ran the ball. DL looks much improved, even though they didn't always get there...much more generated than I've seen in awhile. I think we might be the WORST team in the NFL w/ blitzing. Either the Greg (DC) can't call the right blitz or our players don't practice it enough, I have never seen so many total blitzes not even come close to QB's on a regular basis. Anyway, Daniel look good too and he seemed to take command of the offense, even if it was the 2nd half. I know Justin is Try'n really hard, but I think Tryon's days are numbered. We surely need to work on 3rd down pass protection as PIT made it look easy a few times when having to get more than 8 yds at that.

Last, we had two good drives on offense, but we had a lot of 3-n-outs. I'm not convinced about our offense or Zorn's abilty in play calling. I still feel that when something goes right, we got lucky. I hope that feeling changes because scoring a TD should not feel like you just won the lottery.

 

[Jeff Tefertiller]

anyone hear severity of Betts' injury other than "spasms"?

 

[T Bell]

Last, we had two good drives on offense, but we had a lot of 3-n-outs. I'm not convinced about our offense or Zorn's abilty in play calling. I still feel that when something goes right, we got lucky. I hope that feeling changes because scoring a TD should not feel like you just won the lottery.

No more excuses. The OL and Thomas and Kelly are healthy (for now) and everyone supposedly has learned the offense and looks good running it on the practice field. Fred Davis is getting rave reviews. It's time to take this from the practice field to game time. I'm concerned that the offense hasn't done that through two preseason games.

 

[DCThunder]

At half time, I had to check the calendar to see if it really was August 2009 and not November 2008 because the offense looked just as crappy as it did last season. The defense looked the same too, despite Orakpo. Steelers have 3rd and 9, no problem, Tryon will give up a pass/run for 10 and the chains move.

And JoeT and Mike Patrick, geez, what a bunch of pollyannas. I thought Larry Michael and Sam Huff were bad, but these guys are of the first order

 

[ROCKET]

Speaking from a neutral perspective it's frustrating to watch the Skins. You know they have talent but the QB position is such a glaring weakness it will hold them back from being anything more than mediocre. I know they missed out on Cutler but they really should have brought in some quality competition there. You can't make chicken salad out of chicken #@$%.

 

[ChrisCooleyFan]

With the Redskins 1st pick, they select Tim TeaBLOW AKA Jesus Christ Qb Florida.

Are you guys ready for this next year? Danny Boy will think that Zorn can make hime an NFL Qb. I belive this is our 2010 opening day QB

 

[Sebowski]

http://myespn.go.com/blogs/nfceast/0-13-14...Pittsburgh.html

My thoughts on Skins' win over Pittsburgh

August 23, 2009 8:00 AM

Posted by ESPN.com's Matt Mosley

I don't think it's time to panic about Jason Campbell going 1-of-7 for 10 yards in a 17-13 preseason win over the Steelers. But it's important that Campbell finds a rhythm in the third preseason game -- and he knows that.

Campbell missed Malcolm Kelly on a deep ball and he was high on a throw to Santana Moss. I think he was pressing a bit because he knew he was only going to play three series. The good news is that Washington's running game looked strong throughout the game. OK, here are a few things that caught my eye:

* Brian Orakpo has been sensational through two preseason games. I enjoyed watching him playing with the backups in the second quarter. At that point, he was obviously the best player on the field and he even looked solid in coverage. Orakpo embarrassed his former college teammate at Texas, Tony Hills, in the second quarter. Orakpo used a bull rush to push Hills back in the pocket. He knocked Hills about 3 feet into the air.

* Jim Zorn made it sound like Campbell had a nice evening. Zorn praised Campbell for his decision making and thought he managed the team well. Obviously Zorn want to make sure Campbell's confidence level remains high. Campbell put on a brave face for reporters after the game, but I assure you he's beating himself up over the six incompletions.

* How can you keep Marcus Mason or Marko Mitchell off this roster? Mason's one of the best preseason backs this organization has had. On Saturday, he showed the speed we've grown accustomed to seeing, but he also mixed in some power. He sent a Steelers safety flying at the end of one play. Mitchell made the nice touchdown catch from Chase Daniel. He hesitated at first in order to give Daniel some space to throw the ball. Then Mitchell simply won a jump ball. The former Nevada receiver might end up being the fifth receiver.

* I still think Devin Thomas will make some mental errors, but he's capable of making big plays. I liked the twisting catch he made Saturday night. He has all the tools, but he needs every rep in the preseason he can get.

* Scary moment in the first half when fullback Mike Sellers was writhing in pain with a knee injury. The good news is that Sellers only has a bruised knee. He's such a vital part of the Redskins' running game. They would really struggle without him.

* Reed Doughty was everywhere . I pretty much wrote the guy off last season, but he's actually had a solid camp. He made a couple of open-field tackles that were very impressive and he looked confident in the secondary.

* Is it too early to start worrying about the Skins' awful coverage units? They looked especially bad in punt coverage. They didn't have anything close to containment on the edges.

* I used to watch Redskins safety Lendy Holmes when he was in high school. The former Oklahoma Sooner was one of the surest tacklers on the field Saturday. A lot of rookies look a little wide-eyed at this point. That's not the way Holmes operates.

* I love the fact that safety Kareem Moore is a high-energy guy, but he needs to play under control. It seems like Moore's constantly going for the interception. Moore and another '08 draft pick, Rob Jackson, have a tendency to overrun plays.

* I'd cut D.J. Hackett the first chance I had. It's not that I think he's a bad player, but right now, he's simply taking up space. I'd much rather see Mitchell, Thomas and Kelly getting the majority of the reps.

* Daniel had a really effective outing. I think he has the edge on Colt Brennan at this point. And yes, I know that hurts at lot of you guys.

* On the interception that Todd Collins threw, Thomas needs to come back for the ball. He sort of froze on his comeback route, and that allowed former Colts cornerback Keiwan Ratliff to make a really nice play on the ball.

* If you're Brennan, you can't throw the ball into traffic in the red zone. I'm sure Zorn was incensed with that turnover. Just an awful decision by Brennan.

* Kelly does a really nice job of catching the ball away from his body. He did some nice things in Saturday's game, but the best thing he does is catch the ball consistently. Thomas might have the most upside, but Kelly's showing the most maturity right now.

* Former CFL star Dominique Dorsey has to make this team as a return specialist. And he's halfway home. He had some outstanding returns. The Skins need to reserve a spot on the roster for him. He's that good as a return guy -- and he runs with a little power.

Would it be that crazy to just carry Campbell and Collins on the 53, stash Daniel on the PS (I don't think Brennan is eligible) and have that extra spot for Dorsey/Mason/Mitchell?