***Official*** 2009 Washington Redskins Thread (1 Viewer)

[Sebowski]

Does anyone besides me think they'll keep Mike Williams no matter how bad he is, just to be 'right' about their reclamation project? He's done nothing, unless you count losing weight. Then he's done a ton.

I've felt that he was a lock when his weight came down. They are in love with his potential and if he can be anything from half he was coming into the league, they feel he's well worth holding onto. It would be interesting if he makes it because that will be saying a lot about the other guys performance or lack there of, that actually played and practiced.

There's really no "face" to lose if they cut him as he's always been considered a longshot, so I have to trust that Buges sees something he likes. Plus, it's not like we've got much depth on the OL anyway such that we need to cut some promising young OL to keep him.

I've heard and read some odd comments regarding the Redskins and Mike Williams. The first one that always pops in my mind is dopey Andy Polin saying, "They've pinned their hopes at RT to a 400 pounder." Nobody in this organization ever said Mike Williams was coming here to be plugged in week 1. They took a flyer on a former high pick. It's no big deal. We all knew he was a long shot to be the RT, despite the team being weak at RT. This isn't Archuletta or even TJ Duckett.I think the media has made more out of this than the team. If it works out, great. If it doesn't, not a big hit to the organization and its future.

I agree completely with these last three posts.

 

[dgreen]

Rich Tandler think Mason could make the team. He cites a possible slip by Sherman Smith:

If he [Portis] does go down, Ladell, Rock, Marcus — those guys will be ready to play.

and thinks Fincher being cut could be a sign that they are keeping fewer LBs to keep more at another position, like RB.

 

[T Bell]

Rich Tandler think Mason could make the team. He cites a possible slip by Sherman Smith:

If he [Portis] does go down, Ladell, Rock, Marcus — those guys will be ready to play.

and thinks Fincher being cut could be a sign that they are keeping fewer LBs to keep more at another position, like RB.

I caught that part of the quote too and found it interesting.

 

[dgreen]

Wow, I didn't realize Cooley was in the movie business. And it looks like Lindsay Czarniak and Cooley's wife are in it.

IMDB page

 

[dgreen]

Wow, I didn't realize Cooley was in the movie business. And it looks like Lindsay Czarniak and Cooley's wife are in it.

IMDB page

Looks like Mike O'Meara is also in it.

 

[dgreen]

@ "My life coach Chris Cooley"

T-shirts!!!!

 

[fatness]

Does anyone besides me think they'll keep Mike Williams no matter how bad he is, just to be 'right' about their reclamation project? He's done nothing, unless you count losing weight. Then he's done a ton.

I've felt that he was a lock when his weight came down. They are in love with his potential and if he can be anything from half he was coming into the league, they feel he's well worth holding onto. It would be interesting if he makes it because that will be saying a lot about the other guys performance or lack there of, that actually played and practiced.

There's really no "face" to lose if they cut him as he's always been considered a longshot, so I have to trust that Buges sees something he likes. Plus, it's not like we've got much depth on the OL anyway such that we need to cut some promising young OL to keep him.

Mike Williams is part of their answer to last year's glaring O-line deficiencies, so they do have something invested in him working out.But the last preseason game is coming up, he's gotten beaten repeatedly and has looked slow, and he's done nothing. I really have a hard time justifying cutting 22 other players and leaving someone on the the team who's done nothing. I'd like to see the guy succeed, both for team reasons and I admire all he's done to try to get back to NFL level play. But he hasn't gotten there and there's no indication he will.

 

[buster c]

Wow, I didn't realize Cooley was in the movie business. And it looks like Lindsay Czarniak and Cooley's wife are in it.

IMDB page

thankfully, he has a football career to fall back on

 

[Bizkiteer]

Paging Mr. Snyder, paging Mr. Snyder...you have call from the Denver Broncos, please pick up the closest courtesy phone. Thank you!

 

[fatness]

I just watched the interview with Greg Blache and Trevor Matich, and I'm not sure what was going on there. Matich asked a simple question about the pass rush, Blache was almost done answering it, and then he lit into Matich.

Link

 

[Sidewinder16]

I just watched the interview with Greg Blache and Trevor Matich, and I'm not sure what was going on there. Matich asked a simple question about the pass rush, Blache was almost done answering it, and then he lit into Matich.

Link

I read Steinberg's blog of the interview before I watched the video and I thought I was going to see Blache yelling and screaming and throwing stuff around. After watching the video I said to myself "That's it?".

When Blache first asks the question back at Matich he gives the chick reporter next to him a little wink and nod. I think he was just messing around a little bit at first. Sure he let his frustration come through some more as the interview went on, but this is Greg Blache we're talking about here. He's ornery on a good day, and usually, that's why we love him. I thought this was much ado about nothing, personally.

 

[DCThunder]

Does anyone besides me think they'll keep Mike Williams no matter how bad he is, just to be 'right' about their reclamation project? He's done nothing, unless you count losing weight. Then he's done a ton.

I've felt that he was a lock when his weight came down. They are in love with his potential and if he can be anything from half he was coming into the league, they feel he's well worth holding onto. It would be interesting if he makes it because that will be saying a lot about the other guys performance or lack there of, that actually played and practiced.

There's really no "face" to lose if they cut him as he's always been considered a longshot, so I have to trust that Buges sees something he likes. Plus, it's not like we've got much depth on the OL anyway such that we need to cut some promising young OL to keep him.

Mike Williams is part of their answer to last year's glaring O-line deficiencies, so they do have something invested in him working out.But the last preseason game is coming up, he's gotten beaten repeatedly and has looked slow, and he's done nothing. I really have a hard time justifying cutting 22 other players and leaving someone on the the team who's done nothing. I'd like to see the guy succeed, both for team reasons and I admire all he's done to try to get back to NFL level play. But he hasn't gotten there and there's no indication he will.

Even if they cut Williams, what are the chances that some other team is going to sign him? He continues to work out and can be picked up as a FA when the need for O-line help because of an injury arises. This happens all the time.

 

[DCThunder]

I just watched the interview with Greg Blache and Trevor Matich, and I'm not sure what was going on there. Matich asked a simple question about the pass rush, Blache was almost done answering it, and then he lit into Matich.

Link

I read Steinberg's blog of the interview before I watched the video and I thought I was going to see Blache yelling and screaming and throwing stuff around. After watching the video I said to myself "That's it?".

When Blache first asks the question back at Matich he gives the chick reporter next to him a little wink and nod. I think he was just messing around a little bit at first. Sure he let his frustration come through some more as the interview went on, but this is Greg Blache we're talking about here. He's ornery on a good day, and usually, that's why we love him. I thought this was much ado about nothing, personally.

Yeah, Andy Poli was trying to make something out of this interview yesterday afternoon and even Czabe wasn't buying into what Crazy Andy was selling.

 

[GreedoShotFirst]

hey folks,

I am looking to buy a pair of tickets to the 12/21 Monday night game when the Giants come to town. I can always go craiglist or stubhub, but thought I would try here first. Anyone interested in selling 2 tickets?

thanks,

Skinsfan

 

[dgreen]

I just watched the interview with Greg Blache and Trevor Matich, and I'm not sure what was going on there. Matich asked a simple question about the pass rush, Blache was almost done answering it, and then he lit into Matich.

Link

I read Steinberg's blog of the interview before I watched the video and I thought I was going to see Blache yelling and screaming and throwing stuff around. After watching the video I said to myself "That's it?".

When Blache first asks the question back at Matich he gives the chick reporter next to him a little wink and nod. I think he was just messing around a little bit at first. Sure he let his frustration come through some more as the interview went on, but this is Greg Blache we're talking about here. He's ornery on a good day, and usually, that's why we love him. I thought this was much ado about nothing, personally.

Yeah, Andy Poli was trying to make something out of this interview yesterday afternoon and even Czabe wasn't buying into what Crazy Andy was selling.

The "Duh, duh, duh" part was the only part I thought Blache was really being a ####.

 

[dgreen]

hey folks,I am looking to buy a pair of tickets to the 12/21 Monday night game when the Giants come to town. I can always go craiglist or stubhub, but thought I would try here first. Anyone interested in selling 2 tickets?thanks,Skinsfan

Sorry, I just sold those.

 

[dgreen]

Jason Reid's 53

I see no reason to have 17 DL/LBs. That's excessive, even for a team that will want to rotate their DL. I think Wynn could go to make room for another RB, whether that's Mason or Alridge. My problem with Mason is that he doesn't offer something different than Portis or Betts. He's simply a less-talented version of them. Alridge would definitely bring a change of pace, so I might lean to him.

 

[fatness]

After years of Riggins badmouthing him, Portis finally had something to say about Riggins.

Just another day where Portis would be asked about John Riggins, as it turned out. Riggo, of course, holds the franchise rushing record, and Portis could break it this year, which hasn't stopped the men from tweaking each other publicly. Already this year, Riggins has called Portis a headache, and Portis responsded by telling The Examiner's John Keim, "If he feels so sad about it, then I'll get one yard behind it and walk off the field if he wants it to stand on. It's not that serious to me."

Tuesday, talking to the AP's Joseph White, Portis went further. "I mean, you know, for him to be a legend and to hate as much as he hate, to be upset that I'm on his tracks...You know, it's crazy," he said. "Like, you did your thing. You know, the people around here love you. I'm not trying to replace you. I don't want to be you. Your background check and my background check, totally different, so I really don't feel like he can comment on nothing I do, you know?...

"And I think he was a great running back, but think of who else was around, you know? Really not hard to be a great running back when you've got all that talent and help around you. I think they just had great teams, you know? I think everybody who played in that era as a running back was big around here, so it really ain't no ill will. I'm minding my business, and hopefully he'll do the same, and if I do break the record, then the day that that time come, it won't be all of the sudden oh the hell with him.

"I think the work he put in, you know, he deserves the Hall of Fame, he deserves to be a legend. I mean, I can see why the town appreciate him. When you put in that kind of work for an organization and the fans that crazy about you, you should be appreciated."

The Washington Times's David Elfin pointed out that Portis and Riggins have notable similar personality traits, chief among them a certain flamboyant showmanship.

"I mean, I'm my own man," Portis said. "It's kind of funny that you would say we have that in common, when I don't know nothing about this man, for real. I never went and watched John Riggins and studied his film, cared anything about him. But you know, I guess it's big for everybody around here, true Washingtonians or true Redskins fans. I think what he did, the things he accomplished, was great. I think his image compared to my image, I don't know where we fall."

Well, they're both good, anyhow, and they're both loved. Before he escaped the gathering media crowd, Portis was asked to describe a practice this week where he had helped fullback Eddie Williams with his route-running. Portis went through the story, and someone joked about how he was a good teacher.

"Hey, I don't boast and brag, but you know, it takes a lot, it takes more than talent to play this game," Portis said. " you've got to have some kind of smarts, so I think I've got that."

Enough to coach one day?

"No, too many hours," he said. "High school coach, yeah, but college, professional, never."

I could never figure out why Riggins focused so much on Portis and why he was supposedly bad for the Skins. And I finally figured out that it's because the 2 of them are a lot alike, and that Portis will likely break his record.

One of the later-arriving media members then asked again about his birthday plans.

"I've got two 60-year old strippers," he joked, and then walked off with a laugh.

 

[fatness]

Jason Reid's 53

I see no reason to have 17 DL/LBs. That's excessive, even for a team that will want to rotate their DL. I think Wynn could go to make room for another RB, whether that's Mason or Alridge. My problem with Mason is that he doesn't offer something different than Portis or Betts. He's simply a less-talented version of them. Alridge would definitely bring a change of pace, so I might lean to him.

I think Wynn might get cut. And keeping 5 cornerbacks, given injury history of Rogers and Smoot, seems thin.

 

[Bizkiteer]

Jason Reid's 53

I see no reason to have 17 DL/LBs. That's excessive, even for a team that will want to rotate their DL. I think Wynn could go to make room for another RB, whether that's Mason or Alridge. My problem with Mason is that he doesn't offer something different than Portis or Betts. He's simply a less-talented version of them. Alridge would definitely bring a change of pace, so I might lean to him.

I think Wynn might get cut. And keeping 5 cornerbacks, given injury history of Rogers and Smoot, seems thin.

Don't like his projections at all. Leaves of Dorsey and or Alridge, but keeps Rock. He does give his sleeper, which is the LB'er Young. I have to say that I will be very disappointed if L. Holmes doesn't make the team. If he goes to PS, then I'm sure another team will snag him up.

 

[buster c]

After years of Riggins badmouthing him, Portis finally had something to say about Riggins.

Just another day where Portis would be asked about John Riggins, as it turned out. Riggo, of course, holds the franchise rushing record, and Portis could break it this year, which hasn't stopped the men from tweaking each other publicly. Already this year, Riggins has called Portis a headache, and Portis responsded by telling The Examiner's John Keim, "If he feels so sad about it, then I'll get one yard behind it and walk off the field if he wants it to stand on. It's not that serious to me."

Tuesday, talking to the AP's Joseph White, Portis went further. "I mean, you know, for him to be a legend and to hate as much as he hate, to be upset that I'm on his tracks...You know, it's crazy," he said. "Like, you did your thing. You know, the people around here love you. I'm not trying to replace you. I don't want to be you. Your background check and my background check, totally different, so I really don't feel like he can comment on nothing I do, you know?...

"And I think he was a great running back, but think of who else was around, you know? Really not hard to be a great running back when you've got all that talent and help around you. I think they just had great teams, you know? I think everybody who played in that era as a running back was big around here, so it really ain't no ill will. I'm minding my business, and hopefully he'll do the same, and if I do break the record, then the day that that time come, it won't be all of the sudden oh the hell with him.

"I think the work he put in, you know, he deserves the Hall of Fame, he deserves to be a legend. I mean, I can see why the town appreciate him. When you put in that kind of work for an organization and the fans that crazy about you, you should be appreciated."

The Washington Times's David Elfin pointed out that Portis and Riggins have notable similar personality traits, chief among them a certain flamboyant showmanship.

"I mean, I'm my own man," Portis said. "It's kind of funny that you would say we have that in common, when I don't know nothing about this man, for real. I never went and watched John Riggins and studied his film, cared anything about him. But you know, I guess it's big for everybody around here, true Washingtonians or true Redskins fans. I think what he did, the things he accomplished, was great. I think his image compared to my image, I don't know where we fall."

Well, they're both good, anyhow, and they're both loved. Before he escaped the gathering media crowd, Portis was asked to describe a practice this week where he had helped fullback Eddie Williams with his route-running. Portis went through the story, and someone joked about how he was a good teacher.

"Hey, I don't boast and brag, but you know, it takes a lot, it takes more than talent to play this game," Portis said. " you've got to have some kind of smarts, so I think I've got that."

Enough to coach one day?

"No, too many hours," he said. "High school coach, yeah, but college, professional, never."

I could never figure out why Riggins focused so much on Portis and why he was supposedly bad for the Skins. And I finally figured out that it's because the 2 of them are a lot alike, and that Portis will likely break his record.

One of the later-arriving media members then asked again about his birthday plans.

"I've got two 60-year old strippers," he joked, and then walked off with a laugh.

with all the love I have for CP, not much of it comes from his off-field activities, but I give him credit here for not ripping into ol' #44

 

[Sidewinder16]

Jason Reid's 53

I see no reason to have 17 DL/LBs. That's excessive, even for a team that will want to rotate their DL. I think Wynn could go to make room for another RB, whether that's Mason or Alridge. My problem with Mason is that he doesn't offer something different than Portis or Betts. He's simply a less-talented version of them. Alridge would definitely bring a change of pace, so I might lean to him.

Man, when I read that I thought for sure it meant he was predicting 10 DL and 7 LB. I'm just a nobody, but I don't see any reason for them to keep more than 7 LBs. Blades, Wilson, Thomas and Glenn will all be working on teams, so I don't see that as a good reason to keep Young.I don't see how keeping Young helps the team over keeping another RB or DB. Odds of getting Young back on the practice squad would seem pretty good.

 

[Ripleys]

Has Zorn said when he's going to announce who the #2 WR is this year? I keep hearing Kelly, then Thomas, and would love to know which to take a late round flyer on...

 

[fatness]

with all the love I have for CP, not much of it comes from his off-field activities, but I give him credit here for not ripping into ol' #44

I do too. With all the criticism aimed at him from Riggins for years he declined to return fire. I honestly respect that.

 

[fatness]

Has Zorn said when he's going to announce who the #2 WR is this year? I keep hearing Kelly, then Thomas, and would love to know which to take a late round flyer on...

Zorn said today that all the decisions will "come down to the wire". Meaning he wants to see the last game and how they play and then start deciding things.

 

[Sebowski]

Has Zorn said when he's going to announce who the #2 WR is this year? I keep hearing Kelly, then Thomas, and would love to know which to take a late round flyer on...

I don't think there will be a true #2. I think Thoams and Kelly will bith see about the same amount of snaps. Mitchel will get on the field too. #2WRBCZorn said there will be surprises in the cuts. I think Betts and Rock could get cut. Though I would think we could get a late round pick for Betts.

 

[southeastjerome]

Has Zorn said when he's going to announce who the #2 WR is this year? I keep hearing Kelly, then Thomas, and would love to know which to take a late round flyer on...

I don't think there will be a true #2. I think Thoams and Kelly will bith see about the same amount of snaps. Mitchel will get on the field too. #2WRBCZorn said there will be surprises in the cuts. I think Betts and Rock could get cut. Though I would think we could get a late round pick for Betts.

Really? I don't see any reason they should cut Betts and I don't see it happening. He isn't expensive and he seems to have a firm grasp on the 3rd down/backup RB job.

 

[T Bell]

Has Zorn said when he's going to announce who the #2 WR is this year? I keep hearing Kelly, then Thomas, and would love to know which to take a late round flyer on...

I don't think there will be a true #2. I think Thoams and Kelly will bith see about the same amount of snaps. Mitchel will get on the field too. #2WRBCZorn said there will be surprises in the cuts. I think Betts and Rock could get cut. Though I would think we could get a late round pick for Betts.

Really? I don't see any reason they should cut Betts and I don't see it happening. He isn't expensive and he seems to have a firm grasp on the 3rd down/backup RB job.

I think Rock gets cut. Thomas (as KR) and a combination of guys (in coverage roles) fill his roles too well on special teams, and Mason is far more valuable than he is as a backup RB. Mason can actually contribute as a change of pace back, whereas Rock essentially hasn't had a carry in years (last game I remember was the KC game in 2005, when he fumbled).Betts I think sticks around for the reasons mentioned, and also because it would be a bit scary going into the season with no veterans behind Portis, especially none who are any good blocking.

 

[Ripleys]

I think I read cutting Betts would cost us $800K, so I'm guessing he's safe. Call me crazy, but I could see them cutting Rock and ARE- IF the staff is that confident in our sophomore wr class...

 

[T Bell]

I think I read cutting Betts would cost us $800K, so I'm guessing he's safe. Call me crazy, but I could see them cutting Rock and ARE- IF the staff is that confident in our sophomore wr class...

No way with ARE. He's a true slot WR (I've been saying for a couple of years that he should be our Wes Welker) who will finally get to play that role, and he is solid on inside routes for medium yardage, which is ideal for 3rd downs. He's a good WR, but he's been misused (by necessity) as a #2 WR playing on the outside. Plus, who'd be the 5th WR who you'd want to have on the roster more than ARE? Hackett?

 

[Bankerguy]

I think I read cutting Betts would cost us $800K, so I'm guessing he's safe. Call me crazy, but I could see them cutting Rock and ARE- IF the staff is that confident in our sophomore wr class...

No way with ARE. He's a true slot WR (I've been saying for a couple of years that he should be our Wes Welker) who will finally get to play that role, and he is solid on inside routes for medium yardage, which is ideal for 3rd downs. He's a good WR, but he's been misused (by necessity) as a #2 WR playing on the outside. Plus, who'd be the 5th WR who you'd want to have on the roster more than ARE? Hackett?

...and he sure can dance!!!Agree that he was mis-casted as a flanker. He always gives the Cowboys fits over the middle.

 

[dgreen]

Agree with T Bell. Betts and ARE are safe. Rock could be on the bubble. I heard the other day that Rock isn't exactly loved by "the front office". I take that to mean Snyder. While I think Thomas could easily fill in at KR, I do wonder who would take Rock's spot on punt coverage. He's actually pretty valuable there and would be another ST blow with Khary Campbell also gone this year.

I think Kelly will end up WR2, but I agree Sebowski that there will be PT for Thomas and Marko. I think they'll do similar things as Seattle did and use a lot of spread sets with various players.

 

[dgreen]

After years of Riggins badmouthing him, Portis finally had something to say about Riggins.

From the Examiner almost a month ago:

"I can't understand it," Portis said. "Riggins, being a running back in this organization and a person in this area all the time, should know better than anybody what I go through as a running back. He had a great offensive line. Myself? Every year I've been here my line starts out great and then we have to fill in by midseason because we're always losing a guy. Ray Brown comes out of retirement. Lennie Friedman comes out of retirement. Cory Raymer comes out of retirement.

"If he feels so sad about it, then I'll get one yard behind it and walk off the field if he wants it to stand on. It's not that serious to me. For him to take shots, I'd rather come in and blast off at him as well. But having the appreciation of him in this community and the groundwork he laid before me, I would be wrong to take that shot. É One day I might really speak my mind to him."

The Hall of Famer Riggins helped Washington win one Super Bowl and reach a second. Portis has played in just three playoff games here, winning once. Both started their careers elsewhere: Riggins with the New York Jets; Portis with the Denver Broncos. Both have been a bit eccentric.

But, as Portis points out, Riggins played behind a line considered one of the best of all-time.

"He still had to go out and get those yards," Portis said. "But the only thing that's been constant with me is my fullback [Mike Sellers]. He had the Hogs as an offensive line. They had everything."

 

[dgreen]

Rich Tandler ranks the Redskins:

Here’s my annual ranking of the front-line Redskins. There are 29 players in the rankings—the 22 regular position starters, a third wide receiver, a third-down back, punter, place kicker, long snapper, kickoff returner, and nickel back. Today, #21 through #29:

29. Shaun Suisham, K—This seemed like a good place to start since he was statistically the worst at his job in the NFL last year, hittling a league-low 71% of his field goal attempts. If Dave Rayner beats him out, he takes Suisham’s spot at #29 as well.



28. Rock Cartwright, KR—I’ll take Rock all day as a special teams guy but he just doesn’t do it for me as a kickoff returner. I’d rather have the 20 or 25 most of the time and midfield or better once a game than the 25 or 30 consistently and past midfield once a month or so.

27. Stephon Heyer, RT—When people look at your jersey and see a pair of question marks instead of your number, you’ve got some convincing to do. Consistent competence is what will be asked of him and his ability to deliver that is one of the keys to the season.

26. Malcolm Kelly, WR—As with the kickers, if Devin Thomas beats out Kelly for this spot, the ranking doesn’t change much. It’s based on a lack of proven production. There’s a good chance that this ranking can climb higher as the season goes on but I’ll believe when I see it.

25. Randy Thomas, RG—Can Thomas, who is one of my favorite Redskins of this decade, really be this low on the totem pole? Having a bum knee, neck surgery and, now, a calf injury can do that. He’ll hang in there but his effectiveness will be somewhat limited.

24. Antwaan Randle El, WR—He just turned 30 and the Redskins are running out of time to get their money’s worth out of him. It looks like he’ll make a pretty good chunk of change (his cap number is $4.1 million) to catch a few dozen balls, take a trip on the path to nowhere while returning punts, and turn an occasional trick play.

23. Ladell Betts, 3rd-down RB—Betts isn’t the prototypical third-down back, the one that can take a swing pass on third down, make a cut, turn on the jets and get a big play. However, Betts will usually get you to the sticks if not much more. He’s a pretty good backup running back although he doesn’t seem to be effective enough to enable the Redskins to go to a true, two-back system.

22. Fred Smoot, nickel back—At times he looks like he can get it done, at others he’s a ticking time bomb. His run support has been pretty good but that’s not exactly what you’re looking for out of your nickel back.

21. Jason Campbell, quarterback—I’m working on the “what have you done lately” line of reasoning here, the Campbell we saw in the second half of 2009 just wasn’t very good. It’s all about consistency; if Campbell can find it, the Redskins could be pretty good.

 

[T Bell]

Rich Tandler ranks the Redskins:

Here’s my annual ranking of the front-line Redskins. There are 29 players in the rankings—the 22 regular position starters, a third wide receiver, a third-down back, punter, place kicker, long snapper, kickoff returner, and nickel back. Today, #21 through #29:

29. Shaun Suisham, K—This seemed like a good place to start since he was statistically the worst at his job in the NFL last year, hittling a league-low 71% of his field goal attempts. If Dave Rayner beats him out, he takes Suisham’s spot at #29 as well.



28. Rock Cartwright, KR—I’ll take Rock all day as a special teams guy but he just doesn’t do it for me as a kickoff returner. I’d rather have the 20 or 25 most of the time and midfield or better once a game than the 25 or 30 consistently and past midfield once a month or so.

27. Stephon Heyer, RT—When people look at your jersey and see a pair of question marks instead of your number, you’ve got some convincing to do. Consistent competence is what will be asked of him and his ability to deliver that is one of the keys to the season.

26. Malcolm Kelly, WR—As with the kickers, if Devin Thomas beats out Kelly for this spot, the ranking doesn’t change much. It’s based on a lack of proven production. There’s a good chance that this ranking can climb higher as the season goes on but I’ll believe when I see it.

25. Randy Thomas, RG—Can Thomas, who is one of my favorite Redskins of this decade, really be this low on the totem pole? Having a bum knee, neck surgery and, now, a calf injury can do that. He’ll hang in there but his effectiveness will be somewhat limited.

24. Antwaan Randle El, WR—He just turned 30 and the Redskins are running out of time to get their money’s worth out of him. It looks like he’ll make a pretty good chunk of change (his cap number is $4.1 million) to catch a few dozen balls, take a trip on the path to nowhere while returning punts, and turn an occasional trick play.

23. Ladell Betts, 3rd-down RB—Betts isn’t the prototypical third-down back, the one that can take a swing pass on third down, make a cut, turn on the jets and get a big play. However, Betts will usually get you to the sticks if not much more. He’s a pretty good backup running back although he doesn’t seem to be effective enough to enable the Redskins to go to a true, two-back system.

22. Fred Smoot, nickel back—At times he looks like he can get it done, at others he’s a ticking time bomb. His run support has been pretty good but that’s not exactly what you’re looking for out of your nickel back.

21. Jason Campbell, quarterback—I’m working on the “what have you done lately” line of reasoning here, the Campbell we saw in the second half of 2009 just wasn’t very good. It’s all about consistency; if Campbell can find it, the Redskins could be pretty good.

From reading that it's more retrospective than prospective. If Campbell and ARE do as well as I think they can this year, for example, then the end-of-year rankings will be quite different for them.

 

[dgreen]

John Keim's 53-man roster.

 

[Mookie Blaylock]

This is off topic but I'd really like to hear what Redskins fans think of the defense with Haynesworth in there. I realize it's only training camp, but what have opposing running games looked like against that starting D-line?

 

[Dexter Manley]

This is off topic but I'd really like to hear what Redskins fans think of the defense with Haynesworth in there. I realize it's only training camp, but what have opposing running games looked like against that starting D-line?

IMO, the Skins are going to have one of the most dominant run defenses in the league. Last season, their defense was very good against the run, but during the second half of the year it was not uncommon for them to get worn down in the 4th quarter and opponents were able to sustain long time consuming drives (i.e. see Cowboys game, Ravens game, etc.).The addition of Haynesworth is obviously huge, as he still appears to be virtually unblockable. Phillip Daniels, still one of the best run stuffing LDE's in the league, appears to be back 100% healthy. With those 2 guys added to the line, I don't see the dline getting worn down as they now have a full 4 man rotation at DT, and Daniels will mostly play on rushing downs.Then you factor in Orakpo, who I think is a huge upgrade wrt to run defense at the SAM position, in addition to being the pass rusher this team has lacked for a long time. His only weakness will be pass coverage, although he's looked a lot better than I expected him to at this point.The weakness for the Skins defense thus far appears to be the pass defense, namely giving up some big pass plays.

 

[Mookie Blaylock]

This is off topic but I'd really like to hear what Redskins fans think of the defense with Haynesworth in there. I realize it's only training camp, but what have opposing running games looked like against that starting D-line?

IMO, the Skins are going to have one of the most dominant run defenses in the league. Last season, their defense was very good against the run, but during the second half of the year it was not uncommon for them to get worn down in the 4th quarter and opponents were able to sustain long time consuming drives (i.e. see Cowboys game, Ravens game, etc.).The addition of Haynesworth is obviously huge, as he still appears to be virtually unblockable. Phillip Daniels, still one of the best run stuffing LDE's in the league, appears to be back 100% healthy. With those 2 guys added to the line, I don't see the dline getting worn down as they now have a full 4 man rotation at DT, and Daniels will mostly play on rushing downs.Then you factor in Orakpo, who I think is a huge upgrade wrt to run defense at the SAM position, in addition to being the pass rusher this team has lacked for a long time. His only weakness will be pass coverage, although he's looked a lot better than I expected him to at this point.The weakness for the Skins defense thus far appears to be the pass defense, namely giving up some big pass plays.

Does the lack of solid pass D open up the running game at all? If you're the Skins do you sell out vs. the run and make teams beat you with the pass (like, to a fault)?

 

[T Bell]

This is off topic but I'd really like to hear what Redskins fans think of the defense with Haynesworth in there. I realize it's only training camp, but what have opposing running games looked like against that starting D-line?

IMO, the Skins are going to have one of the most dominant run defenses in the league. Last season, their defense was very good against the run, but during the second half of the year it was not uncommon for them to get worn down in the 4th quarter and opponents were able to sustain long time consuming drives (i.e. see Cowboys game, Ravens game, etc.).The addition of Haynesworth is obviously huge, as he still appears to be virtually unblockable. Phillip Daniels, still one of the best run stuffing LDE's in the league, appears to be back 100% healthy. With those 2 guys added to the line, I don't see the dline getting worn down as they now have a full 4 man rotation at DT, and Daniels will mostly play on rushing downs.Then you factor in Orakpo, who I think is a huge upgrade wrt to run defense at the SAM position, in addition to being the pass rusher this team has lacked for a long time. His only weakness will be pass coverage, although he's looked a lot better than I expected him to at this point.The weakness for the Skins defense thus far appears to be the pass defense, namely giving up some big pass plays.

I agree with everything above. That run defense is going to be very stout. The issue is whether they can generate pressure rushing only four guys, and I believe that they can now with Haynesworth and Orakpo, which should also help Andre Carter. That line will remain fresh with rotation, and also with the offense hopefully healthy enough and developed enough in the WCO after a year to sustain more drives and give the defense breathers.

 

[dgreen]

The issue is whether they can generate pressure rushing only four guys, and I believe that they can now with Haynesworth and Orakpo, which should also help Andre Carter. That line will remain fresh with rotation, and also with the offense hopefully healthy enough and developed enough in the WCO after a year to sustain more drives and give the defense breathers.

You know, for once, Joe Theismann made a good point during last week's game. I've typically thought we needed to blitz more because that's what would cause turnovers. But, that's not necessarily the case. If you send 7 guys to the QB, you only have 4 to try to get the INT. But, when you can rely on only four guys to apply some pressure, you're left with 7 guys to go for the INT. It's so simple, but something I've always overlooked.I expect to see less blitzing this year. Hopefully the new guys up front can produce.

 

[Mookie Blaylock]

The issue is whether they can generate pressure rushing only four guys, and I believe that they can now with Haynesworth and Orakpo, which should also help Andre Carter. That line will remain fresh with rotation, and also with the offense hopefully healthy enough and developed enough in the WCO after a year to sustain more drives and give the defense breathers.

You know, for once, Joe Theismann made a good point during last week's game. I've typically thought we needed to blitz more because that's what would cause turnovers. But, that's not necessarily the case. If you send 7 guys to the QB, you only have 4 to try to get the INT. But, when you can rely on only four guys to apply some pressure, you're left with 7 guys to go for the INT. It's so simple, but something I've always overlooked.I expect to see less blitzing this year. Hopefully the new guys up front can produce.

No he didn't. It's an impossibility.

 

[Dexter Manley]

This is off topic but I'd really like to hear what Redskins fans think of the defense with Haynesworth in there. I realize it's only training camp, but what have opposing running games looked like against that starting D-line?

IMO, the Skins are going to have one of the most dominant run defenses in the league. Last season, their defense was very good against the run, but during the second half of the year it was not uncommon for them to get worn down in the 4th quarter and opponents were able to sustain long time consuming drives (i.e. see Cowboys game, Ravens game, etc.).The addition of Haynesworth is obviously huge, as he still appears to be virtually unblockable. Phillip Daniels, still one of the best run stuffing LDE's in the league, appears to be back 100% healthy. With those 2 guys added to the line, I don't see the dline getting worn down as they now have a full 4 man rotation at DT, and Daniels will mostly play on rushing downs.Then you factor in Orakpo, who I think is a huge upgrade wrt to run defense at the SAM position, in addition to being the pass rusher this team has lacked for a long time. His only weakness will be pass coverage, although he's looked a lot better than I expected him to at this point.The weakness for the Skins defense thus far appears to be the pass defense, namely giving up some big pass plays.

Does the lack of solid pass D open up the running game at all? If you're the Skins do you sell out vs. the run and make teams beat you with the pass (like, to a fault)?

Well we're only talking about a handful of plays in preseason, when discussing the few big pass plays that the Skins defense has given up. 2 of those were last week to Randy Moss, both on passing downs IIRC. In both cases, Moss was facing single coverage: once vs. Hall when Brady audibled (the coverage wasn't bad, Hall just got "Mossed") and the other was an all out blitz I think where Landry had the Moss responsibility and wasn't even close to getting near him.The one big pass play they gave up against Pittsburgh, Landry was a 1/2 second too slow in responding which allowed just enough time for the completion. I don't suspect that will be happening too often during the season.To answer your question, from what I've seen, the Skins aren't selling out to stop the run. Like I said earlier, they've added the best interior dlineman in the league (Haynesworth), one of the top run stuffing LDE's in the league (Daniels who was hurt last year replaces Taylor who was horrid against the run), and arguably the best rookie defensive player in the league (Orakpo who's looked excellent against the run) to a defense that was very good against the run last season. You do the math.

 

[fatness]

This is off topic but I'd really like to hear what Redskins fans think of the defense with Haynesworth in there. I realize it's only training camp, but what have opposing running games looked like against that starting D-line?

IMO, the Skins are going to have one of the most dominant run defenses in the league. Last season, their defense was very good against the run, but during the second half of the year it was not uncommon for them to get worn down in the 4th quarter and opponents were able to sustain long time consuming drives (i.e. see Cowboys game, Ravens game, etc.).The addition of Haynesworth is obviously huge, as he still appears to be virtually unblockable. Phillip Daniels, still one of the best run stuffing LDE's in the league, appears to be back 100% healthy. With those 2 guys added to the line, I don't see the dline getting worn down as they now have a full 4 man rotation at DT, and Daniels will mostly play on rushing downs.Then you factor in Orakpo, who I think is a huge upgrade wrt to run defense at the SAM position, in addition to being the pass rusher this team has lacked for a long time. His only weakness will be pass coverage, although he's looked a lot better than I expected him to at this point.The weakness for the Skins defense thus far appears to be the pass defense, namely giving up some big pass plays.

I'm not sure I fully agree. In preseason they've been getting more defensive line pressure from the first string but not the awesome pressure and backfield hits we've been looking for. Until I see it on the field I'm not going to believe their d-line is anywhere near dominant. They may become that, perhaps even quickly given the number of games against weak teams in the early part of the schedule. But I haven't seen dominance yet, just a reasonable improvement from last year. Orakpo is a wild card. He may become a liability at LB in pass coverage, or he may be functional there and bring great pressure on the line. He has that potential. Chris Wilson is similar, just less talented and less heralded. He'll be splitting time between LB and d-line, and may help a good bit or be a liability.The secondary is their weakness, pure and simple. If they don't pick up some help when other teams make their cuts then we're in for a season of intermittent long bombs completed over Tryon or Barnes, playing nickle or dime coverage or (god forbid) replacing one of the starters. And they can't blitz worth a ####. They blitz like quadriplegic pacifists.

 

[Bizkiteer]

This is off topic but I'd really like to hear what Redskins fans think of the defense with Haynesworth in there. I realize it's only training camp, but what have opposing running games looked like against that starting D-line?

IMO, the Skins are going to have one of the most dominant run defenses in the league. Last season, their defense was very good against the run, but during the second half of the year it was not uncommon for them to get worn down in the 4th quarter and opponents were able to sustain long time consuming drives (i.e. see Cowboys game, Ravens game, etc.).The addition of Haynesworth is obviously huge, as he still appears to be virtually unblockable. Phillip Daniels, still one of the best run stuffing LDE's in the league, appears to be back 100% healthy. With those 2 guys added to the line, I don't see the dline getting worn down as they now have a full 4 man rotation at DT, and Daniels will mostly play on rushing downs.Then you factor in Orakpo, who I think is a huge upgrade wrt to run defense at the SAM position, in addition to being the pass rusher this team has lacked for a long time. His only weakness will be pass coverage, although he's looked a lot better than I expected him to at this point.The weakness for the Skins defense thus far appears to be the pass defense, namely giving up some big pass plays.

Does the lack of solid pass D open up the running game at all? If you're the Skins do you sell out vs. the run and make teams beat you with the pass (like, to a fault)?

One of the biggest factors to the Redskins D is something Dexter M. pointed out. Last year the defense was solid, but got worn down in the second half of almost every game. Major reason was the lack of offensive production by the 'Skins, far too many 3-n-outs. So, they were tired and just couldn't pull it together to get out on 3rd downs. I think team's will pass more against us because so far our coverage has been a bit suspect. Other than adding a Fat Al or Orakpo, the best help will come if the Redskins offense can actually sustain drives or hold onto the ball enough to give them regular rest.

 

[buster c]

The issue is whether they can generate pressure rushing only four guys, and I believe that they can now with Haynesworth and Orakpo, which should also help Andre Carter. That line will remain fresh with rotation, and also with the offense hopefully healthy enough and developed enough in the WCO after a year to sustain more drives and give the defense breathers.

You know, for once, Joe Theismann made a good point during last week's game. I've typically thought we needed to blitz more because that's what would cause turnovers. But, that's not necessarily the case. If you send 7 guys to the QB, you only have 4 to try to get the INT. But, when you can rely on only four guys to apply some pressure, you're left with 7 guys to go for the INT. It's so simple, but something I've always overlooked.I expect to see less blitzing this year. Hopefully the new guys up front can produce.

don't listen to Joey T. He actually said on his Monday morning radio show that Santana Moss has the best hands in the league remember the last play of the Steeler exhibition game? All out blitz and it worked. Granted, it was against the 5th string, but when you bring the heat, good things happen. Last year, who blitzed? #53. On his last legs. This year, it will be #98. That's heat, my man.

 

[dgreen]

The issue is whether they can generate pressure rushing only four guys, and I believe that they can now with Haynesworth and Orakpo, which should also help Andre Carter. That line will remain fresh with rotation, and also with the offense hopefully healthy enough and developed enough in the WCO after a year to sustain more drives and give the defense breathers.

You know, for once, Joe Theismann made a good point during last week's game. I've typically thought we needed to blitz more because that's what would cause turnovers. But, that's not necessarily the case. If you send 7 guys to the QB, you only have 4 to try to get the INT. But, when you can rely on only four guys to apply some pressure, you're left with 7 guys to go for the INT. It's so simple, but something I've always overlooked.I expect to see less blitzing this year. Hopefully the new guys up front can produce.

don't listen to Joey T. He actually said on his Monday morning radio show that Santana Moss has the best hands in the league

Yeah, I heard that. I immediately changed the station.

remember the last play of the Steeler exhibition game? All out blitz and it worked. Granted, it was against the 5th string, but when you bring the heat, good things happen. Last year, who blitzed? #53. On his last legs. This year, it will be #98. That's heat, my man.

Not sure 98 will be blitzing much. He'll be a rush DL a lot, though. If you can get pressure with 4, that's the way to go.

 

[Sidewinder16]

John Keim on Fred Davis, from today's Sporting News Today:

TE Fred Davis played well early in camp, but he hasn’t followed with good preseason performances. Davis, a ’08 second-round pick, has been inconsistent, which is a problem for a team that wants to use a lot of two-tight end pass sets. Davis fumbled twice in the preseason opener, and his routes have not been terrific. He drifted too much on one against Pittsburgh, and last week he turned around too late to see a pass from QB Colt Brennan. Davis’ blocking needs to improve; he occasionally lunges too much. Davis is a highly athletic tight end who runs well after the catch, but it’s clear he’s still learning the game.

 

[buster c]

The issue is whether they can generate pressure rushing only four guys, and I believe that they can now with Haynesworth and Orakpo, which should also help Andre Carter. That line will remain fresh with rotation, and also with the offense hopefully healthy enough and developed enough in the WCO after a year to sustain more drives and give the defense breathers.

You know, for once, Joe Theismann made a good point during last week's game. I've typically thought we needed to blitz more because that's what would cause turnovers. But, that's not necessarily the case. If you send 7 guys to the QB, you only have 4 to try to get the INT. But, when you can rely on only four guys to apply some pressure, you're left with 7 guys to go for the INT. It's so simple, but something I've always overlooked.I expect to see less blitzing this year. Hopefully the new guys up front can produce.

don't listen to Joey T. He actually said on his Monday morning radio show that Santana Moss has the best hands in the league

Yeah, I heard that. I immediately changed the station.

remember the last play of the Steeler exhibition game? All out blitz and it worked. Granted, it was against the 5th string, but when you bring the heat, good things happen. Last year, who blitzed? #53. On his last legs. This year, it will be #98. That's heat, my man.

Not sure 98 will be blitzing much. He'll be a rush DL a lot, though. If you can get pressure with 4, that's the way to go.

On all-out blitzes, they can put 76 Jarmon down in front of 98 with a little 95 on the other, with 99 rolling in from the other post and maybe slam 29 Vactor-Holmes up the gap...I can dream, can't I?

 

[buster c]

people ask me: 'buster, why the hate for 11, Thomas?'

bc: 'I see a guy laughing it up on the sidelines when the team is getting beat bad'

oh, and this loser finishes the game 2-12

oh, and #74 just killed him on live TV, saying he is "stealing money"