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

[T Bell]

Really, other than one game...our offense looks the same.

Really? I'm not saying I see them leaping to a top 5 offense, but I don't see how anyone can say they look the same as last year. Regardless of whether you think Kelly and Thomas are worthy of their draft spot, the WRs are an improvement over last year. Moving ARE to the slot and not having to play a guy like James Thrash is a step forward. They simply have more playmakers on the field than last year.With this improvement at WR, I expect a more aggressive attack. Their willingness to throw deep in preseason, I believe, is going to carry over into the regular season. Now, of course, to do that you have to have pass protection and the OL is the big question. If healthy, I think they are a slight improvement over last year's starting unit because of Dockery replacing Kendall and Heyer having another year under his belt. Yes, Thomas could break at any time and the backups are less reliable this year.

I think Malcolm Kelly is going to have a big impact simply because of his size. I've been impressed by him. ARE couldn't get separation a lot of times from the flanker spot, and he didn't have the size to make plays anyway by leaping or using body position. ARE in the slot is perfect. We now have the option of using 3 WR sets or 2 TE sets to create mismatches. I think this passing offense will finally start to look strong. It's up to the line to allow that to happen now.

 

[dgreen]

We now have the option of using 3 WR sets or 2 TE sets to create mismatches. I think this passing offense will finally start to look strong. It's up to the line to allow that to happen now.

Not sure what type of attack they should start with Sunday. Establish the run until you get a feel for how the OL will hold up? Start with quick passes, screens, and misdirection to counter their DL and slow them down a bit? Rely on the starting line to give Jason some time and go deep early?

 

[Bizkiteer]

Really, other than one game...our offense looks the same.

Really? I'm not saying I see them leaping to a top 5 offense, but I don't see how anyone can say they look the same as last year. Regardless of whether you think Kelly and Thomas are worthy of their draft spot, the WRs are an improvement over last year. Moving ARE to the slot and not having to play a guy like James Thrash is a step forward. They simply have more playmakers on the field than last year.With this improvement at WR, I expect a more aggressive attack. Their willingness to throw deep in preseason, I believe, is going to carry over into the regular season. Now, of course, to do that you have to have pass protection and the OL is the big question. If healthy, I think they are a slight improvement over last year's starting unit because of Dockery replacing Kendall and Heyer having another year under his belt. Yes, Thomas could break at any time and the backups are less reliable this year.

How can you not? Everything else you have pointed out is all hypothetical and projections. So far, Kelly, DT, F. Davis haven't done anything on a consistent basis. Now does that mean they won't? NO! If we go on what we've seen so far...the offense is very similar as last year. One game and 2 attempts to go down field does not make a difference. I too see the OL as better, but is so much better that we see a significant difference? Hmm...now that is the real question. I predicted 9-7 because of the upgrade and defensive help from Fat Al and RAK.Kelly has looked okay, not fantastic. Yes, he does have size, but that is not a singular trait for success. His knees have shown to not hold up, so until he shows that he can play on a regular basis...you have to take him with a pinch of salt. DT, shows up here and there, but so far can't do it all the time. Fred Davis got rave reviews earlier in camp, but has yet to flash it during real game time situations.

We only scored 16 points a game last season...we were the what...28th offense out of 32 teams? Is that going to turn around drastically? If you look by our preseason, it's not. Other than the one game vs. the PATS, our offense failed to show that it can move the ball on a regular basis, basically same ol same old. Yes, the one game was really nice to see because our play calling was not as predictable and they seemed to use almost every type of pass pattern and throw for once. Until we see more of that, we have to rely on what we know and what we've seen all the other times. If you also look at our D's performance during the preseason, we look really legit at times, but there has to be grave concern in the Park that our 3rd down pass coverage appears to be our achilles heal.

So, to say that we have gone from a 8-8 team to all of sudden 11-5 is a bit far fetched. Especially since the team's in our own division also made some improvements. Granted each of us have ?'s too. All in all, I'd love to be wrong in this case and have the 11-5 be right. Again, until the teams shows something different consistently, how can anyone realistically predict a significant turnaround for our offense or team?

 

[Bizkiteer]

We now have the option of using 3 WR sets or 2 TE sets to create mismatches. I think this passing offense will finally start to look strong. It's up to the line to allow that to happen now.

Not sure what type of attack they should start with Sunday. Establish the run until you get a feel for how the OL will hold up? Start with quick passes, screens, and misdirection to counter their DL and slow them down a bit? Rely on the starting line to give Jason some time and go deep early?

The Giants added Rocky Benard & Chris Canty to their already great starting DL (backups could be starters on other teams), so they are going to have fresh bodies rotate there. Not sure how tired they will get if we run it often on them, but if we get caught passing too much and having their DL t-off on our OL, we could get in trouble. As always, I think out running game will set up our passing game. Actually throwing the ball down field should keep other D's more honest though...hopefully.

 

[dgreen]

Kelly has looked okay, not fantastic.

Right, that's an improvement. Therefore, I say they aren't the same as last year.Here's how I see the WRs:

2008	 2009	 Better?WR1  Moss	 Moss	  SameWR2  ARE	  Kelly	BetterWR3  Thrash   ARE	  BetterWR4  Thomas   Thomas   BetterWR5  Kelly	Mitchell  ????

I say WR2 is better because Kelly has beat out ARE, who was the WR2, for that spot. If he beat him out, he should be better. And I say WR4 is better because Thomas2009 is better than Thomas2008. These may not be huge upgrades, but they are upgrades. And, I think WR3 is a huge upgrade.I agree with you on Davis. We keep hearing how great he is and how he's better, but we don't see anything. I actually have more confidence in Thomas to produce (catches, yards, TDs) than Davis. With Kelly and Thomas, I do see improvement, especially with Kelly. Right now, I've heard nothing indicating his knee is a problem. Will it come back and bother him? Maybe. But, as of now, we have heard nothing. As of now, we have no reason to think he'll miss 11 games like last year.I'll admit, I'm generally an optimist at the beginning of a season. I'm buying into the Kelly hype for now.

 

[Bizkiteer]

Kelly has looked okay, not fantastic.

Right, that's an improvement. Therefore, I say they aren't the same as last year.Here's how I see the WRs:

2008	 2009	 Better?WR1  Moss	 Moss	  SameWR2  ARE	  Kelly	BetterWR3  Thrash   ARE	  BetterWR4  Thomas   Thomas   BetterWR5  Kelly	Mitchell  ????

I say WR2 is better because Kelly has beat out ARE, who was the WR2, for that spot. If he beat him out, he should be better. And I say WR4 is better because Thomas2009 is better than Thomas2008. These may not be huge upgrades, but they are upgrades. And, I think WR3 is a huge upgrade.I agree with you on Davis. We keep hearing how great he is and how he's better, but we don't see anything. I actually have more confidence in Thomas to produce (catches, yards, TDs) than Davis. With Kelly and Thomas, I do see improvement, especially with Kelly. Right now, I've heard nothing indicating his knee is a problem. Will it come back and bother him? Maybe. But, as of now, we have heard nothing. As of now, we have no reason to think he'll miss 11 games like last year.I'll admit, I'm generally an optimist at the beginning of a season. I'm buying into the Kelly hype for now.

Completely agree with you...each WR spot has improved on paper. Now, we need to see the actual returns on the field. I'd say my concern is more with the play calling, if we keep calling these games close to vest and predictable...then it doesn't matter how good the #2 or #3 WR is on the field. Add that JC needs to be able to go through progressions too and not just dump it off on a regular basis. My point is all, we need to see it and more than once to think differently. I'm as ready and excited as anyone, I'd love to be wow'd by an improved offense and put all my words to shame too.

 

[dgreen]

Kelly has looked okay, not fantastic.

Right, that's an improvement. Therefore, I say they aren't the same as last year.Here's how I see the WRs:

2008	 2009	 Better?WR1  Moss	 Moss	  SameWR2  ARE	  Kelly	BetterWR3  Thrash   ARE	  BetterWR4  Thomas   Thomas   BetterWR5  Kelly	Mitchell  ????

I say WR2 is better because Kelly has beat out ARE, who was the WR2, for that spot. If he beat him out, he should be better. And I say WR4 is better because Thomas2009 is better than Thomas2008. These may not be huge upgrades, but they are upgrades. And, I think WR3 is a huge upgrade.I agree with you on Davis. We keep hearing how great he is and how he's better, but we don't see anything. I actually have more confidence in Thomas to produce (catches, yards, TDs) than Davis. With Kelly and Thomas, I do see improvement, especially with Kelly. Right now, I've heard nothing indicating his knee is a problem. Will it come back and bother him? Maybe. But, as of now, we have heard nothing. As of now, we have no reason to think he'll miss 11 games like last year.I'll admit, I'm generally an optimist at the beginning of a season. I'm buying into the Kelly hype for now.

Completely agree with you...each WR spot has improved on paper. Now, we need to see the actual returns on the field. I'd say my concern is more with the play calling, if we keep calling these games close to vest and predictable...then it doesn't matter how good the #2 or #3 WR is on the field. Add that JC needs to be able to go through progressions too and not just dump it off on a regular basis. My point is all, we need to see it and more than once to think differently. I'm as ready and excited as anyone, I'd love to be wow'd by an improved offense and put all my words to shame too.

I think we are mostly in agreement; it's just that I expect an improvement and you'd be surprised by one. I was initially excited to see Campbell against NE, but we've actually seen that before. He's had good games. He's looked like a Pro Bowler in a few games before. The problem is we haven't seen it week to week. Hopefully he can take that step and, like you say, the playcalling can take a step forward too.

 

[Marvelous]

Really, other than one game...our offense looks the same.

Really? I'm not saying I see them leaping to a top 5 offense, but I don't see how anyone can say they look the same as last year. Regardless of whether you think Kelly and Thomas are worthy of their draft spot, the WRs are an improvement over last year. Moving ARE to the slot and not having to play a guy like James Thrash is a step forward. They simply have more playmakers on the field than last year.With this improvement at WR, I expect a more aggressive attack. Their willingness to throw deep in preseason, I believe, is going to carry over into the regular season. Now, of course, to do that you have to have pass protection and the OL is the big question. If healthy, I think they are a slight improvement over last year's starting unit because of Dockery replacing Kendall and Heyer having another year under his belt. Yes, Thomas could break at any time and the backups are less reliable this year.

I did not get to see all of the preseason games, but from I did see, the pass blocking was actually pretty good. I am concerned about the run blocking and the running game. And it seems like they still make just enough mistakes to kill a drive. These need to improve if they want to have a decent offense.

 

[T Bell]

We now have the option of using 3 WR sets or 2 TE sets to create mismatches. I think this passing offense will finally start to look strong. It's up to the line to allow that to happen now.

Not sure what type of attack they should start with Sunday. Establish the run until you get a feel for how the OL will hold up? Start with quick passes, screens, and misdirection to counter their DL and slow them down a bit? Rely on the starting line to give Jason some time and go deep early?

The Giants added Rocky Benard & Chris Canty to their already great starting DL (backups could be starters on other teams), so they are going to have fresh bodies rotate there. Not sure how tired they will get if we run it often on them, but if we get caught passing too much and having their DL t-off on our OL, we could get in trouble. As always, I think out running game will set up our passing game. Actually throwing the ball down field should keep other D's more honest though...hopefully.

The Giants' weakness is its secondary, especially with two CB's fighting injury. I think you attack them and pass to set up the run . . . which is precisely what the traditional WCO philosophy is anyway. I also think that you alternate between 2 TE and 3 WR sets as needed. Use designed roll outs, shotgun and play-action to slow down the rush. Portis should do as much blocking and blitz pick-up as rushing in this game.

 

[TankRizzo]

I'm really excited to see Kelly out there and ARE back in the slot. I feel like it's been forever since we've had a 6'+ WR start for us? Rod Gardner? I'm hoping we see a vastly different offense than what we saw last year...especially the 2nd half of the season.

 

[buster c]

We now have the option of using 3 WR sets or 2 TE sets to create mismatches. I think this passing offense will finally start to look strong. It's up to the line to allow that to happen now.

Not sure what type of attack they should start with Sunday. Establish the run until you get a feel for how the OL will hold up? Start with quick passes, screens, and misdirection to counter their DL and slow them down a bit? Rely on the starting line to give Jason some time and go deep early?

The Giants added Rocky Benard & Chris Canty to their already great starting DL (backups could be starters on other teams), so they are going to have fresh bodies rotate there. Not sure how tired they will get if we run it often on them, but if we get caught passing too much and having their DL t-off on our OL, we could get in trouble. As always, I think out running game will set up our passing game. Actually throwing the ball down field should keep other D's more honest though...hopefully.

The Giants' weakness is its secondary, especially with two CB's fighting injury. I think you attack them and pass to set up the run . . . which is precisely what the traditional WCO philosophy is anyway. I also think that you alternate between 2 TE and 3 WR sets as needed. Use designed roll outs, shotgun and play-action to slow down the rush. Portis should do as much blocking and blitz pick-up as rushing in this game.

this is exactly what has to happen. NY has the best DL in the division and will abuse our OL if we try to establish a running game. Fact. our only chance is to come out throwing, then throw some more. if we have success in the passing game and the game is close, that's when you mix in the run.

I think this is a good spot for an upset win. I'll say it's a 40/60 proposition. we're healthy and generally play better in the early season than the later months, with '05 & '07 being notable exceptions (hey - maybe it's an odd-year thing??)

 

[sinatravolta]

Now you are talking. Let's not get down on the team before the season starts. Aside from the personnel upgrades you guys are talking about - let's not forget it's the 2nd year with Zorn and with the new offense. Training camp/preseason was not about learning everything from scratch - it was about making refinements and getting on the same page.

I totally think they have to come out passing and then mix in the run. I do hope they don't try to open with a bomb though - it's seems too hard to make that work on the 1st play - just go for about a 15-yarder or something. Get Portis involved a little in the passing game if need be. Giants will come out focusing on the run and saying let's make Campbell beat us. Redskins D will probably do the same with Eli and those receivers.

 

[dgreen]

let's not forget it's the 2nd year with Zorn and with the new offense. Training camp/preseason was not about learning everything from scratch - it was about making refinements and getting on the same page.

Great point. I know it's just preseason, but I think Campbell looks much more comfortable this year. We'll see how comfortable he is after being hit and whether he can carry that confidence from one week to another.

Get Portis involved a little in the passing game if need be.

Sadly, I've given up on this hope. I've been mostly disappointed in how they use him in the passing game for years. Each year I think they'll make some tweaks to get him more involved and it just doesn't happen.

 

[TankRizzo]

this is exactly what has to happen. NY has the best DL in the division and will abuse our OL if we try to establish a running game. Fact. our only chance is to come out throwing, then throw some more. if we have success in the passing game and the game is close, that's when you mix in the run. I think this is a good spot for an upset win. I'll say it's a 40/60 proposition. we're healthy and generally play better in the early season than the later months, with '05 & '07 being notable exceptions (hey - maybe it's an odd-year thing??)

I'm torn on what to think as far as the general outlook of the team goes. I think they need to pass more and get into more of a true WCO, but at the same time I don't think Campbell is suited for that and think we're in for more frustration. The Pats game left me cautiously optimistic though. Either way, I think the season hinges on Zorn and Campbell, anything short of at least 1 playoff win and I think they both may be out the door next year.

 

[Marvelous]

this is exactly what has to happen. NY has the best DL in the division and will abuse our OL if we try to establish a running game. Fact. our only chance is to come out throwing, then throw some more. if we have success in the passing game and the game is close, that's when you mix in the run. I think this is a good spot for an upset win. I'll say it's a 40/60 proposition. we're healthy and generally play better in the early season than the later months, with '05 & '07 being notable exceptions (hey - maybe it's an odd-year thing??)

I'm torn on what to think as far as the general outlook of the team goes. I think they need to pass more and get into more of a true WCO, but at the same time I don't think Campbell is suited for that and think we're in for more frustration. The Pats game left me cautiously optimistic though. Either way, I think the season hinges on Zorn and Campbell, anything short of at least 1 playoff win and I think they both may be out the door next year.

One thought: if Zorn is going to be a head coach long term, the offense needs to start working this year. The defense will be good. We need to offense to move the ball and sustain some drives to be a decent team. And that is what Zorn was hired to do.

 

[DCThunder]

We can all script the first series for the Redskins, especially if the Giants get the ball first and score.

1st down, long pass thrown to Moss down sideline...overthrown.

2nd down, Portis off left tackle for 2 yards

3rd down, WR screen to Thomas for 6.

Punt.

 

[Dexter Manley]

We can all script the first series for the Redskins, especially if the Giants get the ball first and score.1st down, long pass thrown to Moss down sideline...overthrown.2nd down, Portis off left tackle for 2 yards3rd down, WR screen to Thomas for 6.Punt.

So we'll still be up 7-0 since DeAngelo will get a pick-6 on the Gmen's first drive.

 

[dgreen]

We can all script the first series for the Redskins, especially if the Giants get the ball first and score.1st down, long pass thrown to Moss down sideline...overthrown.2nd down, Portis off left tackle for 2 yards3rd down, WR screen to Thomas for 6.Punt.

So we'll still be up 7-0 since DeAngelo will get a pick-6 on the Gmen's first drive.

8-0. We'll see the first wildcat play with ARE throwing a jump pass to Fred Davis for the 2-point conversion.

 

[fatness]

I think this is a good spot for an upset win. I'll say it's a 40/60 proposition. we're healthy and generally play better in the early season than the later months, with '05 & '07 being notable exceptions (hey - maybe it's an odd-year thing??)

Who are you? And what have you done with buster c?

 

[Ripleys]

We can all script the first series for the Redskins, especially if the Giants get the ball first and score.1st down, long pass thrown to Moss down sideline...overthrown.2nd down, Portis off left tackle for 2 yards3rd down, WR screen to Thomas for 6.Punt.

What's sad is that this is 100% accurate, VERY easy to believe. I REALLY hope Zorn gets better with the play calling. We haven't talked enough about HIM. He's a BIG part of what this team does, or doesn't do this year. I think he is, and SHOULD be on the hot seat this year. I'm hopeful we're an improved team, but wont' be making any $ bets on the Skins.

 

[Sebowski]

We can all script the first series for the Redskins, especially if the Giants get the ball first and score.1st down, long pass thrown to Moss down sideline...overthrown.2nd down, Portis off left tackle for 2 yards3rd down, WR screen to Thomas for 6.Punt.

What's sad is that this is 100% accurate, VERY easy to believe. I REALLY hope Zorn gets better with the play calling. We haven't talked enough about HIM. He's a BIG part of what this team does, or doesn't do this year. I think he is, and SHOULD be on the hot seat this year. I'm hopeful we're an improved team, but wont' be making any $ bets on the Skins.

I'd go as far as to say if we are 2-5 heading into the bye week Zorn might have to hit the bricks for Shanny before the season is over. Get the new guy in, see how players respond to the new stuff, and get a jump start on next year.

 

[Dexter Manley]

We can all script the first series for the Redskins, especially if the Giants get the ball first and score.1st down, long pass thrown to Moss down sideline...overthrown.2nd down, Portis off left tackle for 2 yards3rd down, WR screen to Thomas for 6.Punt.

So we'll still be up 7-0 since DeAngelo will get a pick-6 on the Gmen's first drive.

8-0. We'll see the first wildcat play with ARE throwing a jump pass to Fred Davis for the 2-point conversion.

Haha, yes! I like it!

 

[Dexter Manley]

Btw, PFT picked the Redskins to play the Steelers in the Super Bowl. The media is starting to catch on.

 

[Bizkiteer]

We can all script the first series for the Redskins, especially if the Giants get the ball first and score.1st down, long pass thrown to Moss down sideline...overthrown.2nd down, Portis off left tackle for 2 yards3rd down, WR screen to Thomas for 6.Punt.

What's sad is that this is 100% accurate, VERY easy to believe. I REALLY hope Zorn gets better with the play calling. We haven't talked enough about HIM. He's a BIG part of what this team does, or doesn't do this year. I think he is, and SHOULD be on the hot seat this year. I'm hopeful we're an improved team, but wont' be making any $ bets on the Skins.

The real sad part is that it's 100% accurate not only for Zorn, but Gibbs 2.0. Except for Gibbs 2.0, the long pass is really just a 7 yard pass attempt that fell incomplete.

 

[buster c]

I think this is a good spot for an upset win. I'll say it's a 40/60 proposition. we're healthy and generally play better in the early season than the later months, with '05 & '07 being notable exceptions (hey - maybe it's an odd-year thing??)

Who are you? And what have you done with buster c?

if they win more than 5, they'll need to spring an upset along the way.I doubt it will happen. like "IN PHILLY! IN DALLAS" last year, it's not beyond the realm of possibility.

 

[buster c]

Btw, PFT picked the Redskins to play the Steelers in the Super Bowl. The media is starting to catch on.

PFWnot the legit ones

and Sporting News call it 5-11

 

[Maroney=Sped]

Btw, PFT picked the Redskins to play the Steelers in the Super Bowl. The media is starting to catch on.

PFWnot the legit ones

and Sporting News call it 5-11

If this offense scores 20 points per game, not an exorbitant amount BTW, then 11-5 is very much a reasonable prediction, and that puts them firmly in contention for winning the division. It's all on the offense because this defense is simply not going to give up a lot of points. We just have to see what this offense can do now.

 

[buster c]

Btw, PFT picked the Redskins to play the Steelers in the Super Bowl. The media is starting to catch on.

PFWnot the legit ones

and Sporting News call it 5-11

If this offense scores 20 points per game, not an exorbitant amount BTW, then 11-5 is very much a reasonable prediction, and that puts them firmly in contention for winning the division. It's all on the offense because this defense is simply not going to give up a lot of points. We just have to see what this offense can do now.

I guess my point was to refute Dexter's assertion that "the media is starting to catch on" by citing one example. Just about every media outlet I've seen has our Skins slated for last place. Which is where I think they'll finish, again. 11-5 is the prediction of Dexter Manley...on the crack pipe.

 

[Maroney=Sped]

I found this posted on Extremeskins, which is very interesting:

Interesting article on Campbell. Looked around but didnt see it posted. Here are some cool stats that have me excited:

When Campbell had time to set up and throw, he connected on 85.7 percent of his passes, good for seventh in the league in that category. The almanac said Campbell was knocked down, hit or sacked a combined 88 times, or 16.2 percent of the time, when he dropped back to pass last season -- more than all but three other quarterbacks. Jay Cutler's offensive line in Denver, meanwhile, let him go down a scant 25 times all of last season.

How about the fact Campbell had more passes dropped than any other starting quarterback last season? Thirty-nine drops! His best wide receivers, Santana Moss and Antwaan Randle El, combined to let 21 passes thrown to them by Campbell slip through their hands last season.

Statistically, he also was at the bottom of passes overthrown and underthrown for quarterbacks with at least 200 passes. The top four quarterbacks above him in the accuracy category? Drew Brees, Peyton Manning, Brett Favre and Kurt Warner.

Bottom line, he got little help from a beat-up offensive line after the midway point of the season, his favorite targets often let him down and -- this is important -- when he had time, Campbell almost always was on the money.

Read more: Link

 

[fatness]

Redskin 2009 preview in the Post

Note how many times it says that the front office believes they are a playoff team.

With an owner whose patience is thin as tissue paper at the controls, the Washington Redskins feel they've assembled a team poised for a playoff run. The quarterback has improved statistically every season. The younger receivers might be ready to contribute. The defense is beefed up, and the offense feels more comfortable in Year 2 of Coach Jim Zorn's system. Playing in the tough NFC East, anything is possible, but there is one safe bet: With the possibility of an uncapped year in 2010, if the Redskins struggle this season -- if they miss the playoffs for the seventh time under Daniel Snyder's 10-year stewardship -- all dials will be sent spinning.

With 10 years as an owner and only three playoff appearances to show for it, Daniel Snyder is running short on patience. But management is convinced it has assembled a team that will be competitive in the NFC East.

Management thinks it has given Jim Zorn (right) a team he can coach into the playoffs. But if things start slowly, it could either be a very long season for the second-year coach. Or a very short one.

 

[fatness]

Dan Snyder's history with the Redskins

Some of that stuff is just painful to read.

 

[Marvelous]

Redskin 2009 preview in the Post

Note how many times it says that the front office believes they are a playoff team.

With an owner whose patience is thin as tissue paper at the controls, the Washington Redskins feel they've assembled a team poised for a playoff run. The quarterback has improved statistically every season. The younger receivers might be ready to contribute. The defense is beefed up, and the offense feels more comfortable in Year 2 of Coach Jim Zorn's system. Playing in the tough NFC East, anything is possible, but there is one safe bet: With the possibility of an uncapped year in 2010, if the Redskins struggle this season -- if they miss the playoffs for the seventh time under Daniel Snyder's 10-year stewardship -- all dials will be sent spinning.

With 10 years as an owner and only three playoff appearances to show for it, Daniel Snyder is running short on patience. But management is convinced it has assembled a team that will be competitive in the NFC East.

Management thinks it has given Jim Zorn (right) a team he can coach into the playoffs. But if things start slowly, it could either be a very long season for the second-year coach. Or a very short one.

The problem wth the Redskins front office is that the are too short sighted. They need to keep bringing in young player and developing them. Although Cerroto caught a lot of flak for last years draft and keeping every draft pick on the roster, if the players develop, it will be a good move. And that is the key, givng young players a chance to develop.The reason I think they are short sighted is that they address one or two weaknesses every year. Last year it was WR. But they never forsaw the OL breaking down during the season. This year it was DL, whcih was addresses, and OL, which was modestly addressed. But if other players get old or injured, they will have other problems. The solution is to keep a steady stream on young, developing players coming it. And in the past, the Redskins don't do that. They burn their draft picks to get veterans like Jason Taylor or stop gap players like Kendall.

 

[thayman]

Redskin 2009 preview in the Post

Note how many times it says that the front office believes they are a playoff team.

With an owner whose patience is thin as tissue paper at the controls, the Washington Redskins feel they've assembled a team poised for a playoff run. The quarterback has improved statistically every season. The younger receivers might be ready to contribute. The defense is beefed up, and the offense feels more comfortable in Year 2 of Coach Jim Zorn's system. Playing in the tough NFC East, anything is possible, but there is one safe bet: With the possibility of an uncapped year in 2010, if the Redskins struggle this season -- if they miss the playoffs for the seventh time under Daniel Snyder's 10-year stewardship -- all dials will be sent spinning.

With 10 years as an owner and only three playoff appearances to show for it, Daniel Snyder is running short on patience. But management is convinced it has assembled a team that will be competitive in the NFC East.

Management thinks it has given Jim Zorn (right) a team he can coach into the playoffs. But if things start slowly, it could either be a very long season for the second-year coach. Or a very short one.

The problem wth the Redskins front office is that the are too short sighted. They need to keep bringing in young player and developing them. Although Cerroto caught a lot of flak for last years draft and keeping every draft pick on the roster, if the players develop, it will be a good move. And that is the key, givng young players a chance to develop.The reason I think they are short sighted is that they address one or two weaknesses every year. Last year it was WR. But they never forsaw the OL breaking down during the season. This year it was DL, whcih was addresses, and OL, which was modestly addressed. But if other players get old or injured, they will have other problems. The solution is to keep a steady stream on young, developing players coming it. And in the past, the Redskins don't do that. They burn their draft picks to get veterans like Jason Taylor or stop gap players like Kendall.

I think they panic when injuries strike in TC or pre-season.

 

[Sebowski]

When you guys see something like this:

STAT OF THE WEEKThe Redskins are 1-6 in their last seven games at Giants Stadium

Is anyone else's first thought "that means they are 2-6 in the last eight"?

 

[Sidewinder16]

7 hours and counting.

Sporting News Today did some previews/breakdowns of today's matchups. They mentioned that Haynesworth has close to a 100 lb. size advantage over the Giants opposing OG. I smell mismatch. If they can stuff the run (and with Daniels, Griff and Haynesworth up front, I think they can) the D will give the Giants fits. I think if the offense can score at least 17 they should win.

I know everyone is saying the 'Skins should should establish the pass on O (pass to set up the run) but if they show they can't run against the Giants, their DL is going to have a field day on passing attempts, as well. IMO, they need to quickly establish they are willing to run, and that they can do so successfully.

 

[Ripleys]

did you guys watch Playbook on NFL Network? Joey T of course picked the Skins (God bless his homerism) and the other guys LAUGHED at him. He believed Skins would win because of the improved D and a Burressless WR core.

 

[fatness]

Sporting News Today did some previews/breakdowns of today's matchups. They mentioned that Haynesworth has close to a 100 lb. size advantage over the Giants opposing OG.

That can't be right. Haynesworth is about 340.Man I wish this was a 1 o'clock game. I'm OK with it lasting until 7, I just want it to start.

 

[Sebowski]

Sporting News Today did some previews/breakdowns of today's matchups. They mentioned that Haynesworth has close to a 100 lb. size advantage over the Giants opposing OG.

That can't be right. Haynesworth is about 340.Man I wish this was a 1 o'clock game. I'm OK with it lasting until 7, I just want it to start.

It is a 1 o'clock game I haven't been worried about anything offensively about the Giants all offseason thinking about this game. Until late last night. I started having visions of Bradshaw on sweeps and tosses finding the edge breaking off big plays. Somebody talk me back over to the bright side.

 

[Maroney=Sped]

Sporting News Today did some previews/breakdowns of today's matchups. They mentioned that Haynesworth has close to a 100 lb. size advantage over the Giants opposing OG.

That can't be right. Haynesworth is about 340.Man I wish this was a 1 o'clock game. I'm OK with it lasting until 7, I just want it to start.

It is a 1 o'clock game I haven't been worried about anything offensively about the Giants all offseason thinking about this game. Until late last night. I started having visions of Bradshaw on sweeps and tosses finding the edge breaking off big plays. Somebody talk me back over to the bright side.

With Rocky healthy and Orakpo on the other side, there's a hell of a lot of speed on the corners even before you factor in Horton and Landry. Plus, you've got Phillip Daniels back who's as good of a run-stopping DE as there is in football.

 

[Sebowski]

Sporting News Today did some previews/breakdowns of today's matchups. They mentioned that Haynesworth has close to a 100 lb. size advantage over the Giants opposing OG.

That can't be right. Haynesworth is about 340.Man I wish this was a 1 o'clock game. I'm OK with it lasting until 7, I just want it to start.

It is a 1 o'clock game I haven't been worried about anything offensively about the Giants all offseason thinking about this game. Until late last night. I started having visions of Bradshaw on sweeps and tosses finding the edge breaking off big plays. Somebody talk me back over to the bright side.

With Rocky healthy and Orakpo on the other side, there's a hell of a lot of speed on the corners even before you factor in Horton and Landry. Plus, you've got Phillip Daniels back who's as good of a run-stopping DE as there is in football.

I think that did it. Thank you. Though Daniels is not getting to any corners in pursuit of a sweep. I'm hoping to see a lot of 3 safety setss with Rak at DE, Fletch and Rocky as the two LBs. Cobra Kai!

 

[Bizkiteer]

This might be asking a lot because it hasn't happened much in the recent past, but IF the Redskins can get out to an early lead of two scores...the Giants will not be able to rely on their rushing attack as much. So, taking Jacobs out of his game might have much to do with our offense and it's success against their limited secondary as actually what kind of D front or tackle being made.

 

[Sidewinder16]

DAL/TB is the early Fox game where I'm at. Cowboys still looking pretty good offensively without TO. The Romo to Roy Williams TD that just happened looked awfully similar to TO scorching the 'Skins secondary down the seam.

Philly ain't hurting, either. I know these are "should win" games for them, but they're both looking in midseason form.

 

[thayman]

I'm going with 11-5. The schedule breaks very well for the Skins this season. 11-5 was the first # that popped into my head when I initially saw our schedule.

The only area on the team that I see as worse than last season is DB, specifically CB.

Dline and LB are improved. WR will be better. Oline is better , though not nearly as much as any of us would like. Huge upgrade at punter.

QB, RB, TE, and S should all be the same or better.

Our kicker still sucks, but hopefully he's better than last season.

Hopefully Zorn has figured out, as he seemed to against NE in preseason, that on offense there needs to be more plays aimed at getting the ball downfield.

OL better? How? With the huge upgrade Mike WIlliams represents over warrior Jon Jansen? Sorry, not buying this. Not only are they a year older, but not one of their backups played a single down in 2008.

I think I'll be able to hold off on my relentless criticisms of #17 because this line is going to get him killed before the leaves change colors.

Sporting News Today did some previews/breakdowns of today's matchups. They mentioned that Haynesworth has close to a 100 lb. size advantage over the Giants opposing OG.

That can't be right. Haynesworth is about 340.Man I wish this was a 1 o'clock game. I'm OK with it lasting until 7, I just want it to start.

It is a 1 o'clock game I haven't been worried about anything offensively about the Giants all offseason thinking about this game. Until late last night. I started having visions of Bradshaw on sweeps and tosses finding the edge breaking off big plays. Somebody talk me back over to the bright side.

1015 am game here....I have you beat, the 1pm EST games kill me, after working late on Saturdays getting up at 7am sucks.

 

[dgreen]

I feel like I've seen this movie before. Maybe the 2nd half will have a different ending.

 

[ChrisCooleyFan]

WE SUCK STILL!!!!!

 

[ChrisCooleyFan]

I feel like I've seen this movie before. Maybe the 2nd half will have a different ending.

 

[dgreen]

I think some strange playcalling early in the second half hurt a comeback possibility. They put themselves in too many 3rd and longs with short passes and failed run on 1st and 2nd. I think the first run from scrimmage gave them a false sense that they could run on them. They were having success with ARE and Cooley in the middle of the field and should have gone to those more often on early downs.

I was disappointed in the defense. They should be better than that. The two turnovers were nice, but very little pressure on Manning and they weren't as good against the run as I was hoping.

I'm wondering if Zorn lacks motivational skills. They don't usually seem "ready" at the beginning of games and this was no different.

All in all, no need to panic. I still think they can win some games. I was impressed wih the pass protection considering the opponent and I thought Campbell looked better than Buck and Aikman were giving him credit for. Sure, he had some bad plays (fumble, INT, throwing behind Moss on a 3rd down), but I thought he made a lot of good throws too.

 

[ChrisCooleyFan]

I think some strange playcalling early in the second half hurt a comeback possibility. They put themselves in too many 3rd and longs with short passes and failed run on 1st and 2nd. I think the first run from scrimmage gave them a false sense that they could run on them. They were having success with ARE and Cooley in the middle of the field and should have gone to those more often on early downs.I was disappointed in the defense. They should be better than that. The two turnovers were nice, but very little pressure on Manning and they weren't as good against the run as I was hoping.I'm wondering if Zorn lacks motivational skills. They don't usually seem "ready" at the beginning of games and this was no different.All in all, no need to panic. I still think they can win some games. I was impressed wih the pass protection considering the opponent and I thought Campbell looked better than Buck and Aikman were giving him credit for. Sure, he had some bad plays (fumble, INT, throwing behind Moss on a 3rd down), but I thought he made a lot of good throws too.

Put the kool aid down my friend. This is the same thing again, WE ARE an 8 and 8 team at best, were avg

 

[Maroney=Sped]

Well, that sucked.

Campbell never seems to attack the game. Call it the "it" factor or whatever, but I never see him get after it, and it kills me because he has all the physical gifts you could ever want in a QB.

I didn't like the offensive play-calling. For example, with all that d-line pressure after the Hall INT, where was a designed roll out to help Campbell buy time? Where was the fade to Kelly in the end zone?

I agree that the defense was unimpressive, though they only gave up 16 points. Deangelo Hall is one crispy critter because he gets burned a lot. Orakpo was invisible. Landry too often goes for the kill shot rather than just tackling and wrapping up - he's almost a more talented version of Roy Williams. The line only rarely generated pressure, though they stiffened on multiple occasions when they needed to. The time of possession disparity was embarrassing. They need to get off the field on third down.

Anyway, that was a poor showing. I hope they improve but I'm not optimistic right now.

 

[dgreen]

Put the kool aid down my friend.

Stop overreacting. It's one game. One game we all expected them to lose.