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

[Maroney=Sped]

Did you know that the Redskins have gone 19 games without scoring 30 or more points in a game? That's the second longest streak in the NFL, second only to the Lions. That's back to the last year of Gibbs in 2007. Zorn's vaunted offense has NEVER scored 30 points or more.Anybody want to predict how long this streak can grow?

After watching what Drew Brees did to the "improved", Schwartz-version of the Lions on Sunday, and realizing that Campbell only threw 1 TD against that team last year, I'm not optimistic at this point. Zorn and Campbell need to put up some impressive performances over the next few weeks during the soft part of the schedule or this is pretty much it for them.

 

[dgreen]

For a team that let alot of 3rd and longs. Why was Rak never rushing from the de spot?

That is a very valid questions as it appeared that RAK wasn't used often at all as a DE. I hope this topic gets discussed more by local media, but so far not much of any mention.

They're too busy being flabbergasted by the well known fact that Haynesworth can't actually play every defensive snap (yeah, I'm looking at you Sally Jenkins )

I would respond: "Women :rolleyes"But plenty of "men" are saying the same thing. I think it's time we all form our own media outlet and set the world straight on the Redskins.

 

[Bizkiteer]

Did you know that the Redskins have gone 19 games without scoring 30 or more points in a game? That's the second longest streak in the NFL, second only to the Lions. That's back to the last year of Gibbs in 2007. Zorn's vaunted offense has NEVER scored 30 points or more.Anybody want to predict how long this streak can grow?

Just re-enforces what we've been talking about...it just gets plain ol shameful when it's actually put into numbers. Ouch!

 

[dgreen]

For a team that let alot of 3rd and longs. Why was Rak never rushing from the de spot?

That is a very valid questions as it appeared that RAK wasn't used often at all as a DE. I hope this topic gets discussed more by local media, but so far not much of any mention.

They're too busy being flabbergasted by the well known fact that Haynesworth can't actually play every defensive snap (yeah, I'm looking at you Sally Jenkins )

I would respond: "Women :rolleyes"But plenty of "men" are saying the same thing. I think it's time we all form our own media outlet and set the world straight on the Redskins.

Rich Tandler on fatigue.

 

[fatness]

Detroit scored 27 last Sunday.

 

[sinatravolta]

Did you know that the Redskins have gone 19 games without scoring 30 or more points in a game? That's the second longest streak in the NFL, second only to the Lions. That's back to the last year of Gibbs in 2007. Zorn's vaunted offense has NEVER scored 30 points or more.Anybody want to predict how long this streak can grow?

Just re-enforces what we've been talking about...it just gets plain ol shameful when it's actually put into numbers. Ouch!

Call me crazy but I think it ends soon. Next games are:- St. Louis- @Detroit- Tampa Bay- @Carolina (not saying this is necessarily easy)- KCIf we can't put up 30 points during this stretch, then I don't think we will this season.

 

[TankRizzo]

Did you know that the Redskins have gone 19 games without scoring 30 or more points in a game? That's the second longest streak in the NFL, second only to the Lions. That's back to the last year of Gibbs in 2007. Zorn's vaunted offense has NEVER scored 30 points or more.Anybody want to predict how long this streak can grow?

Just re-enforces what we've been talking about...it just gets plain ol shameful when it's actually put into numbers. Ouch!

We not only need to win next week, but we need to do it with style. If it's a low scoring squeaker then it's just as good as a loss as far as I'm concerned.

 

[dgreen]

It's only one game and no conclusions should be made (either positively or negatively), but here's an interesting stat in favor of the offense. The Redskins are currently 12th in the league in yards per play. And, they did that against what should end up being a top 5 defense.

They simply didn't have the ball enough. 50 plays just isn't enough. Only Buffalo, Houston, and Kansas City ran fewer offensive plays. In the first half, they only ran 22 plays, but averaged 6.6 yards per play. In the second half, they had 28 plays (still not very many considering the received the kickoff to start the half) but dropped to 4.5 yards per play as they went to the run, run, run philosophy.

I'd guess just making one more 3rd down stop defensively and converting on just one more 3rd down offensively could have led to some much better results. I know, I know, I know. If ifs and buts were candy and nuts and all that jazz. But, I just don't think it's all doom and gloom.

As I already said, I'll start to worry if they can't easily handle St. Louis this week. I'll be disappointed if this offense doesn't push 400 yards and score three TDs. And I don't think those are pie-in-the-sky expectations for this offense against that defense.

 

[dgreen]

The Redskins closed out the 2005 season with three straight games over 30 (and had games of 52 and 35 points earlier that year). Gibbs then felt the need to modernize his offense and brought in Saunders. The have only managed five 30-point games since then.

 

[fatness]

As I already said, I'll start to worry if they can't easily handle St. Louis this week.

St. Louis was beaten badly and is embarassed. The Redskins were beaten worse than the score indicated but they don't feel like they were beaten badly. Several players said they felt they should have won, and their coach is telling them they're a very good team. In other words, little sting from the loss. Embarassed vs. complacent.Not a good setup.

 

[TankRizzo]

Embarassed vs. complacent.Not a good setup.

I still can't comprehend how or why Zorn and Campbell could possibly be complacent, but that's exactly how it seemed they both were on Sunday.

 

[Go DC Yourself]

As I already said, I'll start to worry if they can't easily handle St. Louis this week.

St. Louis was beaten badly and is embarassed. The Redskins were beaten worse than the score indicated but they don't feel like they were beaten badly. Several players said they felt they should have won, and their coach is telling them they're a very good team. In other words, little sting from the loss. Embarassed vs. complacent.Not a good setup.

But doesn't Zorn seem more on edge than he was last year? Regardless of what he tells the players, that has to come across.I agree if they can't put St. Louis away handily this week it will portend a rough year, especially with the Rams already having beaten them last year. And even easy wins against the soft part of the schedule won't be enough; they have to win through offensive diversity, or they'll be setting themselves up for failure against the tougher opponents.

 

[Sidewinder16]

A Times article on the 3rd-and-long woes from yesterday. The numbers quoted from last year's defense (#1 in forcing 3-and-outs and #7 in 3rd down defense) make them sound far better at 3rd down defense than I remember.

 

[Sidewinder16]

I'm waiting for ProFootballFocus.com to post their stats. They show how often players lined up at different positions. It was my impression that Orakpo didn't line up at DE nearly enough. And, when he did, they didn't do anything creative with him.

3 games down. 13 to go.

 

[ChrisCooleyFan]

I'm going to set the over/under at 45.5 points over the next 2 weeks. Rams and the Lions. If we go under, I think we should be really worried about Zorn and or Campbell

 

[Bizkiteer]

I'm going to set the over/under at 45.5 points over the next 2 weeks. Rams and the Lions. If we go under, I think we should be really worried about Zorn and or Campbell

CCF, you might have hit the nail right on the head with that one. Considering the two opponants and their performances (what they gave up pts wise), this should be a VERY realistic expectation or line.I'd even venture to say that they should be 20+ easily for both games. Again, considering the opponants and that there isn't an issue w/ Zorn (Play calling) and/or Campbell.

 

[Maroney=Sped]

I'm going to set the over/under at 45.5 points over the next 2 weeks. Rams and the Lions. If we go under, I think we should be really worried about Zorn and or Campbell

CCF, you might have hit the nail right on the head with that one. Considering the two opponants and their performances (what they gave up pts wise), this should be a VERY realistic expectation or line.

And frankly, if Campbell has fewer than 3 or 4 TD's in those two games, you should also be concerned.

 

[Bizkiteer]

I'm going to set the over/under at 45.5 points over the next 2 weeks. Rams and the Lions. If we go under, I think we should be really worried about Zorn and or Campbell

CCF, you might have hit the nail right on the head with that one. Considering the two opponants and their performances (what they gave up pts wise), this should be a VERY realistic expectation or line.

And frankly, if Campbell has fewer than 3 or 4 TD's in those two games, you should also be concerned.

Ditto! Only other reason would be that we are up and running it down their throats, but regardless 2TD's minimum and if not 3 or 4, some RB better have inflated stats to boot.

 

[Dexter Manley]

Agree with pretty much everything others have written about the Giants game. The positives and negatives which stood out to me:

Positives:

- I thought our pass blocking was excellent. The strip of JC by Osi which he returned for a td was mostly JC's fault, imo. He stood back there way too long without stepping up in the pocket. He takes one step forward that play doesn't happen and the outcome of the game could of very well been different.

- Great call and exectution on the fake fg td. I thought the look on Danny Smith's face afterwards was priceless though. It was an "I can't believe that actually worked" expression.

- Kelly (and Thomas? Didn't really notice him on the field) able to start at WR2 which allowed Randle El to move to the slot and tear up the Giants defense. I know neither Kelly or Thomas did anything, but Randle El in the slot is a huge upgrade over what we had last year. Hopefully one of those guys at WR2 will start to produce.

- The run defense looks better than last year, especially when you factor in how long the defense was on the field. They rose to the occasion many times on 3rd and short plays.

- Punting team is light years better than last season.

- The 2 minute offense looks a lot better than last season too.

Negatives:

- Offensive playcalling was putrid. The offense became way too predictable on 1st down, running the ball seemingly every time. There should have been more passes on 1st down trying to get the ball downfield. Also, the calls in the red zone were atrocious.

- Run blocking wasn't good. We'll find out more about the run blocking this week against a terrible Rams team. If we can't run the ball on STL, that's a major red flag.

- The defenses inability to stop nyg on 3rd and longs. It was maddening.

- JC's huge gaffe running past the LOS and then throwing the pick. Granted, it was a great play by the db, but it's still an in excusable mistake. The second worst mistake by JC was his failure to step up in the pocket when Osi stripped him. And he was off on that one pass to Moss. Other than that, I thought he played pretty well, but if he eliminates those first 2 mistakes, we probably win the game.

As for the 3 phases of the game, the Redskins outcoached and outexecuted the Giants on special teams.

The Giants offense executed much better than the Redskins defense.

The Giants denfese out executed the Redskins offense, and outcoached them in spectacular fashion.

Saying all that, the Skins still had a chance to win the game at the end had they recovered that onside kick. This was on the road with the Giants playing about as well as they're capable of in 2 out of 3 phases of the game. That to me is very encouraging, despite the loss. The key will be if Zorn is able to make some drastic improvements in play calling, and JC eliminates the big mistake, which he had 2 of in the game.

Hopefully the Skins drop the hammer on the Rams this week at home. If that doesn't happen, then I will start to be very concerned.

 

[buster c]

For a team that let alot of 3rd and longs. Why was Rak never rushing from the de spot?

That is a very valid questions as it appeared that RAK wasn't used often at all as a DE. I hope this topic gets discussed more by local media, but so far not much of any mention.

They're too busy being flabbergasted by the well known fact that Haynesworth can't actually play every defensive snap (yeah, I'm looking at you Sally Jenkins )

I would respond: "Women :rolleyes"But plenty of "men" are saying the same thing. I think it's time we all form our own media outlet and set the world straight on the Redskins.

ya think?

I think your blind homerism would make the Snyder propaganda machine known as Red Zebra look "fair and balanced"

 

[DCThunder]

I'm going to set the over/under at 45.5 points over the next 2 weeks. Rams and the Lions. If we go under, I think we should be really worried about Zorn and or Campbell

That's combined points, right? Or do you honestly think this team is going to score 45 points in consecutive games? If so...

 

[dgreen]

For a team that let alot of 3rd and longs. Why was Rak never rushing from the de spot?

That is a very valid questions as it appeared that RAK wasn't used often at all as a DE. I hope this topic gets discussed more by local media, but so far not much of any mention.

They're too busy being flabbergasted by the well known fact that Haynesworth can't actually play every defensive snap (yeah, I'm looking at you Sally Jenkins )

I would respond: "Women :rolleyes"But plenty of "men" are saying the same thing. I think it's time we all form our own media outlet and set the world straight on the Redskins.

ya think?

I think your blind homerism would make the Snyder propaganda machine known as Red Zebra look "fair and balanced"

You're not invited.

 

[fatness]

But doesn't Zorn seem more on edge than he was last year? Regardless of what he tells the players, that has to come across.

He seems ineffectively on edge and frustrated. He did a lot of yelling on the sidelines during the game, but to what effect? He didn't lead, didn't send the offense in any particular direction, stuck to his haphazard "script". When a coach is leading in various directions at once, and when a coach is hampering play (by obviously not letting Campbell throw in certain situations), and by showing no clue after the game that these are problems, I'd say the main issue with the team now is Zorn.I do like the guy. I'd like to see him learn enough to succeed. But it hasn't happened yet. I see a focus on minutiae, no overall direction, stubbornness, and no "this is what to do, let's get off our asses and do it" leadership.

 

[fatness]

I think your blind homerism would make the Snyder propaganda machine known as Red Zebra look "fair and balanced"

What the #### was that for?You post here week after week hoping the Redskins fail so you can keep beating your "I'm right about the POS owner" drum, and you're accusing someone else of bias?

 

[Sidewinder16]

I think your blind homerism would make the Snyder propaganda machine known as Red Zebra look "fair and balanced"

What the #### was that for?You post here week after week hoping the Redskins fail so you can keep beating your "I'm right about the POS owner" drum, and you're accusing someone else of bias?

It's because blind anti-homerism is virtuous. Didn't you get the memo?

 

[Sidewinder16]

Finally, the voice of reason:

Here is the breakdown of player participation against the Giants

DEFENSE

(64 snaps, which includes three penalties)

DL: Albert Haynesworth 46, Phillip Daniels 43, Cornelius Griffin 51, Andre Carter 61, Lorenzo Alexander 17, Kedric Golston 26, Jeremy Jarmon 9.

LB: London Fletcher 64, Rocky McIntosh 57, Brian Orakpo 54, Chris Wilson 10.

DB: Carlos Rogers 59, DeAngelo Hall 62, Fred Smoot 12, LaRon Landry 63, Reed Doughty 30, Chris Horton 40.

Analysis: Other media will make a big deal out of Haynesworth's playing time but he played 72 percent of the snaps -- that will be the norm this season. Just because he's making $41 million guaranteed doesn't mean his playing time should jump to Andre Carter territory. Every team in the league has a defensive tackle rotation. ... Fletcher was the only defensive player to play every snap ... Interesting situation at safety. Horton started but played only five snaps in the last six drives.

GB Ryan O'Halloran.

 

[Sidewinder16]

Since the Jacobs/Landry video got so much play last year, it seems only fair to give this some love.

 

[dgreen]

Finally, the voice of reason:

Here is the breakdown of player participation against the Giants

DEFENSE

(64 snaps, which includes three penalties)

DL: Albert Haynesworth 46, Phillip Daniels 43, Cornelius Griffin 51, Andre Carter 61, Lorenzo Alexander 17, Kedric Golston 26, Jeremy Jarmon 9.

LB: London Fletcher 64, Rocky McIntosh 57, Brian Orakpo 54, Chris Wilson 10.

DB: Carlos Rogers 59, DeAngelo Hall 62, Fred Smoot 12, LaRon Landry 63, Reed Doughty 30, Chris Horton 40.

Analysis: Other media will make a big deal out of Haynesworth's playing time but he played 72 percent of the snaps -- that will be the norm this season. Just because he's making $41 million guaranteed doesn't mean his playing time should jump to Andre Carter territory. Every team in the league has a defensive tackle rotation. ... Fletcher was the only defensive player to play every snap ... Interesting situation at safety. Horton started but played only five snaps in the last six drives.

GB Ryan O'Halloran.

The Portis numbers are interesting. He played just under 50% of the snaps (24/49). The hurry up offense they ran with Betts at the end of each half obviously contributed to that. Oh, and he touched the ball 17 times (16 rushes, 1 reception) on those 24 plays. Pretty tough to figure out what they're going to do when Portis is on the field. I'll be interested to see how successful the 7 pass plays were when Portis was on the field. And, I'll be interested in seeing what the run/pass breakdown is for Sellers' 18 plays.Marko Mitchell apparently had an offensive snap. Moss only missed 2 snaps. That implies to me he didn't run too many deep patterns. WRs tend to hit the sideline for a play after running deep routes because they've used up so much energy and it's quicker to get a WR off the bench into the huddle after an incomplete pass.

Fred Davis who they claim to love so much only had 13 plays.

 

[Bizkiteer]

I'm going to set the over/under at 45.5 points over the next 2 weeks. Rams and the Lions. If we go under, I think we should be really worried about Zorn and or Campbell

That's combined points, right? Or do you honestly think this team is going to score 45 points in consecutive games? If so...

Yes, he means over the next two weeks as combined.

 

[buster c]

I think your blind homerism would make the Snyder propaganda machine known as Red Zebra look "fair and balanced"

What the #### was that for?You post here week after week hoping the Redskins fail so you can keep beating your "I'm right about the POS owner" drum, and you're accusing someone else of bias?

you're just pissed off because I took your Number 9 club to the woodshed this weekend nobody loves the Redskins more than I do. every Sunday I set aside my hatred for the owner who has ruined my franchise and support my team. I never once have hoped they would fail.

 

[Bizkiteer]

For a team that let alot of 3rd and longs. Why was Rak never rushing from the de spot?

That is a very valid questions as it appeared that RAK wasn't used often at all as a DE. I hope this topic gets discussed more by local media, but so far not much of any mention.

They're too busy being flabbergasted by the well known fact that Haynesworth can't actually play every defensive snap (yeah, I'm looking at you Sally Jenkins )

I would respond: "Women :rolleyes"But plenty of "men" are saying the same thing. I think it's time we all form our own media outlet and set the world straight on the Redskins.

ya think?

I think your blind homerism would make the Snyder propaganda machine known as Red Zebra look "fair and balanced"

Come on BC... 15 yarder for unsportsmanlike conduct! You look at things as "half empty," while others look at it as "half full." Don't knock a guy for it or else you should be knocking yourself along with it because being slanted is the same no matter the angle. Play nice...

 

[Marvelous]

Finally, the voice of reason:

Here is the breakdown of player participation against the Giants

DEFENSE

(64 snaps, which includes three penalties)

DL: Albert Haynesworth 46, Phillip Daniels 43, Cornelius Griffin 51, Andre Carter 61, Lorenzo Alexander 17, Kedric Golston 26, Jeremy Jarmon 9.

LB: London Fletcher 64, Rocky McIntosh 57, Brian Orakpo 54, Chris Wilson 10.

DB: Carlos Rogers 59, DeAngelo Hall 62, Fred Smoot 12, LaRon Landry 63, Reed Doughty 30, Chris Horton 40.

Analysis: Other media will make a big deal out of Haynesworth's playing time but he played 72 percent of the snaps -- that will be the norm this season. Just because he's making $41 million guaranteed doesn't mean his playing time should jump to Andre Carter territory. Every team in the league has a defensive tackle rotation. ... Fletcher was the only defensive player to play every snap ... Interesting situation at safety. Horton started but played only five snaps in the last six drives.

GB Ryan O'Halloran.

So the DL without Orakpo had 253 snaps. If they play 4 down linemen on every play, that leaves 3 snaps for Orakpo to line up as a DE. If Orakpo is such a great pass rusher, why don't they have him rush the passer more on passing downs instead of playing as a LBer?

 

[Marvelous]

Finally, the voice of reason:

Here is the breakdown of player participation against the Giants

DEFENSE

(64 snaps, which includes three penalties)

DL: Albert Haynesworth 46, Phillip Daniels 43, Cornelius Griffin 51, Andre Carter 61, Lorenzo Alexander 17, Kedric Golston 26, Jeremy Jarmon 9.

LB: London Fletcher 64, Rocky McIntosh 57, Brian Orakpo 54, Chris Wilson 10.

DB: Carlos Rogers 59, DeAngelo Hall 62, Fred Smoot 12, LaRon Landry 63, Reed Doughty 30, Chris Horton 40.

Analysis: Other media will make a big deal out of Haynesworth's playing time but he played 72 percent of the snaps -- that will be the norm this season. Just because he's making $41 million guaranteed doesn't mean his playing time should jump to Andre Carter territory. Every team in the league has a defensive tackle rotation. ... Fletcher was the only defensive player to play every snap ... Interesting situation at safety. Horton started but played only five snaps in the last six drives.

GB Ryan O'Halloran.

So the DL without Orakpo had 253 snaps. If they play 4 down linemen on every play, that leaves 3 snaps for Orakpo to line up as a DE. If Orakpo is such a great pass rusher, why don't they have him rush the passer more on passing downs instead of playing as a LBer?

One other note: if the Redskins never used a dime package, they used the nickel package only 10 times out of 64 plays. I thought the Giants had more passing downs than that.

 

[PACKER 7]

Can I ask an honest question to the Redskin fans? Does everyone feel Jason Campbell is really the best option for the Skins?

I watched him all through the SEC and he was average at best, then he had an above average Senior season and ends up vaulting higher in the draft.

To me he is the reason the Skins are being held back. I'm not trying to bash on him, but I just don't see him as a quality NFL starting QB. Quality back up yes.

Snyder spends loads of money on other players, why hasn't he dropped some cash on a veteran QB?

I think the Skins have all the pieces for greatness except a QB.

Do you think JC is on the short time if the Skins don't make the playoffs this year?

Just curious. And again please don't take this as a shot it's just my opinion and I wonder how fans feel that watch this team week in and week out.

 

[fatness]

In his interview with Kevin Sheehan Zorn insisted over and over that he wouldn't pass more in the Giants game because he wanted to get Portis the ball. Sheehan pushed him on it, saying the run wasn't working and asking why not pass more since it was working better. It was good to hear.

 

[fatness]

Come on buster, you're as biased as anyone here. And that's fine, so don't slam someone else for bias. It really is that simple.

you're just pissed off because I took your Number 9 club to the woodshed this weekend

My team didn't do bad but you beat me convincingly. Congrats on that.

 

[Ripleys]

Can I ask an honest question to the Redskin fans? Does everyone feel Jason Campbell is really the best option for the Skins?I watched him all through the SEC and he was average at best, then he had an above average Senior season and ends up vaulting higher in the draft.To me he is the reason the Skins are being held back. I'm not trying to bash on him, but I just don't see him as a quality NFL starting QB. Quality back up yes.Snyder spends loads of money on other players, why hasn't he dropped some cash on a veteran QB?I think the Skins have all the pieces for greatness except a QB. Do you think JC is on the short time if the Skins don't make the playoffs this year? Just curious. And again please don't take this as a shot it's just my opinion and I wonder how fans feel that watch this team week in and week out.

Lifelong skins fan here, and no, I don't think Campbell is the best option for this team. He's exactly what you said, average at best. Our D is excellent, we have a great RB and TE, we now even have solid special teams. But our QB continues to hold us back. I hope Jason can prove me wrong, but I'm not buying, at all. I think this team will win games DESPITE Campbell, not BECAUSE of him.

 

[Sylira21]

Can I ask an honest question to the Redskin fans? Does everyone feel Jason Campbell is really the best option for the Skins?I watched him all through the SEC and he was average at best, then he had an above average Senior season and ends up vaulting higher in the draft.To me he is the reason the Skins are being held back. I'm not trying to bash on him, but I just don't see him as a quality NFL starting QB. Quality back up yes.Snyder spends loads of money on other players, why hasn't he dropped some cash on a veteran QB?I think the Skins have all the pieces for greatness except a QB. Do you think JC is on the short time if the Skins don't make the playoffs this year? Just curious. And again please don't take this as a shot it's just my opinion and I wonder how fans feel that watch this team week in and week out.

Well, it's not like the Skins didn't pursue other QB options in the off-season - and the more I see of Cutler, the happier I am he went to Chicago.Yes, if the Skins don't make the playoffs this year, Campbell's gone. This is the last year of his rookie contract.As for dropping some cash on a veteran QB...don't really see who would have been a significant upgrade in this past off-season as a free agent signing. Let's face it, getting a good QB is the hardest thing in the league. A desperate gamble for Cassell? No thanks. Jeff Garcia...um, no. Sign somebody else's backup? Please...So the thinking is that probably, if the Skins turn in an uninspiring 7-9 or 8-8, they will do something silly in the draft next year for the "QB of the future" and let Campbell go.

 

[ChrisCooleyFan]

Can I ask an honest question to the Redskin fans? Does everyone feel Jason Campbell is really the best option for the Skins?I watched him all through the SEC and he was average at best, then he had an above average Senior season and ends up vaulting higher in the draft.To me he is the reason the Skins are being held back. I'm not trying to bash on him, but I just don't see him as a quality NFL starting QB. Quality back up yes.Snyder spends loads of money on other players, why hasn't he dropped some cash on a veteran QB?I think the Skins have all the pieces for greatness except a QB. Do you think JC is on the short time if the Skins don't make the playoffs this year? Just curious. And again please don't take this as a shot it's just my opinion and I wonder how fans feel that watch this team week in and week out.

Well, it's not like the Skins didn't pursue other QB options in the off-season - and the more I see of Cutler, the happier I am he went to Chicago.Yes, if the Skins don't make the playoffs this year, Campbell's gone. This is the last year of his rookie contract.As for dropping some cash on a veteran QB...don't really see who would have been a significant upgrade in this past off-season as a free agent signing. Let's face it, getting a good QB is the hardest thing in the league. A desperate gamble for Cassell? No thanks. Jeff Garcia...um, no. Sign somebody else's backup? Please...So the thinking is that probably, if the Skins turn in an uninspiring 7-9 or 8-8, they will do something silly in the draft next year for the "QB of the future" and let Campbell go.

I really think Danny Boy and Boy Blunder will take Tim Teabow as our qb, in the 1st rd.

 

[Maroney=Sped]

Can I ask an honest question to the Redskin fans? Does everyone feel Jason Campbell is really the best option for the Skins?I watched him all through the SEC and he was average at best, then he had an above average Senior season and ends up vaulting higher in the draft.To me he is the reason the Skins are being held back. I'm not trying to bash on him, but I just don't see him as a quality NFL starting QB. Quality back up yes.Snyder spends loads of money on other players, why hasn't he dropped some cash on a veteran QB?I think the Skins have all the pieces for greatness except a QB. Do you think JC is on the short time if the Skins don't make the playoffs this year? Just curious. And again please don't take this as a shot it's just my opinion and I wonder how fans feel that watch this team week in and week out.

Campbell is frustrating. He has all the physical tools you could want in a QB - tall, strong, athletic, can run, great arm. He works hard and seems to have the respect of his teammates. He's not a problem in the locker room and seems like a good guy personally. He even has seemed at times to have good pocket sense, though you wouldn't have known that from the play Osi made. His problems are intangible. He doesn't strike me as a guy who is brash at all or who even could fake that when the team might need it, like on an important drive at the end of a game. His leadership is definitely in question. Also, he's very rarely seemed smooth or "natural" as an NFL QB. There are just guys who "have it" and guys who don't, and while Campbell has developed over the years in the NFL, I just don't think he has it.

 

[dgreen]

As always, good stuff from Keim:

Chalk talk: Why the Redskins play off-man coverage

DeAngelo Hall built his reputation in this coverage. It’s why he’s intercepted passes, received big contracts and earned a couple Pro Bowl berths.

So don’t expect the Redskins to change their philosophy of playing off-man coverage. They just need to play it better.

Besides, they like using this strategy. For starters, it enables them to provide a false look, as if they’re playing man only to drop into zone and vice versa. (However, in watching the Giants game, there were times, based on body language, it was clear they were in zone).

“We’re just trying to give [the quarterback] different looks,” said secondary coach Jerry Gray.

The problem comes in the execution. In the preseason the Redskins at times played too soft in the secondary with their coverages. It wasn’t always the starters, however. And in the 23-17 loss to the Giants even coach Jim Zorn said there was too much cushion at times.

Gray disagrees with that assessment. Regardless, all agree that they must play it better.

Not everyone prefers playing off-man. Fred Smoot is better in press coverage, as is Justin Tryon. Rogers is probably the most adaptable. Against New York, though, it didn’t matter. There might have been two or three times any of the corners played press; Hall did it once (failing to get the jam on Steve Smith).

When in off-man, the defensive backs must read the quarterback first. It will provide clues to what route is coming. But once the quarterback hits his third step, if he’s not setting to throw, then the corner must lock onto the receiver.

“That’s where the weakness is,” Gray said. “Can you not focus on the QB and concentrate on the receiver? You can’t get mesmerized watching the quarterback all the time.

“If you see all the drops that means you’re watching the QB and you’re gonna see the receiver catching the football.”

The corners line up typically seven yards off the line and one yard inside the receiver; that’s the by-the-book alignment in off-man coverage. However, against New York, there were times they lined up nine yards deep – depending on down and distance. Occasionally it was eight yards.

Said Hall, “It’s harder when you’re off. It’s all timing. You give a guy the alley to run clear straight at you and that ball is thrown before he turns around, you ain’t breaking that up unless he’s sitting on you.

“When you press, there’s no space. Can you catch a fade? Yeah. I might lose you at the line and downfield you might make a play. But all those intermediate routes, you’re playing off and hell, you’ve got eight yards and you’re running and I’m backpedaling so when you break, you turn right around and the ball is in the air and it’s harder for me to break and go.

Still, Hall likes playing off because it gives him the ability to read the play better. Which means more picks.

But, he said, “You can’t play off all the time either. We got sucked up into their game trying to figure out what they were doing to the left side, to the right side.”

Gray compared it to a basketball player being more comfortable scoring with his back to the basket compared to one who isn’t.

Some teams play mostly press (Oakland) while some play only off (Pittsburgh). In Atlanta, Hall made the Pro Bowl playing off-man; in Oakland he got cut playing a lot of press. It’s obviously much harder to press in this era because of the rules preventing contact after five yards.

“Now it’s all about athletic ability and if you don’t have that quickness, do you put a guy into the Lion’s den?” Gray said. “He’ll get killed if he’s not quick to get his hands on [the receiver].”

Indeed, Hall failed vs. Smith in press coverage because his shoulders turned at the line, allowing Smith to get inside.

“And a lot of guys when they play press can’t turn into a receiver when the ball is in the air and go get it,” Gray said. “A lot struggle with that. DeAngelo can play off; he has great vision. What you have to do is figure out when is it my time to go get that play compared to, is it my time to get it every time.

“You can challenge and press and do those things, you still have to make a play if you’re a defensive back.”

 

[Bizkiteer]

Did anyone ever email JLC when he did the 'Skins insider? I used email him comments and/or questions and he ALWAYS replied. I have since done the same with "the Mayor" and he has NEVER replied.

I know many had their beef w/ JLC, but at least he was interactive.

 

[Maroney=Sped]

As always, good stuff from Keim:

So . . . dumb question. Why can't you design coverages that allow Hall to play off-man, and Smoot to play press man, and Rogers to switch back and forth as needed?

 

[Dexter Manley]

A couple more thoughts:

- I can't believe I forgot to mention the biggest negative in Sunday's game, which was the ole defense Smoot and Hall performed on that screen pass td to Manningham. That wouldn't have been a tackle in flag football. Watching NFL Network last night, Mayock said that was the most disturbing play he saw all weekend, and I can't disagree with him.

- The forced fumble and return td by Osi when JC failed to step up in the pocket was even worse than I orginally thought. JC had about 4 seconds before being stripped by Osi. And the oline did a textbook job of pass blocking. They basically parted the red sea for him to be able to step up in the pocket. Huge blunder by Campbell there.

- Anyone else think that Zorn may be letting Portis influence his play calling too much? 18 carries in his 24 snaps as was posted earlier?

 

[Maroney=Sped]

- The forced fumble and return td by Osi when JC failed to step up in the pocket was even worse than I orginally thought. JC had about 4 seconds before being stripped by Osi. And the oline did a textbook job of pass blocking. They basically parted the red sea for him to be able to step up in the pocket. Huge blunder by Campbell there.

Campbell has traditionally shown pretty good pocket presence, which made that all the more frustrating. I've noted here before that he's excellent in the red zone in buying time by sidestepping, usually to his right, and finding receivers. I think he pulled a Roethilsberger there by trying to hard to look downfield to make a a play, and simply taking too long to do that. Even worse, all he needed to to was take a step up into the pocket because the pass blocking was actually very good on that play - there was no pressure up the middle, and both OT's had forced their DE's upfield and wide. It's good news/bad news. Campbell is definitely trying to take shots downfield, which I like. He needs to do that and not play it safe all the time. He needs, however, to balance that better with his responsibility to avoid negative plays. The Manningham TD was simply awful. Smoot I can forgive somewhat as he didn't have an angle and at least made an effort. Hall didn't even try to wrap up or even hit the guy. He should be embarrassed.

 

[Bizkiteer]

A couple more thoughts:

- I can't believe I forgot to mention the biggest negative in Sunday's game, which was the ole defense Smoot and Hall performed on that screen pass td to Manningham. That wouldn't have been a tackle in flag football. Watching NFL Network last night, Mayock said that was the most disturbing play he saw all weekend, and I can't disagree with him.

- The forced fumble and return td by Osi when JC failed to step up in the pocket was even worse than I orginally thought. JC had about 4 seconds before being stripped by Osi. And the oline did a textbook job of pass blocking. They basically parted the red sea for him to be able to step up in the pocket. Huge blunder by Campbell there.

- Anyone else think that Zorn may be letting Portis influence his play calling too much? 18 carries in his 24 snaps as was posted earlier?

No, I think they go back the well the normally provides. If JC is that unstable or unsure of what he'll do on a given play, the coach (Zorn) probably knows that he can trust Portis to do what he's supposed to do. Problem is that the other team/Defense knows that he is the engine that is pulling our train.

 

[Bizkiteer]

The Manningham TD was simply awful. Smoot I can forgive somewhat as he didn't have an angle and at least made an effort. Hall didn't even try to wrap up or even hit the guy. He should be embarrassed.

At least the Browns players had an excuse that AP stiff armed them, while we are left grasp'n air! I will say that Smoot did a wonderful job tackling in preseason and appreared to me to be much more aggressive in trying to hit. I'll think he also didn't have the best of angles and give him much more understanding than the effort DHall put out too.

 

[Maroney=Sped]

A couple more thoughts:

- I can't believe I forgot to mention the biggest negative in Sunday's game, which was the ole defense Smoot and Hall performed on that screen pass td to Manningham. That wouldn't have been a tackle in flag football. Watching NFL Network last night, Mayock said that was the most disturbing play he saw all weekend, and I can't disagree with him.

- The forced fumble and return td by Osi when JC failed to step up in the pocket was even worse than I orginally thought. JC had about 4 seconds before being stripped by Osi. And the oline did a textbook job of pass blocking. They basically parted the red sea for him to be able to step up in the pocket. Huge blunder by Campbell there.

- Anyone else think that Zorn may be letting Portis influence his play calling too much? 18 carries in his 24 snaps as was posted earlier?

No, I think they go back the well the normally provides. If JC is that unstable or unsure of what he'll do on a given play, the coach (Zorn) probably knows that he can trust Portis to do what he's supposed to do. Problem is that the other team/Defense knows that he is the engine that is pulling our train.

Tough to say how much Portis influenced things, but that was just a bad game plan. If there was ever a game to spread things out and establish rhythm passing for a QB you're trying to build up against a depleted secondary, rather than try to run it down the throat of a defense whose strength is up front, this was the game.

 

[dgreen]

As always, good stuff from Keim:

So . . . dumb question. Why can't you design coverages that allow Hall to play off-man, and Smoot to play press man, and Rogers to switch back and forth as needed?

Good question. You should comment on that blog post and ask. He'll answer.One guess is that it appears, from the post, that one reason they like to play off is to disguise whether they are in man or zone. So, you probably could design something different, but they may not want to.

 

[Maroney=Sped]

As always, good stuff from Keim:

So . . . dumb question. Why can't you design coverages that allow Hall to play off-man, and Smoot to play press man, and Rogers to switch back and forth as needed?

Good question. You should comment on that blog post and ask. He'll answer.One guess is that it appears, from the post, that one reason they like to play off is to disguise whether they are in man or zone. So, you probably could design something different, but they may not want to.

How much are you really disguising when the opposing QB knows that . . . *clears throat* . . . Hall likes to play off-man, Smoot likes to play press man, and Rogers can do either? I will respond to the blog post though.