John Keim

Redskins Week 9 preview: at Falcons

Sunday, 1 p.m.; TV » FOX Radio » 92.7 & 94.3 FM/730 & 980 AM • Sirius 152 Keys to the game 1. Contain Turner » Atlanta running back Michael Turner rushed for 1,699 yards in 2008, but is on pace for just under 1,300 yards this season. He has not had many explosive runs, partly because he’s faced more 3-4 fronts, which has helped take away some cutback lanes. And partly because he hasn’t made enough defenders miss. However, he’s coming off his best game this season (151 yards) and when he’s on, the Atlanta offense is difficult to stop. 2. Beware of the passing game » Quarterback Matt Ryan has struggled compared to 2008....

Continued...

 

Injury update, notes

...Linebacker H.B. Blades will be a game-time decision, less than two weeks after undergoing arthroscopic surgery. Earlier in the week, the Redskins did not anticipate he would be able to play vs. Atlanta. But he practiced Friday and, in the portion the media could watch, looked normal. You'd never know he'd had surgery recently. The key for Blades is how his knee feels Saturday after working today. ...Like Blades, safety Chris Horton is questionable, but coach Jim Zorn said he expects him to play. ...Zorn said he will continue to interject with a play call or two during games. He did that in the two-minute drill and in the red zone vs. Philadelphia. When asked if vice president Vinny...

Continued...

 

Skins' Blache: Enough is enough

Defensive coordinator fires back at Riggins ASHBURN - John Riggins took aim at his favorite subject these days: Redskins owner Dan Snyder. This time, someone from the Redskins shot back. Defensive coordinator Greg Blache, speaking to the media for the first time in nearly a month, defended Snyder after more harsh comments from the Redskins Hall of Fame running back. On Showtime's "Inside the NFL," Riggins blasted Snyder -- again. Redskins notes » Punter Hunter Smith will miss Sunday's game after hurting his groin again. Smith's groin sidelined him for two games already this season, but he punted against Philadelphia on Oct. 26. However, when he tried to punt...

Continued...

 

Hall gets shot at old team

Redskins cornerback says Falcons GM lied ASHBURN - DeAngelo Hall knows what this won't be like. This is not a national topic, like a game from last weekend. This is not the return of the longtime hero. It is, however, the return of a former star who felt spurned by his old team. "I'm not Brett Favre walking back into Lambeau," the Redskins cornerback said. But like Favre, Hall has a beef with the management of his former team. Hall, who made two Pro Bowls in four seasons with Atlanta, said Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff lied to him after the 2007 season. Dimitroff, who joined the Falcons after the 2007 season along with coach Mike Smith, has declined comment to...

Continued...

 

Blache defends Snyder

One of these days we'll actually get back to writing and discussing football at Redskins Park. One of these days they may give you a reason to do just that. Today was not one of those days. Why? Well, because it's a day that ends in Y. Anyway, here's defensive coordinator Greg Blache's defense of owner Dan Snyder. First note: Blache is paid handsomely by Snyder, so we would expect him to stick up for his owner. Blache's beef is with ex-Redskin John Riggins who blasted Snyder -- again -- on Showtime's Inside the NFL. Second note: Blache has not taken questions from the media since Oct. 4 and did not do so again today. It's a bit lame. I also think it's funny how fast the Redskins...

Continued...

 

Falcons built proper way

Falcons coach Mike Smith, a rookie coach like Jim Zorn last year, talked about why he's had a lot of early success in Atlanta. It differs from Zorn's experience in Washington. Smith said of why he had early success: "I think there are a lot more unsuccessful coaching staffs than there are unsuccessful head coaches. It's very important to put a staff around you that has the same philosophy that you do and believes in the same things you do schematicaly. And I've been very fortunate to assemble a staff. We have over 212 years of NFL experience, guys that have been coordinators and guys that have been head coaches and they've been valuable resources for me. That's been the thing...

Continued...

 

News, notes and analysis

...Coach Jim Zorn said Antwaan Randle El will be deep on the first punt return vs. Atlanta, but that DeAngelo Hall and Santana Moss would also return punts. It's the same thing that happened in Philadelphia and it's what Zorn said on his radio show two weeks ago. However, he started to hedge a bit on his radio show this week citing Randle El's production as a returner (5.2 yards per return). But Zorn was strong in his statement today. "Antwaan Randle El is our punt returner," Zorn said. We do know that the Redskins would prefer someone else to return punts. But Moss is not a legitimate option because of injury concerns. Nor does he want more than one or two a game. Hall...

Continued...

 

Skins prepare for gauntlet

Next five opponents are a combined 26-9 ASHBURN — The Redskins enter the toughest part of their schedule with the following: A makeshift offensive line; a running back who spent the first seven games battling various injuries to his right leg and a quarterback whose bum ankle altered his game. The Redskins next five opponents have a combined record of 26-9. The Redskins are 2-5. This is the start of a playoff run? "It's a tough challenge," said quarterback Jason Campbell. They also have a punt return situation that remains a bit cloudy. Antwaan Randle El, who has handled the role since coming to Washington in 2005, said he had not been told of any change as of early...

Continued...

 

Week 9 scouting report: What we know about the Falcons

1. Michael Turner hasn't been as explosive » Until the Monday night game, that is, when he rushed for 151 yards. He now has 554 yards for the season (with eight touchdowns). But through much of the first half this season, Turner has not had the explosive runs he picked up last season en route to 1,699 yards. Part of the problem is that they've faced a lot of 3-4 fronts and that hurts his cutback lanes. The other part is that he hasn't made enough guys miss. 2. Matt Ryan is still a young quarterback » That means he's capable of big games and moments, but also bad decisions. Ryan, in his second year, is the 18th-rated passer at 82.7. He's had good stretches, but he's also been...

Continued...

 

Cooley aims for quick recovery

Skins TE still isn't sure how he broke his ankle ASHBURN - Chris Cooley still isn't sure how he broke his ankle, even after watching a replay of when it occurred. What he's sure about, however, is his desire to play again this season. "If my ankle feels good, I'm going to play," he said. "It doesn't matter what we're doing." Cooley underwent surgery to have three pins inserted into his broken right ankle on Oct. 28. He was initially told by a team doctor, who specializes in knees and shoulders, that he was likely out for the season. But that changed after seeing a foot specialist and he's still optimistic about returning in four weeks. He will be re-evaluated...

Continued...

 

Portis: I'm no [butt] kisser

Highlights from Clinton Portis' media gathering today: On Dan Snyder's comments Tuesday: "It didn't take him to speak. We know we're a disappointment. We can't put that on him. Him apologizing won't make our record better than 2-5 or make people forgive us for being 2-5 or make everyone say, 'We're coming to the game. He apologized.'" On his relationship with Snyder: "Our relationship has been under so much scrutiny and everyone is thinking I get my own way and that I run to Mr. Snyder. I don't. I have a working relationship with Mr. Snyder. I think it's a great thing to go to work and speak to your boss. I've never had a 9 to 5, but I'm sure in the regular world you...

Continued...

 

Five thoughts

1. Dan Snyder's "apology" was not enough. If he wants to show the fans how truly he sorry is about the mess this organization is in, he'd answer some legitimately tough questions. Vinny Cerrato, like him or not, did just that during the bye week -- taking more bullets for an owner more involved than he'll ever admit. Snyder needs to discuss the sign issues at the stadium; the coaching situation; the future of the franchise. Surely, he can't provide all the answers now, but I'm guessing his apology did not exactly pacify the fans. Snyder can't get away anymore by saying he's sorry or, in other instances, talking about how much he's learned from his mistakes of the past. That's...

Continued...

 

Snyder: 'We're embarrassed'

Redskins owner issues apology to the fans Redskins owner Dan Snyder said he's disappointed. And embarrassed. And apologetic. What he didn't say is what he would do about any of it; nor did he address the perceptions of this once-storied franchise and the moves it has made during the season. Snyder gave his first public comments this season at Surrattsville High School in Clinton, Md., where the Redskins announced a partnership to maintain and improve eight fields in Prince George's County. He answered five questions, according to a transcript at Redskins.com. "I think number one I feel bad for the fans," Snyder said. "I feel sorry for the fans. And we're very, very...

Continued...

 

Zorn show highlights

Highlights from the Jim Zorn show on ESPN 980: On the punt return situation: “Here’s my stand on it. Last week is kind of the way I see it going. We used three punt returners. I used Antwaan Randle El who has been our punt returner. I tried to get Santana Moss one or two punt returns in every game and started to get DeAngelo Hall more involved as well. We’ll get five or six punt returns, maybe more, and if we can use all three of those guys that’s what I want to have done. The reason its been talked about is that I see the role of Antwaan, if he was purely a punt returner that has had production he would continue on. … There’s only so many punt...

Continued...

 

The door is open for Davis

TE will get more looks with Cooley sidelined ASHBURN - Fred Davis had plans for the bye week: a trip to Southern California, another flight to Oregon to see his alma mater play. The plane ticket was booked. The game ticket was waiting. Davis never made it. Instead, he stayed in rainy Northern Virginia, heading to the practice field for three days for an extra two and a half hours of practice. With Chris Cooley sidelined after ankle surgery, Davis knows what this means for him. A lot more work. A lot more opportunities to look good -- or bad. Redskins notes » Former Seattle coach Mike Holmgren was asked by Chicago radio station ESPN 1000 what he thought of the Redskins...

Continued...

 

November 2 Redskins notes

» Former Seattle coach Mike Holmgren was asked by Chicago radio station ESPN 1000 what he thought of the Redskins stripping Jim Zorn of play-calling duties. "I thought it was very unfair to put him in the position. The position they put Jim in, it shouldn't happen," Holmgren told hosts Tom Waddle and Marc Silverman. "You can be upset with me as a play-caller or how the team's going, (then) fire me. But don't do that. Don't pull the rug out from under me, tie my hands, make me look foolish ... take away what I came there for to do in the first place. Don't do that." He later added: "That bothered me a lot. Jim Zorn is one of the nice people. I'm a nice...

Continued...

 

What We've Learned

» Even during the bye week, we were reminded of one thing: the Redskins lack explosiveness on offense – and in the return game. The Eagles do not move the ball consistently; they don’t need to because of the big plays generated by the offense. Miami … Minnesota … Tennessee … all won because of explosive plays. Outside of Santana Moss, the Redskins have no one who scares an opposing defense; their return game threatens nobody as well. Nor can it compensate enough, or provide a major spark, during games when the offense struggles. Of course, Devin Thomas was drafted to be such a player, but he has not yet filled that role. So, in addition to two...

Continued...

 

Did Lewis make a difference?

New play-caller, same issues for Skins offense The touchdown pass to Devin Thomas opened up nicely. He ran from the right flanker position to the back of the end zone. When the Eagles converged on Santana Moss, the target of a pump fake, Thomas ran free in the back of the end zone. The play worked. The new play-caller made a difference. Sort of. Three questions facing the Redskins this week 1. Will Jason Campbell ever trust the pocket? He has to. The makeshift line has protected him well enough the past two games for him to make plays, at least in the first half of games. He’s had time to make plays, but he’s looking off receivers running double moves for fear of not...

Continued...

 

Cooley could be back in 4 weeks

Good news for Skins entering bye week Shortly after the game, his teammates said he was done for the season. Nearly a dozen hours later, coach Jim Zorn, after talking to doctors, delivered the same thought. But tight end Chris Cooley has a chance to play again this season after all. He underwent surgery to repair his broken right ankle Wednesday morning, and, in the best-case scenario, could return in as little as four weeks. Zorn attended the procedure, done at Mercy Hospital in Baltimore, and later said on his radio show on ESPN 980: "The first thought was that he was going to be out eight weeks; this particular surgery was done -- it was [a] very non-evasive procedure and it...

Continued...

 

What We've Learned

What We’ve Learned …Andre Carter loves having Albert Haynesworth around. Carter reported to camp a half-step quicker as he focused more on speed training. That has certainly helped in his fast start (team-best 5 ½ sacks). He’s turning the corner quicker and his pad level appears lower, allowing him to get under the pads of tackles and zip around the edge. But it also helps having Haynesworth around to occupy blockers and collapse the pocket. Also, the Redskins will use rookie Brian Orakpo sometimes on the same side as Carter, running a stunt from a standup position. Add it up and Carter is enjoying his best season in Washington. He also continues to improve...

Continued...

 

Severity of Cooley's injury remains to be seen

Pro Bowler will have surgery Wednesday ASHBURN - The Pro Bowl tight end will join the Pro Bowl left tackle and the mainstay right guard at a spot where the Redskins can least afford them: on the sidelines. But what once appeared to be a certain stint on injured reserve might not be for Pro Bowl tight end Chris Cooley, who visited a foot specialist Tuesday. There's hope that Cooley's broken right ankle is not as bad as feared and that he could return in about a month. However, a source stressed that nothing will be known until after his surgery Wednesday. Coach Jim Zorn confirmed the news on his coach's show on WRC Channel 4 that was taped Tuesday. At this point, the team is prepared...

Continued...

 

Lack of depth evident for Redskins

Samuels will be placed on IR during bye week ASHBURN - Before the season, Vinny Cerrato considered the Redskins a playoff team. And a team that had good offensive line depth. Thus far, most would say the Redskins executive vice president was wrong on both counts. In his first news conference since hiring offensive consultant turned play-caller Sherman Lewis on Oct. 6, Cerrato was asked -- twice -- if he gave coach Jim Zorn a roster that could make the playoffs. He twice answered succinctly, "Yes." Cerrato also said he's not worrying about his job security. "I feel like my job is on the line all the time," Cerrato said. "My job is to get us going and fill...

Continued...

 

Studs and Duds: Week 7 review

Studs LB London Fletcher: The MNF guys said they would focus on him and he came through for them with a solid night. Good in coverage; made plays in the run game. If he wants to make the Pro Bowl it would help him if he made a couple big plays, but the rest of his game is there. DE Andre Carter: He's playing his best ball in Washington, partly because of Albert Haynesworth. But he also came to camp a little quicker thanks to different offseason workouts, more speed-oriented. It showed. Carter did a nice job lowering his shoulder, helping him gain leverage around the edge and to take on lead blockers. By the way, on the end around, Carter's job was to play for the dive. When the...

Continued...

 

Cooley likely lost for season

It’s hard to believe, but it did get worse for the Redskins. They not only lost to Philadelphia, but it now appears tight end Chris Cooley will miss the rest of the season after breaking the tibia bone in his right ankle. Cooley suffered the injury in the second quarter of Monday’s 27-17 loss to Philadelphia. Cooley has never missed a game in his NFL career, having played in 87 straight since joining the Redskins in 2004. But that streak is over. Coach Jim Zorn said he wasn’t sure if Cooley was done for the season, but teammates said Cooley had told them he was. “When it rains it pours,” center Casey Rabach said. “We keep on taking hits on...

Continued...

 

Eagles soar past Redskins, 27-17

Sherman Lewis learned what Jim Zorn already had to know. It wasn’t about the play calls. It was about the guys running the plays. And those guys, once more, did not run them very well. Unless, that is, Lewis called for a pass to be tipped, intercepted and returned for a touchdown. Or if he called for a sack and a fumble to set up another Philadelphia score in its easy 27-17 victory Monday night. The loss was worsened as tight end Chris Cooley suffered a broken ankle in the second quarter and is likely done for the season. Regardless, last night proved to be another troublesome game for the Redskins (2-5). Coach Jim Zorn might have gained a vote of confidence last week, but more...

Continued...

 

Redskins vs Eagles: Third quarter review

End of 3rd: Eagles 27, Redskins 10 1st Qtr | 2nd Qtr | 3rd Qtr | 4th Qtr » Here come as deluge of holding calls and mistakes by the Redskins’ tackles. » Still haven’t heard any confirmation of Cooley’s injury. Speculation is rampant, but nothing official yet. » If it’s bad, that would be devastating. » But, good news, Fred Davis actually caught a pass for a first down in this game. Yes, that’s sarcasm. » Andre Carter is having a good stretch of games. Thought he looked faster in camp and it helps that Albert Haynesworth and others have taken pressure off him by drawing more defenders away. » The Eagles get a sack and...

Continued...

 

Redskins vs Eagles:Second quarter review

Half time: Eagles 27, Redskins 10 1st Qtr | 2nd Qtr | 3rd Qtr | 4th Qtr » What a concept: overload a side and bring lots of pressure. The Redskins do not do that. Look what it’s done for Philly: a tipped pass and interception and then on the first play of the second quarter, pressure, sack and fumble. » Can it get worse? Now Chris Cooley leaves the game because of an ankle injury. He was carted off the field. » Nice job by the Redskins’ offense to take advantage of good field position; seems like in the last couple years when Rock Cartwright has a long return or two, it ignites the offense. » The draw to Cartwright worked well. One reason the...

Continued...

 

Redskins vs Eagles: First quarter review

End of 1st: Eagles 14, Redskins 0 1st Qtr | 2nd Qtr | 3rd Qtr | 4th Qtr » Andre Carter got sucked inside on the reverse, but we’re talking just a couple steps. Not sure it would have mattered. LaRon Landry also got caught inside. But the real difference was DeSean Jackson. The Redskins have no one with that sort of explosiveness. The Redskins don’t have anyone who can make a team pay that way. » And how about Jeremy Maclin blocking Carlos Rogers? Should that happen? » Sherm Lewis is trying to get Jason Campbell into a rhythm early, hence the early easy throws to the tight end. Smart move. Jim Zorn has done that, too. But not always. » I like how...

Continued...

 

Vinny discussses Zorn on ESPN

Redskins executive vice president Vinny Cerrato told ESPN's Sal Paolantonio that he never asked Jim Zorn to resign. And he again disputed comments made by Zorn's best friend, Steve Largent. "He has a right to make a comment," Cerrato said. "A lot of things he said he doesn't really know any details of anything he talked about." Cerrato declined to endorse Zorn beyond this season. "We're just worried about Philadelphia," Cerrato said. "We've got 10 games to play. We have a long season ahead of us. We're worried about this season right now and thereafter. We just want to focus on now. Where we're going now." Once again, he defended new play-caller...

Continued...

 

Redskins memorial service?

Guess some fans deal with the pain of an ugly season with morbid humor. It shows the angst (and the fact that some people do have a lot of time on their hands). Here's what was being handed out by a few of those fans before Monday's game vs. Philadelphia: A booklet proclaiming a Memorial Service for the Washington Deadskins. We'll skip some of the obituary stuff; it talks about a "ten-year long illness inflicted upon it by team owner Daniel M. Snyder and pseudo-general manager Vinny Cerrato." The order of service: Hymn .... "Hail to the Deadskins." Testimonials ... Norv Turner, Terry Robiskie, Marty Schottenheimer, Steve Spurrier, and Joe Gibbs. Apology to Fans...

Continued...

 

Casserly knocks Campbell

Former Redskins general manager Charley Casserly, on the CBS pre-game show Sunday, pegged Jason Campbell as the reason for Washington's offensive struggles. Then he pointed to four plays that showed Campbell's indeciseveness and decision-making. When asked what the problem was in Washington, Casserly said, "It has nothing to do with play-calling. It has to do with Jason Campbell's play at quarterback. He's too indecisive. He doesn't trust what his eyes see." Later, Casserly said, "Here's the bigger issue. When Campbell was drafted he was drafted for the Joe Gibbs offense, which is more of a downfield passing game. He does not fit the West Coast offense, which is a quick...

Continued...

 

Redskins Week 7 preview: vs. Eagles

Monday, 8:30 p.m.; TV » ESPN Radio » 92.7 & 94.3 FM/730 & 980 AM • Sirius 125 Keys to the game 1. Handle the blitz » The Eagles will blitz often and with everyone. They've played cover zero nearly 30 times this season (all-out blitz with man coverage). And they've had nine players with sacks (but no defensive backs). Philly likes to overload sides. The backs and tight ends must chip in to help. Quarterback Jason Campbell must do a better job in the pocket or he'll get pulled again. Also, with the blitz, the middle is wide open. Find it. 2. Stop the big play » Philadelphia is explosive offensively with wideouts Jeremy Maclin and DeSean Jackson,...

Continued...

 

Redskins: New system ready

They tested out the new arrangement and proclaimed it ready. They have no choice. Sherman Lewis will call the plays. Sherman Smith will relay them to Jason Campbell. And Jim Zorn will stay silent -- at least during the calls. They tested their new system electronically Friday and did it verbally Saturday. "They have a system worked out and they've been communicating well," Zorn said. "Will there be glitches? There won't be that many. If we ever have one problem, we'll address that problem and work it out. But right now ... it works good." NOTES » Left tackle Chris Samuels (neck) likely will be placed on injured reserve soon, though the Redskins continue to...

Continued...

 

Samuels statement

Redskins left tackle Chris Samuels said he has not yet decided whether or not he'll retire. But it's clear that he's done for the season, based on his statement released by the team. Samuels has stenosis and suffered a stinger in his neck vs. Charlotte. "I will continue to seek medical advice," Samuels said. "I hope to see where I am physically over the next couple months. At this time, I have not made a decision, but I love playing for the Redskins and hope to be back." His retirement has been widely speculated. According to a Redskins source, he is eating dinner with owner Dan Snyder tonight. One source said "it does not look good" for Samuels'...

Continued...

 

Questions are over for now

The Redskins finally found something to be happy about: they won’t have to answer questions about Jim Zorn’s job for a while. Executive vice president Vinny Cerrato said on his radio show Friday morning that Zorn would return for the rest of the season. That was met by relief from the players. But Zorn said it changes nothing for him. “I don’t have a reaction to that because I am the head coach,” he said. “I want to be here for the next 10 years. That’s my story. I have a contract. It says what it says. I’m committed to these guys. It’s a finality if it’s just end of the year stuff. “For me, I’m not concerned about...

Continued...

 

Redskins notes

...The Redskins still have no update to announce on LT Chris Samuels, who will miss his second straight game with a neck injury. He returned from California, where he met with another doctor, and was at Redskins Park Friday. It's odd that the Redskins still have not said anything, especially with all the speculation about his future. Makes you jump to one conclusion. Zorn said he might know more Saturday. ...Defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth (ankle) and running back Clinton Portis (ankle) did not practice today. Defensive tackle Cornelius Griffin (elbow) was limited. ...Four players already are out for Philadelphia: Defensive end Victor Abiamiri (knee), receiver Kevin Curtis (knee),...

Continued...

 

Cerrato: Zorn to last season

Jim Zorn's job is safe for the rest of the season. Redskins executive vice president Vinny Cerrato said on his radio show on ESPN 980 this morning that Zorn will not be fired. There had been intense speculation that Zorn's job was on the line based on the poor start and sputtering offense -- Zorn's specialty. "Let me start by making a few things very perfectly clear: Jim Zorn is the head coach of the Washington Redskins, and will be for the rest of this season, and hopefully into the future," Cerrato said on Inside the Red Zone. Reports have surfaced that former Denver coach Mike Shanahan already had rejected an overture from owner Dan Snyder about taking over during the...

Continued...

 

Redskins chatter from non-local sources

"The front office -- mainly the owner and his general manager -- are not realistic about the talent on the [Redskins]. The most critical aspect of procuring players is to have an ability to evaluate your own talent first. How else can you successfully evaluate if you can't evaluate your own?" - Michael Lombardi, National Football Post "The quarterback was benched, the offensive line is banged up, the passing game is ineffective, Clinton Portis has one [rushing] touchdown, Santana Moss has three games with two or fewer catches and Chris Cooley had one with none. Only St. Louis scores fewer points. So now Sherm Lewis steps in and, suddenly, he makes the difference?" - Clark...

Continued...

 

Rumor mill in full effect

Gibbs myth debunked; speculation taxes Zorn ASHBURN - The day started with a rumor about a former coaching legend possibly returning. That was debunked. Fast. Joe Gibbs isn't returning as some sort of overseer; so say multiple sources close to him. Yet the surreal atmosphere around the Redskins did not end with that scene. The head coach, possibly entering his last game, talked more about what his best friend said on the radio. The secondary coach, mentioned as an interim candidate for a job not even open yet, discussed his coaching aspirations. REDSKINS NOTES » Secondary coach Jerry Gray, the new defensive spokesperson, is among those who have gotten used to defensive tackle...

Continued...

 

Redskins notes

» Secondary coach Jerry Gray, the new defensive spokesperson, is among those who have gotten used to defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth appearing to be seriously hurt only to return. "You have to make sure what guy you're dealing with," Gray said. "Albert can go off in an ambulance and two plays later he's coming back. We understand that right now and it's not a total panic. If Andre Carter goes off, then all of a sudden it's like wait a minute, something is seriously wrong. We understand who we're dealing with." » Haynesworth (ankle), defensive tackle Cornelius Griffin (elbow) and Clinton Portis (ankles) all sat out practice Thursday. Safeties Chris Horton and Kareem...

Continued...

 

Gibbs returning? Hard to imagine

And the latest rumor, courtesy of Pro Football Talk, is: Joe Gibbs is possibly coming back to D.C. in a Bill Parcells type of role. Thus far, it's only a rumor. Have not been able to find anyone who thinks otherwise. Some of the speculation centers around a dinner Dan Snyder and Gibbs had in Charlotte a couple weeks ago. But here's the thing: There were approximately 20 other people at the dinner as well; it was a Bank of America function so it wasn't a private dinner. Other team employees attended. Could there be some validity to this? Of course. With the Redskins, anything and everything is in play until this situation is completely resolved. But here is why some -- NFL sources, a...

Continued...

 

Redskins Inside The Game: Living under the microscope

Moss, Portis on how to deal with booing fans ASHBURN - The reaction in the stadium is loud, intense and directed right at them. The players don't like it, but they know it's coming when a team is struggling. Going out in public is another matter, especially when players are enduring a season like this one. "Everyone feels like they know what the answer is," running back Clinton Portis said. "'They should bench you. What do you think, they should bench you?' At the time, people have the craziest ideas. They think they're on to something. My reply to them is, 'How would you feel if you weren't producing and you was the guy they was going to fire. Just to get the morale up...

Continued...

 

It's 'a little bit unsettling'

Redskins are trying to quell storm at home ASHBURN - The reaction wasn't what the Redskins wanted to see. Jim Zorn was honest about his thoughts over losing his play-calling duties when he first met the media Monday. It pained him. He let everyone know it. His players might have liked it. But management did not, going so far as to wonder whether or not they should just fire him now, one Redskins source said. Obviously, they didn't. But it only served to put Zorn further on the proverbial hot seat. It also speaks to a team in crisis, trying not to let a bad situation escalate. "There's a lot of tension out here," one player said. However, some of that tension subsided...

Continued...

 

Week 7 scouting report: What we know about the Eagles

1. Running is not an option » The Eagles have attempted 187 passes and run the ball only 111 times (including a combined 19 runs by their quarterbacks). In the 13-9 loss to Oakland last week, the backs ran the ball 12 times while throwing 46 -- against the 30th-ranked run defense. Brian Westbrook remains a good back, but injuries continue to steal his explosiveness. Rookie LeSean McCoy has been fine (175 yards), but has issues with ball security. 2. They still love to blitz » Late defensive coordinator Jim Johnson was famous for his various blitzes, overloading sides. That hasn't changed since his passing. Nine different players -- but no defensive backs -- have combined...

Continued...

 

Zorn on play-calling, Lewis, Largent

Highlights from Jim Zorn's post-practice press conference today, including his reaction to Steve Largent's comments on a Seattle radio station. Just know that Zorn has a lot of friends in the NFL; the Redskins front office, and management, does not. So don't be surprised if more of these sorts of attacks continue. Have to say, this has been one of the craziest stories to cover on this beat -- and there have been some daffy ones in the past 15 years. Here's how bad it is now: nobody asked Zorn about the quarterback situation today. Anyway, here are the highlights: ...On buddy Largent saying Zorn considered quitting after getting the play-calling duties stripped (Zorn on Monday said...

Continued...

 

Largent blisters Redskins

Jim Zorn's best friend, Hall of Fame receiver Steve Largent, went on Seattle radio today and took one shot after another at Redskins' management. Largent said they talk "just about every day." We won't waste any more time with our words; here's what Largent said: ..."The problem is that Jim was hired as an offensive coordinator and then promoted to head coach the same offseason and yet the coaching position that Jim was given, he was told who his coaches were going to be, he was told who his players were going to be. He didn't have the opportunity to see and find any players or coaches with a couple exceptions ... And so he inherited everything he has to work with...

Continued...

 

Redskins ink tackle Jones

Vet lineman picked up to provide depth on OL The banged-up Redskins' offensive line added someone who should fit right in. Levi Jones has dealt with knee and back injuries in recent years, which is why the former first-round pick was still available this late in the season. Washington signed Jones Tuesday to provide veteran line depth at a spot sorely in need of some. The Redskins still have not heard about the finality of left tackle Chris Samuels' situation, but this move signals that they're bracing for a long-term absence. He's dealing with a neck injury, one that some who have known him for a while say could force him to consider retirement. Jones could eventually challenge for a...

Continued...

 

A crisis of confidence?

Skins don't think so, tab Campbell to start Jason Campbell admitted he felt the pressure -- even when there wasn't any. All week long he heard about his patchwork offensive line and the trouble that awaited him. By the time the game started, Campbell anticipated being under siege. So even though on most throws he wasn't under pressure, he reacted as if he was. And he'd step up too soon, trying to run through lanes that weren't open. He hesitated on throws. Then he got benched. He was given his starting job back Tuesday when coach Jim Zorn announced it during his weekly appearance on ESPN 980. With left tackle Chris Samuels sidelined and right guard Randy Thomas already out, Campbell...

Continued...

 

Zorn: Campbell will return to starting lineup

Redskins coach Jim Zorn said on his ESPN 980 radio show today that Jason Campbell will return to the starting lineup, as was widely expected. Campbell was benched for the second half of Sunday's 14-6 loss to Kansas City. "That's where I think I will head," Zorn said. "I was not disappointed in what Todd came in and did with no reps....I needed to take [Campbell] out. We had things there that he knows he missed and without being under duress. Those are the things I'm looking...

Continued...

 

Who will be under center?

Campbell, Collins both ineffective vs. Chiefs ASHBURN — The Redskins know who their new play-caller will be; they just aren't sure yet who will be running the plays he calls. One day after benching Jason Campbell for the second half, coach Jim Zorn said he remains undecided about who will start vs. Philadelphia Monday night. Neither quarterback was effective in Sunday's 14-6 loss to Kansas City, though Todd Collins completed a 42-yard pass to Santana Moss on his second play. But he failed to produce on two trips inside the Chiefs' 25-yard line. Overall, Collins completed six of 14 passes for 75 yards. "I was disappointed for Jason," Collins said. "No one likes to...

Continued...

 

Can Lewis help right the ship?

When Sherman Lewis addressed the media, one day after his arrival as an offensive consultant, he made it clear. He was not here to take anyone's job. Two weeks later, he has Jim Zorn's job as a play-caller. The Redskins will have Lewis call the plays 22 games into Zorn's tenure. Zorn said no other assistant was considered for the job when executive vice president Vinny Cerrato made the "suggestion" after Sunday's 14-6 loss to Kansas City. Lewis called plays in Minnesota under coach Dennis Green as well as in Green Bay, in 1999, and Detroit, for a handful of games. When he was in Detroit, one NFL source said he was "nothing more than a figurehead." Another NFL...

Continued...

 

Zorn twists in the wind

Jim Zorn considered his options, of which there weren’t many. He could have rejected the suggestion that he turn over play-calling duties. He could have delivered a stern counter-offer, stating that he’s the head coach and it’s his call who calls plays. Or, he could have done what he ultimately did: go along with the Redskins suggestion to have Sherman Lewis call plays. Redskins executive vice president Vinny Cerrato first talked to Zorn about the move shortly after Washington’s 14-6 loss to Kansas City (1-5). A second meeting later in the night produced Zorn’s answer. “It was strongly suggested to me after the game that I make a play-caller...

Continued...

 

Studs and Duds: Week 6 review

Studs LB London Fletcher: Excellent job filing the middle. DE Andre Carter: Another two-sack game. I liked how they used him at left end on one occasion with Brian Orakpo and Jeremy Jarmon lined up to his right. Potential for a lot of quickness. Unofficially I saw them run that formation once, but it provided some pressure. FB Mike Sellers: Originally, I thought maybe he could have done a better job finishing Mike Brown down the field. But he had a good lead block and a 265-pound guy motored downfield. Clinton Portis needed to set it up better at the end to finish the run. He had room to juke inside then cut back out. Sellers did his job. DT Kedric Golston: He quietly has made steady...

Continued...

 

Haynesworth boils over in locker room

Frustration is palpable after lackluster effort The shouting could be heard from outside the locker room as defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth loudly expressed his frustration. He wasn't yelling at anyone in particular. Rather, he was summing up the feeling of many. And he made it clear to those in the room that the losing is on them; not coach Jim Zorn. "It's like a nightmare, it really is," Redskins center Casey Rabach said. "I'm out of answers." Zorn looks more and more subdued -- resigned perhaps -- with each defeat. The players wore pained looks; eyes glazed over after yet another loss to a bad team. Kansas City had lost 28 of its last 30 games before...

Continued...

 

Zorn benched as playcaller

Smith, Lewis are likely candidates for the job When Jim Zorn was hired as Redskins coach in 2008, he announced he also would call the plays. One longtime NFL evaluator called it a mistake. "That's too much," the source said. The Redskins finally agree. After Sunday's 14-6 loss to Kansas City, the Redskins coach was demoted as playcaller by executive vice president Vinny Cerrato. It's uncertain who will call plays in the Oct. 26th game vs. Philadelphia. Cerrato and Zorn will meet Monday to decide. But the logical choices are offensive coordinator Sherman Smith or offensive consultant Sherman Lewis. Smith has never called plays in the NFL. Lewis was hired on Oct. 6 and has...

Continued...

 

Skins fall to winless Chiefs, 14-6

Two plays after the switch was made, a move cheered by the fans — and perhaps the thousands of empty seats, too — Todd Collins launched a 42-yard downfield strike to Santana Moss. For a second, Jim Zorn looked like a coach who may have uncovered the answer. He didn’t. And it only led to a bigger question. After Washington’s 14-6 loss to Kansas City (1-5), there is but one question left regarding the Redskins: Will Zorn survive this latest debacle against a previously-winless team? At 2-4, with an offense that hasn’t scored more than 17 points in a single game this year, Zorn’s coaching tenure in Washington is on life support. The organization has...

Continued...

 

Fourth quarter review

Final score: Chiefs 14, Redskins 6 1st Qtr | 2nd Qtr | 3rd Qtr | 4th Qtr » The Redskins are doing a good job using speed up front on the defensive line to cause problems. They’re stunting with Orakpo and Haynesworth. They lined up Orakpo as a DT on one snap, stunting wide. » The Redskins still can’t get anything done with Collins at quarterback. There’s just not much available. The receivers still can’t get open, which will be a problem for any quarterback. » Heyer is starting to play like Heyer. » Chris Wilson continues to get a decent amount of playing time at strongside linebacker. Both he and Orakpo have been active today. »...

Continued...

 

Third quarter review

End of 3rd: Redskins 6, Chiefs 6 1st Qtr | 2nd Qtr | 3rd Qtr | 4th Qtr » Zorn had no choice but to bench Jason Campbell. Doesn’t matter if it’s all his fault, this offense needs a change and that’s the easy position to make one. When you hang zero points in the first half against the NFL’s worst defense, statistically at least, that’s a bad sign. » Collins froze the Chiefs’ defense with two play-action fakes on the 42-yard bomb to Santana Moss. Campbell has hit that play, but missed them way too often. That’s the big complaint with Campbell: he leaves a lot of points on the field. Or at least a few points; this offense is not...

Continued...

 

Second quarter review

Halftime: Chiefs 3, Redskins 0 1st Qtr | 2nd Qtr | 3rd Qtr | 4th Qtr » The offensive line is not the issue in protection. It helps that the Chiefs can’t rush the passer, but give them credit. They’re giving Campbell a pocket and time. And they’re not always keeping in extra blockers to help them. They’ve used enough 3-step drops to change the tempo of the rushers. But they’ve given him enough time to take a couple shots downfield. » Malcolm Kelly has played one snap so far. » The Redskins are giving score updates from …. Week 2. Nice. Maybe they need a scoreboard consultant. » Larry Johnson has 51 yards already;...

Continued...

 

First quarter review

End of 1st: Redskins 0, Chiefs 0 1st Qtr | 2nd Qtr | 3rd Qtr | 4th Qtr » Fred Smoot started at corner in the slot. Makes some sense because the Chiefs are more size than speed at receiver. Justin Tryon offers more quickness (and he has played, too). » Kedric Golston does an excellent job plugging the middle and has stopped a couple plays today. » The Redskins have taken Carlos Rogers out on a couple third-down plays, using Smoot, Tryon and DeAngelo Hall instead. » Brian Orakpo has recorded at least half a sack in four straight games. How bad has the pass rush been? He’s the first Redskin to do this since Marco Coleman in 2002. » The Redskins are...

Continued...

 

Redskins Week 6 preview: vs. Chiefs

Sunday, 1 p.m.; TV » CBS Radio » 92.7 & 94.3 FM/730 & 980 AM • Sirius 125 Keys to the game 1. Attack the Chiefs » This is a good game to be aggressive as Kansas City's offensive line has struggled as much as any in the NFL. The Chiefs also could be minus left tackle Branden Albert. Plus they lack receivers with burner speed, which means the corners should be able to handle them. So they need to be attack this offense, whether with stunts or blitzes. And they'd be wise to continue moving LB Brian Orakpo around, creating problems for Kansas City. 2. Protect Jason Campbell » The Redskins will start three linemen who probably would not start on most...

Continued...

 

Chalk talk: Orakpo's eyes

Brian Orakpo's eyes got him in trouble again Sunday. The good thing is -- at least for the coaches -- is that he knew where they were. And, more importantly, where they should have been. Considering his importance in this defense -- now and in the future -- that's a good sign. His eyes got him in trouble earlier in the season and it landed him in a bad spot vs. Carolina as well. This time, it resulted in a touchdown pass to tight end Jeff King. What Orakpo did: As King came off the line, the Redskins rookie was in man coverage and stayed with him as he ran downfield. Right before King broke to the outside, Orakpo snuck a peak back to the quarterback. "I was looking for the...

Continued...

 

News and notes

...Redskins coach Jim Zorn said Antwaan Randle and Santana Moss would "split opportunities" returning punts. However, he did not say to what extent -- if, for example, it would be 50-50. And he went on to say that he likes Randle El back there (despite his 6.3 yards per return): "Based on what we do and how we do it, Antwaan will be back there. He's a sure receiver. He wants to go north and south and his decisions have been good." We won't comment on the North-South line. Too easy. ...Punter Hunter Smith will test his right groin by punting Saturday. If he feels good he will punt Sunday; if not he'll sit out another week and Glenn Pakulak will be signed to the...

Continued...

 

Turmoil? Skins don't buy it

Players, coaches are talking turnaround ASHBURN - Shortly after his teammates verbally sparred, Phillip Daniels wanted to make sure it wasn't worse. So he spoke with both Mike Sellers and Clinton Portis. He pronounced the matter over; a one-time situation. "If two guys are fighting every day, it's a problem," Daniels said. Rock Cartwright, meanwhile, checks on teammates at lunch, gauging their mindset. REDSKINS NOTES » Redskins secondary coach Jerry Gray is pleased with how strong safety Chris Horton responded to no longer starting. Thing is, he actually played more than Reed Doughty this past week. Who plays more often is dependant on what the opposition's...

Continued...

 

Injury report

...For the Redskins: Defensive end Phillip Daniels (biceps), left tackle Chris Samuels (neck) and punter Hunter Smith (groin) did not practice. Defensive tackle Cornelius Griffin (elbow), defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth (ankle), defensive tackle Anthony Montgomery (knee) and running back Clinton Portis (calf) were limited. Coach Jim Zorn said he expects Daniels to practice Friday. Even if he plays, his role might be limited. The Chiefs use a lot of three-receiver sets, forcing the Redskins into their nickel package. And that means less time for Daniels. ...For Kansas City, left tackle Branden Albert (ankle) missed his second consecutive practice. His loss would be a big one for a...

Continued...

 

Redskins Inside The Game » How to deal with the media

Different players offer different philosophies It’s different than in college, a lesson some players learn in their rookie season. It’s even different depending on the coast, a lesson Andre Carter discovered his first year in Washington. When it comes to dealing with the media, players often say they don’t read stories or watch TV or listen to sports talk radio. But they’re usually aware of the stories. Several Redskins already have stopped talking to the press this season - after none doing so last season — ostensibly because of stories that have been reported. “Sometimes it happens,” Carter said. “Sometimes you can’t help but...

Continued...

 

‘We’re in a tough situation’

Skins mixing, matching spots on offensive line ASHBURN – The left tackle, with the Pro Bowl resume, is out. The right tackle, who has played with mixed reviews, now shifts to a harder spot. A guy who had previously not played for three years will make his second start. There’s another new guy moving next to him. With this, the Redskins must start their offensive turnaround. UP NEXT » Redskins vs. Chiefs When » Sunday, 1 p.m. Where » FedEx Field, Landover TV » CBS Radio » 980AM/Sirius 125 “We’re in a tough situation,” Redskins quarterback Jason Campbell said. “This is one of our bigger challenges. We’re...

Continued...

 

News, Notes and analysis

...Got an email from someone in Cleveland this morning saying that local radio stations were speculating on the Redskins being interested in Brady Quinn. But a Redskins source said there was zero chance of that happening. So that's that. ...DE Phillip Daniels (biceps), DT Cornelius Griffin (elbow), LT Chris Samuels (neck) and P Hunter Smith (groin) did not practice today. DT Albert Haynesworth (ankle), DT Anthony Montgomery (knee), RB Clinton Portis (calf) were limited. Coach Jim Zorn said Griffin, Haynesworth and Portis will play Sunday. ...I'm worried about Chris Samuels. Nobody is saying that he'll miss more than this week, and hopefully that's the case, but here's what coach Joe...

Continued...

 

Portis highlights

Running back Clinton Portis from his media gathering today: On the injuries along the line: "I'm used to it." On if practicing now becomes more important: "I guess. I mean it's always good to have the opportunity to gel to see how they're gonna block. It really is learning new guys. You have to learn the tendencies." On if it's hard to block when you're not sure what the linemen can give you: "You just have to be patient. Sometimes you want to press the run and some of them continue to push outside and then you take the time and some of them might have a stalemate. It's just knowing who will dig someone out of the hole and who will be stalemating." On if...

Continued...

 

Offensive problems run deep

Campbell, Zorn don't deserve all the blame The Redskins' offensive problems go deeper than coach Jim Zorn and his playcalling. They're deeper than Jason Campbell and his passes. When it comes to reasons why they haven't succeeded -- they're ranked 23rd in total offense and haven't scored more than 17 points at home since the second home game of 2008 -- the Redskins need to pass out the blame. Poor planning » It's doubtful that another team would have thought a guy who needed to lose 100 pounds and had been out of the NFL for three years could be an answer at right tackle. But the Redskins did, which is why they signed Mike Williams. They set themselves up in 1999 and 2000 by...

Continued...

 

Three questions facing the Redskins this week

1. Are they falling apart? There definitely is an undercurrent of dissatisfaction, whether because of playing time or performance. But they do not seem to have come apart. That will change if the losing continues, mainly because the questions will become more negative. Some guys already are starting to clam up, either because they don't want to say anything inflammatory or they're tired of the questions. But it's still a healthy locker room, thanks to the presence of numerous veterans. However, the players are well aware of the rumors surrounding coach Jim Zorn. And that, in the long-term, is never good. 2. How much time will Chris Samuels miss? The Redskins aren't sure yet, but they'd...

Continued...

 

Portis: No issue with Sellers

Running back Clinton Portis on his weekly radio show on ESPN 980: On the incident with Mike Sellers: "It was a minor situation that was blown out of proportion. Me and Mike handled that. I thought it was between me and him. Only two other people were in the locker room when it happened, so how it got out in the media... It was an exchange of words. When you're around someone every day... Mike always feels like that big brother, little brother role. Mike always wants the big brother role. Sometimes the little brother and big brother can't co-exist. We exchanged words and then it was done with. Then the media got hold to it. We discussed it and we're fine." On comments from...

Continued...

 

What We've Learned

The Redskins failed planning once again will hurt them. Two years ago they knew the line was aging and breaking down. Yet they did little to fully address the situation, drafting a non-Division I player in the third round, plugging in a former undrafted free agent at right tackle and signing a guy who was 100 pounds overweight and out of the league for three years. That’s not on the coach. Derrick Dockery was supposedly a key free agent signing, but he had one of the worst games Sunday. » With all the problems up front, the Redskins need to get better blockers in the game. They drafted tight end Fred Davis to be a complementary threat to tight end Chris Cooley in the passing...

Continued...

 

Redskins play musical chairs

Samuels' injury forces offensive line reshuffle ASHBURN – The Redskins' offense needs changes, which is why a consultant arrived in town last week. This sort of change isn't what they had in mind; and it can't be good for the future. Meanwhile, cornerback Carlos Rogers said the responsibility for this season's sluggish start does not end with the players and coaches. Left tackle Chris Samuels will miss Sunday's game vs. Kansas City because of a neck injury suffered in Sunday's 20-17 loss at Carolina. It's uncertain how much time he will miss. Coach Jim Zorn said Samuels has spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal canal. This setback forces a reshuffling of the offensive...

Continued...

 

Studs and Duds: Week 5 review

Studs: DE Andre Carter: Played a terrific game, especially as a pass-rusher and did damage against a good tackle in Jordan Gross. Carter also tipped a pass. CB Carlos Rogers: Broke up a play in the end zone to Steve Smith in which he read his eyes well. Also did a nice job in run support at times. CB DeAngelo Hall: OK, he should have made that last tackle -- why try to grab a guy's shoulder pads? That was in excusable, but that play did not cost Washington the game. It prevented a final chance at the ball, but Hall set up the offense with an interception and return to the 1-yard line. He's making plays to help the offense. That's why he was signed. DT Albert Haynesworth: Yes, he...

Continued...

 

Fourth quarter review

Final score: Panthers 20, Redskins 17 1st Qtr | 2nd Qtr | 3rd Qtr | 4th Qtr » Not sure if the Panthers would have scored, but Jake Delhomme was awfully late on the end zone throw to Steve Smith. But Carlos Rogers was there to prevent the score. » Even if the Redskins win, they’ll leave this game really banged up. Man, seems like every other play someone is getting hurt. ...Defensive end Andre Carter is having a terrific game rushing the passer, making noise against a top tackle in Jordan Gross. That's as active as Carter has been in a long time. » Need to find out more what constitutes interference on a punt return. Sure looked like Byron Westbrook got knocked...

Continued...

 

Third quarter review

End of quarter score: Redskins 17, Panthers 9 1st Qtr | 2nd Qtr | 3rd Qtr | 4th Qtr » Fred Davis alert! He had a solid block on Peppers on the first run of the quarter. Actually turned him outside on Portis’ 4-yard run. » Let’s see, on the Campbell sack, the missed blocks occurred by Chris Cooley, Stephon Heyer and Derrick Dockery. Oh, and Marcus Mason. He can’t pass block. » The Redskins’ safeties are doing a good job in run support, as are the corners. DeAngelo Williams’ first run of the second half, on the backside pitch, reflect that. Rocky McIntosh filled one hole, but Carlos Rogers held the corner and LaRon Landry came up hard....

Continued...

 

Second quarter review

Halftime score: Redskins 10, Panthers 2 1st Qtr | 2nd Qtr | 3rd Qtr | 4th Qtr » The linebackers came through with some excellent hits and tackles in the second quarter, starting with Rocky McIntosh at the goal-line, forcing the fumble. What a nice job by the defense in that spot – why they ran at Albert Haynesworth is beyond me. But the defense is saving this game for Washington. Looks like a Joe Gibbs II game. All they need is Mark Brunell to return. » Nice block, Stephon Heyer, on the safety. Just got shoved back by Julius Peppers. The guy lacks the necessary strength to be an effective right tackle. » The Redskins wisely are giving D’Anthony Batiste...

Continued...

 

First quarter review

End of quarter score: Redskins 7, Panthers 0 1st Qtr | 2nd Qtr | 3rd Qtr | 4th Qtr » Great pursuit by the defense, especially on the first snap of the game. It wasn’t just Albert Haynesworth, it was everyone flying to the ball. They look much more energized, perhaps helped by their aggressiveness last week. » It’s not just on the first play, it’s been on most of the early runs. Brian Orakpo did a good job on one run shedding his man and stringing the play wide, allowing Reed Doughty to make a tackle for a short gain. » Good awareness by Jason Campbell on the touchdown pass to Clinton Portis. » Mike Williams is doing a decent job at guard as...

Continued...

 

Redskins Week 5 preview: at Panthers

Sunday, 1 p.m.; TV » FOX Radio » 92.7 & 94.3 FM/730 & 980 AM • Sirius 152 Keys to the game 1. Run to the middle » Carolina ranks last in the NFC against the run. The Panthers are very susceptible up the middle, thanks to injuries to their top three defensive tackles. Pro Bowl middle linebacker Jon Beason is getting blocked too often because of this. Also, end Julius Peppers never has been known for his play vs. the run. The Redskins have a chance to get healthy on the ground, especially if they can power the ball out of the I-formation. 2. Capitalize on special teams » Carolina has struggled here as well. But if this is a close game, and it...

Continued...

 

News and notes

...Punter Hunter Smith (groin) will not play Sunday, meaning Glenn Pakulak, signed to the practice squad Tuesday, will assume the punting duties. The left-footed Pakulak has a career 47.7-yard average on 24 career punts, with a 37.8-yard net. The Redskins will miss Smith's consistency and might miss his holding, but Pakulak will hold on field goals, too. ...The Redskins will need to cut a player to make room for Pakulak, but coach Jim Zorn said no decision has been made as to who will get cut. Among the candidates: defensive end Renaldo Wynn, who has been inactive for each of the first four games. ...Look for Devin Thomas to get more time Sunday as a reward, Zorn says, for...

Continued...

 

Portis, Sellers incident

The Redskins apparently still have some fight in them this season. Sadly for them, it’s with each other. Multiple sources confirmed a report on WRC Channel 4 that fullback Mike Sellers and running back Clinton Portis had a heated exchange at Redskins Park Monday. No punches were thrown, according to sources, and the incident stemmed from Portis requesting Sellers be removed during the Redskins’ 16-13 win over Tampa Bay. Redskins coach Jim Zorn said that Portis did not come to his office this week to request that Sellers be benched. But a team source confirmed that Portis did indeed say something to the coach during the game. Sellers and Portis, though seated in the locker...

Continued...

 

Competition grows for Hall, Smith

Skins corner, Panthers wideout will face each other this Sunday ASHBURN - Once upon a time they were friends; one even invited the other into his home the night before a game. It's hard to remember that now. Since then, DeAngelo Hall told the media he was tired of hearing how great Steve Smith was. Smith returned serve, referring to Hall as a court jester. Then came an exchange of words during a game two years ago. "We went from being good friends to bad friends to don't talk," Hall said. They remain competitors. And they'll have to acknowledge one another Sunday, when Hall, who played vs. Smith five times as a corner in Atlanta, is expected to cover the Carolina receiver...

Continued...

 

Bizarro Redskins

This was a bizarre week, even for a team that once nearly hired Pepper Rodgers as an interim coach and one that used to hold press conferences to say they were misquoted in their own releases. And today just topped it off. Maybe Greg Blache has a legitimate personal reason why he no longer wants to be interviewed by the media (the NFL mandates that all coordinators speak at least once a week). It's odd because he's told us a few times that he has largely enjoyed the once-a-week sessions. He stopped talking to us once before, but that was because he was irked by some stories. That's fine. Perhaps this time is different. But the timing makes it odd. Sherman Lewis comes in one day......

Continued...

 

Zorn, Smith react

When the Redskins hired Sherman Lewis, it reflected mostly on two people: the offensive coordinator and the head coach. One, Sherman Smith, revealed more of his feelings about the move. The other, Jim Zorn, tried to sell the move. We'll start with Smith since, well, his quotes were a little better. More honest, perhaps. Not that we know exactly what Zorn is thinking, but in talking to several people around the league, they all agree that this is bad news for him and his staff. “I don’t think he’ll tell us anything we don’t already know,” said Smith, the offensive coordinator. “I think we’re doing the scheme the right way, so if he sees...

Continued...

 

Lewis: I don't want anyone's job

Sherman Lewis had a Bingo Night planned at the Senior Center in Novi, Michigan. As usual, he’d be calling out the numbers Tuesday night. Until he got sidetracked with another job: saving the Redskins’ offense. The latter is a more difficult task, one in which he must be wary of upsetting coaches already in the building. Though Lewis’ role is still undefined, he will not call plays nor will he help with the game-planning. At this point, all he’ll do is watch film and make observations. “I’m just here to help,” he said. “That’s all I’m here for. I wasn’t planning on coaching. I’m not looking for anybody’s job. I...

Continued...

 

Week 5 scouting report » What we know about the Panthers

1. Julius Peppers is off to a slow start » Peppers has one sack and is being criticized heavily for his play against the run. For this he's receiving approximately $1 million per game. After causing a ruckus in the offseason about wanting out, Peppers has not responded. It's why some have called him one of the most overrated players in the NFL. But he also had 14 1/2 sacks last season. They do like to move him around and the Redskins tackles have not proven they can stop good pass rushers. 2. The defense has struggled » Carolina signed 35-year-old defensive tackle Hollis Thomas during its bye week, hoping a guy others think is done can shore up the run defense. Three...

Continued...

 

Blache blitzing defensive backs

DeAngelo Hall came one play; Justin Tryon another. Then it was Carlos Rogers' turn. And Reed Doughty. And LaRon Landry. When Greg Blache promised a new, more aggressive attitude Sunday, he delivered by blitzing these five defensive backs at various times. The Redskins often have blitzed their safeties, but sending so many corner blitzes was new for Blache. "The Jets get away with it every week, why can't we?" Redskins secondary coach Jerry Gray said of the corner blitz in particular. "[But] every team won't give you the opportunity to do that." It worked Sunday as Tryon recorded a sack and Landry a tackle for a loss. The Redskins had picked up a tip as to when the...

Continued...

 

Will Lewis help? Skins hope so

Offensive consultant's role yet to be defined ASHBURN - They didn't know what it meant, other than the obvious: The offense isn't working. And something needs to be done. On Sherman Lewis' first day on the job, the players still were trying to grasp what it means to have him as an offensive consultant. But they didn't see it in negative terms, even though the perception around the NFL is that coach Jim Zorn's grip on his job is tenuous. "Sometimes you may wonder," Redskins quarterback Jason Campbell said. "But knowing coach Zorn, it won't affect his work ethic or what he does. He definitely has a lot of responsibility. It doesn't mean we're not getting it done or that...

Continued...

 

GM: What Lewis' arrival means

Talked to a GM tonight to get his thoughts on the Redskins hiring Sherman Lewis as an offensive consultant. Here's some of what he thought. It's an interesting take: "My gut feeling is that they will let him come in and be here two to three weeks and if things don't get better, he now knows the offense and the talent and he becomes the playcaller and they name Blache the head coach -- if things don't change. That's one theory. The other theory is that maybe they felt like he needed another set of eyes just to help him with the game. The problem with that is that [Dan Snyder] was so impressed in the interview process in terms of Jim's knowledge. Now to go south on him? He's done...

Continued...

 

Skins bring in consultant

Lewis has extensive experience working in West Coast system He portrayed the move as a simple one, asking Jim Zorn on Monday if he wanted another set of eyes to help with the offense. Zorn told executive vice president Vinny Cerrato that he would. If, that is, it's the right person. Apparently, Sherman Lewis is the right person. In an unusual move, the Redskins hired him as an offensive consultant. Their offense ranks 17th overall and 29th in scoring and has yet to score 30 points in 20 games under Zorn. Looking Ahead » Three questions facing the Redskins 1. Who is the No. 3 corner? » Actually, based on playing time vs. Tampa Bay, that answer appears obvious: Justin...

Continued...

 

Redskins sign punter

The Redskins signed an insurance policy in case Hunter Smith's pulled groin prevents him from punting at Carolina on Sunday. They signed punter Glenn Pakulak to their practice squad. Washington cut receiver Trent Shelton, though he could return when Smith is healthy. Pakulak punted eight games for New Orleans in 2008, with 24 punts for a 47.7-yard average and 37.8-yard net average. The 29-year-old Pakulak has had tryouts with nine other teams in his NFL career....

Continued...

 

What We've Learned

What We’ve Learned …Rookie Brian Orakpo is starting to get more comfortable. And the Redskins are starting to use him in different ways. It’s debatable whether or not he’s really a strongside linebacker; he really struggles to get off blocks and will be tested more when the Redskins face better quarterbacks. He lacks explosiveness, at least right now, playing in space. He seems to do a better job when he can have his feet moving and going forward towards the line. That’s why they’ll sometimes use three-man lines with Orakpo as a standup linebacker in which he’ll rush. He’s starting to do better on stunts to the inside with Albert...

Continued...

 

Can this spark a turnaround?

Skins winning ugly against bottom of NFL ASHBURN - They celebrated the recovery of Jason Campbell and praised the defense. It's what the Redskins needed to see: their quarterback gutting out a win; their defense shutting an opponent down. And their top running back fell two yards shy of 100. The Redskins hope Sunday's 16-13 comeback win is the start of something. Even if it came against winless Tampa Bay. But there's also reality: The Redskins just finished a three-game stretch in which they played three of the worst teams in the NFL. They went 2-1 and averaged just 13 points per game vs. St. Louis, Detroit and Tampa Bay. WHAT WE'VE LEARNED » Rookie Brian Orakpo is starting...

Continued...

 

Studs and Duds: Week 4 review

Studs TE Chris Cooley » His run blocking in the second half was much better, after he missed a few blocks in the first. Still needs work, but in this game, for the final two quarters, he helped. But his ability to slide to the open area on the fourth down play kept alive a touchdown drive. The play was designed to hit Santana Moss, who was covered by half of Tampa’s defense. Cooley then caught a touchdown pass. SS Reed Doughty » His recognition of plays is outstanding as is, for the most part, his open-field tackling. He provides energy for the defense when he’s on the field. He finished tied for the team-high in tackles with nine. CB Justin Tryon » An...

Continued...

 

Blache, defense deliver against lackluster team

It started the previous night, with Greg Blache energizing his players with his words during a defensive meeting. He was passionate, intense and focused. And the players loved it. “You were ready to run through a brick wall for him,” linebacker London Fletcher said. “He was very emotional. [The speech] nearly left him in tears.” Both Blache and his defense delivered. They weren’t exactly facing a high-powered offense, one with a second-year quarterback making his first start and it helped that Tampa Bay missed two field goals. But the Redskins played more aggressively from the start, sending corner Justin Tryon on a blitz. Playing in the slot, Tryon blitzed...

Continued...

 

Redskins report card - Oct. 4

The Trend Quarterback Jason Campbell dropped back to throw 16 times in the first half. He was sacked three times, ran once and was intercepted twice. He was not sacked in the second half on 10 pass attempts Did you notice The Redskins used rookie end Jeremy Jarmon at tackle a couple times Sunday, a role they’ve worked with him on since camp. Jarmon forced a fumble from this spot. His quickness is welcomed inside, though he’ll only do it on occasion. Under the Radar Safety Reed Doughty was active in his first start of the season, as he’s been for the first three games. Doughty’s sure tackling helps this defense especially in the open field. He finished with a...

Continued...

 

Skins survive Bucs, 16-13

The vibe changed in the second half, as Jason Campbell turned from a guy wondering, ‘Why me?’ in the first half to one predicting touchdowns. So it was that in Washington’s 16-13 victory over Tampa Bay, Campbell told his line: Give me time; this play is a touchdown. And it was. Campbell’s 59-yard strike to Santana Moss gave the Redskins (2-2) the lead for good. It also showed just how much Campbell’s day, and that of his team, had changed in the final two quarters. A three-point win over 0-4 Tampa Bay doesn’t solve their woes. REPORT CARD The Trend » Quarterback Jason Campbell dropped back to throw 16 times in the first half. He was sacked...

Continued...

 

Fourth quarter review

Final: Redskins 16, Bucs 13 1st Qtr. | 2nd Qtr. | 3rd Qtr. » The Redskins also have run better out of the I than when they’ve had a lone back. » Jason Campbell made a bad throw to Santana Moss. Too far to the inside. » The three picks are a career high for Campbell. Talib has picked off all of them. » The Bucs have done a decent job running the ball out of three-receiver sets. Not so much when they run out of the I. » Why is DeAngelo Hall trying to shoulder tackle Cadillac Williams? That was a bad attempt at a tackle. » Clinton Portis had the hole but fell on the draw at the 2-minute warning. Would have had a first down. » Chris...

Continued...

 

Third quarter review

End of 3rd Qtr.: Redskins 16, Bucs 10 1st Qtr. | 2nd Qtr. | » DeAngelo Hall showed why he got a big contract and why Carlos Rogers won’t get what he wants: his hands. He gets beat, yes, but he also makes plays like this. » Hard to have a screen work when the receiver catches the ball seven yards deep as Chris Cooley did. » More often than not, if the Redskins are in I-formation and Mike Sellers motions, they will run to that side. » Jason Campbell does not look comfortable at all in the pocket. » Jeremy Jarmon opened the second half at left end. He was fooled on the bootleg pass that was thrown too high; blew containment. Phillip Daniels was back...

Continued...

 

Second quarter review

Halftime score: Bucs 10, Redskins 0 1st Qtr. | » Love the corner blitz. Gregg Williams used to do that a lot and the Redskins have not done it this year. Losing Shawn Springs was one reason, but another is that Greg Blache is not as aggressive as Williams. But it’s about time he brought it back. » Clinton Portis is having to work awfully hard for four or five yards. Too hard. » Again, Jason Campbell has no rhythm at all today. He’s missing on dumpoffs and is short on other throws. Seems rushed a little bit. Yes, he’s been under pressure, but that doesn’t explain everything. They need to give him some short throws and rebuild that...

Continued...

 

First quarter review

End of 1st Qtr.: Bucs 7, Redskins 0 » As we’ve said: Stephon Heyer is not a starting tackle. » The best way to help a young quarterback making his first start? Give him an easy score. » The Bucs can’t stop the run; the Redskins try to throw on two of their first three drives and open up with more motion than normal. Doesn’t make sense. The Bucs give up long scoring passes, but the Redskins must set up their offense so they can use play-action. They just don’t make sense sometimes. » Byron Westbrook missed a tackle on a punt return. He was in position to make a terrific play. He needs to make it. » Kareem Moore was the third safety...

Continued...

 

Redskins Week 4 preview: vs. Buccaneers

Sunday, 1 p.m.; TV » FOX Radio » 92.7 & 94.3 FM/730 & 980 AM • Sirius 125 Keys to the game 1. Return to the ground » The Redskins do not, and should not, just focus on the run. Tampa Bay has allowed five touchdown passes of at least 30 yards this season. But they would be helped by running more out of the I-formation, which sets up their play-action better. It's the formula they used at the start of the second half vs. Detroit and it worked. More of that, please. The line and the backs love running out of this set. 2. Corral Johnson » Tampa is starting a second-year quarterback, and former fifth-round pick, in Josh Johnson. The one way he can hurt...

Continued...

 

Chalk talk: The stunt

Chalk talk: The Stunt Sometimes they try to beat guys with speed; other times it’s with force. But Washington’s defensive linemen also have to beat their men with something else: deception. That’s where the stunt enters in, which requires equal parts precision and salesmanship. They’ll use it as a changeup, hoping to create a pass-rush lane for the end, usually through the middle. And the Redskins like to use it, as most defenses do, when they feel they’re more in control of a game. The stunt will take a bit longer to work than just a regular rush, which means the secondary must help out with slightly tighter coverage. It tests a line’s ability to...

Continued...

 

Portis a game-time decision against Bucs

The Redskins, almost to a man, know one way to escape their offensive struggles is by running the ball. The question is, will their top running back even play Sunday? Clinton Portis will be a game-time decision, thanks to a calf injury that has kept him out of practice all week. He’s considered questionable for the game vs. Tampa Bay. He also was questionable vs. Detroit last week because of bone spurs in both ankles, but played and gained 42 yards on 12 carries. Portis said his ankles now are fine, thanks to increased treatment. But there’s no doubt he is dealing with various issues. “My struggle is if I put him out there am I just going to do this over and over...

Continued...

 

Blache to be more of a 'maverick'

Defensive coordinator blames himself for woes ASHBURN - His players haven't won enough one-on-one battles, leading to protected quarterbacks and completed passes. They've missed their gap on some occasions; jumped offsides on others. Other issues: tackling; coverage in the secondary and few big plays. Naturally, Redskins defensive coordinator Greg Blache knows who to blame. Redskins notes » Reed Doughty replaced Chris Horton during long stretches of games already this season. Now he’s doing it for the entire game. Doughty will start at strong safety ahead of Horton vs. Tampa Bay on Sunday. However, Horton will still play as the Redskins often use three-safety sets. This...

Continued...

 

Five thoughts

1. Reed Doughty is starting because he's been more explosive and is more reliable when it comes to playing his assignments. Doughty excels at hitting the right gaps when he blitzes and is probably the only Redskin who makes consistent plays when he does blitz. Some of that is a function of overloading offenses. Some of that stems from a skill in performing this tactic. But Doughty has earned this job. It's not a surprise that he's starting. 2. Greg Blache did a good job taking the heat off his defense today. There's no way he can believe it's all on him. But coaches need to take the fall at times; players appreciate that. Jim Zorn was slow to do that and too often has talked about the...

Continued...

 

Injury report

For the Redskins: ...DT Albert Haynesworth (hip), DT Anthony Montgomery (knee), RB Cinton Portis (calf), FB Mike Sellers (thigh) did not practice. Coach Jim Zorn said he's most worried about Montgomery for Sunday. He's been dealing with this issue all season. Also, CB Carlos Rogers (ankle), CB DeAngelo Hall (ankle) and DT Cornelius Griffin (thigh) all practiced. For the Bucs: ...DE Gaines Adams (groin), C Jeff Faine (triceps), QB Byron Leftwich (hip), DE/DT Kyle Moore (knee), RB Derrick Ward (knee) did not practice. WR Antonio Bryant (knee), G Marcus Johnson (ankle), G Jeremy Zuttah (hip) were...

Continued...

 

Haynesworth opens up... to Tampa's reporters

Apparently, Albert Haynesworth is letting his play talk just for us. For the teams the Redskins face Haynesworth has no problems tallking. Whatever. Does anybody really care who talks to us and who doesn't? Regardless, here's what the big man had to say to the Bucs beat reporters in a conference call: ..."We're not playing like we should. With all this talent, we haven't even scratched the surface. We're really cutting ourselves short and it's kind of ridiculous. If you see this team come together before it's too late, this team could be special. But if we continue to play like individuals, you'll see this team fall apart and continue to go downhill.'' ..."Tampa really came...

Continued...

 

Inside the game » Taking care of your wallet

The wallet gets filled with cash while the mind is loaded with desires. When Antwaan Randle El received his first signing bonus, nearly $1 million, he knew what he wanted to do. He paid for the truck his agent purchased for him. He paid off his parents' house. And he shared the wealth with grandparents and his brother. He also tithed 10 percent to his church. "I did what I always wanted to do," he said. Within a year he was nearly broke. Taxes claimed 41 percent of his $900,000 signing bonus. The tithe and a three-percent agent fee came next. Then, the following tax season, he owed $93,000. "I was like, 'Wow,'" he said. "I was just trying to get to the...

Continued...

 

Week 4 scouting report » What we know about the Bucs

1. The defense has changed » The Bucs have ditched the Tampa 2 zone defense and now play a more aggressive style, using press man-to-man coverage on receivers. They blitz more as well. Not that it's working all that great; the Bucs rank 31st in total defense and have allowed five touchdown passes of 30 yards or more. They've recorded three sacks. They have missed too many tackles. Gaines Adams has yet to become the pass rusher they desired. 2. The defense hasn't stopped the run » The Bucs, playing minus suspended safety Tanard Jackson, are allowing 187.3 rushing yards per game and 5.2 yards per carry. Only Houston is worse. Dallas, Buffalo and New York all ran well vs. this...

Continued...

 

News, notes and analysis

First, the injury report: ..For the Redskins: CB Carlos Rogers (ankle), FB Mike Sellers (quad), DT Albert Haynesworth (hip) and RB Clinton Portis (calf) did not practice today. Coach Jim Zorn said all are expected to play Sunday. Portis said his ankles have responded well to treatment and he's not worried about the bone spurs. ... For the Bucs: DE Gaines Adams (groin), C Jeff Faine (triceps), QB Byron Leftwich (hip), DE/DT Kyle Moore (knee) and RB Derrick Ward (knee) did not practice. WR Antonio Bryant (knee), CB Torrie Cox (ankle), RB Earnest Graham (hamstring), WR Maurice Stovall (knee) were limited. Notes/analysis: ...Portis on using a bootleg at the goal-line: "We haven't...

Continued...

 

Thomas not ready to quit

Randy Thomas was back in the locker room for the first time since having the season-ending surgery on his right triceps last week. And just to make sure we noticed the 6-foot-5, 308-pound Thomas, his friend and linemate Chris Samuels loudly said, "Hey, everyone, Randy Thomas!" Among Thomas' thoughts after his 11th or 12th surgery (he's not sure of the exact number): On whether or not the Rams game was his last: "I never had that thought in my mind. Whatever happens happens. That's life. But mentally I'm never giving up until I say enough's enough....Some guys end it here; some guys end it later. There comes a time where it has to end though." On having to watch the...

Continued...

 

Week 4 » Three questions facing the Redskins

1. How will they respond to the Lions’ loss? » Look, the Lions will win another game this season so this isn’t about the long losing streak. But the Lions also aren’t even a good team. So the Redskins should feel embarrassed, especially after how they played in the home opener vs. St. Louis. They responded to that by playing without much urgency in the first half. There doesn’t seem to be a lot of emotion on the field these days. 2. Do the players still believe in Zorn? » This was asked, oh, about a hundred times Sunday and Monday. To some degree it does not matter; they still have jobs to do and must do them. For some players it’s too easy to...

Continued...

 

Skins need more from 'D'

Washington ranking a pedestrian 16th overall ASHBURN - They bulked up a defense that already rated among the best, prompting a rise in expectations. Instead, only the frustration level has risen. Through three games, the Redskins rank 16th overall and, worse, 22nd against the run. With an offense struggling to score, more is needed from a defense that added an expensive tackle (Albert Haynesworth) and drafted a pass rusher (Brian Orakpo). "We have a lot of talent," linebacker London Fletcher said. "We just haven't put it all together. That's one of the most frustrating things." Yes, it's early. But consider that they've faced offenses ranked 27th (Detroit) and...

Continued...

 

What We've Learned

…The players need to stop talking about all the talent they have on the roster. They’d almost be better off believing they had none and carried that boulder-sized chip on their shoulders into games. There almost seems to be a belief that they’ll turn it around because they are so talented. Nonsense. When the Redskins were losing five straight, and looking horrible, under Marty Schottenheimer, he kept saying the only way to get out of this is to keep working hard. They eventually did. But shelve the talent talk. It’s gotten old. …The problem on the right side of the Redskins’ line was not Chad Rinehart. Making his first start, he initially struggled...

Continued...

 

'Utter frustration' for Skins

Zorn remains positive, but team is moving in the wrong direction ASHBURN - The comments ranged from predictable -- the players are all behind the coach -- to the revealing -- they lack an identity on both sides of the ball. And then there was this: "In the big picture, things are progressing and we're getting better," Redskins coach Jim Zorn said. It's an assessment that a few people — or an entire fan base and most of the league — might disagree with. After a 19-14 loss to Detroit, it's hard to imagine the Redskins are, indeed, improving. At 1-2 and with the NFL's 29th-ranked scoring offense, not to mention the 16th-rated defense, the Redskins lack much...

Continued...

 

Week 3 review: Studs and duds

Studs ...P Hunter Smith. The man tried to help the defense with some excellent punts. Four of his five punts were downed inside the 20-yard line and he averaged 45.8 yards per punt with a net of 45.4. Can't get much better than what he did Sunday. ...WR Santana Moss. The Redskins did a much better job of finding him, as they used quick throws and got him in space better. The touchdown play was well-designed, with Moss running across the field to an open area, cleared by two receivers occupying the middle. Moss is the lone legitimate playmaker on this offense. He finished with 10 catches for 178 yards and a 57-yard touchdown. Duds ...QB Jason Campbell. He made some good plays, no...

Continued...

 

Dungy, Harrison on Redskins

Interesting take on the Redskins from the guys at NBC; here's what they had to say on the air tonight: Rodney Harrison: "It's many problems dealing with the Washington Redskins. One problem in particular is Jason Campbell, the quarterback. I don't know what they see in this guy. To me, he's a backup quarterback that's been elevated to a starter. He's a guy that's unpredictable. He's inconsistent. He's not a guy that defensive players look at and fear." Tony Dungy: "I wouldn't blame it all on the quarterback. He threw for a lot of yards today. They're having trouble scoring. I think it goes to a bigger thing, maybe an organizational thing. It's always new free agents, new...

Continued...

 

Redskins analysis » All systems fail

Zorn remains at the helm in wake of 19-14 loss to Detroit Lions The frustration mounted after two games, with players venting to the coach and to the owner. Just two games into Jim Zorn's second season, cracks in the organization were showing. And then came Sunday's embarrassment, a 19-14 loss at Detroit -- the NFL's worst team with a 19-game losing streak. In the first two weeks alone, playmaking running back Clinton Portis voiced his frustration with the head coach over perceived too few carries. Another player unloaded on the coach during practice while a teammate spoke to the owner over his role, according to multiple sources. Now coach Jim Zorn's job security isn't the only...

Continued...

 

Lions end losing streak, topple Skins, 19-14

The Redskins became a part of history — and not the way they wanted. Detroit snapped its 19-game losing streak with a 19-14 win over the Redskins. The Redskins broke down on both sides of the ball, going down 13-0 in the first half en route to their second loss of the season. The Redskins drove to the Detroit 36-yard line with 21 seconds left in the game, but on fourth and 10 with eight seconds remaining, a short pass and pitches – designed to get out of bounds – failed. Report Card The trend » The Lions converted nine of 12 third downs in the first half (10 for 18 overall). They converted third downs of 10 and 13 yards, respectively, on their 99-yard touchdown...

Continued...

 

Fourth quarter review

Final: Lions 19, Redskins 14 Third quarter review | Second quarter review | First quarter review …Rocky McIntosh is playing better in the second half, more physical. He caused the fumble in the backfield by coming through very, very hard. H.B. Blades remains in the game. …Matthew Stafford is showing some of his flaws. He is not the most accurate passer and it has shown up in the second half. On the series from inside his own 15-yard line, he missed two open receivers. They required more touch than he is capable of at this point. …Chad Rinehart is the least of Washington’s problems. He’s actually been relatively quiet since the first quarter and...

Continued...

 

Third quarter review

Score: Lions 13, Redskins 7 Second quarter review | First quarter review …Great response by the Redskins’ offense and Jason Campbell in particular. Nice throw to Santana Moss – he’s finding the playmakers. But it helped that Clinton Portis gained 13 yards on the first and 15. The ability to run set up the play-action out of I-formation. …Redskins caught a break when Calvin Johnson was flagged for a pass interference against LaRon Landry. He didn’t need to push off and it was only slight, but it was enough to be a penalty. Can’t do that in the wide open. …Not sure what went wrong on the blitz other than no one saw the linebacker...

Continued...

 

Second quarter review

At half: Lions 13, Redskins 0 First quarter review …OK, Chad Rinehart is now playing like Chad Rinehart. On the pass that Jason Campbell threw into triple coverage, Rinehart slid to the left to pick up the end on that side. Randy Thomas does this often. Well, Rinehart got slapped around and his man, Jason Hunter, applied pressure. Two plays later, the Rhino got blown up forcing Campbell to sprint to his right. …The Redskins have been faced with some unusual tough decisions early, but there was no choice but to punt on fourth and short. …The defense is getting whipped up front and the Lions’ O-linemen are getting to the backers now regardless of whether or...

Continued...

 

First quarter review

…Stephon Heyer is a bad tackle. This is the third game in a row where he gets beat too easily. Happened a couple times on the opening drive. Maybe someday the Redskins coaches will quit the false praise with him. …The Redskins are doing a good job of finding Santana Moss. He was wide open inside the 5-yard line, but missed by Jason Campbell. Those are the plays they consistently fail to make and it’s not one person’s fault. …I don’t mind Jim Zorn going for it on fourth down, but I’d love to see some sort of play-action pass in that situation. Did anyone not know they were going to run it left? …I liked how they spread the ball around...

Continued...

 

Portis questionable with bone spurs

The Redskins now have something else to worry about: Clinton Portis' ankles. Coach Jim Zorn said Portis is questionable with bone spurs in both ankles. "It's been happening, not all preseaso, but he's got a couple spurs that are irritating," Zorn said. "There's no swelling. It's hard for him. He needs to rest them." Portis did not practice Friday and was limited Wednesday and Thursday, but Zorn said he expects Portis to be out there "ripping around." Portis declined comment. This could explain why the Redskins opted to sign a fifth running back this week in Anthony Alridge. However, it's now uncertain whether Alridge or Macus Mason will be active Sunday....

Continued...

 

Moss aims to break loose

Skins WR has caught just five passes so far ASHBURN - The compliment comes in the form of constant attention. Other teams know Santana Moss can beat them. Other teams make sure that doesn't happen. So when he runs inside, a linebacker might block his path. When he runs outside, the safety will roll his way. And when he lines up other times, he'll see three sets of eyes checking him out. Moss could do without all the compliments. "I appreciate them respecting me that much," Moss said. "At the same time I wish and pray that I could get some one-on-one now and then to get a shot to be myself." The Redskins need for that to happen. One reason the offense is struggling...

Continued...

 

Skins notes: Rinehart or Montgomery?

» The Redskins still haven't made up their minds about who will start at right guard against Detroit Sunday -- and for the foreseeable future. But coach Jim Zorn said he'll likely announce Friday whether it will be Chad Rinehart or Will Montgomery. They split time with the first unit for the second straight day. "There's not a whole lot of difference," Redskins offensive line coach Joe Bugel said. "Both are tough guys. Both are smart players. You can flip a coin and not go wrong." Zorn said whoever starts will play the whole game. Bugel said they both might play. Montgomery has started six NFL games, including one at right guard in 2006. Rinehart has been...

Continued...

 

Chalk talk: Randy Thomas

What the Redskins will miss minus Randy Thomas: 1. Stunts and twists. Thomas was excellent at not only picking up stunts, but in getting an excellent punch and knocking his man off stride enough so that Stephon Heyer's job was made easier. For example, against the Giants, New York tried to run a stunt but Thomas' punch caused the tackle, Barry Cofield, to go a bit wider than desired, which led him to bump Justin Tuck enough off stride and ruin the stunt. In essence, Thomas blocked both men. Thomas helped out center Casey Rabach as well in this area. This will bear watching as the season continues, though Detroit does not do a lot of this. 2. Blitzes. The Lions will not run a lot of...

Continued...

 

New RG still undecided; other notes

...Chad Rinehart and Will Montgomery split the first-team duty at right guard today. Coach Jim Zorn said he might make the decision as to who will start on Thursday. "Chad has to really show he will step up," Zorn said. "But Will has to show the same thing." It makes sense for them to start Rinehart, who was their third-round pick in 2008. At some point they must see what they have in him. They also praised him during the summer for his improved play, but coaches do that with most players. Rinehart's lack of athleticism and inexperience has to concern the Redskins. At least Montgomery has started in the NFL six times, including once at right guard in...

Continued...

 

Inside the game » The big hit provides a boost

After the collision, Mike Sellers had to pause for a moment. The play was over; the feeling was not. Pittsburgh linebacker Lawrence Timmons lay on the ground, courtesy of a Sellers block. It was only a preseason game. That didn't matter. "He came full speed and I came full speed and he just lost," Sellers said. "The first thing to hit was the back of his head. I just stood there and looked at him. You just have to rub it in a little bit." A big hit, or as in Sellers' case a devastating block, will send jolts of energy through a player's body. It's the feeling that drew them to football in the first place. "To me it's the same feeling as scoring a...

Continued...

 

Skins are running on empty in red zone

The weekly ritual occurred again Wednesday, with Jason Campbell defending the offense. He’s done it as well as opposing defenses have. Campbell points out the differences from last year; the success moving between the 20-yard lines; and the progress. But he stops short in one area. “I won’t defend us in the red zone,” Campbell said. He can’t. The Redskins are tied for 30th in the NFL – with the Giants of all teams -- with two touchdowns in eight red zone trips. One came with less than two minutes remaining; the other was a fake field goal. UP NEXT Redskins at Lions When » Sunday, 1 p.m. Where » Ford Field, Detroit TV » FOX Radio...

Continued...

 

Week 3 Scouting Report » What we know about the Lions

1. They're building a talented base offensively » Or so it seems. But it'll take a couple years for it to be realized. Quarterback Matt Stafford, receiver Calvin Johnson, rookie tight end Brandon Pettigrew and running back Kevin Smith form a good nucleus. Stafford can make every throw and Johnson is one of the best young wideouts in the game. Stafford will take a year or two to become good; he's still learning what throws he can get away with. That's why he's been intercepted five times already. 2. The defense is devoid of talent » The Lions messed up the draft for several years under former general manager Matt Millen. Though most of those players were receivers, the...

Continued...

 

Redskins injury report

For the Redskins: ...QB Jason Campbell (foot), DT Anthony Montgomery (knee) and RB Clinton Portis (ankle) all were limited. WR Devin Thomas was not included on the injury report, but coach Jim Zorn said he had a bruised knee, but he was not limited. For the Lions: ... DE Cliff Avril (hamstring), LB Ernie Sims (shoulder) did not participate in practice. CB Phillip Buchanaon (neck), DE Andre Fluellen (knee), DT Sammie Hill (neck), DT Grady Jackson (knee), CB Eric King (shoulder) and QB Drew Stanton (knee) were limited....

Continued...

 

Ex-Skin embraces role in Detroit

Tackle Jansen was cut by Washington in May The bitterness left, he said, when the plane landed in Michigan and he had an offer from Detroit three hours after getting cut. Jon Jansen liked the situation then; he loves it now. He's home; he likes the atmosphere in the organization and he's helping tutor a young right tackle. Not that he still isn't disappointed about getting cut in late May, rather than in the winter time. Or by the fact that he still hasn't talked to offensive line coach Joe Bugel since getting cut. "But for the most part I've been able to let that go and move on," Jansen said by phone, "and realize I'm fortunate to still have a great job. I love the...

Continued...

 

Griffin shines on defense

The change is big: Albert Haynesworth is playing next to him, which would create openings for anyone. The changes are subtle: Cornelius Griffin has a healthy shoulder; he's playing on one side of the line only; and he's rarely double teamed. The result is a quick two-game start for Griffin. According to NFL.com, he has eight tackles, a sack and a pass defensed. Against St. Louis, Griffin routinely beat one-on-one blocking to record four tackles, including one for a loss and a quarterback pressure in addition to a sack. "I noticed in camp that he was healthier and it looks like he's moving real well," linebacker London Fletcher said. "He's playing the run extremely...

Continued...

 

Three questions facing the Redskins this week

1. Will they ever score touchdowns? This is about more than the first two games. It's about a trend over the last 10, dating to 2008. In that time, the offense has managed to score more than one touchdown just twice, in a win at Seattle and a loss at San Francisco. Say what you want about the playcalling -- and it deserves criticism -- but this offense lacks something else: playmakers. 2. How much will they miss Randy Thomas? A lot. This is not the same as two years ago when Thomas and Jon Jansen both missed most of the season and they still made the postseason. Different offense; different playcallers. Also, Thomas could bail out Stephon Heyer because of his strong punch vs. defensive...

Continued...

 

Redskins sign Alridge

The Redskins lost one of their big guys; so they replaced him with a short and shifty one. They signed running back Anthony Alridge off Houston's practice squad. They placed right guard Randy Thomas on injured reserve. Washington released Alridge in its final cuts earlier this month and the move is a curious one: it gives the Redskins five running backs -- they weren't sure if they'd even keep four. And with Thomas getting hurt, the natural move is to bring in another lineman. However, they still have nine linemen on the roster, which is not an unusual amount. The Redskins did look at other linemen, including some that they had cut earlier this month. But they did not think any would be...

Continued...

 

Griffin starts strong

The change is big: Albert Haynesworth is playing next to him, which would create openings for anyone. The changes are subtle: Cornelius Griffin has a healthy shoulder; he’s playing on one side of the line only; and he’s rarely double teamed. The result is a quick two-game start for Griffin. According to NFL.com, he has eight tackles, a sack and a pass defensed. Against St. Louis, Griffin routinely beat one-on-one blocking to record four tackles, including one for a loss and a quarterback pressure in addition to a sack. “I noticed in camp that he was healthier and it looks like he’s moving real well,” linebacker London Fletcher said. “He’s playing...

Continued...

 

Skins add injury to insult

Struggling offense will be without Thomas for the rest of the season ASHBURN - The Redskins anticipated the news, so it wasn't stunning. The hard part now is dealing with the reality of the situation. Right guard Randy Thomas suffered a torn right triceps in the second quarter of Sunday's 9-7 win over St. Louis. He will undergo surgery on Wednesday or Thursday and be placed on the injured reserve list. Redskins notes » Linebacker Robert Henson apologized for comments he tweeted after the Redskins' 9-7 loss. After the game, Henson tweeted, among other things, "All you fake half hearted Skins fan can .. I won't go there but I dislike you very strongly, don't come to Fed Ex...

Continued...

 

Week 2 review: Studs and Duds

From the Redskins 9-7 loss... oops, we meant win, over St. Louis. Studs DT Cornelius Griffin. Two things have helped him. He's healthier than in a few years; his shoulder that bothered him last year is strengthened. And playing next to Albert Haynesworth has limited the double teams. Griffin is having an excellent start and made numerous big plays Sunday. He's showing his strength. Nearly intercepted a pass, but in typical linemen fashion he tried to catch it with his body and not his hands. Still, excellent effort -- four tackles, one sack, a tackle for a loss and a quarterback hurry. K Shaun Suisham. You know, just because. The way this season is going he should post big numbers...

Continued...

 

Thomas injures his right triceps

Right guard slated to undergo MRI Monday The Redskins’ inexperienced backup offensive line is about to be tested. Right guard Randy Thomas suffered a strained right triceps in the second quarter of Washington’s 9-7 win over St. Louis and could be lost for the season. Thomas will undergo an MRI Monday to determine the severity of the injury and if it’s torn. Teammates braced for the worst after the game. Should it be a season-ending injury, it’s uncertain who would replace Thomas. The Redskins drafted Chad Rinehart in the third round in 2008, but he has been inactive for all but three games of his pro career. He has been inactive both games this season. Will...

Continued...

 

Redskins survive Rams, 9-7

In a quiet Redskins locker room, coach Jim Zorn reminded his players of one simple fact. They won the game. It was hard to tell if they believed him or not. After a lackluster 9-7 win over St. Louis in the home opener, the Redskins spent the postgame rehashing negative plays and beating themselves up for missed opportunities. “You can’t keep on doing this, that’s for sure,” Redskins center Casey Rabach said. Report Card Early trend Of Jason Campbell’s first six completions, four were to tight end Chris Cooley, all coming on the second drive. Cooley finished with seven receptions for 73 yards; all but one grab in the first half. The Redskins only threw...

Continued...

 

Fourth quarter review

...The Rams were starting to take advantage of a gassed Albert Hayenworth and will continue to do so in this quarter. He looks tired. ...Chris Horton made a nice play to bail out yet another corner, this time Carlos Rogers. ...Stephon Heyer is just not a good right tackle. The Redskins need help at this spot and there's no one on the roster who can provide it. Good ends will beat him one on one all the time. ...On the Rams third and two play from the 41, Haynesworth had his hands on his hips. Looked like he wanted to come out, but had to stay in. ...Jim Zorn's playcalling will be called heavily into question after this game. It's deserved. ...But I did like the screen call to...

Continued...

 

Third quarter review

...DeAngelo is giving up too many yards after the catch in coverage. The first one in the second quarter only went for another five yards, but those yards add up. ...Randy Thomas is still in uniform on the sidelines; he emerged about a minute into the third quarter. ...OK, it's a defensive tackle who dropped it; but Cornelius Griffin had the ball right in his hands after dropping into coverage. The Redskins keep dropping these balls. ...Another trend: when Mike Sellers motiions out of the backfield to the right, they've run left. ...Right after that, Sellers motioned back to fullback and they ran Clinton Portis on a draw up the middle. Again, when they've motioned him to...

Continued...

 

Second quarter review

...Defensive tackle Cornelius Griffin is dominating along the line. He's getting, and beating, one-on-one blocking to make plays. ...Randy Thomas injured his right triceps; he hurt his left one two years ago, and is out for the game. Noticed that Will Montgomery had replaced him earlier in the quarter.This could be a devastating injury for the line. The Redskins now are in trouble anyway, if something happens to Casey Rabach or Derrick Dockery, the Redskins have no replacement. This is why you can't have just two backup OL active and also have five receivers. ...The Redskins went to a no-huddle attack on their opening drive of the quarter, with some shotgun. It worked OK. It's a good...

Continued...

 

First quarter review

...Jason Campbell had Malcolm Kelly open, but underthrew the fade route. He has not thrown that pass very well in games this season, or preseason. He put a little too much air under it and the corner, Jonathan Wade, broke it up. ...The Redskins are using Chris Horton near the line of scrimmage on just about every run play. ...I've always though Jason Campbell did best by completing a few short passes early, helping him get into a rhythm. That's what they've done on their second drive. ...So far, whenever the Redskins motion Mike Sellers to fullback, they run the ball. Not like the Rams have stopped; the last time they did this Clinton Portis gained 11 yards. ...Devin Thomas got...

Continued...

 

Redskins inactives

Inactives for the Redskins today: CB Kevin Barnes, CB Fred Smoot, OL Edwin Williams, LB Robert Henson, OL Chad Rinehart, OL D'Anthony Batiste, DT Anthony Montgomery, DE Renaldo Wynn. This means the Redskins will go with four corners today and that running back Marcus Mason and receiver Marko Mitchell will be active. For the Rams, the inactives are S Anthony Smith, S Craig Dahl, G Roger Allen III, G John Greco, WR Ruvell Martin, DE Victor Adeyanju, DT Darrell...

Continued...

 

Week 2 preview: Redskins vs. Rams

Sunday, 1 p.m.; TV » FOX Radio » 92.7 & 94.3 FM/730 & 980 AM • Sirius 127 Keys to the game 1. Test the rookies » The Rams have rookie starters at middle linebacker in James Laurinaitis and at right tackle in Jason Smith. Laurinaitis was solid in the opener, but did bite on a play-action for a touchdown. Strongside linebacker David Vobora is making his third career start; capitalize. Meanwhile, Smith should be tested by Andre Carter’s speed in pass situations. Smith sometimes plays too upright; speed guys should pounce. See how he handles overloads from that side, too. 2. Power the ball » This is not to say they should stay conservative. But...

Continued...

 

Smoot questionable

Redskins cornerback Fred Smoot is now listed as questionable for Sunday's home opener vs. St. Louis because of a rib injury. Smoot had been listed as probable on Friday's report, but was downgraded today. If Smoot can't play, then Justin Tryon would be elevated to the third corner with Byron Westbrook becoming the fourth. St. Louis' passing offense is not that dangerous, though speedy Donnie Avery burned them last season....

Continued...

 

Moss fined; Brennan repaired

...Redskins receiver Santana Moss was fined $5,000 as was Giants defensive back Corey Webster for their altercation in New York's 23-17 win Sunday. The story was first reported by ESPN's Adam Schefter. ...Redskins quarterback Colt Brennan underwent surgery on the torn labrum in his left hip Monday and will need three months of rehabilitation before he's 100 percent recovered. Brennan came back stronger after having surgery on his right hip in 2008. The hip issues also led to problems with his hamstring. Follow me on twitter...

Continued...

 

Injury report

Redskins defensive tackle Anthony Montgomery was the only player not to practice Friday, thanks to patella tendonitis in his right knee. Montgomery said it's been a gradual worsening. However, he said he's still hopeful he would be able to play Sunday. He's listed as questionable. But considering he was inactive last week, it's possible he might not play regardless of the...

Continued...

 

Slithery surprise

Now we know what can cause large NFL players, some of whom had just finished talking about blowing up other players with big hits or blocks, to squirm just a bit. A 10-inch snake. That became evident during the open locker-room session today, when the skinny snake slithered along the baseboard, just underneath the lockers of Chris Wilson and Malcolm Kelly. Nobody panicked or ran out of the room, but lots of chatter ensued mostly among a small group of players (it came near the end of the session, so only several players were around). "Somebody do something!" linebacker Chris Wilson said. Stephon Heyer made several attempts to pick it up and carry it outside, though Mike...

Continued...

 

Redskins: Outside the beltway

Redskins chatter from non-local sources » The Rams have a new team president, a newly empowered general manager, a new coach and a mostly new coaching staff. Nearly half of the players are new this season, too. Yet the sloppiness remains in this organization, like a pesky virus or a mutant strain of cockroaches immune to bug spray. The Rams blundered their way to a 28-0 loss Sunday, continuing their futility against the NFC West in general and the Seahawks in particular. — Jeff Gordon, St. Louis Post Dispatch » My appreciation for the Rams' free safety [Oshiomogho Atogwe] and franchise player continues to grow. He plays the ball exceptionally well and is a threat to...

Continued...

 

Measured praise for Haynesworth

Defensive tackle is a force in the middle ASHBURN - He praised him. He didn't want to canonize him. In defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth's first game with the Redskins, he occupied blockers; chased down ballcarriers going the other way and shoved his man into the backfield. A few times. It's what the Redskins expected. "He was definitely a factor in how the game transpired," Redskins defensive coordinator Greg Blache said. But they're also not about to credit Haynesworth for a revival of the Redskins' defense. Considering it ranked No. 4 overall last year, they did not need him to do more than what he did Sunday. Nor does Blache think that Haynesworth was responsible in...

Continued...

 

Monty faces new role

Defensive tackle Anthony Montgomery is bracing for another Sunday like the past one, where he’s not sure if he’s active or inactive until near game time. “It will probably go back and forth every day, whether I’m up or down,” Montgomery said. “Maybe they want to dress another receiver. Maybe one day they’ll dress me.” Last week, Montgomery, who was limited in practice Thursday because of patella tendonitis in his knee, said he knew several days before the opener that he likely wouldn’t be active. But he received a text message Sunday morning saying he might play. Twenty minutes before the game he was told his status for good. The...

Continued...

 

The Sound of Music

Chris Cooley made the request nearly a year ago. Jim Zorn finally honored it Wednesday. Cooley told Zorn other teams play music before practice and wanted to know if they could do it here. "It took me a long time to decide," Zorn said. But he finally said yes. So before practice started, and while the players stretched, Zorn had music blaring over the loudspeakers, including Jay-Z and Metallica. "That's when you can tell that this league has evolved," fullback Mike Sellers said, "when you come out to music. It boosted everyone around. Everyone was dragging, but when you listen to music it lifts you up. A lot of other guys on the field felt great about practice....

Continued...

 

Pregame rituals vary for players

Redskins locker room has business-like feel ASHBURN - Some players flip through their notebooks one last time. Others slip their headphones on, listen to music and steal a few minutes of sanity. Others pull out their Bible, finding an appropriate verse. And still others do none of the above. They just do what other people do every day: prepare for a day at work. In the locker room before a game, it can be calm, low-key and business-like. There's no music blaring; no players shouting; no rah-rah speeches. "It's real calm," Redskins end Andre Carter said. "Everyone has their own personalities on game day," Redskins safety Reed Doughty said. "Some like to talk;...

Continued...

 

Skins ink Sellers to extension

Mike Sellers finally got what he wanted. A little respect and a lot of money. Sellers signed a contract extension through 2014, though the last two years are voidable years. He received a $600,000 signing bonus. Sellers missed most of the voluntary offseason workouts because he was upset about his contract situation. Though he was signed through 2010, he was not happy with the money. “For years I sat here and watched everyone else get these great contracts,” Sellers said. “I was the only one. I kept my mouth shut and did what I have to do. And when my play came about, I felt that I needed it and they took care of me. I’m fortunate. Now I can really retire as a...

Continued...

 

Skins' mission: Get Portis going

Washington is 21-5 when back rushes for more than 100 yards ASHBURN - One play into his season Clinton Portis anticipated another triple-digit day, reaching a number he hasn't sniffed in a while. A 34-yard run, three yards longer than any carry last year, prompted grand visions. And Portis dared to dream. "After that run I'm thinking, 'Ooooo, 150,'" Portis said. It didn't happen. He managed just 28 yards on his next 15 carries. And so he anticipated what has come next: questions about if he got the ball enough. With Ladell Betts taking most of the third-down snaps, Portis' opportunities decreased. He still touched the ball 17 times, with one reception for 10 yards, but he...

Continued...

 

Chalk talk: Why the Redskins play off-man coverage

Chalk Talk: 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...

Continued...

 

It's execution, not strategy

Zorn: Too much space on several coverages ASHBURN - It was a little too much cushion here, a missed jam there and a whiff on a tackle attempt, or two. Or three. And it added up to frustration for the Redskins' secondary. Not to mention a lot of third-down success for the New York Giants. What won't change is the Redskins' strategy of playing off receivers. What must change is their tackling. "That's our issue," said secondary coach Jerry Gray. "We have to be a better tackling secondary to go where we want to go. Those things snowball. Guys understand that." They do. "Missed tackles," corner DeAngelo Hall said when asked what he didn't like about the...

Continued...

 

Deja vu? Skins hope not

Opening loss to Giants felt a lot like last year ASHBURN - The to-do list didn't increase a day later. The Redskins knew what their problems were when their opening game ended Sunday. Nothing changed by Monday. They still know that they must improve their third-down defense. They still know that they must improve their offense. WHAT WE LEARNED » Albert Haynesworth only finished with four tackles, including one for a loss. But the Giants probably doubled him on 75 percent of his snaps and one time used three blockers to stop him. Because of him, and Cornelius Griffin, the linebackers often ran free to the ball. It's one reason London Fletcher made 18 tackles. New York also ran...

Continued...

 

Studs and Duds: Week 1 review

Studs and Duds: Week 1 review Studs LB London Fletcher. He had a terrific game with 18 unofficial tackles. He had some great sticks and was allowed to run free to the ball. Makes a difference. LB Rocky McIntosh. For the most part was able to fill his gap very well. Forced some cutbacks into the teeth of the defense. Overran one play, but it did not hurt them. DT Albert Haynesworth. He wasn’t always noticeable, but his work is reflected in the play of others. He required double teams most of the time and often bull-rushed his man deep into the backfield. They ran away from him most of the game. Fletcher’s tackle total is indicative of how both he and Cornelius Griffin...

Continued...

 

Lack of poise dooms Skins

Penalties, mistakes mark loss to Giants EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. - They knew they needed to play a certain way if they wanted to spring the upset. The formula did not include late hits out of bounds, unsportsmanlike conduct penalties or even botched attempts at big plays. But that's what occurred in Washington's 23-17 loss to the New York Giants. Related stories » Rough start for Redskins, fall to Giants, 23-17 » Rick Snider » Stars sputter in opener » Redskins Confidential blog "We just did not have the poise in the situations that we needed to," Redskins coach Jim Zorn said. "There was a lot of chirping going on verbally and a lot of...

Continued...

 

Rough start for Redskins, fall to Giants, 23-17

Campbell, offense are listless in opening loss EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – The first play from scrimmage worked out much better than 2008's infamous sack and fumble. This time, the Redskins gained 34 yards on a Clinton Portis run, prompting teammates to pump fists in the air and exult. The next sound they heard? Pffft. Early trend The Giants converted five of seven third downs on their two first-half scoring drives, including a 30-yard Eli Manning touchdown pass. That changed in the second half (one of five), but a Redskins defense that led the league in three-and-outs last year posted none. Under the radar Redskins cornerback Carlos Rogers made a terrific break on a pass on New...

Continued...

 

Redskins-Giants Report Card

GIANTS 23, REDSKINS 17 Early trend The Giants converted five of seven third downs on their two first-half scoring drives, including a 30-yard Eli Manning touchdown pass. That changed in the second half (one of five), but a Redskins defense that led the league in three-and-outs last year posted none. Under the radar Redskins cornerback Carlos Rogers made a terrific break on a pass on New York's first series. And he got his hands on the ball. And he dropped it again. Rogers' missed interception not only prevented good field position, it enabled New York to drive downfield for a field goal. Did you notice ... The Redskins flip-flopped ends Andre Carter and Phillip Daniels on a...

Continued...

 

Giants still too much for Skins, 23-17

The Redskins dropped their season opener at the New York Giants for a second straight season. The Giants won, 23-17, behind quarterback Eli Manning’s 256 yards passing. Jason Campbell completed 19 of 26 passes for 211 yards and a late touchdown to Chris Cooley. However, he also threw an interception and lost a fumble that was returned for a touchdown....

Continued...

 

Fourth quarter review

...Reed Doughty has been playing more as the primary strong safety since the last drive of the third quarter and the first drive of the fourth. Chris Horton came in as the No. 3 safety on the first drive of the fourth quarter. Not sure what to read into that. That trend has continued deep into the final quarter. ...Albert Haynesworth's offsides penalty in the fourth quarter on a third and eight really stung. The Redskins held them on the next play, but it gave Lawrence Tynes a 45-yard kick instead of a 50-yarder. Makes a difference. ...Jason Campbell does not look comfortable in the pocket. He missed Santana Moss on a pivotal third and five because he threw behind him. He has not played...

Continued...

 

Third quarter review

...Malcolm Kelly makes a big target, for both the quarterback and the defense. If he has to go across the middle a lot this season, he can expect more big hits like he had on the first drive of the third quarter. He does not get low. ...The Redskins have not done a good job of running the ball to both sides of the line. ...Open field tackling is killing the secondary today. DeAngelo Hall is having a terrible game and now can add an illegal block in the back on a punt return. ...Clinton Portis seems to run into the backs of his blockers a decent amount. ...He also gets little room to run when going to the right. Stephon Heyer needs to improve greatly as a run blocker. ...Pressure...

Continued...

 

Second quarter review

...The defensive line has done fairly well when Brandon Jacobs is running up the middle. His best success has come when he runs off the edge. ...Santana Moss is lucky he wasn't thrown out of the game. Between his fight and LaRon Landry's late hit, the Redskins aren't playing very smart football. ...The Redskins aren't putting any pressure on even when they blitz. The third and nine conversion came when they blitzed two defenders, yet it didn't matter. Domenik Hixon caught a 10--yard pass right in front of DeAngelo Hall. ...Rocky McIntosh is having a good game thus far. Filling holes very well. So, too, is London Fletcher ...There was one play that went away from Albert Haynesworth...

Continued...

 

First quarter review

...Third downs were a problem in preseason. Guess what? They've been an issue on the first series. Not enough pressure and not good enough coverage. ...The Redskins once showed a five-man front, but Brian Orakpo went from a four-point stance to standing up and covering the tight end at the last second. Not that it helped as the Giants converted a third and seven; a 25-yard pickup. ...Say it aint' so: Carlos Rogers dropped a certain interception; once again he had a lot of room to run. It's not always because he's looking downfield. He just has bad hands. Most of his dropped picks last year were not because he was looking at wide open field. It's a lack of concentration. ...Curious...

Continued...

 

Week 1 preview: Redskins at Giants

Sunday, 4:15 p.m.; TV » FOX Radio » 980 AM/730 AM/94.3 FM/92.7FM • Sirius 123 Three keys to the game 1. Win the ground game » That means on both sides of the ball. The Giants’ defensive line gets the publicity, but the offensive line is excellent as well — especially when it comes to run blocking. If the Redskins allow New York to run the ball, it will lose. Conversely, the Redskins must establish the run. This is true in every game, but particularly when facing a defensive line that can rush the passer like the Giants. 2. Protect Jason Campbell » The Giants’ defensive line is talented and versatile. Their pressure, and the threat of it,...

Continued...

 

The Slant: Five predictions

1. Jason Campbell will play much better than anticipated. Especially early in the season when the schedule, and the defenses the Redskins face, is much easier. For a guy who was unwanted in the offseason -- not just by the Redskins -- he seems to be playing with a lot of confidence. The coaches also have a better idea of how to get him into a rhythm, it seems. He'll be helped by an improving WR corps, thanks to Malcolm Kelly, and a line that, when healthy, is good enough. He'll throw 22 touchdown passes. Will this be good enough for them to award Campbell a new contract? That's hard to say. My hunch says no; that they'll look at Campbell and say he was good, but not good enough to get to...

Continued...

 

Friday injury report

For the Redskins: CB Carlos Rogers (calf) and T Mike Williams (ankle) are probable. For the Giants: CB Aaron Ross (hamstring) is out. T Adam Koets (ankle) and LB Clint Sintim (groin) are doubtful. CB Kevin Dockery (hamstring) is questionable. He did not practice...

Continued...

 

Zorn's Friday presser; Thomas to return kicks?

Some highlights from Jim Zorn's Friday press conference: ...He said this is the first team he's been involved with where everyone was healthy entering the season. ...The hard part will be in determining who stays on the active roster for the game. ...Zorn said there's a chance he'll keep five receivers active; Marko Mitchell would be no. 5. Our take is that it will be difficult; the problem for Mitchell is that others in competition to be active likely would have a role on special teams and he would not. ...Devin Thomas likely will be paired with Rock Cartwright returning kickoffs Sunday. A Redskins source said earlier in the week he did not think that would be the case. But...

Continued...

 

Make or break: Redskins at crossroads

This is Washington, where bumper stickers once proclaimed fans’ love for one quarterback over the other. In the offseason, the Redskins announced their preferences. They Liked Jay. They Liked Mark. That made a loud statement: The guy they didn’t like was their own. They also didn’t happen to get Jay Cutler or Mark Sanchez. Um, Jason Campbell, now it’s you they like. Just not enough to give you a contract extension. Now Campbell enters the season full of confidence, boosted by two strong preseason showings; an improved (he hopes) offensive line and more receivers ready to contribute. As much as a new contract, this is what he wanted. To get the latter, he needed...

Continued...

 

Injury report

For the Redskins: ...CB Carlos Rogers (calf), T Mike Williams (ankle) both participated in all of practice. Rogers said he is cutting well and said he's not concerned about his calf being a season-long issue. However, he also said there's really no way for him to know. For the Giants: ...CB Kevin Dockery (hamstring), T Adam Koets (ankle), CB Aaron Ross (hamstring), LB Clint Sintim (groin) did not participate in practice....

Continued...

 

Kelly ready for more

Malcolm Kelly didn't bother to phone his folks or send out text messages, celebrating his new starting role at receiver. This is not the end of a journey for him. "I'm not satisfied with that," Kelly said. "A lot get satisfied being in the starting rotation. If you get in the starting rotation, the next thing is to catch so many balls. After you catch so many it's to lead this and that. You have to take baby steps. You can never be satisfied." But the announcement, made Wednesday, means a lot to Kelly. He beat out fellow second-year Devin Thomas for the job, as well as veteran Antwaan Randle El. The latter, however, has been penciled into the No. 3 slot position for...

Continued...

 

Inside the Game: First Game Memories

Antwaan Randle El beams at the memory, even entering his eighth season. He still gets excited to run onto the field for the first time each season. He still gets nervous. But, the Redskins receiver said: “It’s never like the first time.” And his first time came was a 2002 night game at New England. “I was super excited and I couldn’t sleep,” he said. “coming onto the field was a big one. I came out hollering because I didn’t know what to think. And ever since I holler when I come out. I was so thrilled that it was like, ‘I made it.’ “I’ll never forget after the game I was so exhausted because I was up all night and...

Continued...

 

Skins' O-line prepares for a Giant test

The phrase is punctuated by three words, an addition to whatever statement is made about the offense. The Redskins can be a good offense. They can have an improved passing game. They can repeat their success on the ground. If, comes the addition, they ... Protect Jason Campbell. The first offensive line did just that in the preseason, allowing no sacks. But Sunday offers a different test: The Giants ranked fifth in the NFL in sacks per pass attempt last season, recording 42 overall. That came without their best pass rusher in end Osi Umenyiora, who missed the season with a knee injury. But Umenyiora is healthy and the Giants added two free agents in the offseason, Rocky Bernard and...

Continued...

 

Injury report

For the Redskins: ...CB Carlos Rogers (calf) and RT Mike Williams (ankle) were limited in practice Wednesday. For the Giants: ...CB Kevin Dockery (hamstring), T Adam Koets (ankle), CB Aaron Ross (hamstring) and LB Clint Sintim (groin) did not practice...

Continued...

 

Scouting report: What We Know

Scouting the Giants ...Eli Manning will be tested. Manning is the highest paid player in the league, which is a silly notion, but that’s how it goes in the NFL. If he’s being paid that much, then he needs to improve. Manning has completed more than 60 percent of his passes just once in his career. And it’s not as if he’s always throwing downfield. Of the 28 quarterbacks who attempted at least 300 passes, Manning’s 6.8 yards per pass attempt last season ranked 20th. He lost his security blanket (Amani Toomer) and his huge downfield threat (Plaxico Burress). ... The Giants have no proven receivers. Steve Smith caught 57 passes last year, mostly in the slot....

Continued...

 

Redskins: What We've Learned

» The starting offensive line best not get injured as the Redskins are full of unproven backups. The first five, if healthy, should be solid. But the five backups combined for zero games played in 2008. That should be with a capital Z as this could be a major issue. Some of the backups may look promising (Will Montgomery) but nobody knows how any of these guys will fare in a real game. That goes for Mike Williams, too, because he hasn't played since 2005 and was spotty at best in preseason. Maybe he'll get better; he's not there now. » Corner Kevin Barnes is a ways away from contributing. The rookie third-round selection intercepted a pass this preseason in which he played...

Continued...

 

Henson's living a dream for two

Strong preseason finale earns LB a roster spot ASHBURN - The dream turned into a quest, with Redskins linebacker Robert Henson trying to earn a roster spot for two people. One of whom no longer lived. From the time he was 12, football was never just about himself. A fire ravaged his house, claiming his brother and leaving Henson full of guilt. He saved his mother and his sister; but not his 10-year-old brother, Nicholas. Henson carried that feeling for years. But he also carried their dream. As kids, Henson and his brother would sit on the front steps of their Longview, Texas home and talk about the NFL. The typical conclusion: They'd both make it. Saturday, one of them did. "I...

Continued...

 

Rock: I'm a team guy

One day after venting his frustrations over the running back situation to a few reporters, Redskins returner Rock Cartwright wants everyone to know this: no matter how he feels, he's a team player. Cartwright created a stir with comments Monday to several outlets, including the Washington Examiner, about being demoted to the No. 4 running back. He's also the primary kick returner and that hasn't changed. He phoned today not to say that he'd been misquoted or taken out of context. But he did want to make something else clear. "I know my role and my role is to be a great special teams player," he said. "So that's what I do. I'm all about the team. I just want to do my job....

Continued...

 

Chalk talk: Kelly and the post pattern

When receiver Malcolm Kelly ran the post in college, it was simple. He didn’t need any moves; he just needed to run to where he wanted to go. Most of the time, he’d arrive with the ball for a big play. But the NFL is not that easy. So Kelly has had to learn how to run that route against professional players. “I’ve had to learn how to run it more off the cornerback,” Kelly said. “In college, I ran the route as it was drawn on paper.” Kelly tried to do that last season, too, and it failed. If he didn’t make a move to fool the defensive back, he would not get open. It didn’t help either that his knee still hindered him. “I’d...

Continued...

 

Mason, Westbrook make jump

Local players hope to make an impact ASHBURN - They were nice summertime stories, local kids trying to make an NFL roster. But Byron Westbrook, despite his lineage, had to overcome his college pedigree. The jump from Division III to the NFL is rare. And Marcus Mason had to prove he could crack a position that already seemed set. Then Westbrook showed that he could help on special teams and, in a pinch, at corner. Mason ran over a New England safety and crossed the goal line. At the same time, Marcus Mason crossed another line: from that of a summer sensation to full-time employment. It's the play that Redskins executive vice president Vinny Cerrato mentioned when discussing Mason...

Continued...

 

Cartwright not happy with role

Kick returner is No. 4 on the RB depth chart ASHBURN - Rock Cartwright is used to the role. Once again, though, that doesn't mean he's happy about it. When the Redskins kept Marcus Mason, it left Cartwright as the No. 4 running back. It also leaves him as strictly a special teams player. "He's on all the special teams and that's what he's going to do," Redskins running backs coach Stump Mitchell said of Cartwright. That's not what Cartwright wants to hear. "I've been getting pushed back for the last four years now," he said. "Marcus had a great preseason; he always has a great preseason. Now he takes my reps and I'm the fourth guy that's just labeled as a...

Continued...

 

Cartwright miffed with role

Rock Cartwright is used to the role. Once again, though, that doesn’t mean he’s happy about it. When the Redskins kept Marcus Mason, it left Cartwright as the No. 4 running back. It also leaves him as strictly a special teams player. “He’s on all the special teams and that’s what he’s going to do,” Redskins running backs coach Stump Mitchell said of Cartwright. That’s not what Cartwright wants to hear. “I’ve been getting pushed back for the last four years now,” he said. “Marcus had a great preseason; he always has a great preseason. Now he takes my reps and I’m the fourth guy that’s just labeled as a...

Continued...

 

Daniel headed to New Orleans

Chase Daniel won’t be in Washington after all. The New Orleans Saints signed him to their practice squad, one day after the Redskins cut him. In a tweet Saturday afternoon, Daniel had said the Redskins told him he’d end up on their practice squad. However, a Redskins source had said earlier in the day that he would not be returning. Among the reasons Washington did not retain him: his size and arm strength, judging it not to be at NFL standards. The Redskins have only two quarterbacks on their roster after placing Colt Brennan on injured reserve. Follow me on twitter...

Continued...

 

Five to practice squad

The Redskins signed safety Lendy Holmes, defensive ends Rob Jackson and J.D. Skolnitsky, fullback Eddie Williams and receiver Trent Shelton to the practice squad. They still have three spots available. Defensive tackle Antonio Dixon would have been an option, but the Philadelphia Eagles claimed him. Shelton has spent time on practice squads in Indianapolis and Seattle. Jackson was on the active roster last year while Williams was a draft pick this past April. Follow me on twitter...

Continued...

 

Positional review: Where the 'Skins are better, worse

Quarterbacks Better or worse: Better Jason Campbell and Todd Collins both are in the second year of Jim Zorn’s system, which should help on the field. At least that’s the theory. Campbell has limitations and is still dependant on those around him; good defenses will trouble him. He’ll be better; how much so remains to be seen. This is a slight leap of faith here. Running backs Better or worse: Same You could actually argue that they’re worse considering the mileage on Clinton Portis and his age, 28. This is a veteran group so they’re not exactly going to get better. Sorry, but Marcus Mason’s addition doesn’t bump them up. However, I...

Continued...

 

Roster review: The final cuts

Roster Review: The final cuts Ten thoughts: 1. The Redskins backup offensive line situation is very, very shaky. The team keeps saying how well Mike Williams played vs. Jacksonville, if Williams has to play any time soon, the Redskins are in trouble in pass protection. He is simply too inconsistent with his hands and has too much rust. The Redskins had better hope nothing happens to their starting line. 2. Marko Mitchell and Edwin Williams came the furthest, without a doubt. Williams much more so than Mitchell. At least the latter was a draft pick. However, I liked Williams early in camp as a center to watch in a couple years. Still, the thought at that time was practice squad. I...

Continued...

 

Redskins cuts

Here are the players Washington cut today: TE Robbie Agnone RB Anthony Alridge G/T Jeremy Bridges T Scott Burley DE Alex Buzbee QB Chase Daniel DT Antonio Dixon RB Dominique Dorsey CB Doug Dutch WR Keith Eloi LB Cody Glenn WR D.J. Hackett S Lendy Holmes DE Rob Jackson K Dave Rayner G Rueben Riley WR Trent Shelton DL J.D. Skolnitsky LB Robert Thomas FB Eddie Williams LB Darrel...

Continued...

 

Chase released, Colt placed on IR

The Redskins rewarded two local players and cut two draft picks. They ended their No. 3 quarterback dual with a twist. And they kept an undrafted free agent along the offensive line, while cutting a veteran tackle. In the end, Washington cut 22 players to get to the final limit of 53 players. Among those kept: corner Byron Westbrook and running back Marcus Mason. Both had been cut each of the past two years. Visit John Keim's blog, Redskins Confidential, for more analysis on the trimming of the roster to 53: Redskins cuts Roster review: The final cuts They also kept incumbent kicker Shaun Suisham over Dave Rayner. Suisham made two of three kicks this preseason; Rayner made his...

Continued...

 

Skins face tough decisions at roster deadline

The players finished their lobbying Thursday, doing what they could to make the final roster. Now the coaches have their say. And by Saturday afternoon, the Redskins will know: if Colt Brennan or Chase Daniel is the No. 3 quarterback; if Marcus Mason wins a roster spot and if there will be any surprises among the 53-man roster. Washington must cut 22 players by 4 p.m. Saturday. Among the choices they face: Colt or Chase? » Both players had positive moments in the preseason finale. Brennan entered camp as a firm No. 3, but Daniel’s ability to throw in rhythm and make quick decisions narrowed the gap. “That will be another heavily-discussed item on the docket,”...

Continued...

 

Upon further review: From Jason to Mason

1. Jason Campbell ended the preseason with two excellent games. He has not faced a pass rush in the past two games and that will change in the opener vs. the New York Giants. But I loved how confident Campbell was in the pocket. He made decisive throws and the pass to Antwaan Randle El could not have been delivered better. Gotta make that catch. I’ve seen enough the past couple weeks, and last year, from Campbell to know that he’ll be fine – if the protection holds up and the running game is sound. The former is still a worry, despite the preseason numbers. We’ll learn a lot more in Week 1 than we did the past two weeks. 2. Anthony Alridge has to be in trouble now....

Continued...

 

Fourth quarter review

…Colt Brennan looks a lot more composed tonight. It helps that he’s getting better protection than Chase Daniel. But, still, Brennan is making good decisions and throwing much more in rhythm. Notice his feet: he’s going 1-2-3-4-5, plant and throw. Makes a difference. …He’s also not forcing passes. The 87-yard touchdown drive was a nice job by him. …No, it’s not fair to compare Brennan’s night to Daniel’s because of who they were facing. But, really, this competition has mostly been about Brennan. Had Colt looked like this all preseason we’d be having no discussions about Daniel. Brennan is on tonight. …Mike Williams...

Continued...

 

Third quarter review

…If the Redskins are being honest with themselves, they cut Mike Williams. He hasn’t shown enough to win a spot. But that probably won’t happen. In his limited time tonight, he’s been beaten four times to allow a sack or pressure. Think about that. Yes, there’s rust. But how much of it is rust? …I love how easy Chase Daniel throws the ball on the short stuff. He gets the ball, makes the read and unloads with a nice easy delivery. But I still don’t think he’d ever be anything more than a No. 3 QB. …Still, he did a nice job with more pressure on one third down play where he was pinched, snuck out of the pocket, using his shoulders...

Continued...

 

Second quarter review

…Robert Henson had a big stick on special teams. In the first quarter, Darrel Young made a nice play on a punt as well. …Kevin Barnes will make the roster, but he’s just not ready to play a lot against experienced receivers. That’s not a knock, just a fact. Justin Tryon is much further ahead and has steadily played better each week. He continues to play in the slot at times, but he’s doing a better job. He’ll get beat, I’m sure, at times. But he’s improved. …Chase Daniel had no chance thanks to his protection. He had a pass dropped by Marko Mitchell, had a pass batted down because Chad Rinehart was shoved back and was pressured...

Continued...

 

First quarter review

…Ignore what the Jaguars have done; minus Albert Haynesworth and London Fletcher, this is a different defense. But I do like how Renaldo Wynn has played. He’s been too quiet for my liking for much of the preseason, but he did a great job playing the run a few times, stringing out the play in which Chris Horton had a big hit. Wynn held his ground. He did his job. …The Redskins want to get a good look at Rob Jackson, another guy who’s been quiet. Made a nice hustle play to poke the ball out from Maurice Jones-Drew. …Anthony Alridge might be fast, but goodness sakes how many times can one man fumble? He did it often in training camp. Carry the ball in the...

Continued...

 

The waiting is the hardest part

For players on bubble, this is the last chance to make an impression ASHBURN - The trick is to ignore the math, a complicated task when a paycheck depends on those numbers adding up in their favor. Robert Thomas knows this. He also knows this is not the spot he anticipated being in long ago. But with one game left in the preseason, he's like many Redskins. He's waiting to learn his fate, which will come by early Saturday evening. "You make yourself miserable wondering," Thomas said. However, Thomas is unlike many players in that he entered the NFL as a first-round pick, the 31st overall pick by St. Louis in 2002. He's started 50 games since then, but his career hasn't taken...

Continued...

 

Redskins: Five to watch

RT Mike Williams Based on his summer performance, and constant injuries, he should be cut. But that assumes the Redskins have good backups. They don't. So Williams needs to get through the Jacksonville game healthy and show a pulse. The Redskins seem intent on giving him a roster spot. RB Anthony Alridge Locked in a battle with Marcus Mason for a possible fourth running back spot. Alridge offers something different: speed. The Redskins have no change-of-pace back. However, he had numerous fumble problems early in camp. He came recommended from Vinny Cerrato's good friend, ex-Denver coach Mike Shanahan. QB Colt Brennan The 2008 summer darling needs a good night to keep the No. 3 job....

Continued...

 

Redskins: What we need to see

More field goals Really, what fan doesn't want that? Nothing is more exciting than a preseason game highlighted by lots of field goals. But one of the last things the Redskins must do is pick a kicker. Thus far, the Redskins have attempted three field goals. That's hardly a way to find a winner. There doesn't seem to be much difference between Shaun Suisham and Dave Rayner at this point, though Rayner's NFL resume is weaker. If they don't get more opportunities, that could be the difference. Better running lanes The Redskins' first offense failed to create them vs. New England, which had a front seven made to stop the run. It worked. Even though Clinton Portis won't play, it would be...

Continued...

 

53 man roster

Because there aren’t enough ‘experts’ analyzing the roster: Quarterbacks Locks: Jason Campbell, Todd Collins. Colt or Chase: Colt Brennan. His errors have been bad, but correctable – they come from indecisiveness, which can be helped through experience. But Brennan best not have a bad game. Another factor: It’s doubtful that Daniel would be picked up by another team if he’s cut, so the Redskins could stash him on their practice squad. My guess is that the coaches would like to keep Daniel because they like his intangibles more, but that Brennan has a higher ceiling. Running backs Locks: Clinton Portis, Ladell Betts, Rock Cartwright, Mike Sellers. One...

Continued...

 

Colt getting Chased down?

Battle for No. 3 QB comes down to final preseason game ASHBURN - A strong rookie summer segued into spring optimism as Colt Brennan eyed something more. He wanted to challenge Todd Collins for the backup quarterback job. For Brennan, at least, it was realistic. But he faces a different reality. Brennan might need a strong showing vs. Jacksonville on Thursday just to keep his spot on the roster. With final cuts needing to be made by Saturday afternoon, he's fighting rookie undrafted free agent Chase Daniel for the No. 3 job. Both will play after Jason Campbell exits Thursday. The coaches insist the players are relatively even, though it's just as likely that Brennan would keep...

Continued...

 

Goodell: Lockout is not a strategy

ASHBURN - NFL commissioner Roger Goodell tried to calm worries about a possible lockout in two years and addressed player safety issues. He also fielded a question from a rare source: a rookie. After hearing Goodell talk about various topics, defensive end Jeremy Jarmon wanted to know one more thing. So when Goodell was done, Jarmon introduced himself and asked what he would do to make the game safer, not just for quarterbacks, but defensive ends as well. Jarmon asked if the league would enforce rules on leg whips and if they would make chop blocks illegal. "I was dead serious," Jarmon said. "He said I was the second or third guy who asked if there was a plan to ban cut...

Continued...

 

Portis on Riggins, Part I

Redskins running back Clinton Portis verbally took on John Riggins again today. It echoed the comments he gave to the Washington Examiner for a story that ran Aug. 9 (http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/sports/Running-past-Riggins_-Redskins-record-8077764-52793847.html) Here's what he said back then about Riggins, who had taken a couple shots at him in the offseason: "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...

Continued...

 

The Slant: Secondary concerns?

The strength of Washington’s defense last season was the secondary, covering up enough sins with the pass rush to become the NFL’s fourth-ranked defense. Can they repeat that performance? Not everyone is certain. Nobody is doubting there’s talent in the secondary. But there are some questions: 1. Carlos Rogers’ health. Nobody knows if his calf injury will nag him during the season, but why wouldn’t it? Rogers has nursed this injury most of the preaesason and they still don’t know if he’ll be able to play Thursday. This isn’t one of those if-there-was-a-game-today type of injuries. The problem with this is, it could restrict or lessen...

Continued...

 

Redskins notes 8/31

Position review Defensive line Lorenzo Alexander, 6-1, 297 pounds Alexander has worked his way into becoming a solid part of Washington's defensive line rotation, mainly because of his versatility and quickness. Alexander will be used at end and at tackle, depending on the situation. His improvement is why the Redskins did not re-sign Demetric Evans this past offseason. "He's taken the job that [Evans] had last year and he's taken it to another level," Redskins defensive coordinator Greg Blache said. "He's been doing a great job; his stock has gone up. He's a big part of our chances of being successful this season." Rob Jackson, 6-4, 269 pounds Jackson is in...

Continued...

 

Empty stat sheet for Skins' defense

Lack of turnovers, sacks mirrors 2008 ASHBURN - This isn't the start he wanted, even if it is just preseason. And DeAngelo Hall is not just talking about himself. It's the entire defense. Yes, it's just summer. Yes, they were the NFL's fourth-ranked unit. Yes, they added more than they lost. But after three preseason games, the starting defense hasn't intercepted the starting quarterback and they've produced just one sack, though New England, for example, threw the majority of its passes off three-step drops. Still, the Redskins' problems in 2008, a lack of sacks and turnovers, loom in 2009. And Hall, coming off a subpar showing vs. Randy Moss, has been silent as well. He's the...

Continued...

 

Positional review: running backs

Anthony Alridge 5-foot-9, 175 pounds Alridge had a good night in his first preseason action, though it all came in the fourth quarter and mostly against players who will be cut. Still, he managed 49 yards on nine carries and showed good speed off the edge. On one nine-yard run around the left end, fullback Eddie Williams did not get much movement on the linebacker, who easily shed the block. However, Alridge was around the end so fast it didn’t matter. Though it’ll be hard to land a roster spot, his speed makes him intriguing (though early camp fumbles did not). Marcus Mason 5-foot-9, 215 pounds Mason continues to run hard and with good patience, especially on sweeps....

Continued...

 

Chalk talk: The fade route

Save for Chase Daniel’s pass to Marko Mitchell in the end zone, the Redskins have not executed the fade pass all that well this summer. Even in practice, at least the portion open to the media, it was a 50-50 ball at best. Against New England, Jason Campbell could not connect with Malcolm Kelly on the route. Two mistakes occurred on the play: one, Kelly needed to do a better job of getting into the defensive back before making his move. He did not create much space because of his inability to do this; in college, he could get away with that, but not in the NFL. “It wasn’t as aggressive,” Redskins coach Jim Zorn said. “He just took off instead of setting the...

Continued...

 

Thomas: A dual threat?

Receiver looked good returning kicks ASHBURN - His impact wasn't unusual, not in his mind. What Devin Thomas did Friday vs. New England is exactly what he did in college: threaten teams as a returner and as a pass catcher. To this point, he hadn't done either in the NFL. Which is why, as Thomas explained his desire to return more kicks, secondary coach Jerry Gray walked by and needled him with a laugh, "It's about time." But Thomas showed Friday that perhaps he could be a threat on kick returns. He and his coaches also said performing that role helped him contribute more as a receiver. And that's where he needs to do more. Thomas remains in competition for the No. 2...

Continued...

 

Redskins notes

Position review Running backs Anthony Alridge, 5-9, 175 pounds Alridge had a good night in his first preseason action, though it all came in the fourth quarter and mostly against players who will be cut. Still, he managed 49 yards on nine carries and showed good speed off the edge. On one nine-yard run around the left end, fullback Eddie Williams did not get much movement on the linebacker, who easily shed the block. However, Alridge was around the end so fast it didn't matter. Though it'll be hard to land a roster spot, his speed makes him intriguing (though early camp fumbles did not). Marcus Mason, 5-9, 215 pounds Mason continues to run hard and with good patience, especially on...

Continued...

 

The Slant: Five thoughts

1. Greg Blache will be a bit on edge all season with the pass rush. Did you see his exchange with CSN's Trevor Matich? http://www.sportingnews.com/blog/the_sporting_blog/entry/view/32108/at_least_greg_blache_can_pressure_trevor_matich Matich asked a seemingly innocent question: how would you evaluate the pass rush? After answering, as you'll see if you watch the video, Blache turned it back to Matich by questioning his motive for asking the question. Blache is under pressure this season to produce more pressure given the additions up front. Some coaches, perhaps, like it when they don't have those expectations; it's easier to exceed them. When he was a defensive coordinator in Chicago, he...

Continued...

 

Quarterback watch - Colt Brennan

Brennan did not distinguish himself once again. There's a reason the coaches left him in all game; they're trying to make a decision on whether or not he can develop into anything other than a No. 3. Brennan did not make a bad decision on his interception, but it was a more aggressive choice. If the pass isn't perfect, and it was way too far inside, it's six points the other way. Which, of course, happened. Until his touchdown throw, he looked like a guy who would soon be...

Continued...

 

Player of Note - Devin Thomas

Devin Thomas Receiver He played one of his better games, with three catches for 36 yards and three kick returns for 79 more. He did a better job competing on passes, though he still must come back stronger for the ball. Thomas almost appeared more relaxed, perhaps getting into a better rhythm because he returned kicks. Rock Cartwright won't be replaced as a returner, but pairing Thomas with him is...

Continued...

 

Position Review - Secondary

DeAngelo Hall 5-foot-10, 195 pounds The Redskins paid Hall a handsome salary before free agency started. In return, they expect him to play like a No. 1 corner. That was not the case vs. New England. Hall was beaten for a 26-yard touchdown by Randy Moss in which the size mismatch hurt him. Had this been a regular-season game, the bigger Carlos Rogers might have covered Moss. Hall also failed to get a good jam on another route where Moss wound up with a 27-yard touchdown against safety LaRon Landry. Kevin Barnes 6-foot-1 188 pounds The rookie corner from Maryland intercepted a third-quarter pass for one reason. He did exactly what he was supposed to do. On the play, Pats quarterback...

Continued...

 

Campbell silences the critics ... for now

ASHBURN - Jason Campbell produced two things missing in the first two games: points and hope. He made plays in the pocket; he delivered timely passes for first downs and even resorted to a backyard-type fake to score another touchdown. Campbell needed this night. The Redskins needed this night. And, yet ... The running game produced nothing and the defense did even less, at least when New England quarterback Tom Brady was in the game. Brady completed 12 of 19 passes for 150 yards and two touchdowns, but did not play in the second half of New England's 27-24 win because of a sore shoulder. The Patriots scored 17 first-half points but they were stopped for three-and-outs on their last...

Continued...

 

Upon further review

1. Jason Campbell was much more decisive on his throws. It helped that he had decent time to throw, but not always. It seems with Campbell he’ll have a game like this followed by a bad one where he’s indecisive. That bothers the coaches and leaves them perplexed about where he’s headed. Campbell got into a better rhythm, though he was asked to throw tough passes much of the night, much tougher than, say, Tom Brady. But Brady and his receivers took what the defense gave them, so it’s not a straight comparison. 2. The plays also helped as Zorn seemed to find his rhythm, too. I loved the pass to Chris Cooley that resulted in a 73-yard gain. Cooley simply snuck...

Continued...

 

Patriots edge Skins

His numbers suggested a strong night, highlighted by three scoring drives, a 73-yard pass, a four-yard touchdown run and a number of pats on the back. Yet Jason Campbell knows all it did was silence the critics for, oh, a few minutes. Because he knows they really can’t be silenced. “Never,” he said. “It’s never enough. Next week it will be, ‘He didn’t hit the big ball.’” Campbell was kidding, sort of. But it was that kind of night for Campbell in the Redskins 27-24 loss to New England. The game ended poorly for Washington — the Patriots’ Stephen Gostkowski kicked a 30-yard field with eight seconds remaining for the win....

Continued...

 

Fourth quarter review

...Lorenzo Alexander is excellent in pursuit, but he also got shoved aside on a few runs up the middle. ...Would like to see Rob Jackson do something; but haven't seen him do anything since early in camp. ...H. B. Blades had an excellent hit filling the hole on one run. However, he has a difficult time getting off blocks, which was evident on BenJarvus Green-Ellis' 22-yard run. But Blades' hit caused a fumble that Byron Westbrook recovered. That's three turnovers tonight and it could have been even more. That's a good sign. ...I will say, the crowd is rather lively for a preseason game. Chants of ''Defense! Defense'' And the wave... I'd say they make a lot of noise for 69,384 fans...

Continued...

 

Third quarter review

...Talked to one NFL evaluator at halftime; thought the Skins need to do a better job of giving Campbell some easy pases to compete. Said he's not the sort to go long then work his way back down; needs to start short and then go long. Sort of like what the Pats did with Tom Brady. But Brady has receivers who are excellent underneath and long; so it opens up a lot of possibilities underneath. ...Nine penalties by early in the third? Not good. Great insight on that comment, huh? ...Fred Smoot is better when he plays press coverage. The plays he's made tonight have come out of this coverage. Otherwise, the DBs have given too much cushion at times. ...OK, what did we say about Landry...

Continued...

 

Second quarter review

...LaRon Landry is having a bad game. It's not just the touchdown he was beaten on; looked like he was expecting him to cut out and was caught flat-footed. But he's missed a tackle because of a bad angle and was dragged a few yards on another run by Laurence Maroney. I'd like to start seeing him make the big plays they've talked about. So far, just haven't seen enough to say he'll have a breakout year. ...The Patriots are just beating Washington with a lot of quick throws. Makes you wonder how many teams will use that strategy, to neutralize the threat of the rush. The Pats have spread the field and put themselves in good one-on-one situations -- and won. Lots of quick passes wide and...

Continued...

 

First quarter review

...Dave Rayner had a terrific opening kickoff; was to the goal-line and to the right side. And the coverage was good. Alas, Reed Doughty was offsides. If this kicker competition remains tight, the ability to kick off deep and with good direction will help. ...Brian Orakpo run blitzed on the first snap and was very decisive getting to the ball. Seems to be a wise thing to have him doing that a decent amount; get him moving forward and causing problems with his quickness. He was in on the tackle, too, for a 1-yard gain. ...New England's backup NG Mike Wright got inside Casey Rabach on the first offensive snap and shoved him back to make the tackle. Not a good block by Rabach. ...Jason...

Continued...

 

Making a good impression

Players on the bubble must show versatility ASHBURN - He considers himself a center, a position he's played for most of his football life. Snap and block. Edwin Williams could do that with no problem. But he didn't do it well enough to get drafted. And that means a guy who wasn't good enough to be drafted at his most comfortable position must impress his coaches at a new one -- in only four preseason games. However, that's the spot that Williams and a few other Redskins find themselves in heading into the third preseason game. Receiver Marko Mitchell can't just show that he can catch passes, though that helps of course. As a player fighting for the fifth receiver spot, he also has to...

Continued...

 

What we need to see

Points » The Redskins moved the ball on their first drive vs. Pittsburgh, helped by a fake punt, but were stalled near the goal line. This offense needs to prove it can score touchdowns in those situations. What would be helpful to see is the Redskins scoring on a big play by someone other than Santana Moss. That, as much as anything, would give the offense a boost. Turnovers » The No. 1 defense has not produced one so far, a problem that plagued them in 2008 when they created only 18. Elite defenses produce more. One question we have is, does playing the safeties so deep prevent some picks over the middle? It didn't stop the late Sean Taylor from getting them, but LaRon...

Continued...

 

Five to watch

Players who must show something vs. New England on Friday: CB Justin Tryon With Carlos Rogers sidelined, he will get another chance against starting receivers. In this role vs. Baltimore, he was picked on often. Tryon was better last week, but he also wasn’t targeted. Tryon must prove he can compete against top players; otherwise corner depth is an issue. Though Kevin Barnes played better last week, he still had been up and down in practice until this past week (we no longer can watch all of practice). It's hard to imagine Barnes playing well enough to supplant Tryon at this point. The Redskins need Tryon to play well. RB Anthony Alridge Hasn’t yet played because of a...

Continued...

 

The Slant: Brian Orakpo

Brian Orakpo has answered some questions already, at least as a pass rusher in the preseason. It certainly appears he'll do the same once the regular season starts. If nothing else, he'll be a threat to hit the passer, with his speed and strength -- and playing next to Albert Haynesworth. But other questions remain: Should he be a full-time end? The early answer is no. Just because he's shown he can be a good pass rusher does not mean anything more than that. Playing the run is as much technique as anything and if Washington replaced Andre Carter with him, the run defense would suffer. Like him or not, Carter would be better against the run than a rookie Orakpo. Also, the Redskins...

Continued...

 

Position overview: secondary

Carlos Rogers 6-foot, 190 pounds Rogers (strained left calf) will not play vs. New because of his strained left calf and he’s not sure how much work vs. Jacksonville in the preseason finale. Rogers missed the Baltimore game. However, he said his calf swelled the day after playing Pittsburgh. He hasn’t practiced all week. Rogers said he’s not concerned that this will be a nagging injury all season. “I don’t think so,” he said. “It has been frustrating not to be able to go through camp how I wanted to. I just need to take the proper rest and just make sure.” However, there has to be some worry considering that it hasn't gone away. Not to...

Continued...

 

Injury report

Corner Carlos Rogers (calf) and running back/kick returner Rock Cartwright (groin) will not play against New England on Friday. Right tackle Mike Williams (ankle) is still questionable despite having practiced today. Receiver Devin Thomas will get some work as a kick returner in place of Cartwright. Rogers said he's not sure how much time, if any, he'll receive vs. Jacksonville in the preseason finale. He said he's not concerned about it nagging him during the season. But he also said he won't return until it feels normal to make sure that doesn't happen. After going through Shawn Springs' calf injury last season, they will allow Rogers to take his time....

Continued...

 

The Slant: Jason Campbell

His 2008 season revealed all we need to know about Jason Campbell: When everything is going well for him, he can flourish; when it isn’t, he won’t. Just like a lot of quarterbacks, but certainly not like a franchise one. Ben Roethlisberger can get sacked and pressured almost as much as any quarterback, yet still made big plays and led his team to a Super Bowl. Could Campbell? Many have their doubts. During the whole Jay Cutler talk, one GM told me he liked Campbell’s toughness and was OK with his accuracy, but questioned his instincts. That, he said, would hold him back. Forget the numbers about receivers dropping passes and the minutia about his accuracy; does he pass...

Continued...

 

A front line with 'attitude'

Skins show potential, flaws in preseason ASHBURN - The first series showed the potential, with the Redskins doing something unusual. They forced the quarterback out of the pocket and into hurried incompletions with only four linemen rushing most of the time. It turned into a short series, prolonged only by a penalty. The second series showed the flaws. Pittsburgh opted for quick passes and burned the blitz for a 16-yard gain, turning it into a touchdown drive. But the good has outweighed the bad for the Redskins' defensive line this summer. And they've turned into a defense that can pressure without resorting to blitzes. The defensive backs notice a difference. Corner DeAngelo Hall...

Continued...

 

Position review: offensive line

review Offensive line Stephon Heyer 6-foot-6, 330 pounds Heyer was supposed to be engaged in a battle all camp for the starting right tackle job. The fight never happened. Mike Williams has been hurt much of camp and Jeremy Bridges has been unimpressive. And Heyer has continued to improve. “He’s way ahead of everybody,” offensive line coach Joe Bugel said. “He’s a legit tackle. He deserves to be the starter. He’s been through all kinds of torment and torture by me for three years. He deserves the opportunity. “He’s a completely different person now. It means something to him. He’s very serious.” Heyer’s pass protection...

Continued...

 

The Slant

The Redskins’ offensive line showed signs of life vs. Pittsburgh, especially on the 15-play drive. It made a huge difference having right guard Randy Thomas in the game. He was able to get to the linebackers; he reminded everyone of his ability to pull. And he no doubt served as a comfort for young Stephon Heyer. There were some issues, but facing an elite defense will provide some. When healthy, it’s a line that should do a solid job run blocking and be semi-decent in pass protection – they’ll be fine when they have the defense off-balance and struggle when they don’t. That’s been their rep for years. Jason Campbell had time to throw Saturday; his...

Continued...

 

The 'big' man on campus

Daniel is giving Colt a scare for No. 3 QB job ASHBURN - The newest hot quarterback stood off to the side, answering questions about: how many text messages he got; if he understands the fuss being made over him; if he can win a roster spot. Four cameras pointed at him; another five or so reporters gathered around Chase Daniel. The new "It" guy. Meanwhile, the old hot quarterback was forced to answer questions about his sputtering preseason. A couple reporters gathered around Colt Brennan. Is he now the old "It" guy? Saturday, Daniel, the undrafted free agent, made his preseason debut completing six of eight passes for 58 yards and two touchdowns. Meanwhile,...

Continued...

 

Redskins notes

Redskins notes » Redskins coach Jim Zorn said he hasn't decided on which receiver will be the No. 2 wideout opposite Santana Moss. Malcolm Kelly started there vs. Pittsburgh while Devin Thomas got the start vs. Baltimore. Kelly has been more productive with five catches for 47 yards compared to Thomas' two catches for 19 yards. Antwaan Randle El also is a possibility, though the Redskins seem to like him as a slot receiver rather than as a flanker, which is what the No. 2 guy would play. "Whoever performs is who will get the No. 2 spot," Kelly said. Kelly, coming off a season of knee problems, said he's a different receiver now. "When I line up I have a plan...

Continued...

 

Colt vs. Chase

Got a story running tomorrow about Chase Daniel and Colt Brennan. Here are a few thoughts on their competition. 1. Chase Daniel is not ready to be on a 53-man roster. I like the kid a lot; has a toughness to him and he knows that all he's done is have a good series or two. He's humble. He hasn't exactly lit it up on the practice field, either. Daniel has a decent arm, but nobody knows yet whether he can stand in the pocket and read a defense. If you put him on a practice squad, nobody likely would claim him. 2. Daniel's size hurts him. I'm about 5-foot-10 in my shoes; it feels like I'm looking straight at Daniel's eyes during interviews. The Redskins insist he's 6-feet; that's what...

Continued...

 

New wrinkle; same old story

Redskins line holds up but Campbell misfires ASHBURN - The little twist on the issue occurred Saturday night, with the offensive line affording Jason Campbell the one luxury he wanted most: time. On the first snap of the game, Campbell sat in the pocket and unloaded a deep ball to Malcolm Kelly. It was short. Later, Campbell, setting strong in the pocket, looked deep to Santana Moss. But the wideout went inside; the quarterback threw outside and another incompletion was recorded in the stat book. In the past, the line was blamed for the Redskins' inability to generate offense downfield. They did their job Saturday in the 17-13 win over Pittsburgh. But Campbell and the passing game did...

Continued...

 

Redskins notes 8/23

Redskins notes » Fullback Mike Sellers (knee) and running back Ladell Betts (oblique) should be fine, Redskins coach Jim Zorn said. Both were hurt in Saturday's 17-13 preseason win over Pittsburgh. » Left tackle Chris Samuels had a sore knee entering the game and Zorn said there was some doubt about whether or not he would play. Samuels left the game after the Redskins' second drive Saturday, though the other starting linemen remained in the game. Zorn said he does not think the knee will be an issue during the season. » Offensive tackle Mike Williams (ankle) has a chance to play vs. New England, Zorn said. Williams hurt his ankle in practice last week. Running...

Continued...

 

Upon further review

Ten thoughts from the Redskins-Steelers game: 1. The plan all along was to play Chase Daniel ahead of Colt Brennan Saturday night. Do not read into the decision to play him early in the second half. Daniel did a nice job and Brennan needs to improve; he's achieved an undeserved status. But Daniel still has a ways to go. Still wonder about his size (6-feet? Hard to believe), but he does have intangibles. Brennan takes more chances, hence the interception (a bad read not to mention a staredown of the receiver). Can Daniel unseat Brennan? I still have my doubts. However, Brennan needs to show more. He has not exactly starred either in games or in practice. 2. Once again, the backup...

Continued...

 

Daniel's 2 TDs power Skins past Steelers, 17-13

The first offense moved the ball down the field, showing signs of life that weren’t evident last week. Or at the end of last season. But then. The first offense failed to get into the end zone, despite driving deep in Pittsburgh territory. Thanks to a longshot backup quarterback, however, the Redskins were able to escape with a 17-13 win over Pittsburgh, the defending Super Bowl champions who played without quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (foot). But it was a better showing than the 23-0 preseason opening loss to Baltimore. Rookie quarterback Chase Daniel completed six of eight passes for 58 yards and two touchdowns, leading the comeback. Those numbers provided second-half...

Continued...

 

Fourth quarter review

1. Chase Daniel executed a nice play-action pass on the 18-yard touchdown to Fred Davis. Completely froze the linebacker, opening the lane for the pass. 2. Trent Shelton appeared to get too wide on the 45-yard kickoff return. His only way to make the team is on special teams. Marko Mitchell is at least making some plays. Other receivers must do the same. 3. Chris Wilson and Rob Jackson pinched the quarterback on Alex Buzbee's and Antonio Dixon's sack. Worked the way it should, with the ends forcing the QB up the middle. 4. D'Anthony Batiste did a poor job in one-on-one blocking. 5. Fred Davis forces a fumble? Good two-play sequence for him. But what was that end zone dance? 6. I...

Continued...

 

Third quarter review

1. Jeremy Jarmon still needs to learn to play the run. Got stoned twice on running plays, once at left end and another at right. That's why the Skins want him to add strength. 2. Will Montgomery and Eddie Williams both had good blocks on Marcus Mason's 18-yard run. Williams has work to do in this area, so it was good to see improvement. 3. Dominique Dorsey showed both good and bad on his punt return. He dropped the punt -- that happens way too much -- but showed his burst around the edge. 4. Marcus Mason has had some smart cuts where he's only gained a couple yards. The key: had he not cut and tried for a big run, he would have lost a bunch. Still, the key for him is to make plays on...

Continued...

 

Second quarter review

1. Jason Campbell looked off (though he did not play in the second quarter). Though everyone wants a deep passing game, Campbell is best when he works short to long, allowing him to get into a rhythm. Just never had it. 2. It was hard to tell if Justin Tryon truly broke up the pass on the sidelines to Limas Sweed, though it appeared the receiver dropped it. He did have good coverage. 3. Jeremy Bridges can not re-adjust on plays. Linebacker Andre Frazier stepped to the outside, then shot inside for an easy path to Todd Collins. Bridges could not adjust. That's what a linemen MUST do. 4. If Mike Sellers, who has a right knee contusion and wil not return, was ever hurt for an extended...

Continued...

 

First quarter review

1. The first defensive snap showed what Albert Haynesworth could do without doing anything. He drew a double team, breaking through center Justin Hartwig. But the real key is that Andre Carter drew a one-on-one -- and got underneath Max Starks' pads for an easy path to the quarterback. He batted down the attempted screen. 2. The first time Brian Orakpo lined up next to Haynesworth he played tackle while the big fella was at end. Orakpo showed he could go inside on a stunt, as he did last week. Another time he went inside as Haynesworth went out, a combination of speed and power. 3. Two tough calls. The new emphasis is on hits vs. defenseless receivers while leading with the shoulder...

Continued...

 

Five to watch

Who to watch vs. Pittsburgh: CB Justin Tryon Coming off a poor preseason opener after a rough summer in 2008. However, he has responded well in practice, not giving receivers as much cushion; not getting beat as much in the slot. But he needs to prove he can transfer that to games. Otherwise, he'll be the DB version of Taylor Jacobs, who would look like a star receiver in practice but do nothing in games. LT Chris Samuels He’ll face the NFL Defensive player of the year in James Harrison, the pass-rushing linebacker. Samuels has had problems with Brian Orakpo at times this summer. For the offense to flourish, Samuels must get by without needing much help, so the coaches can send...

Continued...

 

Follow me on twitter

OK, a little admission: I actually could have started tweeting last week and was all set to until... the Redskins said no tweeting from practice! (Unless, of course, you're employed by the team and the information will be more to their liking.). But now we begin our tweets. Follow me at www.twitter.com/jwkeim I will not tell you what I had for breakfast (though I do like my oatmeal and fruit and coffee); nor will I let you know that I just watched yet another Seinfeld episode (imagine the trouble George would get in with twitter). But I will keep you posted on the Redskins, from injuries to quick analysis/opinion on everything from Brian Orakpo to Jason Campbell. Enjoy and I'll tweet...

Continued...

 

Camp studs

Ten players who made an impression throughout camp. Doesn’t mean they’ll have great years, but it does mean they’ve either improved or looked good this summer: 1. Brian Orakpo. I love watching how low he gets around the edge; tackles will hate it. He consistently gets underneath the pads, especially of tall tackles, of which there are many. He’ll force tackles to bend lower. When they get tired in the fourth quarter, that will be more difficult. I also have no problem with the Redskins not having him play end every down. His skill is rushing the passer; if he’s battling 330-pound tackles all game, what will he have left? He has much more to learn as a...

Continued...

 

Mitchell making progress

WR has been pleasant surprise during camp ASHBURN - The momentum started building after the intrasquad scrimmage, when Redskins receiver Marko Mitchell showed one thing above all else. He could catch the ball. So Sherman Smith issued a challenge the next day. He asked Mitchell if he could go a week without dropping a ball -- whether in individual or full-team work. After the week ended, Mitchell finally dropped a pass. "I should have said two weeks," Smith said. "This guy has dropped only a couple passes since he's been here." Mitchell, a seventh-round pick from Nevada, drew oooohs from the players for a catch over Carlos Rogers Thursday. When he was drafted, he...

Continued...

 

Rally towels: Ten months late

The Redskins are handing out 50,000 rally towels for Saturday's home preseason opener against the Steelers. Boy, that'll really show those Steelers fans who's home it is. That is, if there aren't, say, 30,000 Steeler fans in attendance. That's why one question I have about this is: will there be 50,000 Redskins fans in attendance? It appeared they only had a little more than 50 thousand for the regular-season home game last November. Of course, that 23-0 loss to Baltimore probably energized the Redskins fan base. Who wouldn't want to spend a Saturday night watching a repeat performance? There's absolutely no doubt that handing out these towels was a response to the embarrasment last...

Continued...

 

Studs and Duds

Not a full-pad workout this morning; still a few notable plays/efforts on this last day of two-a-days. Studs WR Marko Mitchell. Has flashed a lot the past three days, displaying excellent hands -- as he has all camp. But he's now doing a better job on routes other than go's and slants (though he burned Kevin Barnes on a stop and go). He made a nice grab along the right sidelines, with arms outstretched, against Carlos Rogers. He is not necessarily in the lead for the No. 5 spot; Marques Hagans, Trent Shelton and D.J. Hackett are in that race. But it might be hard to slip a 6-foot-4 receiver whose shown he can run through waivers. DE Andre Carter. Tipped a pass on the first play of...

Continued...

 

Sights and sounds of practice

...Before practice, one of the defensive linemen's drills is to run around three tackling dummies, then turn back and get to one that serves as the quarterback. The defensive backs, finished with their individual work, watched. That gave Fred Smoot a chance to yap a little bit. ''We'll come over and do that drill, no problem,'' he shouted to the linemen. ''We would love to get some of those pass-rush drills.'' ...Rookie Jeremy Jarmon, from the University of Kentucky, was one of the last D-linemen to perform this drill. Secondary coach Jerry Gray shouted to him, ''Come on Kentucky Bourbon, let's go!'' ...And now back to Smoot. ''Where you at Dix!'' he yelled to rookie Antonio Dixon....

Continued...

 

'I'd call him old school'

Still seeking a ring, Thomas concentrates on winning, not the pain ASHBURN - The doctor delivered the news, Randy Thomas processed it for a minute -- heard the phrase "possible paralysis" -- and came to a quick conclusion, one that surprised nobody. Thomas would keep playing. And he never thought about the potential danger again. "Once I commit to something, that's what I'm going to do," Thomas said. But it's one thing to hurry back from a triceps injury, as he did two years ago, not wanting to miss out on a potential playoff berth. It's another to play with a herniated disk in his neck, as he did in the second half of last season. Offseason surgery fixed the...

Continued...

 

Redskins notes, 8/19/09

» Defensive end Phillip Daniels (knee) and tight end Chris Cooley (back) both sat out the Wednesday morning practice. Both are expected to play vs. Pittsburgh on Saturday night. Daniels had fluid drained from his surgically-repaired left knee; Cooley awoke with back spasms, but said he likely would return to practice Thursday. Daniels said this wasn't a setback. "I practiced with the swelling for days. I'm fine," he said. "I've been good for the whole camp until two days ago when the swelling started." Offensive lineman Devin Clark hurt his knee during practice Wednesday, but his status for Saturday was uncertain. » Redskins defensive coordinator Greg...

Continued...

 

Position review: Linebackers

Position review: Linebackers London Fletcher • 5-10, 245 pounds Perhaps no player will benefit more from the tackle tandem of Albert Haynesworth and Cornelius Griffin more than Fletcher. They should allow Fletcher to run more freely to the ball than he has since coming to the Redskins. “It should allow him to make more plays in the run game and in the pass game,” Redskins defensive coordinator Greg Blache said. And those big plays might finally help get Fletcher in the Pro Bowl (though, in reality, that will still be difficult). Another possible benefit is that if fewer blockers get to Fletcher, it could help keep him fresher throughout the season. Darrell Young...

Continued...

 

Injury report

DE Phillip Daniels (left knee). Did not practice; had fluid drained from his knee, but expects to play Saturday. TE Chris Cooley (back spasms). Did not practice; expects to return to practice Thursday morning. OT Mike Williams (sprained ankle). Did not practice; questionable for Saturday's game vs. Pittsburgh. OL Devin Clark (knee). Left the field with a sore knee, but the extent of the injury is uncertain. RB Anthony Alridge (foot). The walking boot is off, but he still hasn't...

Continued...

 

Studs and Duds

Another full-pad workout in steamy conditions. Fun times. Studs QB Todd Collins. Threw the only touchdown pass in the red zone portion of practice. Also hit Antwaan Randle El on a deep post (he went past Michael Grant, getting him on quick step to the outside and a cut back inside). OT Stephon Heyer. Did a better job today, working at both tackle spots (Devin Clark went out with a knee injury). Did not see Heyer getting beat. He's been much more consistent than the other tackle candidates. Would still like to see him getting to the second level. But his play improves whenever Randy Thomas is next to him. DE Andre Carter. Showed his quickness on a stunt to the inside, coming clean. He...

Continued...

 

For 99, half-step short won't do

Carter has always been fast, but end has focused on his quickness after four-sack season ASHBURN - The coaches defend his play, steering conversations away from sack totals. So they'll talk about his improved play against the run. They'll talk about the half-step-away-near misses of quarterbacks. They'll talk -- rave -- about the work ethic. That's fine. They're on target with all of that regarding Redskins right end Andre Carter. But even Carter looks at his sack total (four) and shakes his head. "This is a productive-type sport," he said. "If you don't produce, you don't feel your season was as good as you expected. From a development standpoint, I was at my best....

Continued...

 

Position review: receivers

Positional review Receivers Marko Mitchell 6-foot-4, 218 pounds The rookie seventh-round pick still appears destined for a practice squad spot. It’s hard to imagine him being ready to play in a live game so soon and he won’t help on special teams. But he is improving and has shown an ability to adjust well on balls downfield. ‘’He’s starting to get it,’’ Redskins coach Jim Zorn said. Mitchell needs to become less one-dimensional. He still needs to learn how to run routes inside; too often smaller defensive backs can bump him off stride because he runs too upright. Antwaan Randle El 5-foot-10, 185 pounds Randle El typically has strong...

Continued...

 

Thomas: Tired of Favre talk

It's not just the public, at least those not in Minnesota, who tired of the whole Brett Favre saga. Even some players did, like the Redskins' Randy Thomas. "That's so overdrawn and man I don't really care about the situation," he said. "Just any way to get in the news. I'm really tired of hearing about it. I mean, I didn't know you could keep retiring and get a new team every time you retire. Damn. I want to play for the Atlanta Hawks. Can I retire and play for the Hawks?" It'll be odd for Packers fans to see No. 4 run around Lambeau Field in a Vikings jersey. Guess it would be a lot like Darrell Green returning for one more year... to play for Dallas....

Continued...

 

Studs and Duds

A spirited morning full-pad practice Studs DE Brian Orakpo. In the one-on-ones, he beat Chris Samuels twice, first getting underneath his pads and the next time going around him. He continues to look very sharp at this position and now more people are wondering why not just make him a full-time end. One thing I'd wonder about in that situation is what will having to play the run against 330-pound tackles do to his pass rush? I would imagine it would wear him out, perhaps leaving him a little more ineffective as a rusher. DT/DE Lorenzo Alexander. Beat Jeremy Bridges twice in one-on-ones, spinning around him on the second time, after shoving him back on the first. Did the same to him...

Continued...

 

The taming of the Colt

Brennan impresses coaches with strides made from last season ASHBURN - The fans coronated him after his first game — a preseason one at that. Colt Brennan went from third-string QB to first-rate phenomenon. Except in the minds of the coaches. The fans saw the touchdowns; the coaches saw mistakes on almost every play. They saw completions occurring with improper footwork. They saw him leaving the pocket too early, a sin even though the result — against backups — might have been favorable. Flash ahead to last Thursday. Brennan did nothing to generate excitement in the fans. He was under pressure; he also made few plays. But the coaches? They saw...

Continued...

 

Redskins notes, 08/17/09

» Running back Clinton Portis will play against Pittsburgh in the preseason home opener Saturday night. Portis did not play vs. Baltimore and prefers to do little work in the exhibition games. Redskins coach Jim Zorn said Portis would play only one quarter, at most. Zorn said Portis has had a solid camp. Portis did not practice Sunday afternoon and did not participate in the full-team work Monday afternoon. "When he's participated, he's been awesome," Zorn said. "He's worked hard; he's run hard. As we get closer [to the season opener], he'll pick up his pace and we'll get him more reps. For the stuff we've asked him to do and the stuff he's done, I'm...

Continued...

 

Position review: Offensive line

Casey Rabach • 6-4, 295 pounds Rabach has been steady in the middle this summer. Aside from losing some battles in one-on-one work, he’s mostly gone unnoticed. For a center, that’s a good thing. And he handled the middle well vs. Baltimore. Though he might not be one of the best centers in the NFL — coach Joe Bugel has touted him for the Pro Bowl in the past — he is reliable. Rabach has missed one game in his first four seasons. His communication skills are lauded. “He’s really in charge out there,” Redskins coach Jim Zorn said. “He’s very intelligent. Buges relies on him a lot. And he’s willing to work every day...

Continued...

 

Studs and Duds

A lighter practice, but still sometimes revealing. And we mean little. Tuesday is a full pads today and we look for a good day to replenish our list of Studs and Duds. Studs WR Malcolm Kelly. Really starting to make his presence felt, with improved route-running and consistent hands. He is more noticeable in practice than Devin Thomas. Kelly just looks more fluid. The more he practices, the better he looks. WR Antwaan Randle El. Having a strong week. He made a nice leaping catch of a downfield, underthrown pass from Jason Campbell. Randle El beat Reed Doughty by about five yards. Randle El stopped, adjusted and outjumped Doughty for the catch. QB Jason Campbell. Outside of the throw...

Continued...

 

Redskins notes, 8/16/09

» The Redskins have banned the media from tweeting, sending text messages or using cell phones while at the practice field. The policy was enacted Sunday afternoon, in part, Redskins spokesman Zack Bolno said, "We were concerned about the type of information being reported from practice." Seven other teams prohibit tweets, or reporting, from the practice field: Denver, Miami, New England, Buffalo, Indianapolis, New Orleans and Detroit. According to The Associated Press, a league memo was sent to teams that said they preferred the opposite. "It is not practical to prohibit media from doing some reporting [via tweeting, texting, blogging, etc.]," the memo...

Continued...

 

For Orakpo, the devil is in the details

His pass rusher side is strong, but the linebacker side needs some fine tuning ASHBURN - The education came on the first snap. Brian Orakpo eyed the linemen for clues, noticing how firm their hands were placed on the ground; checking out where their eyes were pointed. It suggested one thing: a run. So Orakpo reacted accordingly as the ball was snapped. And his man went flying past. Welcome to strongside linebacker 101. Orakpo's eyes were everywhere they should have been. "He wandered a little bit," said linebackers coach Kirk Olivadotti. "He needs to have his eyes in a different spot." Orakpo's impact as a rush end was obvious. Though he did not record a sack,...

Continued...

 

Studs and Duds

With updates from the afternoon practice (not in full pads). Studs DT Cornelius Griffin. Destroyed Devin Clark on one play and knocked Edwin Williams to the ground on another. He should beat these two, but it still was an impressive show of strength. He beat Casey Rabach twice in one-on-ones. First, it was with leverage and a strong base; next he used a good rip move to get inside him. WR Malcolm Kelly. Continues to look more comfortable in practice, which means he's starting to be more effecitve running routes and catching passes. Made a few grabs this morning, including one over the middle on a tipped ball. Managed to reach back for it and not break stride. RG Randy Thomas. Had a...

Continued...

 

Positional review: Special Teams

Rock Cartwright 5-foot-8, 213 pounds When the NFL changed the rules regarding wedges, it also forced Cartwright, and other returners, to tweak their strategy. Against the Ravens, Cartwright averaged 19.5 yards on two returns – 5.1 yards less than he averaged last season. Before, teams could use a three- or four-man wedge. Now they can only use a two-man wedge; the Redskins now use two, two-man wedges. ‘’[Before] when guys would take on our wedge they would jump out because they didn’t want to take it on,’’ Cartwright said. ‘’Now they will hit it.’’ In the past he would stay10-12 yards behind the wedge. Now he has to be 10-12...

Continued...

 

Studs and Duds

Not a whole lot to measure considering they weren't in full pads this morning. But there was enough that went on during one-on-one situations that was a little revealing. Studs CB DeAngelo Hall. Love watching him break on the ball; he takes such good angles to the ball and comes through the receivers with strength. Hall intercepted a Chase Daniel pass to Malcolm Kelly during seven-on-seven work. Earlier he broke up a Jason Campbell pass to Kelly with a tight jam and physical coverage in the slot. It prevented Kelly from using his size against him as Hall came down hard on his arms when the ball arrived, breaking up the pass. WR Antwaan Randle El. Toasted Byron Westbrook on a...

Continued...

 

Colt: No Jessica

First he captured the fans in Hawaii and then extended his reach to those of the Redskins. And now Jessica Simpson? Apparently the answer is: no. Because we're now apparently gossip writers, we can report that Brennan denies any budding romance with the pop singer and ex-Tony Romo girlfriend. Star magazine reported that Brennan and Simpson might be an item. ''Chris Cooley told me to neither deny or confirm the story,'' Brennan said. ''I don't know where it came from. I don't know anything about it.'' He said he didn't even know Simpson. ''It would be hilarious if Tony Romo did this,'' Brennan said. ''I would think he'd have a great sense of humor if he did this.'' Then he had a...

Continued...

 

Zorn: Redskins soft

Redskins coach Jim Zorn used the one word football players hate most. Soft. But that’s the label he stuck on a lot of his young players after Thursday’s 23-0 preseason opening loss to Baltimore. ‘’We have guys that need to improve,’’ Zorn said Friday. ‘’Some of it was age, the young guys getting a feel for the NFL and you could see hesitation. You could see us playing soft. …We were soft in other areas, both offensively and defensively, with that intensity.’’ Zorn was particularly unhappy with the pass protection of the second offensive line, which prevented the offense from generating much of anything, evidenced by the...

Continued...

 

Redskins winners, losers

A whole long list of losers after the 23-0 loss to Baltimore Thursday. Not all was lost; it just felt that way. Winners RT Mike Williams. Was not awesome, but was fairly consistent. Maybe he looked better because the linemen he played with did not look that sharp. He was moved back in one pass set, again because of hand placement. But he looked pretty strong in the run game and even got to the linebackers on occasion, something most of his linemates can not say. QB Todd Collins. Just looks much sharper than Colt Brennan at this point. There's no real race for No. 2. Collins one questionable throw came when he could not step into the throw because the pocket had been shoved back to...

Continued...

 

Redskins postgame

Post-game thoughts following the 23-0 loss to Baltimore: 1. More on Brian Orakpo. He learned a lesson on his first snap of the game. I'll have more on this in a day or so, but found it interesting. On the first snap, he read run: he noticed the linemen had set hard and saw that they were looking inside. That suggested run. So he came up hard on the play -- and Heap ran past him. Orakpo was lucky the pass went the other way. Now the key for him is: knowing what to look at in the future. When it says run, how can you tell it's a pass? That's the learning curve. 2. More on Mike Williams. I thought he set flat on a couple plays, but perhaps that was by design. Williams' troubles more...

Continued...

 

Charm City beatdown: Ravens blank Skins, 23-0

The Redskins can hang onto this fact from Thursday night: They did not play Clinton Portis, Albert Haynesworth or Santana Moss. Orakpo shows what he can do The Baltimore tackle, Oniel Cousins, took an exaggerated first step. He wanted to slow Redskins rookie Brian Orakpo, make him go a little wider to reach the quarterback. It didn't matter. In the second quarter of Thursday night's preseason game vs. Baltimore, Orakpo got past him and forced the quarterback to hurry an incompletion. It was a sign of what Orakpo can give the Redskins as a pass rusher. He also drew a holding penalty on another rush and forced an incompletion later. But his night was more than about the rush. On the...

Continued...

 

First half thoughts

Five thoughts from the first half of Washington's game vs. Baltimore. 1. Brian Orakpo is a stud -- at end. He looked much more comfortable at end than at linebacker. Orakpo drew a holding penalty and applied pressure on several occasions. Once, the tackle took a wider step than normal so he could slow Orakpo. It didn't work. Orakpo still got by him. Now, it was a backup tackle so take that for what it's worth. But still. 2. Mike Williams is powerful. As a run blocker Williams had a good first half, showing power. He allowed pressure on one occasion and set up flat too many times; good speed rushers would get past that. The Redskins have been encouraged by his improvement during camp,...

Continued...

 

Redskins inactives

Inactives for tonight's preseason game vs. Baltimore: For Washington: CB Carlos Rogers; RB Clinton Portis; RB Anthony Alridge; G Rueben Riley; T Jeremy Bridges; G Randy Thomas; WR Santana Moss and DT Albert Haynesworth. For Baltimore: WR Biren Ealy, CB Samari Rolle, LB Brendan Ayanbadejo; LB Terrell Suggs; T Jared Gaither; G/T Marshal Yanda; WR Mark Clayton; DT Lamar...

Continued...

 

Hagans hopes he's found a home

Former U.Va. standout has bounced around the NFL and eyes final receiver spot for Skins ASHBURN - The style evolved from his early days, when trying to slither his way around a football field meant survival. Not yards. He was a pipsqueak of a quarterback, a 6-year-old who fudged his age so he could play the older kids. His team won every game. And Redskins receiver Marques Hagans developed his slippery ways. "It came from running from guys who were a whole lot bigger than me," Hagans said. "I was scared of getting hit. I was playing against older guys, not wanting to get crushed." The style served him well as a quarterback at the University of Virginia. And it's...

Continued...

 

Quick Hits

1. The player I'm most anxious to see against Baltimore is SLB Brian Orakpo. There have been many times people, myself included, have been wrong about a guy. They look great in practice, or at least decent (Taylor Jacobs) then get into games and go splat. So far Orakpo has looked terrific in some areas and still developing in others. Is he for real? I like how he seemingly has improved his footwork in taking on blockers off the edge; it allows him to maintain leverage and that's important for a strongside 'backer. Marcus Washingon excelled at that and the Redskins suffered when he wasn't in the game. I do expect some bumpy spots for Orakpo at this position, but can he make the impact at...

Continued...

 

Battle watch: kicker

It’s one thing to drill kicks in practice. Most kickers don’t have a problem doing that. But in a game — with their job on the line — is a little different. "We want to see who can execute under pressure," said special teams coach Danny Smith. And Thursday provides the first opportunity to do that when the Redskins play at Baltimore. Shaun Suisham will handle the kicking duties in the first half and Dave Rayner will take over in the second. Though Suisham would appear to have an edge simply because he made 82.9 percent of his kicks in 2007, Smith insists the competition is tight. "It’s wide open," he said. "I keep getting that...

Continued...

 

Jarmon adjusts his summer plans

Defensive end drafted in supplemental draft ASHBURN - His summer plan, hatched in January, went like this: study photography in Paris; learn a new language; return home for football practice. Those plans changed in the spring. First, Jeremy Jarmon was suspended by the NCAA. Then he opted to declare for the supplemental draft. The learning, however, hasn't ended. But the rookie defensive end also appears to be a quick study. After less than two weeks of training camp, he's already winning one-on-one battles against backup linemen. "He's further along than I thought he would be," Redskins defensive coordinator Greg Blache said. "Some of the things he can do athletically...

Continued...

 

Redskins Notebook 08/12/09

POSITION REVIEW Wide receiver Malcolm Kelly • 6-foot-4, 227 pounds Kelly finally seems to be recovered from his nagging hamstring injury. Kelly said he's anxious to play Thursday after a frustrating rookie season in 2008. "For the first time in a long time I went the whole year without making a lot of plays on the field," he said. "It's a pride thing. You know what you can do and you want to show people." He said the hamstring, which he tweaked Friday, didn't concern him. "The hamstring was a little hiccup but as long as the knee was good, I'm not worried about anything else," he said. D.J. Hackett • 6-2, 208 pounds Hackett is...

Continued...

 

Preseason plans

Notes for the preseason opener: ... Defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth will not play in the preseason opener against Baltimore. Haynesworth has practiced all week, but the Redskins want to save the wear and tear on his knee. Running back Clinton Portis also is doubtful, coach Jim Zorn said. Receiver Santana Moss (hamstring) has not practiced this week and is unlikely to play. ...Devin Thomas likely will start at flanker and Malcolm Kelly could start at the X receiver spot, with Moss sidelined. Antwaan Randle El would work as the slot receiver in that scenario. The Redskins want to give both players a lot of playing time. ...Randy Thomas would like to play, but he did not work with...

Continued...

 

Studs and Duds

A breezy morning and the temps weren't bad. But no full pads, so take these with an asterisk: Studs FS LaRon Landry. Intercepted a Todd Collins pass in the red zone with a very nice read. Showed discipline to stay in his area in the nine-on-nine drill, allowing him to make the easy pick. After his interception, which was one of many by the defense, Fred Smoot hollered out as he ran onto the field, ''The [butt] whooping continues!'' SS Chris Horton. Also intercepted a pass. FS Kareem Moore. Intercepted a Jason Campbell pass during the two-minute drill. DT Albert Haynesworth. Just because. But also because he was no match for the second-string line, one time splitting Devin Clark and...

Continued...

 

No Vick

The story was debunked two months ago, but until Michael Vick signs with another team it will remain out there. First league sources denied the Redskins had any interest in Vick. Then the team issued denials. And, today, Vick's agent Joel Segal said there was ''no chance'' that Vick would sign with Washington. Just thought we'd throw it out there once again. Segal was at Redskins Park visiting some of his clients -- Jason Campbell, LaRon Landry, DeAngelo Hall and Robert Thomas. He said he's confident that Vick will be on someone's roster when the season begins, but would not say which teams were currently...

Continued...

 

Davis opening eyes at camp

Tight end impressive entering second season ASHBURN - The biggest change hasn't occurred on the field, though that's not a bad place to start. Fred Davis is moving around the way he wants, with freedom. He's turning linebackers inside-out on some routes and running past them on others. He's blocking better. But, no, that's not the biggest change. That comes off the field. That comes in the form of having two alarm clocks in his dorm room. As he's been reminded often: Davis overslept and missed one minicamp practice as a rookie; he also dozed off a few times in meetings. "I hate getting up in the morning," Davis said. "[But] that was stuff I did when I was younger. I...

Continued...

 

Redskins Notebook 08/11/09

POSITION REPORT Offensive line Randy Thomas • 6-foot-5, 308 pounds Thomas said he, like the coaches, are concerned with his knee. But, he added, that's nothing new. "I've been having concerns with my body for four or five years," he said. "That never stopped me from playing a game. I love the concerns. That just pushes me to prove them wrong. If that keeps a little doubt in people's head, that makes me look better when I'm out there. ... I'll never be 100 percent the rest of my life." Thomas participated in the nine-on-nine portion of practice, but did not take part in the full-team work. He said he's not certain if he'll play Thursday night vs....

Continued...

 

Redskins notebook 08/10/09

POSITION REPORT Defensive backs Carlos Rogers • 6 feet, 190 pounds Rogers returned to practice Sunday, having missed a week because of a strained left calf. Rogers said he's still uncertain about playing in Thursday's preseason opener at Baltimore. Rogers went through individual drills, but sat out the team portion in both the morning and afternoon sessions. At times he appeared to push off gingerly with his left leg. "I feel pretty good," Rogers said. "[But] right now I'm a little hesitant still." Justin Tryon • 5-foot-9, 183 pounds The second-year corner has played better than last summer, when he was routinely beaten in preseason games....

Continued...

 

Williams knocking off the rust

Lineman having rugged transition back to NFL ASHBURN - The triple whammy goes like this for Mike Williams: needed to lose one hundred pounds; hadn't played in the league since 2005; and was not considered a good player before leaving the NFL the first time. And yet. The Redskins touted him as a potential starter at right tackle, either a sign of their desperation or of his near-miraculous turnaround. Not surprisingly, the obstacles have popped up with Williams. He is dealing with a lower abdominal strain. And three years worth of rust. And now lots of criticism. Williams has not looked sharp through the first week of camp and missed time with his injury. "That's the nature of...

Continued...

 

Injury report

Among the missing from practice Monday: receiver Santana Moss (hamstring), receiver Devin Thomas (hamstring), running back Anthony Alridge (toe), guard Rueben Riley (ankle) and right tackle Jeremy Bridges (ankle). Thomas said he's stil having problems planting and cutting, though he did run some sprints (not at full speed) after practice. He's uncertain for Thursday's game vs. Baltimore. It's hard to imagine him playing; the Redskins are trying to be extra cautious with...

Continued...

 

Positional review: offensive line

Randy Thomas 6-foot-5, 308 pounds Thomas said he, like the coaches, are concerned with his knee. But, he added, that’s nothing new. ‘‘I’ve been having concerns with my body for four or five years,’’ he said. ‘’That never stopped me from playing a game. I love the concerns. That just pushes me to prove them wrong. If that keeps a little doubt in people’s head, that makes me look better when I’m out there. … I’ll never be 100 percent the rest of my life.’’ Thomas participated in the nine-on-nine portion of practice, but did not take part in the full-team work. He said he’s not certain if he’ll...

Continued...

 

Redskins Studs and Duds

From the no-kidding-it's-hot morning edition: Studs LB London Fletcher. Blew up a couple screens to the right flat. Once, he drilled fullback Eddie Williams, laying him flat. LB Robert Thomas. Came up strong on a goal-line play to stop Ladell Betts off the edge. Another time he drove Williams back on a block. But Thomas must show better in coverage. WR Malcolm Kelly. One play showed what he could do for a QB. Jason Campbell threw wide to Kelly over the middle. With other receivers, it would have been an incompletion. With Kelly, it was a chance for a nice catch. He stretched his arms wide to make the grab. He could do this more, but only if he stays healthy. CB Fred Smoot. They...

Continued...

 

Redskins injury report

Right tackle Jeremy Bridges (sprained ankle) and running back Anthony Alridge (sprained toe) did not practice Sunday. Both were hurt in Saturday’s intrasquad scrimmage. Corner Kevin Barnes hyperextended his left knee Saturday, but managed to practice, albeit at less than full speed in the morning. He did not practice in the afternoon. Receivers Santana Moss (hamstring) and Devin Thomas (hamstring) did not practice in the morning. Thomas was limited in the afternoon. Others who were limited in the afternoon: right tackle Mike Williams (groin), right guard Randy Thomas (knee) and corner Carlos Rogers (calf). Williams did take a couple snaps with the second team offensive line in...

Continued...

 

Redskins Studs and Duds

From the afternoon scorcher: Studs WR Marques Hagans. He's an intriguing player because of his shiftiness. He catches the ball well for an ex-QB, using his hands nicely. Hagans had a catch and run from the slot. He also made a sliding catch downfield on a Jason Campbell pass, over DeAngelo Hall. TE Fred Davis. Kept flashing during 11-on-11 work. It's fun to watch him run because he's a good athlete. It also helps that the Redskins called a few bootlegs that went his way. Here's the play I really liked: Davis ran an out, saw Todd Collins step up in the pocket, reversed field to the middle, freed himself for a catch and run. CB Justin Tryon. Did a nice job keeping his eyes on where...

Continued...

 

Redskins Studs and Duds

A light morning practice (hour and a half) with no hitting. But some guys still stood out one way or the other. Studs CB Michael Grant. Jumped a slant route to Marko Mitchell to intercept a pass from Chase Daniel. Nice job getting inside him, but Mitchell has to do a better job using his body to prevent that. It was too easy for Grant. FB Mike Sellers. Looked good catching the ball this morning in the one-on-one work. He beat Chris Wilson (see below) and H.B. Blades, juking the latter to get deep. Against Wilson, he went inside then cut back out and was open by five yards. The coaches want Sellers to have more consistent hands this season. Duds LB Chris Wilson. It's hard to...

Continued...

 

Running past Riggins' Redskins record

Portis needs 1,370 yards to become the team's all-time leading rusher ASHBURN - The record means something and then again it doesn't. It's a measurement for posterity, stamping himself as one of the all-time greats in Washington. Even if it came during a period of mediocrity. Which is why it doesn't mean as much as it should. And then there's the touch of irony. The record Clinton Portis might break this season belongs to the one guy who ripped him earlier this year: John Riggins. From Saturday's practice »» Player of note Brian Orakpo • LB/DE The rookie first round pick made a strong first impression in Saturday’s intrasquad scrimmage. As an end he caused...

Continued...

 

Redskins Studs and Duds

It was different; the Redskins finally had live hitting thanks to their intrasquad scrimmage. But some things were the same, like the performance of certain players as you'll soon read. Studs WR Marko Mitchell. Caught a few balls during the scrimmage and showed some deep speed, drawing pass interference on Justin Tryon on one play. Looked good on slants. However, he needs to become much more physical to be anything other than a practice squad player. He showed that on a fade route when he let the DB easily knock away a pass. He's too one-dimensional at this point, but at least he showed something. P Hunter Smith. He punted six times (not in a game setting) and every punt traveled...

Continued...

 

NFL rules changes

Had our annual meeting with the officials today, with back judge Greg Steed leading the discussion about rules changes for the upcoming season. The best part? Getting to watch NFL highlights for about 15 minutes. Among the big rules changes: ...The Tom Brady Rule. Defenders can only swipe or grab at the knees of a quarterback in an attempt to tackle them in the pocket. If, for example, a defender drives his shoulder, or helmet, into the quarterback's knees then it's a 15-yard penalty. ...The Hines Ward Rule. When making a blindside hit on a defender, it's considered illegal if the initial contact by a blocker's helmet, shoulder or foream is to the head or neck area of an opponent. You...

Continued...

 

Changing big hits to big picks

Safety Landry working to improve footwork ASHBURN - They celebrated the big hits, when LaRon Landry would announce his presence over the middle. They looked good. They frightened receivers. They also, at times, frustrated his coach. Once a game, Redskins safeties coach Steve Jackson said, he would see the same thing. With proper footwork, the big hits by Landry would have resulted in a big interception instead. "There are times where he easily gets there four steps quicker and gets an interception," Jackson said. Which is what the Redskins have been trying to improve this summer, starting with Landry's footwork. The third-year safety has just two career interceptions, both...

Continued...

 

Redskins Notebook 08/07/09

POSITION REVIEW Running backs Mike Sellers • 6-3, 273 pounds Sellers became a more consistent blocker in 2008 en route to a Pro Bowl bid. One reason? He was more decisive. At times in the past, given the choice of two defenders, he would hesitate and whiff. That didn't happen as much last season. Thursday, he steamrolled Reed Doughty, coming up on a run around right end. The Redskins would like Sellers to show more consistent hands this season. Anthony Alridge • 5-9, 175 pounds His speed is hard to miss. But it won't do him any good if he keeps fumbling. Alridge, who missed last season with a foot injury, needs to be more patient. "He's trying to get to...

Continued...

 

Injury report

Redskins injury list, 8/7 WR Devin Thomas (hamstring). Practiced some in the morning only to sit out toward the end when he felt tightness in his hamstring. Did not work in the afternoon. WR Malcolm Kelly (hamstring). He did not work in the morning, but participated in some of the afternoon session. RT Stephon Heyer (knee). Went through individual drills; coach Jim Zorn said he's close to being full-go. RT Randy Thomas (knee). Did not work today. But Zorn said he, too, is close to being full-go. CB Carlos Rogers (calf). Did not practice. WR Santana Moss (hamstring). Tweaked it making a catch this morning. Did not practice this afternoon, but should be fine. DT Anthony Montgomery...

Continued...

 

Positional review: running backs

Positional review Running backs Mike Sellers 6-foot-3, 273 pounds Sellers became a more consistent blocker in 2008 en route to a Pro Bowl bid. One reason? He was more decisive. At times in the past, given the choice of two defenders, he would hesitate and whiff. That didn’t happen as much last season. Thursday, he steamrolled Reed Doughty, coming up on a run around right end. The Redskins would like Sellers to show more consistent hands this season. Anthony Alridge 5-foot-9, 175 pounds His speed is hard to miss. But it won’t do him any good if he keeps fumbling. Alridge, who missed last season with a foot injury, needs to be more patient. ‘’He’s trying...

Continued...

 

Studs and Duds

From the soggy, and cool, morning practice: Studs FB Mike Sellers. Caught a few passes. But he also laid out Reed Doughty on a block coming around the end. CB Fred Smoot. A better day than yesterday as he was involved in a few pass breakups. But he had trouble yesterday on deep balls. Today's throws all were in front of him. DE Brian Orakpo. Listen, the more we talk to people the more we hear the same thing: Can't wait to see this kid. He did nothing spectacular today, but he did make a nice heady play on a rush where he sensed the QB unloading a quick pass and got his hands up. A small thing, but still savvy. Apparently there's one question left about him: who will be his...

Continued...

 

Redskins injuries

RT Stephon Heyer (knee). Likely will sit out a couple more days. RT Mike Williams (abdominal strain). Keeps getting these nagging injuries; not a good sign. WR Malcolm Kelly (hamstring). Team listed it as a knee on the injury report, but Kelly said it was just the hamstring bothering him. He ran about three-quarters speed this afternoon. CB Carlos Rogers (calf). Will probably be out a couple more days. WR Devin Thomas (hamstring). Day to day. G Rueben Riley (ankle). DT Anthony Montgomery (knee). The big fella needs to get on the field, but the minor sprain is preventing it. DE J.D. Skolnitsky (hamstring). Bad way to start camp. DT Lorenzo Alexander (foot). Did not work this...

Continued...

 

A cause for concern?

Health a priority for Skins offensive line ASHBURN - This is the time for optimism. And Joe Bugel is selling it. Hard. The fact that three-fifths of his starting line did not practice Wednesday only increased his salesmanship. Because this was his take: "It gives me the opportunity to evaluate the young guys,Ó said the Redskins' offensive line coach. Problem is, the first team needs all the time it can get together. The line had two problems last season: health and pass protection. Through the first week of training camp, the two biggest problems have been: health and pass protection. It doesn't help that they're facing a fortified defensive line and a defense that has...

Continued...

 

Redskins training camp notes

Position review Defensive backs Reed Doughty • 6-1, 205 pounds The strong safety is playing faster and making more plays than last summer; he intercepted a pass Wednesday. There’s a reason. His back is healthy, something it hasn’t been for 18 months. “Last year it was a mental push for me to go through camp in a lot of pain,” he said. “Now it’s, ‘What is the offense doing? What am I supposed to be doing?’ I’m focused on making plays.” Doughty, who underwent back surgery last October, missed the final 12 games of 2008. He might not unseat Chris Horton, but he has more than reminded everyone of his capabilities. Kevin...

Continued...

 

Studs and Duds

From the morning full-pad workout: Studs C Will Montgomery » Liked him yesterady; liked him even more today when he worked with the first unit again. He did a good job handling DT Cornelius Griffin as well as calling out adustments vs. the blitz. He also did a nice job vs. Kedrick Gholston. WR Santana Moss » Seemed to make every other catch in full-team and nine-on-nine drills, often going against Justin Tryon. Moss also went past rookie CB Kevin Barnes. DE Brian Orakpo » A daily stud it seems. Went by Chris Samuels twice in one-on-one work, first to the outside and then to the inside. On the second time, he stepped outside and then cut back underneath. S Chris...

Continued...

 

Positional review: defensive backs

Positional review Defensive backs Reed Doughty 6-foot-1, 205 pounds The strong safety is playing faster and making more plays than last summer; he intercepted a pass Wednesday. There’s a reason. His back is healthy, something it hasn’t been for 18 months. ‘’Last year it was a mental push for me to go through camp in a lot of pain,’’ he said. ‘’Now it’s, What is the offense doing? What am I supposed to be doing? I’m focused on making plays.’’ Doughty, who underwent back surgery last October, missed the final 12 games of 2008. He might not unseat Chris Horton, but he has more than reminded everyone of his...

Continued...

 

Redskins transactions

The Redskins signed WR D.J. Hackett and DL Mike Marquandt and cut WR Roydell Williams....

Continued...

 

Redskins training camp notes

Position review Special teams Hunter Smith, 6-2, 209 pounds The 11-year veteran provides Washington something it hasn't had in a while: a legitimate punter. Even when Derrick Frost would punt well, his psyche suggested trouble was around the corner. But Smith, and his career 43.4-yard average, offers stability. It's not about the distance; it's about consistency. Also, it's about being able to punt directionally. "Hunter will be out of sight," said special teams coach Danny Smith. "Where we say the ball is gonna be, there's a good chance it will be there this year. We stopped calling where the ball would be in the past because we didn't know, nor did the punter know,...

Continued...

 

Thomas a work in progress

Second-year receiver shows improvement but far from finished ASHBURN - The improved receiver looks like this: He bursts off the line with less motion, but more explosion. He turns corners around, planting his foot here and breaking off there. And he gets past the secondary. But the unfinished receiver is like this: After he beats the secondary, he drops the ball. In Devin Thomas' second training camp, he's shown reasons for the coaches to be encouraged; he's also provided reminders that he's not a finished product. Thomas, who did not practice yesterday while resting a sore knee, has an excellent chance of opening the season as Washington's No. 2 receiver. That would enable Antwaan...

Continued...

 

O-line issues

Here's what I think about the offensive line and its early-camp struggles: 1. The defensive line is good. There's no doubt the D-line should be ahead this early in camp. Mostly, their job is to get upfield and hit a gap. The line must work in tandem with one another, which is a little tougher. So we'll give the O-line that much. 2. The Redskins did not do a good job addressing the line. Derrick Dockery was a good pickup. Much as Pete Kendall was admired, his knees prevented him from getting in space and blocking. So the Redskins eliminated some of those plays to his side. But they felt there was a hole at right tackle. So they ... signed a guy who weighed 410 pounds, had not played...

Continued...

 

Studs and Duds

Studs Backup centers. Will Montgomery and Edwin Williams both look pretty decent. Montgomery has worked with the second unit all camp, but Williams looks techinque sound, especially in the one-on-one battles. His hands are in tight; his balance is sound, enabling him to react well. And, might get ribbed for saying this, but he's got a good butt. Allows him to anchor well. Montgomery sets well. Both had good mornings. DE Brian Orakpo. In the one-on-one drill, he beat Chris Samuels with a spin move to the inside. That's enough for him to be placed in this category. Now, what does he do when his first move is stopped? Haven't seen that yet. And can he make that move in traffic? Don't know....

Continued...

 

Injury report

For the morning session: RT Stephon Heyer bruised his left knee in a goal-line drill. Coach Jim Zorn said he's not sure if he'll need an MRI. Hard to determine the extent of the injury, but Zorn said he did not think it was serious. Heyer did not want to talk to the media afterward, a rare occurence for him. DT Albert Haynesworth. Returned to practice after sitting out consecutive sessions because of his knee. WR Roydell Williams. Zorn said he'll likely miss at least 4-6 weeks after having surgery on his left pinky finger. Clearly that will hurt his chances of making the roster. He had a very good shot before the injury. RT Mike Williams:. Did not practice (groin). C Casey Rabach....

Continued...

 

Haynesworth misses practice

But Redskins have no concerns about health ASHBURN - The doubts centered on his durability, not his talent. Early in training camp, both have been on display. Albert Haynesworth has dominated the middle. And Albert Haynesworth has needed to sit out, the last two practices to be exact. The Redskins say they're not concerned with any long-term issues with Haynesworth and called his Synvisc injection a normal procedure, one that other Redskins have had. However, those other players weren't handed a contract that guaranteed them $41 million. Haynesworth said he could return to practice this morning after resting his left knee again Monday, though coach Jim Zorn said it could be another...

Continued...

 

Redskins camp notes

Position review Linebacker Chris Wilson, 6-foot-4, 247 pounds It's hard to imagine Wilson, transitioning from end, being a legitimate contender for the starting strongside job. He lacks the strength of a Brian Orakpo, a necessary trait when taking on blockers vs. the run. However, he could become a third-down backer, someone who could be used to rush or drop into coverage. "He's playing better at [strongside linebacker] than he ever did at end," Redskins defensive coordinator Greg Blache said. "He's playing his best football since he's been here with us, even the little things we used to get on him about like detail and concentration. He's made strong...

Continued...

 

Random thoughts

1. The single biggest concern other teams had about Albert Haynesworth regarded his durability. The Redskins did not share those concerns. But does it bother anyone that Haynesworth already needs injections in his left knee? We need to know more about this and I'm guessing Jim Zorn will be pressed more on this following today's practice. He called it normal Sunday. 2. This mostly went unnoticed, but Brian Orakpo played one snap at defensive tackle in practice Sunday afternoon. Haynesworth moved to right end. This just gives Washington more versatility, something they have not had in the line in a long, long time. Orakpo should also be good on stunts to the inside, using his quickness....

Continued...

 

Positional review: linebacker

A quick look at three Redskins linebackers ... Chris Wilson 6-foot-4, 247 pounds It’s hard to imagine Wilson, transitioning from end, being a legitimate contender for the starting strongside job. He lacks the strength of a Brian Orakpo, a necessary trait when taking on blockers vs. the run. However, he could become a third-down backer, someone who could be used to rush or drop into coverage. He's been more noticeable playing end in camp; it's easy to see him going past some backups. It'll be harder to accurately analyze his play at linebacker until the games start and teams test him. But the Redskins like what they've seen thus far. ‘’He’s playing better at...

Continued...

 

Orakpo finding his way

Life isn't so simple anymore for top pick ASHBURN - In college, Brian Orakpo knew the routine on each play. It was easy: line up, make a move and charge at the quarterback. Life isn't that simple anymore. Not when he has to read the tight end, drop into coverage, read other receivers coming into his zone and then not bite on the first route that comes his way. He also has to learn man coverage, zone coverage and how to take on blockers. It's different. And it's why the transition from d