Redskins: New system ready
By: John Keim
Examiner Staff Writer
October 25, 2009
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| Under the new play-calling system, head coach Jim Zorn, above, will stay silent during the series, while Sherman Lewis sends in the plays, via Sherman Smith, to Jason Campbell. (Getty Images) |
ASHBURN — 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 say no decision has been made on his future. Head coach Jim Zorn said they’re still addressing the situation internally.
Since his stinger on Oct. 10 at Carolina, there has been widespread speculation that he would retire. Teammates have said he’s told them as much. But the Redskins say it’s not a done deal.
Regardless, he won’t return any time soon.
“To have him out even a week hurts us,” Zorn said. “When you think about Chris Samuels, I never worried about the left side.”
Newly-signed left tackle Levi Jones could be active Sunday, Zorn said.
» Defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth (ankle) is a game-time decision, Zorn said. Haynesworth, was limited Saturday and is listed as questionable. But Zorn said he expects him to play. Corner DeAngelo Hall (knee) did not practice, but is expected to play.
Zorn said he does not think there will be some benefit to having "less on his plate" -- the term used by executive vice president Vinny Cerrato.
"No," Zorn said. "I don't look at that as a positive."
The game-planning for Monday's game vs. Philadelphia was handled the same as always, with the offensive staff having input. Lewis, who declined all interview requests this week, requested a couple plays to be put into the game plan.
What Zorn won't do is speak up during the play call. He will make suggestions after a series is over, however.
"We're in it together," he said.
