Redskins, Cowboys injury report

By: John Keim
11/20/09 5:08 PM

For the Redskins:

Out: TE Chris Cooley (ankle), RB Clinton Portis (concussion), FB Eddie Williams (ankle).

Questionable: DT Albert Haynesworth (ankle), OT Mike Williams (ankle), RT Stephon Heyer (knee). Not much has been made of Heyer and I would be surprised if he sat.

Probable - RB Ledell Betts (ankle)



For the Cowboys:

Out: CB Allen Rossum (hamstring), RT Marc Colombo (ankle), S Ken Hamlin (ankle). The latter two injuries really hurt Dallas; Colombo was a solid right tackle while Hamlin is the vocal leader in the secondary. He has struggled at times however.

Probable: RB Marion Barber (thumb), K David Buehler (toe), CB Mike Jenkins (elbow), S Gerald Sensabaugh (thumb), LB DeMarcus Ware (foot)



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Redskins news, notes and analysis

By: John Keim
11/20/09 4:25 PM

...Running back Rock Cartwright flew to Houston after practice today to be with his father who suffered a mini-stroke. Cartwright said his father was stabilized, but that he had problems with vision in one of his eyes. Cartwright will join the team in Dallas. Cartwright's mom died a few years ago, which made him more determined to visit his one remaining parent.

...Running back Clinton Portis was in Pittsburgh to be evaluated by a concussion specialist -- the same one who performed tests on Philadelphia's Brian Westbrook.

...Redskins coach Jim Zorn commended tight end Fred Davis for his work the past two games and his improvement in blocking fundamentals. My question: why did it take until Chris Cooley was injured before Davis took this part of the job more serious. After all, he was already playing before Cooley got hurt.

"The fact that it's on his shoulders makes a difference," coach Jim Zorn said. "Also, he's taken it upon himself to really listen to those techniques that Scott [Wachenheim] is teaching and imparting to him. It's made a difference. In these situations guys either rise up or they just can't do it yet and sometimes it's a matter of maturity. Sometimes it's a matter of ability. In his defense, he's one of those guys who is really rising up."

Davis clearly has improved as a blocker in both of the past two games. He worked well alongside left tackl...

Haynesworth questionable

By: John Keim
11/20/09 3:13 PM

Defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth is listed as questionable for Sunday's game at Dallas with a sprained left ankle. He ran on the treadmill today; coach Jim Zorn still called him a game-time decision.

Most likely Zorn will keep him active to see if he can play; if not, they'll turn to Anthony Montgomery. Because of Dallas' size along the line, and its desire to run with power, it's important to keep Montgomery active this week.

Montgomery has spent most of the week using a walking boot to protect his ankle. It's not unusual for players with this sort of injury to do that and then play that Sunday.

It's also interesting because this is the first regular season game Haynesworth will play vs. Dallas since the Andre Gurode stomping incident.



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QB club dinner saved

By: John Keim
11/19/09 10:16 PM

The Quarterback Club's Redskins Player of the Year dinner has been saved. Apparently, the dinner, a 40-year tradition, was nearly nixed because of very slow ticket sales. Apparently, Chris Cooley's art show did not have such a rebound.

But a late push enabled the QB Club's Dec. 15th dinner at the Westin Hotel in Tyson's Corner to continue. This won't be a surprise: the five finalists all are defensive players. London Fletcher, Andre Carter, DeAngelo Hall, Rocky McIntosh and Albert Haynesworth are the finalists. Among the 20 former Redskins attending the dinner: former MVP Mark Rypien.

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Redskins news, notes and analysis

By: John Keim
11/19/09 9:25 PM

…Running back Clinton Portis will miss his second straight game because of a concussion. Portis worked again in the morning and has less blurred vision. But he has not yet recovered enough from the concussion, suffered in the first quarter of the Nov. 8 Atlanta game to return.

“I’m going to rule him out,” Redskins coach Jim Zorn said after a rainy afternoon practice today.

Analysis: Ladell Betts will make his second straight start. Betts was terrific last week with 114 yards rushing, but the biggest thing, teammates say, is that Betts is able to practice. It makes a difference. Given the amount of six- and seven-man fronts that Betts faced, Portis likely would have had similar success. Portis tends to face more eight-man fronts. However, the rhythm of the running game is better when the back is able to practice often.

…Defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth wore a walking boot on his sprained left ankle today and now is a game-time decision, Zorn said.

If Haynesworth can't play, then Anthony Montgomery will definitely be active. The Redskins need to counter Dallas' big bodies up front, and its desire to run a power game, with beef of its own. So even if Haynesworth does play, Montgomery could be active for that reason.

...Tackle Mike Williams also will be a game-time decision. But he won't start even if he is healthy. I'll be curious to see what happens...

Redskins notes

By: John Keim
11/18/09 5:41 PM

From Redskins practice Wednesday:



...RB Clinton Portis met with doctors again today and was at Redskins Park. But coach Jim Zorn said he's "very doubtful". Zorn said Portis warmed up during an early practice and still had blurry vision. He did not attend the afternoon practice.

Zorn also said he's being cautious with Portis.

"He would have to convince me," Zorn said. "Everyone would have to convince me. I really believe this week, especially with it being so close to that concussion and with all the symptoms and him not practicing, that's the key for me. I want to see him go for more than just one play."

...DT Albert Haynesworth (ankle) did not practice. He still has some swelling on his left ankle.

"It'll probably be a weekend decision," Zorn said.

...Zorn was pleased with how Carlos Rogers responded in practice after being benched Sunday vs. Denver. Rogers worked with the starters, but there's still been no decision made on who will open the game opposite DeAngelo Hall. But the way the coaches have raved about Rogers' response, it would be more than surprising if it's not him.

"He had his mind right on the practice," Zorn said. "He didn't skip a beat; he wasn't pouting at all. He responded like a real professional."

...Punter Hunter Smith was named the NFC Special Teams Player of the Week after throwing for a touchdown pass...

Gray: Carlos has too much talent to sit

By: John Keim
11/18/09 4:00 PM

Secondary coach Jerry Gray on Carlos Rogers following Wednesday's practice:

On where he worked: "He worked with the ones, yep."

On what role he envisions for Rogers Sunday: "We'll go out there and compete and the guy is going to go out there and play. It was something that happened in the game and people think he did this, he can’t play anymore. He can play. He just has to go back through the progressions. That’s what we’re working on, so we’ll be ready to go."

On the double moves: "If you take a look, if you don’t go through your progressions you can't stop any double move. That’s the thing we've worked back on. That’s what you get during offseason and training camp. If you look at the quarterback, you can't cover any receiver in this league. And that’s what happened."

On whether or not a decision has been made about who will start: "Not yet. Not yet."



What he expects from Rogers: "To me if you any type of fighter your espond and fight. That’s’ what I think he’s going to do. We’ll see on Sunday."

Do you expect him out there Sunday: "Of course. He has too much talent and too much athletic ability and too much fight to not be on the field."

Why not leave him in the game: "What I do and when I lived that life, if something happens like that I feel to ...

Catching up with the Cowboys

By: John Keim
11/18/09 10:13 AM

One loss has left the Dallas media, and Cowboys fans, with a mild (?) case of angst. A week ago, they were zipping into Green Bay fresh off an impressive win at Philadelphia. But after being nearly shutout for the first time since 2003, there's a little bit of an uh-oh feeling that has developed.

Read for yourself:

The Cowboys, apparently, need more stars on offense if they want to be a consistent winner. And it's clear what they like to do on offense, judging by the fact that they've run the ball only 43.1 percent of the time this season. And even more bellyaching about the state of the Cowboys' offense.

But the offensive issues might be only a one-week thing. These injuries are not. Finally, a little insight and perspective from Dallas Morning News columnist Jean Jacques-Taylor (who covered the Ohio State football team for me when I was the sports editor of the school paper eons ago. Why do I tell you this? No reason.)

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Portis cautious about return

By: John Keim
11/17/09 3:31 PM

Clinton Portis said he won't rush back from his concussion, which already has sidelined him for most of one game and all of another. Nor will he return just to regain control of the starting job -- coach Jim Zorn has said repeatedly that Portis will not lose that grip anyway.

"I don't think I can just rush back and have a miraculous recovery," he said on the John Thompson Show on ESPN 980. "I've got to play it safe and I've got to do what's best for me....As long as Ladell [Betts] runs well, there's no need for me to rush back. But as soon as I get back, I would love to contribute."

And contribute as a starter.

"If Ladell is going to help us win, I'm all for it," Portis said. "But as far as me losing my starting position, I doubt that."



Portis said his body and his ankle feel fine, so perhaps this forced rest because of the concussion will leave his legs fresher down the stretch. He said he still has blurry vision at times.

"They said the recovery is rest and I've been sleeping 12 to 13 hours a day, so that's doing a good job," he said.

Betts has rushed for 184 yards in the past seven quarters since Portis was hurt. Part of the reason stems from a stronger commitment to the run, Portis said. The line blocked well vs. Denver, too. But it should not be taken as a sign that Portis has lost his pop.



"I put myself up against anybody...

Zorn show highlights

By: John Keim
11/17/09 1:00 PM

Nothing really different from what Jim Zorn said in his Monday press conference, though he offered a little meatier response on ESPN 980 in some areas. It does not sound as if Clinton Portis will play Sunday, though that was also the belief Monday. He also repeated that Chris Cooley will go to the doctor again Monday to get an update. If the progress has not been good, Cooley could be placed on injured reserve.

Anyway, here are the highlights:

On how much better he feels about his offensive line situation after Sunday: “I feel a little better.”

On Clinton Portis’ status for Dallas and the future and the starting role: “I feel like Ladell ran very, very well. I’m excited for what we have in Ladell and Rock and even Quinton Ganther. When Clinton comes back he will step in as the starting running back. There are several factors here. This is what we’ve been doing the first part of the season where Clinton has been our first and second-down back and Ladell is our third-down back. I have to be careful with Clinton with this concussion. I don’t want to rush into this thing. I know he’s feeling better and better. I wouldn’t wholesale make a change because Clinton is our starting running back. He’s been that and will be that. Could I get [Betts] in there more on second down instead of third down? Absolutely. [Could I] put him in ...

Redskins, Broncos review: Studs and duds

By: John Keim
11/16/09 2:15 PM

Studs



TE Fred Davis: Caught four passes for 50 yards, but also did a good job in opening creases on the edge. A couple times he and LT Levi Jones cleared a lane in which the back was not touched for the first 6-7 yards.

LT Levi Jones: See above. Jones was better than anticipated. The Redskins game plan helped as they used a lot of three-step drops. Jones struggled a bit when he had to block on longer drops, but that was often not the case. He did a nice job turning his man where he wanted him to go.

FB Mike Sellers: Caught a 35-yard touchdown pass, but he also, like Davis, excelled on the edge. He missed a couple blocks, but he was a road grader on Ladell Betts' touchdown run (with a little help from Todd Yoder).

RB Ladell Betts: Ran hard and with energy. Always seemed to get a couple extra yards after contact and even broke a couple tackles. Jim Zorn said Clinton Portis would get his job back when healthy, but we have to ask: why?

DE Andre Carter: He was quiet for the first half, but finished with 1.5 sacks and seven tackles. He also had four quarterback hurries and two tackles for a loss. Yep, quite a day. The Redskins helped him with some strategy. For example, on one of his sacks, Rocky McIntosh showed blitz, which drew the tackle's attention. But McIntosh dropped and that allowed Carter to turn the edge and combine on a sack.

LB Brian Orakpo: Finished with 1.5 sacks, three t...

What Gruden's deal means for Redskins

By: John Keim
11/16/09 11:27 AM

A few weeks back, a Redskins source made a prediction about Jon Gruden: He would stay with Monday Night Football because ESPN would give him a boatload of reasons not to return to coaching. At least not in the immediate future.

So it wasn't a huge surprise that Gruden has agreed to an extension. What we don't know is if there's some sort of out clause for him to return to the NFL.

But, as of now, he's out of the race to replace Jim Zorn (should he be fired, of course; it's a bit awkward to talk about a replacement with seven games left, but at 3-6 it's reality).

If Washington fails to turn around its season -- after Sunday, they clearly aren't done as far as being competitive, if nothing else -- then it could be that the chase for the new coach comes down to two people: Bill Cowher and Mike Shanahan.

However, the same source, familiar with Dan Snyder's thinking, who said Gruden would stay at MNF, flat-out said that Cowher would not be the next coach. Before the question could even be finished, the source said, "No."

That does not mean it would be Shanahan, but, if a move is made, then he would seem to be the front-runner. They've already spoken with him twice but Shanahan did not want to take over during the season, the source said. But if the Redskins are looking for a coach in 2010, then look for them to go back to Shanahan again.



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Fourth quarter review: Broncos at Skins

By: John Keim
11/15/09 4:03 PM

Final: Redskins 27, Broncos 17

1st Qtr | 2nd Qtr | 3rd Qtr | 4th Qtr

» Betts is running with energy and making defenders miss, something Clinton Portis has not done enough of this season.

» Marko Mitchell has received more playing time today, but they have not thrown his way at all. When he was in on the third and eight from the 12, he was wide left, but they played him for the fade so he ran inside.

» Shaun Suisham has performed well this year, but not sure I’ve ever seen a kicker drive two kickoffs out of bounds in one game.

» As Albert Haynesworth lay – lie?—on the ground, Denver receiver Brandon Marshall walked over to the Redskins sidelines and Clinton Portis came out to meet him about 5 yards on the field. They exchanged a little hug and chatted for a second or two.

» Horrible pass by Chris Simms, but well-played by DeAngelo Hall, who turned into a receiver on the play. But he made a terrible decision to lateral to LaRon Landry. Got lucky that the ball wasn’t fumbled.

» Albert Haynesworth hurt his left ankle and this time really did look hurt.

» The Redskins continue to hammer away using a two tight end set. Best they’ve looked in a long time up front; good play calling as the offense has a good rhythm. They put it on the ground game and it has produced.

» Haynesworth got hurt again; when he left the sec...

Third quarter review: Broncos at Skins

By: John Keim
11/15/09 3:17 PM

End of 3rd: Broncos 17, Redskins 14

1st Qtr | 2nd Qtr | 3rd Qtr | 4th Qtr

» The Redskins opened the second half with a three-receiver set and running back Ladell Betts split wide left. They ran a tight end screen off that look for 10 yards. Good play design.

» Chris Simms is at quarterback for Denver as Kyle Orton sprained his ankle near the end of the first half. Simms’ timing is clearly off;

» Levi Jones is handling himself well, especially on runs. He has not been an issue at all. So far.

» That was a curious call on fourth and 1 from the Denver 28-yard line. I won’t get into whether or not they should have gone for it or just taken the points. The latter is I like that Washington is playing to win, but would not have had a problem kicking it on fourth down. However, I just don’t like running wide on fourth and short. Never have. Mike Sellers got knocked back and then held. Jason Campbell appeared to audible on the play, but sometimes those are fake audibles.

» Jones continues to have a good day. Had a nice drive block on a Betts five-yard run.

» Brian Orakpo and Andre Carter are starting to generate a little more of a rush. I wonder how much is due to Simms lack of comfort considering he has not played in a while.

» Ladell Betts is doing a good job on his cutback runs of pressing the hole, which gets the linebackers flowin...

Second quarter review: Broncos at Skins

By: John Keim
11/15/09 2:31 PM

Score at half: Broncos 17, Redskins 14

1st Qtr | 2nd Qtr | 3rd Qtr | 4th Qtr

» Jason Campbell has been inaccurate this quarter. Actually, since the first drive of the game he’s been off on his throws.

» Um, I wonder if the Broncos had some deep plays in the game plan this week. They have not hit a lot of those and Brandon Marshall averaged only 10.9 yards per catch entering the game. That number will go up by a decent amount. It’s been a mixture of miscommunication, bad coverage and bad fundamentals.

» Santana Moss has been deep twice on punt returns. The Redskins really want to limit him there, but he’s not catching a lot of passes today (none) so why not?

» Jason Campbell missed Todd Yoder wide – and I mean absolutely wide – open down the middle of the field on the second and 10 in which he was called for intentional grounding. And I mean he was wide open.

» Campbell’s inaccuracy continued on the pass to Fred Davis. Again, high and behind him. He’s asking his receivers to make him look good on almost every throw. Hard to stay in the game doing it that way.

» Quinton Ganther had a terrific blitz pickup on that drive; and he stayed with his man as Campbell started to run.

» What a terrific play on the fake field goal. Gutsy, but this team needs to do something to generate excitement and momentum. I wond...

First quarter review: Broncos at Skins

By: John Keim
11/15/09 1:45 PM

End of 1st: Broncos 14, Redskins 7

1st Qtr | 2nd Qtr | 3rd Qtr | 4th Qtr

» More missed tackles on the first play, looked like Carlos Rogers and London Fletcher.

» Rogers continues to get beat by double moves, this time a stutter step and go by Brandon Marshall. One reason Rogers played well last year in the first 8-10 games is that he did not get beat by that move as much. But going back to the end of last season, that has been an issue with him.

» The Redskins’ offense answered with an excellent drive. Not a lot of I-formation; more three-receiver sets and some good play calls.

» Jason Campbell did a nice job on a swing pass to the left to Ladell Betts. Was patient on the throw and allowed Betts to get a little separation from Brian Dawkins. It made the difference on this third-down throw.

» I love the motion of the offense, which is one thing that worked well in the second half vs. Atlanta. On the touchdown, they had Antwaan Randle El run as if he was going to get a reverse going to the left. That enabled the Redskins to then run a boot and flood the end zone. Rock Cartwright ran to the corner; Todd Yoder stayed inside and Malcolm Ke

» Jason Campbell missed Devin Thomas at the end zone, but otherwise did a nice job on this drive. The other pass that was nearly intercepted was a screen pass that Denver LB Robert Ayers nearly intercepted. But...

Redskins injury report

By: John Keim
11/13/09 3:34 PM

Already blogged about Ladell Betts' status for Sunday, so here's an update on the other hurt players.

...Right tackle Stephon Heyer, who has a sprained ligament on the inside of his left knee, practiced Friday. Heyer, who wore a brace on his knee, is questionable for Sunday's game vs. Denver.

"I'm moving better," he said.

Heyer said his knee, which was hurting him entering the Atlanta game, did not start bothering him until the second half of that loss. If he can't play the entire game, then D'Anthony Batiste would replace him. Heyer said it was difficult to get his knee loose in the cold, wet weather. However, it's supposed to be clear and in the 60s Sunday so that will help.

...Punter Hunter Smith (groin) punted today and the Redskins will wait to see how his injury responds Saturday before moving forward.

"He'll be the guy if all goes well," Redskins coach Jim Zorn said.

If not, then Smith could be headed to injured reserve. Otherwise the Redskins could end up dealing with weekly injury concerns over the punter and no team wants that.

"I punted the ball well today," Smith said. "You never know how these injuries respond, but I felt good."

...For what it's worth: Zorn confirmed the worst kept secret in town, that Chad Rinehart would start at right guard. But Rinehart and others already had revealed the news earlier in the week.

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Betts practices

By: John Keim
11/13/09 2:14 PM

Running back Ladell Betts returned to practice after missing the past two days with a sprained ankle/foot and is expected to play vs. Denver Sunday.

"I'm headed in the right direction," Betts said. "Today gave me more optimism. I was able to participate in some drills and run some plays."

He'll start in place of Clinton Portis, who suffered a concussion in the first half vs. Atlanta. Coach Jim Zorn said Portis is still experiencing some ringing in his ears and was sent home from the facility earlier today.

Betts will continue as the third-down back. And that will become even more important with Portis sidelined and with a patchwork offensive line. But Rock Cartwright and Quinton Ganther likely will see some action (though it could be hard to get three backs carries barring another injury).

Betts' first start since 2006 also comes the week of an injury.

"It's frustrating," Betts said. "Trust me that crossed my mind. I get this opportunity and I'm a little banged up. I can't get worried about that. I have to take it in stride."

The last time he filled in for Portis, Betts flourished. He rushed for 1,154 yards in 2006, with nine starts and posted five straight 100-yard games. Sunday, playing the final three quarters, he rushed for 70 yards on 15 carries.

After 2006, Betts could have gone elsewhere as a free agent, but opted to return.

"I though...

Haynesworth: We're too relaxed

By: John Keim
11/12/09 6:41 PM

Defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth told Denver reporters that he's not comfortable with the culture of the locker room. Part of it stems from still learning how teammates handle things -- and then what that means as far as their performance is concerned.

Here's some of what he had to say:

On the mood of the team: "I think it's OK. It's kind of like a mixed feeling. Sometimes I'm not comfortable with how relaxed we are. Different people handle it different ways. At Tennessee if this is going on, I can tell how we're going to bounce back. If people are relaxed, it's not a good thing. This is at Tennessee. If everybody is tensed up and everything that means we're going to try to get better. Right now I can't really get the feel of the team and know exactly how we're going to bounce back."

On what he can do to help: "All I can really do is _ I stress a lot about it early in the season. I can't play 11 positions on the field or play a different position on offense or whatever. All I can do is go out there and do my job. That's all I've been looking to do."

On whether he was happier making less money: "You know what, I feel like I made a lot of money last year. Here these damn taxes are killing me. Last year it was fun with the winning. I'm glad to be on a new team and hopefully I can help this team right the ship and get back to that redskins football, that t...

Redskins news, notes and analysis

By: John Keim
11/12/09 6:23 PM

...Defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth ($7,500) and safety LaRon Landry ($5,000) were fined by the NFL for their role in Sunday's melee along the Atlanta sidelines. Landry's role was a late hit on quarterback Matt Ryan out of bounds, that charged up the Falcons sideilne. Haynesworth ended the fracas by shoving a few Falcons.

However, corner DeAngelo Hall was not fined. He trailed Landry on the play and said he was shoved by a Falcons player on the sidelines. He could be seen jawing with a player after that and was quickly surrounded by a number of players as well as Falcons coach Mike Smith and director of athletic performance Jeff Fish. Both coaches at one point grabbed Hall and Smith was clearly yelling at him.

Smith was fined $15,000 while Fish received a $2,500 fine.

I was wrong in what I thought would happen to Hall. I anticipated at least a small fine considering he could have turned and retreated to the field, as Landry did. But there was no doubt the Falcons, and their coaches, made the situation much worse with their actions.

Hall, though, has had a rough week caused in part by his words. He did not help his cause by telling LaVar Arrington on 106.7 The Fan that he was disheartened more teammates did not come to his defense during the incident. He also ripped into Smith after the game and there were some references in the national media to a nickname that has trailed him ...

Redskins news and notes

By: John Keim
11/11/09 6:10 PM

...Running back Ladell Betts (ankle) did not practice Wednesday, but is expected to work Thursday. Quarterback Jason Campbell (ankle), corner Byron Westbrook (knee) and punter Hunter Smith (groin) all were limited in practice.

Coach Jim Zorn said Monday that Betts hurt his ankle vs. Atlanta, but they did not think it was a big deal. Betts will start in place of running back Clinton Portis (concussion).

...Levi Jones will make his first start at left tackle for Washington Sunday.

"He'll take it seriously and we'll take it seriously with him," Zorn said. "Everything will be exposed as we put him out there on Sunday."

Um, that's probably not the best way to put that. The Redskins can't afford to have another player exposed.

Jones will face Denver's Elvis Dumervil, who is tied for the league lead with 10 1/2 sacks.

"I've been a left tackle in this league for eight years," Jones said. "I've been going against pass rushers the entire time. I know what he brings. It definitely will be a good match."

...QB Jason Campbell said he's never had a concussion. "But I've been knocked out for two minutes," he said. "Mine wasn't a concussion; it was where you're seeing stars. My first year starting against the Giants, last game of the year. I was trying to slide. The guy caught me under the chin. Everything was moving. I saw stars, I re...

Haynesworth, Landry fined

By: John Keim
11/11/09 5:06 PM

...Defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth was fined by the NFL for his role in the sideline incident vs. Atlanta. He was flagged for an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty when he shoved some Falcons.

He did not say how much he was fined.

"I don’t know," he said. "I didn’t look at it. As long as I get a check it will be OK."

...Safety LaRon Landry said he also doesn't know how much he's been fined for his late hit on Atlanta quarterback Matt Ryan, which started the whole melee.

"I haven't opened my envelope yet," he said. "I might just wait. I might prolong it. What i'm going to do is open the envelope and send it straight to my agent and let him tell me what the damage is. We'll go through the whole appeal process if I have to or not."

And he said he would definitely appeal the fine.

"I appeal all my fines," he said. "Whatever fine they put out there, I'm going to appeal it. At least try to."

...No word on if DeAngelo Hall was fined; it's typically announced on Fridays. It would not be surprising to see both he and Atlanta coach Mike Smith be fined.

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Horton done for the season

By: John Keim
11/11/09 4:49 PM

Chris Horton is out for the season after undergoing surgery to repair ligament damage near his left big toe today. His recovery will take four to six months. The Redskins signed RB Quinton Ganther, whom they cut last week, to fill his roster spot.

"It's a major setback because we count on him to do so many things," Redskins coach Jim Zorn said, "not only as our strong safety, but on special teams as well. It holds us back a little bit on the defensive side of the ball."

The Redskins will start Reed Doughty at strong safety -- he's already started two games this season. But it also means more time for Kareem Moore and even Fred Smoot. Both players are free safeties, which would enable LaRon Landry to occasionally play in the box. However, do not look for that to become anything more than an occasional look.

"It's something we'll do a little bit," Zorn said. "He's pretty wicked where he's at right now. He's comfortable where he's at. I don't think there will be a lot of changes."

Landry said he's fine no matter where he plays.

"It doesn't matter, man," Landry said. "They put me in position to help the team win, not for my own personal beliefs or feelings. They're the coaches. They see things better than the players do."

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Hall disheartened by teammates

By: John Keim
11/10/09 3:41 PM

Redskins corner DeAngelo Hall would have liked a little help on the Atlanta sidelines during the second quarter skirmish Sunday. Hall was left alone after LaRon Landry’s late hit on quarterback Matt Ryan and got involved in shoving and grabbing match while only corner Justin Tryon initially came to help him, trying to pull him out of the middle. Later, Albert Haynesworth came over and shoved a few Falcons, effectively ending the incident. “Had that been anyone else, I would have been the first one over there,” Hall told 106.7 The Fan hosts LaVar Arrington and Chad Dukes. “That’s my makeup. I can’t speak for the other guys that are out there on the field, but whoever is out there with me I’m ready to go to battle with them. That’s how I am whether it’s a verbal spar or a physical spar, I’m ready to mix it up. To see them linger over there, I don’t know what went through their minds. I don’t know if they were thinking bam, bam everyone get up and go about their business. But it is frustrating not having all the guys run over there and help me. Anytime you’re on an opponent’s sidelines, that whole team is there. They’re definitely trying to get a piece of you. I’m fortunate that no blows were thrown, just a lot of pushing and pulling back and forth. Big Haynesworth finally came over an...

Zorn show highlights

By: John Keim
11/10/09 1:12 PM

Not the most entertaining of Jim Zorn shows that we've heard on ESPN 980. But here are a few of the highlights:

On Marko Mitchell: “Marko is our fifth receiver right now and he’ll continue to press and move up as he continues on. I trust the things we did with him, that’s why he was successful. To play 50 plays and do the things the other guys have been working on, he’s not there yet. Needless to say he did have a chance to be active and he was productive in the things we asked him to do. He’s making a case stronger and stronger that he should definitely be active and involved in the plays. That is not taking away from Devin. He could have caught the slant or the hitch. He was on the other side and the other guys were open, too.”

Our take: Mitchell is a limited route runner and that's a major reason why he doesn't play more. He could help in the red zone on fades, but that's what teams know he would run. That doesn't mean they shouldn't give it a try at some point with him. It's not as if they're scoring with the others.

On DeAngelo Hall’s fracas and if he should leave it behind to focus on Denver: “It’s something the press wants to have an answer for so he continues to get asked about it. He will move on from it. Those were things he was upset about and he’s a vocal kid. He likes to tell people how he feels. I think it&r...

What We've Learned

By: John Keim
11/10/09 7:48 AM

…Safety LaRon Landry has not had the season many envisioned. His speed can prevent big plays down the field. However, he consistently takes bad angles to the ball – which has allowed big plays. He did that on Michael Turner’s 33-yard run, giving him an easy cutback lane. And he tried to roll at Turner’s feet on his 58-yard run. That’s the sort of tackle you can get away with in college, but not against a back such as Turner. Landry talked this summer about improving his angles; it hasn’t happened.

...No play caller has a chance to succeed with this Redskins’ offensive line. It’s amazing that the Redskins thought they actually had good depth at this area entering the season. Well, amazing is one word to describe it. There are others. The Redskins are on pace to allow 56 sacks (their most since a 61-sack season in 1998). But it doesn’t help when the established players – such as fullback Mike Sellers – whiff on blitz pickups. Actually, all he tried to do was nudge the blitzing corner. What separates teams is the details of the game. Washington falls short in this area.

…Rookie end/linebacker Brian Orakpo gets it. He won’t pose after sacks or celebrate in some look-at-me fashion. Why? It’s not that he’s against celebrations, but he is against them when his team is losing and has a bad record...

Studs and duds: Redskins vs Falcons

By: John Keim
11/09/09 10:25 AM

Studs

LB Rocky McIntosh: Had the interception and a nice return on the play. Did a solid job in run support.

DE Brian Orakpo: He squeezed through two blockers on a few plays, including on his sack and on one of his pressures. That's just strength and desire. I like that he was so ticked off after the game. The Redskins could have drafted an offensive lineman with their first pick, but it's hard to knock Orakpo. He's still growing as a linebacker, but, once again, he does well when he's moving forward.

RB Ladell Betts: He ran hard and he ran with energy, something the offense has lacked with Clinton Portis being hurt, or nursing numerous problems with his right leg, and rarely practicing. Betts showed good burst through some narrow openings.

TE Fred Davis, blocker: Have not been a big fan of his blocking until Sunday. He showed much better technique -- arms extended, good base -- and even drove his man out on several occasions. He sealed the end for some solid first-down runs. On Betts' 15-yard run, Davis drove his man out. And on Santana Moss' 25-yard catch and run, Davis got to the cornerback and cleared the path. Now, about that miss on the Tye Hill interception... Actually, it wasn't a good throw but Davis should have had it.

QB Jason Campbell: Nope, not a great game. I know that. But a lot of courage in a bad situation and he did make some plays, both with his legs and his arm. ...

Hall rips Falcons coach

By: John Keim
11/08/09 5:39 PM

Corner DeAngelo Hall told reporters after the Redskins' 31-17 loss to Atlanta that Falcons coach Mike Smith put his ''hands on me in a harmful way'' during the late second quarter skirmish on the sidelines.

Hall also said he would call NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to complain about what happened. He was flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, but it was declined as the Falcons accepted another unsportsmanlike conduct penalty on DT Albert Haynesworth.

Here's what Hall had to say. Of course, he did not say why he was still on the sidelines when even LaRon Landry, flagged for a late hit, wasn't even over there anymore.

Hall told reporters:

"I ran over there to pull my guy away. Next thing I know one of the strength and conditioning coaches put his hands on me and started to pull at me and grab at me and various other guys were pulling at me, grabbing at me. Through the whole time I'm trying to get the guys hands off of me. Later on coach Mike Smith came over and grabbed me, talking [junk] to me saying he'll kick my [backside]. I definitely stay in Atlanta in the offseason. If Mike Smith wants to see me he definitely can find me. He definitely can find me. He definitely can find me because that's some bull [expletive] right there. We'll save that for a different day. But they outplayed us. ...

"I felt like they initiated the [incident]. I can't wat to see guys watch the...

Redskins vs Falcons: Fourth quarter review

By: John Keim
11/08/09 4:03 PM

Final: Falcons 31, Redskins 17

1st Qtr | 2nd Qtr | 3rd Qtr | 4th Qtr

» Santana Moss had his second drop of the game.

» Nice grab by Todd Yoder in the back of the end zone. Couldn’t really tell if he got both feet down, but no way could they overturn it based on the replays we saw.

» Redskins showing some character, which they did not show in the first half.

» The Falcons are a young team and have reacted to the big lead like a young team would.

» Give the Shermans – Smith and Lewis – credit for the play-calling. They’ve done a nice job keeping the Falcons off-balance with their formations, showing strong to one side and going to the other. More quick throws. It’s worked. The Redskins have a nice rhythm going.

» OK, so Landry had the great tackle earlier in the half, but blew it on Turner’s 58-yard touchdown run. He rolled at Turner’s feet and had his head down. That’s a cocky tackle attempt, one you can make in college. Should know that it’s not going to work here. The Redskins DB’s have tackled poorly as a group; not fundamentally sound at all.

» Here’s the thing, the Redskins dominate and get within a touchdown and THREE PLAYS LATER the Falcons score. Horrible.

» The Redskins got greedy on their first drive after Atlanta’s touchdown. It left Jason Campbell injured.

&...

Redskins vs Falcons: Third quarter review

By: John Keim
11/08/09 3:16 PM

End of 3rd: Falcons 24, Redskins 10

1st Qtr | 2nd Qtr | 3rd Qtr | 4th Qtr

» Terrific opening drive and a nice mix of play calls. They had the Falcons off-balance, by motioning Mike Sellers to his right out of the I-formation and going the other way two plays in a row.

» So Marko Mitchell really is on the team. Actually, his inability to run more than a couple routes is why he doesn’t play more. But it’s good to see them use him at least a little bit.

» TE Fred Davis, believe it or not, is actually blocking better on the run than he has in the past. Doing a better job with his hands and is setting a stronger base. Yes, believe it or not. He’s not terrific but he is doing better than in the first seven games.

» On the failed third down play, it was tight end Todd Yoder’s missed block that prevented Rock Cartwright from scoring.

» Jason Campbell might not get a new contract from Washington, but he deserves a good parting gift. He’s not the best quarterback, but he has more to endure than most quarterbacks in the NFL.

» Jim Zorn looked comatose after the touchdown. Would be nice to see some of the fist-pumping fire after a score.

» That was a fantastic play by LaRon Landry on third down. Great angle, but impressive burst. Stecker is not that fast which helped but give Landry credit.

» Again, the play-calling has b...