What We Learned » Winning matters to the players. Fans might want the draft position, but the players could not care less about where the Redskins pick in the spring. Why? Because they’re playing right now — and they also know how hit and miss the draft can be. But there was a sense of determination in the locker room after Sunday’s win, as if the game steeled their resolve and showed what they can really do. The Giants are a mess, but they had something to play for and yet the Redskins showed much more urgency and passion.
» Cornerback Josh Wilson is finishing strong in his first season with Washington. Wilson had a second straight good outing — and he played well vs. the New York Jets save for getting beat on one double move. It took Wilson a little bit to get comfortable this season, but he clearly is now, and it has reflected in how he moves with confidence. He’s not a Pro Bowl player, but he is solid.
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» The NFC East is not that good. OK, we probably learned this a long time ago, right? But it has become more evident as the season unfolds. There’s no power team in this division. This is why the Redskins didn’t just play every young player in the beginning of the season. It’s not as if they were the best team in the division or even thought they were. The Redskins’ coaches knew they were less talented than the other teams, but it’s also uncertain how a season will unfold. And as the season unfolded, it was clear that every team in the NFC East had issues. A healthy Redskins team might have an outside shot at a division title in this weakened crowd.
» The Redskins lack a big-time playmaker at receiver, but they do have excellent professionals who are good route-runners. Their three veteran wideouts — Santana Moss, Jabar Gaffney and Donte Stallworth — all run good routes. Gaffney gets open on those 15-yard in routes with good hard jabs outside and a sharp cut inside. He created an extra yard or two of separation because of his jabs. It makes these players tough on third down if there’s time for Rex Grossman to throw. They’re a good group to learn from for the younger wideouts. If the Redskins add a consistent playmaker, they also will be excellent complementary targets.
