The games mean nothing and yet, for some, they could decide their future. So Jason Campbell plays for a new contract. And Jim Zorn coaches for his job.
Yet for others, there’s a basic wish in the next three games: Spoil someone else’s playoff hopes. Especially those of NFC East rivals New York and Dallas.
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“I’d love to be the Grinch on their Christmas,” said rookie linebacker/end Brian Orakpo. “That’s what we’re aiming for. We would love to ruin some other people’s seasons.”
After Sunday’s 34-13 win over Oakland, the Redskins have renewed confidence entering Monday’s game vs. the Giants.
Here’s what a strong finish could mean for:
Zorn » Even with a 7-9 season, it might not be enough to save his job. There have been no rumblings in the organization about a possible return. That does not mean it couldn’t happen, but it does mean it’s a longshot at best. With Mike Shanahan available, the Redskins (4-9) will make a strong push to land him.
And when executive vice president Vinny Cerrato has talked about the offensive improvement, he points to the play-caller and the development of some players he drafted. When Zorn talks about it, he mentions the improved execution. In other words, there’s a disconnect and not much of a desire to credit the other.
The Redskins have played better offensively the past month, averaging 29.3 points the past three games despite losing one key player after another.
“As an owner, when it comes to a coach that still has a team that’s going out there competing and playing good football, you should weigh that option and say, ‘This is what I feel he’s brought to us,'” Redskins receiver Santana Moss said. “If it’s good enough, then he should be here. If it ain’t, that’s his choice.”
Campbell » Like Zorn, he won’t say much about his future, opting for the one-game-at-a-time clich?. Depending on whether or not the collective bargaining agreement is extended, Campbell will be an unrestricted or restricted (if it is not) free agent.
The Redskins tried to acquire quarterbacks Jay Cutler and Mark Sanchez in the offseason. And for the first half of the season, Campbell was unspectacular at best. But in the past five games he’s thrown eight touchdowns to four interceptions while finishing three games with passer ratings above 100. This despite a makeshift line and the loss of the top two running backs. He’s making better decisions; his audible vs. Oakland resulted in a 30-yard pass to Moss.
“I won’t speculate on where he is in the league as far as a franchise quarterback,” Zorn said. “For this team he is playing very well. This is his second year in the offense and you can see glimpses of what this offense can do. … I’m very encouraged with how he stepped his game up.”
Campbell could help his case by defeating playoff teams; three potential ones are up next. A couple stirring comeback wins, the sort he’s failed to provide, also would help.
“The win-loss is a critical issue when it comes to NFL standards,” Zorn said.
