…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 Campbell received good protection from his line on the first drive. The Redskins had success with crosses and pick plays. Chris Cooley basically picked Antwaan Randle El’s man on a seven-yard slant on a third and four. And Malcolm Kelly drew a pass interference penalty after he and Santana Moss crossed paths deep down the left side.
…The Redskins blew a chance to get a turnover, and stop a potent offense, after London Fletcher forced a fumble with an explosive hit. Three plays later: touchdown.
…Hard to give Randy Moss the inside as DeAngelo Hall did. Once he got to the inside, Hall had no chance, especially with no safety help to that side. Moss just walled off Hall from the ball.
…Fred Smoot was burned deep often last year. This year, he seems to be giving more cushion — and catches underneath him.
…I like Rock Cartwright a lot; he’s dependable and has done a good job as a returner. But if Devin Thomas isn’t a starting receiver he should be back there helping Cartwright. He looked more explosive. They would probably make a good pair.
…I like the pass plays being called by Jim Zorn. The Pats have not done a good job covering the Skins receivers. But the passes need to get there more. Jason Campbell has to connect when a guy is that open deep, as Santan Moss was.
…One thing I love about Chris Horton is his angle to the ball. He’s quick and goes unblocked when he comes backside, but he also wastes no time getting to the ball.
…The Redskins corners look somewhat confused; they’re playing way off the receivers. Justin Tryon is doing a decent job in the slot, but, honestly, I’m not sure Tom Brady has looked at the man he’s covering once. He hasn’t needed to.
