Joe Gibbs is sprinkling his late-season magic in the opening hours of October.
The leaves have barely started turning and the Redskins are running Riggo Drills. Elections are far off and Gibbs is already emptying his war chest trying to reach the postseason. Sure makes you wonder what kind of deal football’s version of Joe Hardy had made for the Redskins.
Does Gibbs vanish into winter blizzard when this is all over? Maybe he heads back to the Tobacco Road of NASCAR? The miracle maker sure is using all his luck early for one last title run.
The Redskins escaped with a 36-30 overtime victory over Jacksonville on Sunday before a stunned FedEx Field crowd of 89,450 minus a few leaving early thinking the lead was safe. First it was shocking the Redskins were leading by 10, then equally amazing the lead vanished in two possessions. Then the Redskins hooked a 37-yard field goal inside the left upright with 1 minute, 55 seconds remaining. Then they won overtime.
Luck was on the Redskins side for once. Actually, more than once. Try a dozen times or so.
So much has changed over the last two weeks. The Redskins have gone from road kill to road warriors as they head to the New York Giants on Oct. 8 looking to show they’re the beasts of the NFC East. They’ve now stolen a game to even themselves at 2-2. It’s a world of difference from 1-3.
Quarterback controversy? You must be mad.
Playoff possibilities? Absolutely.
Offensive guru Al Saunders isn’t nuts after all. Why the man is so slick there’s Pennzoil leaking from his sleeves. Saunders found Gibbs’ old playbook of running the ball regularly. Gibbs is now 120-19 when running more than 30 times.
The Redskins aren’t a great team … yet. However, you get the feeling that it’s coming. The pieces are starting to re-emerge.
Running back Clinton Portis is carrying the team and quarterback Mark Brunell is doing enough to keep defenders from waiting on Portis. Santana Moss is dancing regularly in the end zone. Chris Cooley is becoming a familiar target again.
The defense is not as good as the last two years. They get beat for big plays far too often. However, they’re also making plays when needed. Defensive end Andre Carter managed a sack and safety Adam Archuleta made plays after slow starts by the free agents.
But life is good around Washington once more. Crisp fall air. Politicians too worried over getting re-elected to do anything stupid. The new Wilson Bridge is coming along nicely.
Why, there are enough free toppings to try pineapple or anchovy.
The Redskins got away with one. Hopefully, Gibbs isn’t already out of pixie dust before Thanksgiving.
Rick Snider has covered local sports for 28 years. Contact him at [email protected].
