Rarely has a team with a standout defense and special teams sporting a 4-2 mark felt like dead men walking. And yet, the Washington Redskins seem like short timers after surviving Arizona 21-19 Sunday.
It’s bad enough Washington travels to face an undefeated New England team on Sunday that is steam rolling through the NFL. They just need to escape that loss without more injuries. The remaining schedule isn’t too hard despite four road games in five weeks, but still there’s a growing pessimism the line’s injuries and more offensive malaise will eventually scuttle the season.
Dan Snyder’s kingdom for a guard and tackle.
Actually, it’s not the offensive line so much that is killing the offense. It’s the entire unit and the playcalling. Each has been lacking.
Ironically, quarterback Jason Campbell is better than expected. Yet, the Redskins showed no faith in the passing game in attempting only 18 throws versus the Cardinals despite a running game that averaged 2.4 yards. The Redskins managed 160 yards with the defense scoring once and setting up a second touchdown. The offense essentially managed one touchdown drive.
It’s not working.
You can blame a makeshift offensive line using three spare parts, and there’s some validity to that excuse. They’re marginal players, but they’re doing better than expected.
The problem starts with the receivers, though. Santana Moss pitched his second straight poor outing with just two catches for eight yards. Eight yards from the deep threat? Tight end Chris Cooley caught one pass for three yards. This from a Pro Bowl tight end in a system that should highlight him? And who knows where Brandon Lloyd is? Actually, he’s on the bench cashing another undeserved big paycheck.
Clinton Portis is no longer the playmaker worth Champ Bailey and a draft pick. Portis does many things well, but he’s no longer a gamebreaker despite two short touchdown runs. It’s not always the blocking. Portis just doesn’t have his old zip. With 18 carries, he should have some room occasionally instead of finishing with 43 yards.
Meanwhile, the playcalling showed the imagination of dirt. For $2 million, the playcaller in the booth should make chicken salad out of chicken feathers.
“We tried to do the things we think we can do,” coach Joe Gibbs said.
OK, try doing the impossible instead. Maybe that will work because after six games — line injuries aside — the offense is mired in quicksand just like early last year. Nearing midseason, it’s time to regroup to maximize a unit that has playmakers.
The season shouldn’t be trashed. With this defense and special teams, the Redskins will have a chance to win most weeks. They just need the offense to awaken. At least manage 17 points on their own.
It’s time for no more excuses. Otherwise, the offseason will find new solutions at receiver, running back and offensive coordinator.
Rick Snider has covered local sports since 1978. Contact him at [email protected].
