» No matter who plays quarterback, the Redskins will struggle because of their inability to run. That’s been the most disappointing development this season. Based on the personnel at quarterback, you knew it would be a struggle in the passing game. Injuries haven’t helped the running game, but the Redskins still must find a way to improve. They haven’t had enough consistency from high picks (left tackle Trent Williams), and some of the veterans they brought in need to play better (guard Chris Chester, right tackle Sean Locklear). The line could not consistently reach the Dolphins’ linebackers Sunday, and that was a major hurdle. In addition, the line routinely allowed penetration on the stretch zone, forcing early cutbacks. »
It’s hard to say there’s much confidence in John Beck at this point. Yes, he was impacted by injuries to the offense. But he also never resembled a quarterback worth staking a reputation on. And if he’s not considered good enough to give the Redskins a chance to beat a 1-7 team, how is he good enough to beat any team left on the schedule? Coach Mike Shanahan blames the loss of OTAs this offseason for Beck’s lack of development. But this is too deep in the season for that excuse.
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» Strong safety LaRon Landry has not had the major impact the Redskins hoped for since he returned. Though he remains a powerful player, Landry doesn’t always play soundly, and that leads to mistakes. Playmakers often take chances, but in order to play that way you must make more plays. Landry has a half-sack, one forced fumble and no interceptions. He plays with passion, though he sometimes talks too much after plays in which he has a good hit yet the opponent gained a first down or close to it.
» The draft class has shown flashes of being a strong one, providing the Redskins a good base. But it’s still too early to draw conclusions as only linebacker Ryan Kerrigan has done anything on a consistent basis. Scouts and other evaluators don’t consider him elite, but he’s definitely a good one who is improving. Receiver Leonard Hankerson played one strong game before his injury; end Jarvis Jenkins had a good preseason until he got hurt. But both remain unproven. Jenkins, if healthy, could end up being the best of the group. Running back Roy Helu has helped but hasn’t yet provided a jolt. Receiver Niles Paul has shown, if nothing else, that he’ll be a core special teams player.
