The problems started in the summer. The defense allowed big plays. The kicker missed long field goals. The young and talented cornerback struggled in coverage.
Then came the regular season opener, when things were supposed to change.
Nothing did.
The problems continued, causing Washington to lose, 19-16, to Minnesota on Monday.
The Redskins lost for several reasons, including an inability to score touchdowns in the red zone; they were dreadful on third downs – converting just four of 13. Three newcomers — defensive end Andre Carter, safety Adam Archuleta and wide receiver Brandon Lloyd — made little impact.
“We were just inconsistent,” Redskins coach Joe Gibbs said.
But some problems stood out.
» Second-year cornerback Carlos Rogers missed tackles and was beaten in coverage. He was beaten on a double move by Vikings receiver Marcus Robinson for an easy 20-yard score. Another potential long touchdown grab was dropped by receiver Troy Williamson.
Starting cornerback Shawn Springs might miss a second week, too.
“I’m not nearly where I want to be,” Springs said. “We knew after the [Aug. 15 abdominal] surgery I wouldn’t be here for the first couple games.”
But Springs has advice for Rogers, a first-round pick in 2005.
“He still has to prove himself,” Springs said. “He can be a dominant corner in the NFL. Right now everyone in the NFL is like, ‘OK, we ain’t seen it yet.’ Until you do it, they’ll throw bombs at you. He’ll respond; he’s a good player.”
» Kicker John Hall missed all five field goal attempts over 40 yards this summer. After making three from 27 yards or less on Monday, he missed a 48-yarder wide left in the waning seconds. He’s now 12 of 19 from 40-49 yards with Washington and 46 of 78 for his career.
He also no longer kicks off as the Redskins try to limit the wear on his leg following last year’s surgery.
“I’m glad he’s kicking for us,” Gibbs said. “He’s a veteran guy, he’s kicked a bunch of game winners.”
» The defense surrendered five plays of 20 yards or more and allowed nine of 17 third downs to be converted. The Vikings converted six plays on third and five or longer.
“We have to tackle better,” defensive tackle Cornelius Griffin said. “We did it to ourselves. We had penalties. We beat ourselves more than anything else. We can get that corrected.
“There needs to be more sense of urgency. People need to take more pride in what they do. That’s everybody.”
