1. Where’s the run game? » The Redskins keep saying they’re not running the ball well because they’re not experienced in this offense. But it’s also a case of not having a lot of good run blockers. Too many lost one-on-one battles. They’ve been unable to open good cutback lanes and the backs lack the explosiveness to hit them as hard as, say, Arian Foster. Clinton Portis hasn’t found any rhythm. It’s one reason why the Redskins could not hold onto a 17-point lead. Considering how well they passed the ball, it’s amazing how poorly they ran it. The funny thing is, Washington’s line is pass protecting so much better than run blocking. But part of that is because of Portis. Also, Donovan McNabb is good at eluding the rush and buying time. It’s harder to avoid clutter in the ground game.
2. Too many missed opportunities » The Redskins had first and 10 at the Houston 24-yard line on their first possession – and settled for a 41-yard Graham Gano field goal. On the next series, following a Carlos Rogers interception, Washington had a first down at the 7. The Redskins managed only three more points. Later, with 3:40 remaining, McNabb missed receiver Joey Galloway by inches in the end zone for what would have been a 54-yard touchdown – and 34-20 lead. And there was the blocked 29-yard field goal. Fred Davis was overloaded on the right side, and the inside guy started to rush and backed off, freeing the outside for Bernard Pollard, who blocked the kick. Davis did not exactly make a winning effort. Another issue: Artis Hicks was called for a false start on third and 1; this came right after the Redskins had started to run well (21 yards on three carries). That did not help.
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3. Pass defense » The Redskins have stayed aggressive and that’s good, I suppose. But this defense has shown an ability to allow big plays as well. They’re not stout vs. the run and that’s one problem. In fact, I’m not sure yet what this defense does best. They did do a good job vs. Foster, but it came at the expense of the pass because they often committed eight to stop the run. Part of the problem was Houston QB Matt Schaub. The guy does not feel the rush, or, at least, get panicked by it. His ability to stay patient was critical on more than a few throws. Five sacks normally would rattle a QB; but Schaub stayed cool. Also, it should help when Kareem Moore returns, but, really, we haven’t seen enough of him in a full game to know how good he is – or isn’t. But it is clear that Reed Doughty is a strong safety trying to play free.
It didn’t help facing a guy like Andre Johnson — “Dude’s a monster,” Brian Orakpo said. But the Redskins also struggled vs. Kevin Walter.
4. LaRon Landry is a stud » The Redskins strong safety had another terrific game with 11 tackles and a sack and three quarterback hurries. He closes on ballcarriers the same way LaVar Arrington used to, somehow getting a burst as he gets closer. I liked how they snuck him through the line on one blitz; he got lost behind the big guys and then broke free because it did not appear the guard saw him. Landry comes so fast off the edge that it’s tough to do much with him, especially when he’s coming on Orakpo’s side. But Landry missed two plays and they were costly ones, the first an offsides by his replacement, Chris Horton. Then, on the next play, Horton allowed a 28-yard reception.
5. The Redskins’ passing attack can be fun to watch » It’s enjoyable to watch the misdirection plays; the 62-yarder to Fred Davis was one they worked on often this summer – and it usually worked. They’re huge on misdirection and it worked, even against a team that knows this offense. But if Trent Williams is out it will change things. Notice how they went to four straight quick throws when Stephon Heyer took over at left tackle? The Redskins will have to either give him help or use more quick throws early in games. Also, they must – must – run the ball well to keep it going. But, that said, I loved how many different players caught passes. Galloway got open deep – twice – and that won’t end. It may be the only route he gets open on, but he’s still fast.
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