The Redskins made the playoffs — sorta. It starts today in Cincinnati.
The Redskins must win their last three games to reach the postseason and even then hope for some breaks. More importantly, Washington needs to beat practically the worst team in football or likely finish 7-9. What an offseason that would bring.
Washington’s final two games versus Philadelphia and San Francisco are challenging. Philadelphia is hot once more and FedEx Field is no home advantage. San Francisco has also gained momentum under interim coach Mike Singletary and flying cross-country for a meaningless season-finale if not 9-6 is a sure loss for Washington.
It all comes down to today. Win or face virtual elimination from the postseason that once looked so certain at 6-2. The only problem is the Redskins aren’t scoring and have struggled against terrible teams. They’re bickering internally more than running back Clinton Portis’ public tirade. The roster is beat up more than a school yard geek.
It all sets up for an upset loss. Too many distractions, too many injuries.
Just kidding — Washington pulls this one out if only by a touchdown. Peace will return to Redskins Park. Fans can come off the ledge for at least a week.
However, this game impacts the offseason. First, how does Cincinnati’s Chad Johnson fare against the Redskins? Washington needs a big receiver that Malcolm Kelly hasn’t filled after the Redskins couldn’t pry Johnson away from Cincinnati last spring. If Johnson beats Washington, owner Dan Snyder will surely trade for Ocho Cinco before April.
Second, the Redskins are an aging roster with few promising young players and only four draft picks next year. How they finish will largely determine who stays. Shawn Springs, Jason Taylor, Marcus Washington, Andre Carter, Jon Jansen, James Thrash, Shaun Suisham, Cornelius Griffin, Ryan Plackemeier and Pete Kendall are all vulnerable over the offseason.
Third, quarterback Jason Campbell needs a decent finish to ensure starting in 2009. Campbell has done a good job in his first season in coach Jim Zorn’s system. However, the fourth-year passer could be better. A solid game against Cincinnati’s awful defense would especially bolster confidence. Otherwise, rookie Colt Brennan might get a chance during offseason camps to compete in 2009.
Finally, Zorn’s status might change if the team finishes 1-7 over the season’s second half. An 8-8 mark or better should ensure his return, but nothing’s ever certain around Redskins Park.
Winning is the only job security. The Redskins better earn it now.
Rick Snider has covered local sports since 1978. Contact him at [email protected].
