1. Are they falling apart? There definitely is an undercurrent of dissatisfaction, whether because of playing time or performance. But they do not seem to have come apart. That will change if the losing continues, mainly because the questions will become more negative. Some guys already are starting to clam up, either because they don’t want to say anything inflammatory or they’re tired of the questions. But it’s still a healthy locker room, thanks to the presence of numerous veterans. However, the players are well aware of the rumors surrounding coach Jim Zorn. And that, in the long-term, is never good.
2. How much time will Chris Samuels miss? The Redskins aren’t sure yet, but they’d better hope it’s not much. Stephon Heyer was struggling on the right side — and is now moving to left tackle, a spot that is tougher. The major reshuffling will force big changes in philosophy. The Redskins can’t run play-action passes, at least not often. And they can’t use a lot of deep drops (unless they show they can run the ball). So perhaps look for shorter drops and quicker throws. At least initially. They’d also be wise to have Todd Yoder play a little more to have a tight end who is a more consistent blocker.
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3. Can they go on a run? After all, other teams have done so. But the problem is this: Key veterans are starting to get hurt. Clinton Portis is banged up; Randy Thomas is out; Samuels is hurting — his knee was bothering him before his latest setback; Phillip Daniels already needs surgery after the season; Cornelius Griffin did not play last week and Albert Haynesworth always seems one play away from being severely hurt. These are players with injury pasts, especially of late. To embark on a run, good health is a necessity, especially in the offensive line. They now have to hope other key players can avoid injuries.
