» The offense has no foundation to rely upon, and it’s not just because they can’t pass protect. Rather, it comes back to the ground game. Washington can’t run the ball anymore, and until that gets fixed the offense will struggle — mightily. On one run Sunday, there were three Bills at least a yard deep — one was three yards — in the backfield before running back Ryan Torain even got the handoff. The injuries are a factor, but don’t just blame the injuries. Buffalo and Philadelphia both had injury issues with their lines. Their schemes — and experienced quarterbacks — helped overcome them. » The line won’t improve until Trent Williams returns. This is not about meshing; it’s about a group that loses too many one-on-one matchups. It wasn’t just about the nine sacks but rather the many times quarterback John Beck was hit. Williams provides an anchor on the outside; replacement Sean Locklear has struggled more than Stephon Heyer ever did. Will Montgomery is much better suited for center; it’s not his fault they moved him to left guard. Depth was an issue entering the season. It no doubt will be addressed after the season.
» The Redskins have a good but not outstanding defense. They were a top-10 defense for a while, but that was built in part by facing weaker offenses. They allow way too many big plays — a problem last year as well. In some cases it’s about tackling; in other cases their coverage is lacking. Buffalo had six plays of at least 20 yards, including a 34-yard pass interference penalty. The Redskins now have allowed 36 plays of 20 yards or more this season, a figure topped by only two teams (New England and Arizona). They lack the firepower to compensate.
» The Redskins miss cornerback Carlos Rogers, who returns this week with San Francisco. He wasn’t in the Pro Bowl last year, though he would have been had he hung on to more interceptions (and remained healthy). But Rogers was a physical cornerback who covered well, a solid No. 2. He also could cover in the slot. Rogers’ replacement, Josh Wilson, has been inconsistent, while Kevin Barnes is still learning to play in the slot. Rogers wanted more money than the Redskins were willing to pay, and they had soured on him by season’s end. But they could use his performance.
