1. Will Donovan McNabb remain in Washington? It’s clearly not his call at this point. McNabb’s inconsistent fundamentals and footwork can’t sit well with a coach, Mike Shanahan, who points to footwork as the key to good quarterback play. Perhaps McNabb will get on a roll after the break and force a big contract extension. But it’s more likely that the Redskins will have traded two picks to Philadelphia for a one-year rental.
2. Can the defense carry them? The defense has enough playmakers to continue impacting games: LaRon Landry, DeAngelo Hall, Brian Orakpo and Albert Haynesworth are capable of big plays in key moments. That’s why Washington has created 19 turnovers, tied for tops in the NFL. They’ll have to match that total for this team to have a shot at the postseason. It’s not unreasonable.
Recommended Stories
3. Can the running game be consistent? Not with the health situation in the backfield. It’s still uncertain when Clinton Portis will return, and now Ryan Torain has a hamstring injury. The key is getting Portis back healthy. They miss him badly in pass protection. His experience and violence in protection are needed. But considering his health issues in each of the past three seasons, it’s hard to see him as a full-time every-down back. That means Torain must stay healthy. Can he?
4. Will Shanahan lose the locker room? It depends on his handling of McNabb going forward. The players have expressed confidence in Shanahan; they know his resume — and they know he has the power. That won’t change, and it does matter. But his offensive moves haven’t paid off. And if Shanahan goes away from McNabb or he makes him a scapegoat, that won’t sit well. At some point players would have to wonder whether Shanahan is trying to win or prove a point.
5. Will they make the playoffs? It’s a funny question to ask this week after Shanahan’s version of “The Decision.” They’ll likely need at least nine wins, and that appears difficult with this offense. Their most difficult remaining games: two vs. the New York Giants and one at Tennessee. Win one of those three and there’s a chance; but they’d have to go 4-1 against Philadelphia, Minnesota, Tampa Bay, Jacksonville and Dallas. All are winnable games, but so were Detroit and St. Louis.
Follow me on Twitter @John_Keim
Submit a question for Redskins Mailbag.
