Continue To Play Younger Players: Last week a number of younger defensive players stepped up and played very good games. The Redskins should look to build on that as they head into a rebuilding season. I would also like to see some of the young offensive talent get some snaps, particularly at receiver. I would also really look  to judge the offensive linemen as no one outside of Trent Williams is 100% safe next season.

Protect Rex Grossman: Speaking of the offensive line, they need to have a strong game today if the Redskins have any shot of winning. The Giants have one of the most feared pass rushes in the NFL, so today will present a major challenge for the offensive line. Washington did have some success running the ball the last time they played, but they were so far out of the game they had to abandon that game plan. If the Redskins can establish the run early, it could slow down the blitz. If they can’t run though and those O-linemen are left alone to protect Grossman it could get ugly fast.

Use Cooley and Davis To Exploit the Giants Secondary: Chris Cooley might have had a game to forget last week, but it wasn’t nearly as bad as the performance of the Giants secondary against Green Bay. While the Redskins don’t boast the same offensive talent, they should be able to find holes that they can use to exploit them. I would look to target both Cooley and Fred Davis to find favorable matchups down the field. While Moss and Armstrong can be involved, I think Cooley and Davis can have a lot of success against this defense.

Do Something Unexpected: I would love to see on either offense or special teams a couple of new trick plays. The Redskins can’t match the Giants size, speed and talent, but they can be more prepared. If they do an end around on a kick off or an onside kick when they wouldn’t suspect it, and one or two trick plays on offense they could maybe catch the Giants napping. If they don’t work they don’t work, but if they do it could be the difference in the game.

Tackle the Ball Carrier: In their last game against the Giants the Redskins forgot how to tackle and they ended up giving up 200 yards on the ground. This time the Redskins need to do a much better job of bringing down the runner at first contact (which will hopefully not be 40 yards down the field). Now it has to be a group effort; the defensive line has to at least hold their ground and maybe even penetrate to blow up plays in the backfield. The linebackers need to shed their blocks and wrap up. And the defensive backs need to take better angles to the ball carrier, and if it is Jacobs running go for the legs. None of these things happened the last time they met, and it ended in a disaster for the Skins. The bad news for Washington is it could be harder this time around as the Giants offensive line is healthier than the last time they met. Also, some injuries along the Redskins defense could weaken their ability to hold the point of attack (then again they didn’t do it when they played the last time).

Get Pressure On Manning: While it is a standard key to the game, Eli has really not handled the pressure well this season so it is extra important today. Manning has been interception happy so it could lead to a major shift in field position if they can pick off a few of his passes. Last game he was fairly unscathed, though Orakpo did cause a couple of penalties. The Redskins need to do a much better job if this week if they hope to get the kind of pressure they need.

Prediction: Giants 27-17

Stop Rashard Jennings: The Jags may be without Maurice Jones-Drew, but Jennings still gives them a talented rushing attack. If the Jags are able to move the ball on the ground it will make things a lot easier for Jaguars quarterback David Garrard. Not to mention it will eat up the clock and keep the Skins defense on the field. If Washington hopes to win they have to keep Jennnings in check and hold him under 100 yards.

Get after Garrard: I realize it won’t be an easy task with Brian Orakpo out, but the Redskins need to generate pressure if they hope to stop the Jaguars today. The majority of good pass defenses rely on pressure rather than talent in the defensive backfield, and that is where the Redskins are lacking (though a good free safety wouldn’t hurt). Last week the Redskins did some good things with their blitz packages, by bringing corners and safeties, but they will need to be even more creative this week without Orakpo. While the Jags offensive line isn’t great, they are good enough to stop 3 and 4 man rushes (esp. considering the Skins talent level), meaning Washington will need to disguise blitzes and overload the blockers if they want to get to Garrard.

Keep Grossman Upright: All-in-all Grossman did alright under pressure against the Cowboys. He did throw the one pick, but the fumble wasn’t his fault considering his offensive lineman blocked him into the defender. The Jags don’t have near the pass rush of the Cowboys, but the Redskins offensive line has a habit of making average defensive lines look like All-Pro’s. Washington needs to handle the pass rush and give Grossman the time to execute the offense.

Get Fred Davis involved: I would love to see Fred Davis have a big game this week for a couple of reasons. One he is one of this team’s best pass catchers. Two, Fred Davis will be one of your best trade chips this offseason, so it would be a good idea to showcase him to prospective teams. Davis does create plenty of matchup problems, so hopefully the Redskins have schemed to use him appropriately today.

Look Towards the Future: I know accusations of ‘tanking’ will be made, but those are just fans and analysts who don’t understand what’s best for the team. There is no reason these last couple of weeks that the Redskins don’t take a long hard look at some of their backups. The Redskins aren’t some team with a Pro Bowl player at every position. This is a 5-9 team, who has looked bad all season. Also this is a team that will (or at least should) experience a lot of turnover this offseason. I would say over half the players on the active roster won’t be in D.C. next year so there is nothing wrong at taking a look at some of your young guys. We already know Roydell Williams can’t play wide receiver in the NFL, why not give Terrence Austin some chances to show what he can do? Guys like Austin, Brandon Banks, Perry Riley, Jeremy Jarmon, Macho Harris, Rob Jackson, Kevin Barnes, need to see a lot of the field today (the good news is some are starting), so the Redskins can evaluate them for next year. One guy I’d really like to see is Darryl Young. I’m not a big believer in Mike Sellers having a future here, and would love a chance to see if Young could be counted on for the job or if the Redskins need to address that position this offseason.

Analysis: While the Redskins match up well against the Jags since Jacksonville doesn’t have a great pass rush and can’t defend the run, I still see Jacksonville winning this game. Although they are on the outside looking in, the Jags playoff hopes are still alive and they will be at home. While they may miss Jones-Drew the Redskins will be without a number of defensive starters including Orakpo and SS Reed Doughty. I think the Redskins might have some success early in the game and maybe grab a lead, but right now I don’t see this as a defense that can hold on for a victory.

Prediction: Jacksonville 27-20.

While this was something I was going to look to post after I finished with all the roster outlooks, the Washington Post went ahead and wrote an article about the cap savings of possible trades and cuts the Redskins might look to make this season. Now this isn’t a comprohensive list and as J.J. Hasell points out, everyone on this list isn’t likely gone. It just goes to show the salary cap cost of players that could be cut/traded, that would make a significant impact on the prospective salary cap. We are a long way off from knowing if there will be a salary cap (I expect there will be), and if so what it will be. But it should be noted that the cap in 2009 was $127 million. I would expect a new cap to be anywhere between $8-12 million more than what it was in 2009, but in reality it could be well off that guess.

Here is the breakdown of the Cap savings or cost (in the case of Andre Carter) for releasing or trading these players:

• RB Clinton Portis: -$5,645,500
• LB London Fletcher: -$4,900,000
• QB Donovan McNabb: -$4,750,000
• CB DeAngelo Hall: -$4,400,000
• DT Albert Haynesworth: -$3,400,000
• C Casey Rabach: -$3,000,000
• NT Ma’ake Kemoeatu: -$2,500,000
• OG Derrick Dockery: -$1,565,000
• DE Adam Carriker: -$1,420,000
• OG Artis Hicks: -$1,400,000
• DE Phillip Daniels: -$1,250,000
• DE Vonnie Holliday: -$1,250,000
• TE Fred Davis: -$555,000
• DE Andre Carter: $2,909,998

As noted above Carter would actually cost the Redskins to cut/trade him, while the rest would be actual savings. The McNabb money seems odd considering the $10 million option he has, but I will trust Hasell’s numbers. I would say right off the bat that I believe both DeAngelo Hall and London Fletcher will be in Washington next year. The Redskins would have to be overwhelmed with an offer to move either of the those players and while they could save some money, their production doesn’t warrant making a deal. I think Portis, Rabach, Kemoeatu, and Daniels are easy cuts and a couple other players could join them if there isn’t a trade market for them. I’d be surprised to see Carriker, Holliday, Hicks cut outright and they won’t offer much on the trade market (maybe you get a 7th round pick back), but they could be potentially packaged with another player on this list, or a draft pick on draft day.

Donovan McNabb: The Redskins control his destiny and while it might be a tough sell in a trade, it wouldn’t shock me to see some team give up a late third rounder or a fourth rounder for the Redskins quarterback. I’m not sure how the Cap numbers totally work, but if the Redskins are taking some of the cap hit, meaning that whatever team acquires him doesn’t have to pay full price it could increase his value. I wouldn’t say it is definite they could trade him, and they might need to accept less, but it is feasible. I doubt Arizona is an option, unless they are trying to appease Larry Fitzgerald (who is a free agent the following year), but Minnesota, San Francisco, Miami, and Denver could all be better options. I also wouldn’t discount the Raiders as Al Davis will always go for the big move or the Titans if they get rid of Vince Young. A lot will depend on who ends up the head coach with these teams and whether they want to pursue a veteran. My guess is some team will be willing to give up a draft choice for McNabb and it could go up into the third round if the Redskins are taking some of the money against their cap.

Albert Haynesworth: Although Redskins fans, media members, and coaches have written Haynesworth off as a bad seed and a worthless player, I doubt other teams around the league would feel such animosity towards Haynesworth. In fact if he was a free agent I’m sure he would land a big time deal, and would be one of the most pursued players. Since that is the case, the Redskins should be able to trade for something, though it will be well below market value. In addition to getting one of the best defensive tackles in the game, a team would control him for the next two years at just about $12 million, which is a very good price. Now Haynesworth won’t fit every team as he should be solely viewed as a penetrating defensive tackle (or end in the 3-4), and not one who worries about gap assignments or a read and react approach. Two teams that could be in on Haynesworth could be his old team the Tennessee Titans (if Jeff Fisher is still there), and the Lions who are coached by his old defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz. Some might discount the Lions because they drafted Ndamukong Suh last April, but I wouldn’t. While Suh and Corey Williams give the Lions a solid defensive tackle pairing, adding Haynesworth to the mix would make it elite. Although both Haynesworth and Suh are penetrators and at times over aggressive, I think their sheer talent would overcome whatever offensive strategies devised to neutralize them. As it stands now both Suh and Haynesworth are routinely double-teamed (at times Haynesworth is even triple-teamed), put them next to each other on the same line and other pass rushers will have clear shots at the quarterback. The Lions are also a team on the rise, so making a big splash could be worth a 3rd round pick (or maybe a 4th and 6th round pick since the Lions 3rd rounder is going to be pretty high). If Detroit gets a more consistent pass rush, their coverage and overall defense will be vastly improved, making Haynesworth a perfect fit for the Lions.

Fred Davis: Davis is a capable offensive first tight end that could start for a number of teams in this league. While his overall numbers are down this season, he has shown a lot of promise when he has had the ball thrown his way. Despite having just one year remaining on his contract there should be a pretty solid market for a tight end of his caliber. Davis’ value is further enhanced by the fact that he will cost just 550K against the cap, making him a perfect cheap tight end option. Unfortunately in this situation you would hope a number of contenders would need tight end help, but most of the top teams are pretty set there. One team that could be in the market is the Atlanta Falcons. There are a number of rumors of Tony Gonzalez retiring at the end of this season and Atlanta would need a suitable replacement. The Falcons may be willing to part with say a 3rd (albeit late third) and a 6th rounder for Davis to keep their offense running on all cylinders.

Andre Carter: Carter was completely miscast in the 3-4 system and both he and the Redskins pass rush had a down year because of it. Now Carter is the one player who wouldn’t save the team money, and in fact it would cost the team $3 million to get rid of him. Despite the financial cost it is the right move for the Redskins to make, for their own roster as it will free up long term money and they can use his spot on a player who fits their system. Carter has a no-trade clause, but would likely waive it since he could move to a team that could actually showcase his talents. 4-3 teams will be the only interested suitors, but there are a number of options that could make sense. Two of the top ones could be the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Houston Texans. Both are young and talented teams that need help with getting to the quarterback. Given the decline in play, I think the best the Redskins can hope for is a 4th round pick and might even have to settle for a 5th round pick, as they look to move Carter. While it isn’t a great return and the Skins would eat some money (which could increase the value higher), it is in the best interest for the Skins to move on.

Derrick Dockery: Of the players on this list Dockery is the one most likely to be cut outright, considering he has been pretty much inactive this entire season. While there isn’t a ton of value I think there could be a little trade market for Dockery. Dockery isn’t really overpriced at guard (though he isn’t a bargain either). He needs to go to a power running team that plays to his strengths, but he can be a very good guard in that system. Although there are a couple options out there, one that I like is the Cleveland Browns. Cleveland has a huge hole at RG and Dockery could be just the man to fill it. In addition the Browns have Shaun Rogers regulated to backup duty at NT with the emergence of Ahtyba Rubin. Both players are signed for an additional three years with Rogers making a couple million more, and both fill a major need for the other team. Now it likely wouldn’t be an even swap as the Redskins would need to chip in an asset or two, but it shouldn’t be too prohibitive. The Browns might be interested in a cheap depth 3-4 DE like Holliday or Carriker as well as throwing in a 5th or 6th round pick. Adding a true nose tackle would be a great coup for the Redskins if they could pull it off, and should help improve on the league’s worst defense. *UPDATE: Shaun Rogers has been released and is a free agent.

Overall: These moves won’t net the Redskins any top 50 picks or elite players, but if they find a way to to add at least 2 or 3 picks coming in the 3rd and 4th rounds, Washington’s rebuilding process could be over sooner rather than later. These moves would also clear the books not only for 2011, but more importantly for future seasons as well. The Redskins haven’t helped themselves any by benching or misusing these players, hurting their trade value, but I think they could still make some these deals if they are smart. In one or two of them, they might need to accept a little less, but they are still worthwhile moves to stock draft picks for the Skins.

Part 2 of our series looking at where the Redskins need to upgrade in 2011…

Wide Receivers:

Santana Moss: Moss is having another productive year as the Redskins top wide receiver. He isn’t the home run threat he once was, but he still has the ability to pick up yards after the catch and make people miss. Moss has become more of a smart receiver and has found a number of holes in opposing defenses. Moss works best out of the slot where he can exploit match-ups and use his quickness. Moss does have the opportunity to opt out of his contract (which I’m sure he will) and the Redskins will need to see how much he is looking for. If the Redskins lose Moss, their receiving corps would be really hurting. I’m guessing they keep him if he does want to stay.

Anthony Armstrong: Armstrong has been impressive at times this year by routinely splitting defenses for big gains. With 40 catches and nearly 800 yards, Armstrong has been a nice find for the Redskins. While he has done a nice job catching some big plays, Armstrong only has two touchdowns to show for his effort. Now sometimes the issue has been the quarterback (both McNabb and Grossman) under throwing the ball, but other times Armstrong hasn’t been able to keep his feet. For Armstrong to develop into more than a 3 or a 4, he will need to work on both his balance and intermediate routes which he has been adequate at best. Considering he has caught 40 balls (and only two were in the end zone) Armstrong needs to show more than the 113 yards after the  catch than he has had this season. Armstrong will be 28 next season so, he really needs to step it up if he wants to prove himself a top receiver.

Malcolm Kelly: Kelly missed all of this season due to injury, but there is little reason to believe that he can contribute next season. Best case scenario is that Kelly proves himself healthy in preseason and the Redskins can trade him for a 7th round pick.

Roydell Williams: Williams has proven to be a solid special teamer, but a horrible offensive threat. Williams doesn’t possess either great size or speed, and doesn’t seem to pickup the ball well when it is thrown to him. The Redskins desperately need to find better receiving options next year and Williams is the first area they need to upgrade.

Terrence Austin: Austin has a little promise and could get some looks down the stretch, but I don’t believe he really has a longterm future with this team. Austin’s skill set is very similar to both Moss and Armstrong (redundant to Brandon Banks), which gives him little chance for making this team. He will be in camp next year, but I really don’t see him having an impact going forward.

Brandon Banks: Banks has proven himself as a dynamic return man, but has yet to make a real impact on offense. Banks was a great find as an undrafted free agent, but Redskins fans shouldn’t be shocked if they go in a different direction next season. Although Banks is an impressive return man, it is hard to keep a player as a return man only on the roster. Banks will need to prove himself capable of helping out on offense to continue to warrant a job next year. This past year the Steelers cut Stefan Logan, one of the league’s best return men from the year before, because he didn’t really have an offensive role. Pittsburgh instead drafted two receivers this year with return abilities and they have been rewarded with quality returns and offensive production. While Banks is probably better than Logan, he will need to show some offensive prowness to keep him, otherwise the Skins might see if they can get a 6th or 7th round pick for him and use it on a receiver with upside (hopefully not another Terrence Austin).

Overview: The Redskins have two and a half receivers set for next year, assuming Moss resigns. This unit (i.e. Moss and Armstrong) have been solid this year, but far from spectacular. As much as Redskins fans like them, they pale in comparison to other NFC East receiving corps and are in the bottom third of the league (even if you just compare top two receivers). Overall this unit needs to add at least two capable receivers if not 3. At least two of the receivers need to be 6’2″ or taller as the Redskins have no Red Zone receiving threat. Washington should be active in both the draft and free agency in finding these options. If they keep Banks around maybe they go with 6 receivers, but barring a change in the number of players on the roster it will be hard to keep 6 for the season.

Tight Ends:

Chris Cooley: Cooley has responded well from missing most of last season with an injury and is putting up some of the best numbers of his career. Even more impressive than his receiving numbers might be the improvement in his blocking. Now he is still below average for a tight end, but he has slightly improved his blocking this season and has helped spring a few big runs. Dropped balls were a concern for a couple games earlier in the season, but he has been better in recent weeks. Regardless Cooley remains among the games best offensive tight ends.

Fred Davis: Davis is under contract for one more season, making now the perfect (actually last year was the perfect time to trade him, but the Skins missed the boat on that one) time to trade him. Unfortunately Davis hasn’t been utilized much this season hurting his trade value some, but when he has played Davis has made a difference. Davis has turned a number of short screens into moderate gains, and intermediate passes into long gains. The Redskins missed the boat this season by not involving Davis in the offense more and it has set them back.

Logan Paulsen: Paulsen has been a nice find for the Redskins as an undrafted rookie free agent. He not only has proven to be a good inline blocker, but he has flashed solid hands, and decent speed. He will never be a major downfield threat, but he can work underneath and be a solid receiving option.

Analysis: While some Redskins fans might be against trading a tight end (likely Davis), it is a smart move for the Redskins. Having the league’s best tight end unit, when you have so many needs would be like having the best bullpen in baseball, but no starting pitchers. Washington needs to cash in on Davis, who would be capable of starting for at least half the teams in the league. It is hard to say exactly what kind of market their would be for Davis, but I would hope they could get at least a late 3rd round pick for him (or at least the equivalent). With Cooley and Paulsen the Redskins won’t need to make tight end a priority this offseason, but will need to address it with either a minor free agent signing or a late draft pick.

Quarterbacks:

Donovan McNabb: Well this week it has been made clear that McNabb doesn’t have a future with the Washington Redskins. Washington does control his future so something will need to give here, and maybe, just maybe some team would give up a 4th round pick (not sure as too why, but if all the analysts in the world think that “McNabb deserved better” I guess he is worth at least that).

Rex Grossman: Grossman was fairly impressive in his first game in Dallas, and looked a heck of a lot more comfortable than McNabb did. Barring something freak injury or a complete inability to find a Redskin receiver these last two weeks, I expect the Redskins will resign Grossman this offseason. In all likelihood he will serve as a place holder until a young quarterback can be groomed.

John Beck: Beck is signed through next year so it should be pretty clear he is coming back, but he could face some competition. A rookie quarterback will likely be drafted, but the Skins could look at the waiver wire long and hard if they feel another quarterback with starting experience is needed.

Overview: With or without McNabb, this was an area of need for the Redskins and likely a target in the 2011 draft (again, since the 4th round pick was used for McNabb–whoops). The Redskins could also look at another quarterback who could help bridge the gap between next season and when a rookie is ready. It could be a veteran type on the down side of his career, a former ‘bust’ qb with some starting experience, or a young guy with a little upside. Whether they draft a quarterback in the first round (big mistake) or later, the Redskins will need to be patient with him, and perhaps let him develop the entire season on the bench. Adding another veteran has a lot of merit to ensure a rookie isn’t forced into action before he is ready.

Running Backs:

Clinton Portis: I believe Portis has played his last game as a Washington Redskin. While he still remains the best blocking back on the team (perhaps the league), Portis makes too much money for his production. Given the fact that Portis’ contract isn’t guaranteed for next season, I’d look for Washington to move on.

Ryan Torain: Torain is developing into a solid back and will at the very least have a shot at being the featured back next season. Two things keep him from being a sure thing. First, Torain needs to work on being a complete back. He hasn’t shown to be even an adequate blocker for the quarterback, and is probably at best an average receiver out of the backfield. The second concern is Torain’s health. People complain about Portis being injury prone, but he is like Brett Favre compared to Ryan Torain when it comes to health. Torain in limited carries and plays has a pretty extensive injury history dating back to college. Torain has showed flashes of brilliance, but until he proves he can stay healthy, the Redskins can’t count on him to be their featured back.

Keiland Williams: Williams has been a nice find for the Redskins this season as an undrafted free agent out of LSU. Williams is a tough hard runner, and probably the Skins best short yardage back. He doesn’t have the explosiveness of Torain or Portis, but he has held up all season and was for some games the Redskins lone healthy running back. He is a solid blocker and a good receiver out of the backfield. He will almost assuredly be back next year and should take on even a bigger role.

Chad Simpson: Simpson was signed early this year to add a speed back to the mix who could also help out in the return game. While things could change the return game looks in good shape, and Washington will likely look for other speed backs this offseason. I don’t even think he makes the 80 man roster going forward.

James Davis: I like James Davis a lot and I know he didn’t get much of an opportunity, but he still could have a future with this team. In limited work he did have a couple nice runs and receptions. He is fairly inept as a pass blocker though so he will need to improve in that area. While he might not be the answer, he at least deserves a shot going forward.

Andre Brown: Brown is an interesting back to have on the roster, but not really a long-term solution. Brown ruptured his Achilles tendon as a rookie with the Giants and hasn’t been the same since. He has bounced around between a number of teams this season, but has yet to stick anywhere. If the Redskins are patient and let him heal he could bounce back next year with a strong camp. His injuries are reminiscent of Torain, but he has flashed potential in the past.

Shawnbrey McNeal: McNeal right now is on the practice squad but could have a future with this Redskins team. He is a small quick back that could be an effective outside runner/receiving threat out of the backfield. He will never be suited for every down duty, but could earn a role on this team for next year. I hope they bring him back and he is on their 80 man roster.

Overview: There is a lot of hype surrounding Ryan Torain and he could be the feature back in Washington, but I’m not ready to anoint him just yet. Williams, Davis and McNeal all warrant more consideration and could have big time roles on this team. While I don’t expect them to use major resources on this position, I think one or two players should be brought in. If the Redskins end up with some extra picks via trade, I could see them targeting a speed/power back (since there isn’t a true one of either on the roster) in the 3rd to 4th rounds. And my guess is a priority rookie free agent will be signed as well.

Fullbacks:

Mike Sellers: Sellers is a former Pro Bowler, no longer plays at the same level that he used to (though many people seem to think he does). Sellers still possesses solid hands for a fullback and can be a load to bring down. At the same time he is still one of the Redskins best special teamers, delivering a number of big hits on punts and kickoff returns. The bad news is the skills that traditional fullbacks have, Sellers no longer has at a starting level. Sellers is no longer the run or pass blocker he once was, and is not an option at all for short yardage situations. The Redskins need a complete fullback to help improve both their running and passing games. Sellers could still stay on the roster as a backup/special teamer if he is willing to accept that role, but it is also possible they go in an entirely different direction.

Darrel Young: Young is playing his first season as a fullback, after playing linebacker in college and as a rookie on the practice squad last season. He has flashed a little potential, but really has just played special teams this season. He could have a future, but he will likely face some competition next year.

Overview: I think this is an area the Redskins need to upgrade at. While Sellers offers some big plays on special teams and every now and then on offense, he disappears too much to have as a starting fullback. If the Redskins draft/sign a young guy Sellers could stick around as a backup/special teamer, but if they sign a quality free agent I think his time with the organization is over. Fans might get a little upset since Sellers has an impressive resume, but they should be a happy at what a better all-around player (especially a blocker) can mean to this offense. Given the hype of players with past accolades, it wouldn’t even be shocking if the Redskins could acquire a 6th or 7th round pick if they tried to trade Sellers.

Be More Accurate With Your Short and Intermediate Throws: The good news last week was that Donovan McNabb was more accurate on his screens and short passes overall, the bad news was he was inaccurate when it really counted, on 3rd down and inside the Red zone. That I believe is a big reason why he is now riding the bench. Rex Grossman needs to be more accurate and keep drives going. I’m sure the Cowboys will be blitzing so the Redskins need a number of safe hot reads for Grossman to find.

Protect the Quarterback/Get Rid of the Ball Quicker: The Redskins once again last week gave up two sacks and a number of quarterback pressures. Overall thats not a good week and even more so considering the Buccaneers have one of the league’s worst pass rushing units. The Bucs pass rush was even worse than normal considering rookie defensive tackle Gerald McCoy played only the first couple of drives before leaving with injury. If the Bucs can get that level of pressure the Cowboys are going to have a field day.

Now in fairness it has always been the offensive line this season. Running back Ryan Torain WHIFFED on a block that would have saved one sack. And James Davis chose the wrong pass rusher on another play that led to a pressure (and a ball that was nearly intercepted). The running backs and tight ends need to do a better job holding their blocks, especially against a team like the Cowboys that will blitz from anywhere.

Although a lot can be said about the offensive line play or the failure of the backs for picking up blitzes, the quarterback needs to be better about handling the pressure as well. For as much athleticism that McNabb has, he was horrible about feeling the pressure and was notorious for holding on to the ball too long. This led to a number of sacks, fumbles and inaccurate throws. Rex Grossman has to feel the pressure better and not take needless sacks. He won’t be able to free lance like McNabb did from time to time, so Grossman has to be smarter with the ball.

Establish The Run: The Redskins will need to be able to run the ball if they have any chance of winning this game. Rex Grossman could be an adequate quarterback, but he will not be able to win the game on his own. Torain, Williams and Davis need to have a big game, by keeping drives alive and the Cowboys offense off the field. The Redskins gained about 200 yards last week and still lost, I think they will need at least 150 to have any shot of winning.

Don’t Rely on the Kicking Game: I’m not big in the Anti-Gano camp, and really don’t mind that they have kept him since his kickoffs have been excellent, but do not rely on field goals this week. There might not be any rain or muddy field, but you have a new holder, a long snapper who has struggled all year, and a field goal kicker who hasn’t looked right for a couple of weeks (I’m thinking fatigue or possibly an injury). You have to play to put the ball in the end zone, which wasn’t the case last week. While it is hard to say exactly who was to blame Kyle Shanahan or McNabb, but their play calling inside the Red zone was awful last week. Multiple times McNabb threw to receivers on third and goal to receivers who were not only well short of the goal line, but double or triple covered. If it is third and goal, you might want to consider actually throwing to a receiver with a chance to score.

Put Some Pressure On Kitna: Look the Cowboys have very good receivers, tight ends, and running backs, the only hole in their offensive game is their pass protection. If you can get some pressure maybe you can force some turnovers. If you don’t Jon Kitna will pick the Skins secondary apart. You know Brian Orakpo can get after the passer, but other than that Washington doesn’t have much in the way of a pass rush. Since the Redskins lack the skill to blitz I think they need to get creative. Send some corner blitzes, overload a side, do more stunts, basically the Redskins have nothing to lose so they mine as well show the Cowboys some different looks. Another thing I’d do is let Andre Carter play with his hand down more in your base package. I realize he isn’t a real 3-4 lineman, but he has a motor and always gets penetration. I know it goes against the 3-4 gap assignment ethos, but those have been the only times when this defense has been successful (i.e. Albert Haynesworth freelancing). Let Carter have a bit more freedom to penetrate and cause havoc for the Cowboys. If they start exploiting it maybe you change back, but again at this point what do the Skins have to lose.

Prediction: I think the Redskins will look a little better than people give them credit for but whether it is McNabb or Grossman I don’t see them going into Dallas and winning. Cowboys 27-17.

I’ll write some more in depth posts on the overall Shanahan-McNabb-Redskins debacle later this week, but right now I wanted to touch on a few more points:

McNabb’s Former Pro Bowl Status Doesn’t Make Him an ‘Elite Quarterback’:

Even if you look at McNabb’s numbers last season, they were closer to the middle of the pack than the top of the league. And this is despite having Brian Westbrook and LeSean McCoy at running back, DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin at receiver and tight end Brent Celek. McNabb had also been in that same offense his entire 11 year career, and had a much better offensive line. Despite all that going for him, he was basically slightly above-average last season. What really made anyone believe (especially Mike Shanahan since it’s his job) that McNabb would come in here and be greater than or equal to his performance last year? The Redskins (sad to say) don’t come close to equaling the Eagles talent level, and he was learning a brand new offense (with a reputation of complacency and not being the hardest worker). Now I’m not really knocking him here, I’m just saying that these expectations that we (and by we I mean Skins fans, since I was never a fan of this move) had for him.

As bad as McNabb’s numbers are, he has played even worse. The Texans game was the only game this season that McNabb looked even really good (I’d shy away from using great, considering how he preformed at the end of the game/overtime). Other than that game, it was maybe one or two halves (for the season) with an extra drive or two sprinkled in that McNabb looked even above average. The Redskins 5 wins, have more to do with their defense/running game than anything in particular that McNabb did.

Why Are We So Afraid of Rex Grossman?: I know that on paper or for his career Rex Grossman can’t hold a candle to Donovan McNabb, but really can Grossman be any worse?? I mean this season we have seen the career of Micheal Vick resurrected coming off the bench, did anyone really see that coming? Not to mention we have seen three unheralded quarterbacks, Jon Kitna, Ryan Fitzpatrick, and Colt McCoy (who is a rookie no less) come in and completely turn their teams around (Wade Phillips being fired probably had more to do with the Cowboys turnaround, but Kitna has been impressive nonetheless). At the beginning of the year no one would have considered Fitzpatrick or Kitna that much better than Grossman (though I’m sure they would have been picked ahead of him). All those players come from teams with pretty bad offenses as well.

Kitna has to deal with no offensive line (as well as not being the most mobile of quarterbacks). McCoy is not only learning a new playbook, but an entire new league, while dealing with a weak receiving corps and tight end unit (Peyton Hillis helps). Fitzpatrick might have the worst situation of everyone. He had to learn a new system under coach Chan Gailey, despite having a revolving running back unit (albeit more talented), no tight ends, only solid receivers (at best) and a worst offensive line than the Redskins (no joke Stephon Heyer might be their best offensive lineman). Now McNabb supporters will say that Kitna has good weapons, and McCoy and Fitzpatrick have better running games, but usually those are the same people who believe Ryan Torain is a featured back and Anthony Armstrong is a starting caliber WR. You can’t have it both ways, either those players are below average (which I feel is closer to the truth) or this is no debate about McNabb not having weapons. And really should it matter? Should these three back-up quarterbacks be vastly out preforming our ‘Franchise”, 6-time Pro Bowl Quarterback? Grossman might not be able to replicate these other quarterbacks instant success, but I also don’t think he will (or even can be) worse than McNabb. I’d personally rather pay Grossman $2 million to suck next year than McNabb $13 million.

Don’t Draft A Quarterback In the First Round: I realize the speculation is rampant that the Redskins will draft a quarterback in the first round right now, and that if Andrew Luck, Ryan Mallett and Cam Newton all come out (which I think they will) there will be some options (Jake Locker is in the 1st round mix as well). I also realize that Mike Shanahan LOVES big name quarterbacks, but it would be a horrible mistake to take a signal caller in the first frame. The Redskins barring a Rex Grossman miracle will likely be picking in the top 10 next year, and very well could have a shot at either Mallett or Newton (and def. Locker), but it just simply isn’t worth taking a quarterback when you have so many needs to fill. The Redskins could have as many as 10 starting spots to fill, and that assumes Santana Moss, Carlos Rogers and Rocky McIntosh are all back next season. In addition to the new starters, the Redskins have questions at FB, RB, third WR, and a 3rd CB. That is way too many needs to fill in one offseason, and taking a shot on a quarterback isn’t a good use of resources when he will be set up to fail on this team. Not to mention you already used your 2nd round pick last year and 4th round pick this year on the quarterback position, can you really invest your top 10 pick as well? If McNabb couldn’t succeed with a weak team what makes us think a rookie will?

The Redskins need to trade back in the first round and stock pile 2nd, 3rd and 4th round picks (especially since they are without their own 3rd and 4th rounders). If they have some extra picks maybe you take a shot at Jake Locker if he falls to the 2nd round, or a Christian Ponder/Pat Devlin/Nathan Enderle in the 3rd or 4th rounds. No they might not have the upside of Luck/Mallet/Newton, but they could develop into good quarterbacks and you aren’t wasting your premium pick. Young quarterbacks are usually only successful when they have talent around them, and even then it isn’t a guarantee (see Mark Sanchez). If the Redskins play their cards right they can rebuild this roster with a couple smart free agent signings and a large draft class. They might not be contenders next season, but come 2012 they could be poised to be a longterm force in the NFC. Drafting a quarterback won’t do that, but building a complete team will.

Now I’m sure I will have a lot to say on this topic later, but I wanted to give some of my quick thoughts:

First I want to say that Mike Shanahan has handled this situation horribly. The whole thing the other day about not wanting the Cowboys to know who to prepare for was a complete joke. Do you think the Cowboys are completely changing their gameplan now that Grossman is under center? I think Shanahan handled this unprofessionally and put the focus of this situation on him, his son and the organization, instead of where it should fall, Donovan McNabb. That being said I think there could be some positives to this move that have been lost in the way it was handled:

McNabb Isn’t Worthy of Being the Starting Quarterback:

Any way you cut it McNabb has been REALLY, REALLY bad this season. And while his supporters give a litany of excuses:  receivers, offensive line, injuries, running backs, new playbook etc., they fail to realize that those excuses weren’t good enough for Jason Campbell (who by the by is having a superior season for the Oakland Raiders). If you are going to give up two top draft picks for McNabb, pay him as one of the highest paid QB’s in the league and extend him, then I think you should get better results. Excuses like the ones McNabb has been given, are null and void if he is really a ‘Franchise’ quarterback. Now I’m not saying McNabb can’t be a starting quarterback, just that he can’t handle these issues like a true elite quarterback would. McNabb needs a very good team around him to be successful, and that simply wasn’t going to happen by next season in Washington.

The Redskins Can Evaluate Grossman and Beck:

Look I’m not a fan of either quarterback and don’t have a ton of faith in them as the stopgap answer in Washington for next season, but they at least deserve a look. It has been clear since the beginning of the season that McNabb wasn’t a ‘long term’ solution in Washington, and really wasn’t that great of a short term answer as well. There was a distinct reason why there was no future guaranteed money in McNabb’s extension, which would allow the Redskins to release him with the least amount of impact to the Salary Cap (no doubt it will be back).

Moving On From McNabb Frees Up Money: Speaking of the Salary Cap, now the Redskins will have an additional $12 million+ to play with next season. Yes people will say the ‘created a hole’ at quarterback, but the reality was that hole was already there. McNabb has been really bad this season, and honestly his numbers should be even worse. How many dropped interceptions have we seen (good to know that other teams have their own Carlos Rogers), many of which would have been returned for scores or big gains. Look at how many big gains Chris Cooley, Fred Davis and Keiland Williams have had off of short passes. McNabb’s numbers have been actually ‘inflated’ this season and when you think about it he has been worse than his numbers dictate. How many short fields has he been given from turnovers and special team’s returns, that have helped inflate his passing numbers. Also, remember one of McNabb’s scoring drives was set up by 30 yards of penalties in overtime in that Tennessee game. McNabb isn’t worth nearly that amount of money on a weak team like the Redskins. Now they can take that money and actually bring in some quality players.

I’ll have more in the coming days about this latest Redskins Debacle (The whole McNabb saga not just the past 24 hours). Until then let’s all take a deep breath and realize that we are no worse off with Grossman at the helm than McNabb (NOTE:  we aren’t better either).

Run The Ball Effectively: I don’t care if it is Ryan Torain, Keiland Williams, or James Davis the Redskins need to be able to sustain drives on the ground. Yes I know the offensive line is bad, and the running back talent isn’t the greatest, but you have to be able to do something. The Buccaneers have a solid defense, but it isn’t spectacular. Keep their offense off the field and give your thin defense a rest.

Focus on Shorter Passes: Yes I know that McNabb is among the league leaders in passes over 40 yards, but it really isn’t affecting the Redskins scoreboard and it sure isn’t affecting their win column. The Redskins don’t have the home run hitters that other teams have, so lets try to work on efficiency to help sustain drives (see above). Players like Moss, Cooley and Davis all can thrive in the intermediate passing game, and if they break it for a big gain (like they already have this season) so be it. If they don’t they are at least picking up first downs.

Utilize Your Tight Ends: Tight End is the one position the Redskins have an advantage at, so it is high time they actually get them involved. Cooley has had a good season (albeit with too many drops), and Fred Davis has had a few big plays but too often they get ignored. This is especially true on third downs, when they need to come up big the most. Force those safeties to start matching up on Cooley and Davis, which should hopefully give Moss some more room to work.

Have More Hot Reads: I don’t know if it is bad game planning, McNabb not reading the pressure, or McNabb not realizing that sacks are bad, but the Redskins are taking WAY too many sacks in crucial situations. Now sacks are going to happen, and they are more likely to happen with a porous offensive line, but there is still no excuse for as many as the Skins are taking. If you are Ben Roethlisberger or Philip Rivers maybe you can take some ‘extra’ sacks, because you are so good otherwise. But if you are Donovan McNabb and you have a completion percentage under 60% and a horrible 3rd down conversion rate, maybe it is a good idea to have a check down receiver (or even throw the ball away). Luckily the Buccaneers have one of the worst pass rushes in the league, so hopefully it won’t be too much of an issue today, but if McNabb gets sacked multiple times the Skins are too blame.

Pressure Josh Freeman: Freeman is having an impressive Sophomore campaign, but he isn’t perfect (though still looking like the best QB from that class). If you put some pressure on him he is known to make a mistake or two, which is important considering Carlos Rodgers and LaRon Landry will be out today. If Freeman has time he’ll pick apart this secondary, if there is some pressure maybe the Skins have a chance.

Defensive Line Needs to Play Big: Mike Shanahan and Jim Haslett finally have what they wish for, a defensive line without Albert Haynesworth. The only problem is when Haynesworth hasn’t played this defense has been pretty ineffective. Now the distractions and the player who doesn’t ‘play in the system’ are gone, so they need to have a big performance from their 3-4 D-line to prove they were right. The Redskins have to generate an inside push if Brian Orakpo (see above) can get any pressure on the quarterback. I have little faith in this unit, but they need to step up if the Redskins are to win this game.

Prediction: Buccaneers 27-17.

By Guest Blogger John Manuel:

Since the Red Sox felt that Cliff Lee is going to end up with the Yankees, they went out and got Adrian Gonzalez and now Carl Crawford.  Now its the Yankees turn.  Guess they will up their offer significantly to lock up Lee, but where will it stop?  This has replacing an injured Aaron Boone with an A-Rod trade written all over it.  Yankees probably won’t stop at Lee now with Crawford on the Bo Sox.  So who will it be?  Can they reshuffle to get Prince Fielder somewhere?  Would he DH for the Yankees?  Pujols has one year left, can the Yankees trade for him?  Then what?  Will the Red Sox then go get the kid from “Rookie of the Year” who threw smoke and was unhitable?  Then the Yankees have to one up them next.   Many are killing the Nationals for the contact they gave Jayson Werth, but they wanted him and had no choice.  Otherwise he would have been a Red Sox or Yankee for sure.  Can you imagine if Joe Mauer didn’t resign in Minnesota.  What would he get from the Yankees or Red Sox?  As an Orioles fan, all I can say is that I hope I get hit with a Mark Reynolds bomb outta Camden Yards while I am walking from bar to bar in Federal Hill next season.

Many are gearing up this weekend for fantasy football playoff games.  Both my teams made the playoffs, one was quality and one with some luck.  But its a new season once the playoffs come.  Random teams can win with schmos like James Starks or Tashard Choice.  And what the f on Matt Cassel’s appendix bursting.  My money team has Dwayne Bowe and now its a tough call to even go with him this weekend.  My favorite part of fantasy is still the sh*t talk.  Crushing someone is almost as good as winning your league.  You have to jump at your opportunities like having someone else in the league ask you for lineup suggestions.  Automatic kill them…you just don’t do that.  Its fantasy football, not the Middle East Peace Process, make the decision on your own.  And you need help, read some of the 949955 different sit or start articles or at least ask someone not in your league.  Just another call out to my favorite fantasy warrior “Matzie.”   Maybe by 2014 “Matzie” will be famous for his legendary fantasy moves.

The college basketball season is young, but regretfully I have to say that Duke looks tough to take down.  I hate Duke.  I hate Coach K, respect but hate.  I hate their fans.  Kyle Singler should have been a man and declared for the draft after winning the title.  I am pretty sure he probably got his degree by now. Kyrie Irving although currently hurt looks a like a solid one and done.  The horrible rule that a player must play one year in college is a joke.  Why shouldn’t they be able to go pro out of high school?  Many are ready and going for a year is worthless.  I heard Bob Knight breakdown what it took to be eligible for the 2nd semester and you would be shocked.  Some of these guys are probably going to class and working, but why would you if you know your leaving?  I went to college.  I had better things to do than go to class.   Now back to Duke.  I look forward to the February 2nd game at Comcast.  Hopefully they come in undefeated.  Maryland is no where close to as talented as Duke right now, but with the Terps style and the Comcast energy I know we can knock them off.   My final thought on college basketball goes to ESPN.  Can you please start replacing Dick Vitale on big games with Bob Knight?  Or at least Jay Bilas?  But preferably Knight.  His game insight destroys Vitale telling us how many time Coach K is a hall of famer, or Kyle Singler is the best forward in the country.

I tried to get through this without any comment on Albert Haynesworth, but guess I can’t make it.  He sucks in all aspects.  I have no problem with anyone who blames Shanahan, but Haynesworth is the most selfish athlete I can remember.  On one side I hope they get some of the guaranteed money back, but on the other I hope they don’t.  Just to have the memory of this disaster of an acquisition.  #92 jerseys to soon be in the redskins.com store $5 bargain bin next to #55 Jason Taylors, #85 Brandon Lloyds, #40 Adam Archuletas and #30 Trung Canidates jerseys.