NFL Draft Guide

You are browsing the archive for Washington Redskins Keys to the Game.

Picture of John Manuel

by John Manuel

Redskins Keys to the Game vs. Seahawks in Playoffs

January 4, 2013 in Washington Redskins Keys to the Game

By Staff Writer John Manuel:

Playoffs are here for the Washington Redskins, so here are my keys to the game and what to watch for in Sunday's Playoff battle against the Seahawks:

1. This matchup brings us the two hottest teams in the NFC.

The Redskins have won seven games in a row while the Seahawks have won their last five.  Both teams win streaks have come against solid opponents as well.

The Skins used their win streak to capture the NFC East crown while the Seahawks just missed out catching the 49ers and are the wildcard.  Seattle has dropped Washington in their last two playoff appearances but those games were in Seattle.  I think this plays a major role Sunday.  Earlier in the season Seattle struggled on the road but their recent play has shown them to be a much better road team.

Good news for the Skins is that both Russell Wilson and Marshawn Lynch have had much better statistical performances on turf than grass this season.  And we all know by now that the FedEx Field surface is far from turf.  This could play a major factor Sunday.

2- The key matchup all of the NFL world will first look at is between the two rookie quarterbacks.

Both Robert Griffin and Russell Wilson deserved Pro Bowl nods as rookies.  RG3 made it and Wilson didn't, but if it went the other way around it would have been hard to argue.  Both quarterbacks have shown poise in big games and have produced in big games.  Much will be made about Griffin's knee, but I think he is better than most feel.  I have confidence in him in the pocket and he showed last week he could still be a running factor as he ran for over 60 yards.

Unlike last week’s game versus Dallas I cannot see quarterback play being such a huge factor in who wins Sunday.  I don't see either Wilson or the Seattle game plan putting him into situations to make mistakes like Tony Romo did.

3- One of the biggest factors why the Redskins have won seven in a row is that they have not faced any top notch defenses during that stretch.

Philly, Dallas, New York, Cleveland and Baltimore were far from stellar on the defensive side of the ball.  Seattle is a different story.  Up front they can get after the quarterback and on the back end they have two corners who can man up on receivers.  "Drip cup" Sherman and Brandon Browner are the best corner pair Washington has faced all season and will challenge Redskins receivers like Pierre Garcon and Josh Morgan to get open.

Griffin will need his mobility in this game to make time for his guys to break open.  Browner and Sherman, as well as Earl Thomas are very opportunistic so RG3 must protect the football as his has done all season.

4- Both teams like to run the football and both teams have shown they can run the football.

Seattle has been successful when they go into "Beastmode" with Marshawn Lynch and the Redskins cannot let him get going Sunday.  It could be a long day for a defense that has played much better recently if Lynch can move the ball down the field.

They have to get Wilson into 3rd and longs and not 3rd and shorts so stopping Lynch will surely benefit.  As for the Redskins, once again it will be key for Alfred Morris to pound an opposing defense.  The Skins ran well against the Seahawks last season without the force that is Alfred Morris.  Sunday they must continue to ride Mo' Diesel like the Gibbs teams did on their first runs.  Morris has not hit any kind of rookie wall and seems to be getting stronger like Riggins did in the past.  We have to like that.

5- Finally special teams have a couple concerns for me.

Cobra Kai finally had a miss last week, but I am still confident in him as our kicker.  I am worried about the Seahawks being able to block a kick especially with Red Bryant in the mix.  He got us last year and it’s a concern for Danny Smith's crew.

Also, as I have mentioned in the past I really wish the team brought in a kickoff specialist and this week one is clearly needed.  Leon Washington is dangerous and I would rather not give him the opportunities to break one.  Forbath's kickoffs will give him the chance to burn the Skins.  And I was very happy with Niles Paul last week on kickoff returns.  When Dallas had the momentum, Paul came up with a great return that put the Redskins at a good starting point.  He and Richard Crawford need to do the same again.

This is the toughest opponent the Redskins will have faced since going on the streak, but I am confident not only our game plan will work but our quarterback and others can win this game.  Good news is that the last draft has put us in great position for years to come, but I still would love to see this team go far this year.  I see it being a battle and the Skins coming out victors, 17-16.

 

 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Comments Off

Picture of John Manuel

by John Manuel

Dallas Week: Washington Redskins Keys to the Game vs. Cowboys

December 28, 2012 in Washington Redskins Keys to the Game

By Staff Writer John Manuel:

Its Dallas Week.  Here are my keys to the game for the Redskins to beat the Cowboys in the Sunday Night Showdown at FedEx for the NFC East crown.

1 – I will get right into it with first and foremost we need to look at the opponent.  The Dallas Cowboys are an 8-7 football team not a 10-5 or even 9-6.  They are what their record is.  And honestly if Antonio Brown could have protected the football on a punt return this game could have been meaningless for them.  I do think they can be explosive and play like they did week one versus New York but that was week one, not seventeen.

Although the Redskins have not had any games of this magnitude in years, Dallas has had a few and when they have they failed.  The Cowboys have been up and down all season, eking out wins the past two months usually having to come from behind late in games.  The Redskins did the same versus Baltimore but took care of business against teams like Cleveland, in Dallas, New York and last week in Philadelphia over this six game win streak.  Yes, the games ended close but except versus Baltimore, Washington had the lead in all those games down the stretch of the fourth quarter.

2- I could almost copy the same thing I had on the quarterbacks before the Thanksgiving game in Dallas.  Tony Romo did have a big statistical game that day almost all in the second half after the Cowboys fell way behind.  The knock on Romo has been that he can't win these types of games and now to do it on the road gives me confidence he won't be able again.  Before the season I thought Dallas could be a disaster waiting to happen and that Romo could be the fall guy by seasons end.  I will admit that Romo has played very well but let’s see what he does Sunday night.

On the other hand we as Skins fans have full confidence that Robert Griffin III will show up and do what he has done all season.  Yes, the knee will have an effect but all Griffin does is move the ball, don't turn it over and put up 100+ passer rating performances.  And oh yeah, be a true leader as a rookie.  A captain.  That is what he does.

3- Everyone's main concern this week is dealing with Dez Bryant.  And by having to deal with Dez Bryant does that open it up for Jason Witten and Miles Austin.  Bryant last week was as good as anyone other than Calvin Johnson and clearly the weakness of the Redskins is in their secondary.  But will Dez Bryant show up?  Does Dallas add 2 or 3 more chaperones this week to make sure?  I still think that the Cowboys need to watch over a 24 year old is a joke by the way.  Though every time Dez Bryant looks to be on the right path, he does something stupid.  As for on the field, I do think he will be tough to handle.

The return of Demarco Murray also will be a factor in the Washington defense being able to slow down the Dallas offense and force turnovers.  Washington's bend but don't break approach has worked in recent weeks but it has worked because of causing timely turnovers.  Ryan Kerrigan has to do what he did last week.  Rob Jackson has to get back to level of play versus the Ravens as well to help the struggling secondary face the likes of Bryant, Austin and Witten.

4- The first game showed a head to head coaching advantage for the Redskins.  This must happen again.  Mike Shanahan has obviously been in more big games than Jason Garrett and Shanny needs to win the coaching battle.

Can Shanahan win the coaching battle Sunday night?

Can Shanahan win the coaching battle Sunday night?

The obvious battle between the coaches will pit Kyle Shanahan and his offense against Rob Ryan and his defense.  Shanahan worked Ryan in Dallas on Thanksgiving and I would expect no change this week.  Rob Ryan like all the Ryans', is a clown.  Kyle has had his ups and downs but right now has it going and going good.  Ryan will not be helped by Demarcus Ware being far from 100% but Ware is tough and even at 70-80% will give Pro Bowler Trent Williams a handful like always.

On the other side it was turning into a long season for Jim Haslett until the win streak occurred.  His defense is still giving up yards but just holding opponents points down enough to win.  Just holding them down this week may not work so he will need to find holes in a suspect Dallas offensive line.

5- Maybe the most famous Redskins/Cowboys game for Washington fans is 1982 NFC Championship Game.  The game will be mostly remembered for Darryl Grant's touchdown and Dexter Manley knocking out Danny White but what can't be forgotten is how the Redskins were able to run the ball down Dallas' throat with John Riggins all day.  Washington must do the same Sunday night with Alfred Morris.

Morris has proven all season to be this team's Diesel.  And although I doubt Alfred Morris needs any motivation losing out on a Pro Bowl nod to Frank Gore makes for adding motivation.  I expect Griffin to be more of a run threat Sunday night which will open it up more for Morris as well as the receiving core.  Dallas has been torched like the Redskins many times this season so matching big plays with Dallas will be a key as well.  But I would love to see the 2012 Cowboys get pounded into the FedEx turf like 1982 Cowboys were at RFK.  Here is a link to that game.

As for what will happen.  It is crazy to say that we finally have a huge game at FedEx Field after so long.  It is actually embarrassing after the success the team had for many years under Gibbs' first coaching run.  But I have confidence in my quarterback and I have confidence in our leaders like London Fletcher.

Over the past six weeks these guys have yet to fail us on the field and I don't see it happening Sunday night.  I see a win and a division title but not as high scoring as Thanksgiving and more like the Giants Monday night game.  Redskins 23  Dallas 17

 

 

 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 3 Comments »

Picture of John Manuel

by John Manuel

Preview & Keys to the Game for Redskins vs. the Eagles

December 21, 2012 in Washington Redskins Keys to the Game

By Staff Writer John Manuel:

Previewing the Redskins @ the Eagles this Sunday with keys to the game and what to watch for.

1 – First Meeting vs. This Game:

Based on the first meeting between the Redskins and Eagles, as well as the Eagles losses at home versus the Bengals and Panthers, I would normally not be that concerned with this game.  The only thing that concerns me is that this will be Andy Reid's final home game as coach of the Eagles.

How will his players react?  I would hope they would show respect and come to play if I was an Eagles fan.  A lot of the Reid mainstays like Michael Vick are either gone or injured, but you have to think Reid is popular still with most of his players and they don't want to send him off with another embarrassing loss.

The Eagles fans have given up on the team and Reid, but could step up this week and give them a home field advantage they haven't had in over a month.  I have been in Philly a lot lately though and listened to WIP and not so sure that will happen.

2- Leadership:

I think last week’s game showed major strides for this team coached by Mike Shanahan.  Even though it was against an opponent that was overall not that good, it was still the kind of game the Redskins teams of the recent past would have no problem dropping.  The Redskins coming back in Cleveland from some early issues to dominate the second half reassured me that this team is not the same we saw in October.

I think the coaching staff deserves a lot credit as do the veteran team leaders like London Fletcher for the fast turnaround.  Fletcher in the end may not rank up there with former Skins like Green, Jurgenson, Riggins, and Monk, but what he meant the past five years to a franchise with little success until now should put him in the conversation.

3- Defense & Adjustments:

I have made it to #3 and have yet to mention Robert Griffin or Kirk Cousins.  I think I have one more important point before I get to them.  The offense has been there all season with the ability to run the ball and turn that into big plays in the passing game.

The defense has not been there all season.  I find it very weird that the defense led by Jim Haslett has quickly transformed from playing two bad halves down to one bad half which has allowed the Redskins to win games in the second half.

A lot was made in the glory days of Joe Gibbs and his staff's ability to access what was going on in the game and make adjustments at the half.  We are seeing that once again.  Add to that the ability to force turnovers in key points in the game and we now have a defense we can have some confidence in.

4- Griffin's Return:

As for who is behind center Sunday I expect it to be Robert Griffin III.  Griffin looks to be on his way to returning to action of missing last week.  If he is cleared to play I completely agree if the team decides for him to be out there.

Kirk Cousins was great last week but RG3 is the one who needs to be out there in another must win.  Griffin had a solid effort on the field in the first meeting and a spectacular one in the stat book.  I would expect him and the offense to be able to move the ball on the Eagles defense.

Injuries to both Will Montgomery and Tyler Polumbus up front worry me even though both should be able to go.  Jordan Black is suspended and is a major blow if Polumbus can't go.  The Eagles even without Jason Babin have guys who can get to the quarterback and that should be the Redskins biggest concern Sunday.

5- Prediction:

Sunday's game could go down as a battle with the worst collection of safeties on one field in NFL history.  Both teams have been marred by horrible play at safety all season and it could be a main factor.

Nick Foles was unimpressive a few weeks back at FedEx but I have to believe he will be better this time around.  Although I feel he is way overrated as a wide receiver not having DeSean Jackson will help the Skins.  I still have bad memories of him flying by Dirty 30 on the first play of that Monday night game after Dirty did his share of talking pregame.  Unlike my buddy Kingston, who still is mad that Laron Landry is gone and even though our secondary has struggled, I still agree with the decision to let him walk.

As for the game.  The Philadelphia Eagles should be up for Andy Reid's final home game but I think this is a different Washington team than year's past.  I am confident that the better team will win and that the Redskins can not only move the ball as normal, but also force Foles and company into turnovers just like the Bengals did last week.  I see this game as a Redskins victory, 30-17.

 

 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , Comments Off

Picture of John Manuel

by John Manuel

Redskins Keys to the Game vs. Cleveland Browns

December 13, 2012 in Washington Redskins Keys to the Game

Check out Fanspeak DC for more DC blogs!

By Staff Writer John Manuel:

Here are the five biggest factors for the Redskins to defeat the Cleveland Browns this Sunday:

1.  First question is obvious, what should be the determination on if Robert Griffin III plays Sunday.

Monday I would have given little chance that he would be out there by then came practice on Wednesday and that Griffin was doing much better.  Right now no one is going to say any percentage chance he is at until Friday's injury report.  And I am fine with that move by Shanahan.

That being said, my guess is that the doctors will OK him to play and the Griffin will want to play.  It's going to come down to Mike Shanahan's call after he weighs the chances to win with Kirk Cousins versus the potential long term injury risk.  These are the big decisions that Shanahan is paid megabucks by Dan Snyder for.  I don't think anyone knows the answer yet.

2. If Griffin goes it most likely means he will be able to do what we have seen all season.

Big Ben would be out there Sunday in the same situation but his playing style would allow it.  If Griffin goes he will slash the Browns defense like he has all defenses.  It will continue the Skins ability to run the ball down the throats of the Browns even though they have a solid front as of late with Phil Taylor back.

The Browns have been playing better but it’s very low impressive wins versus teams like the Chiefs and Raiders.  I am convinced at this point that an 80% Griffin can move the ball against any NFL defense.

3. If Kirk Cousins is under center it is a big change.

Who will play this Sunday in Cleveland...Griffin or Cousins?

Who will play this Sunday in Cleveland…Griffin or Cousins?

I do think the Redskins can win this game with Cousins, although we have seen very little.  I think the coaching staff and Rex Grossman will have Cousins ready to play.  Cousins having Pierre Garcon out there will be a huge assist as well.  I have been amazed with the offensive game plans this season and especially most recently.  So I would expect the same if they have to prepare for a Cousins start.

The big difference could be protecting the football.  Griffin has been Brady-like all season throwing only four picks.  Cousins threw two in short work versus Atlanta so that would be the team’s biggest concern going with Cousins.

4. The Cleveland Browns offense is very young even though the quarterback is almost 30.

Sounds weird but it is what it is.  Brandon Weeden has played better than most expected and recently has found a big play connection with fellow rookie Josh Gordon.  Gordon has to be licking his chops to get against the Washington secondary like any wideout in the NFL, CFL, BCS, High School, or college intermurals.

For the defense it has to start up front stopping another rookie in Trent Richardson.  Richardson has been solid this season and is due for a monster game.  Both Rice and Pierce ran at 6 yard clips last week which is scary since the run defense has been decent.  Although that could be misleading since any good passing team should just pick the Skins apart and put the running game on the back burner.

Richardson scares me a lot more than Weeden in this game.  I can't see Weeden picking the Skins D apart as easily as Flacco, Manning and Romo did for a half of each game.

5. I am going to add this until they do something about it.  The Redskins must add a kickoff specialist this week.

I know roster spots are valuable but one long kickoff return can cost them any of these three final games.  Josh Cribbs or Travis Benjamin can easily burn us bad this week.  The Brandon Banks roster is useless now with Richard Crawford returning punts.  Make the move now.

I would even take Billy Cundiff back for kickoffs only at this point.  Cobra Kai Forbath is money on field goals but the Skins can't risk a big return even if their coverage teams are solid.  Goodell is giving teams a touchback with the 35 yard line rule so we need to take it.

As for my predictions.  Plural, because RG3 playing or not may be bigger than the game prediction itself.  I think Griffin goes Sunday and leads them to another win but it will be tough.  I'm thinking 20-17 win for this game.

 

 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Comments Off

Picture of John Manuel

by John Manuel

Battle of the Beltway: Redskins Keys to the Game vs. Ravens

December 7, 2012 in Washington Redskins Keys to the Game

Check out Fanspeak DC page! Check out our Sports Trivia Nights in Arlington!

By Staff Writer John Manuel:

1. Offensive System & Play Calling:

I think the one major advantage right now the Redskins have is with how their offensive system and play calling has been working compared to the Ravens.  The Redskins have constantly been able to run the ball to set up big plays in play-action.  I can see Washington continue to have success this week in the run game versus Baltimore going forward much like Monday versus the Giants.

With the Ravens you have not had that consistency with their offense led by Joe Flacco, and moving the ball on the road has been a major problem.   The Redskins need to do what kills the Baltimore fan base, which is to get Cam Cameron to forget that he has Ray Rice in the offensive huddle.  A player like Rice will give the Redskins more trouble than any back they have seen all season even though the Redskins have had success stopping the run.

 2. Pass Defense:

As for the defenses I think it comes down to one major question for each team.  First for the Redskins, they cannot get beat by the deep ball to Torrey Smith.  Flacco is not afraid to try it and the Redskins are a prime target.  Madieu Williams cannot be caught flat footed, side footed, or goofy footed with a threat like Torrey Smith.  And with Cedric Griffin done and DeAngelo Hall in a walking boot the secondary is in very bad shape as is.

As for the Ravens the question is can they be the first team to solve the read option of Robert Griffin III.  And it is going to start by being able to stop the run since the Ravens are also hurting at the corner position.  It will be interesting to see the battle between Griffin andHall of Famer Ed Reed.  RG3 has not faced a play making safety like Reed so far.

3. Turnover Margin:

Both teams have solid positive turnover margins coming into the game so I expect this to be a major factor.  The Redskins actually won a game versus the Giants where they lost the turnover battle Monday night.  They will not want to chance that again versus Baltimore.  Griffin protects the ball better than Flacco, which is surprising for a rookie versus someone who has played in many playoff games in his career.

As I say every week, the Washington defense has to force pressure on Flacco but I don't see that happening being that they are not facing a shaky line like Dallas or Philly.  The Skins got a huge sack from Rob Jackson versus the Giants but that was about it.  It’s time for Ryan Kerrigan to step up in one-on-one situations.

Griffin got lucky last week with his fumble and cannot risk plays like that.  Baltimore is always opportunistic as guys like Reed always find the ball and change games.  Ask Mark Brunell and Clinton Portis.  Reed has already single-handily beaten Washington twice in his career.

4. Home Field Advantage:

The Washington crowd has to continue what it started last week versus the Giants and have a home field advantage.  It is embarrassing that I have to make this point and that it’s not a given like the RFK days, but it is very important.  Baltimore has struggled on the road especially on offense and the crowd must be a factor.  I know that many Ravens fans will make the short trip down to FedEx but the Skins will have an advantage.  The one thing that can eliminate a home crowd is getting behind big early and the Redskins have to get off to a solid start.

5. Game Prediction:

As for the game.  The short series has been won by Baltimore 3 of 4 times with the Redskins only highlight being a Stephen Davis stiff arm to Rod Woodson.  Since the Browns moved to Baltimore and became the Ravens, the more successful organization has easily been Baltimore.  This could easily be summed up by the Redskins former GM for most of that period is now out of the league and doing radio in Baltimore.  All the while the Ravens have Ozzie Newsome.

That being said and hopefully quickly forgotten, these teams are a lot closer than their 9-3 and 6-6 records.  I have a lot more confidence in Robert Griffin III than I would in Joe Flacco.  The Skins defense blows but has been better as of late while the Ravens defense is better than Washington, it is not the same of years past.  And possibly once again without a monster like Terrell Suggs they are much closer than one would think.

It is hard to see a John Harbaugh coached Ravens team dropping two straight but based on the Ravens road struggles where they cannot put together a solid 4 quarters I have the Redskins winning 24-13.

 

 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , 1 Comment »

Picture of John Manuel

by John Manuel

Redskins Keys to the Game on MNF Against the Giants

December 1, 2012 in Washington Redskins Keys to the Game

Remember Fanspeak SPORTS Trivia Nights EVERY Monday in Arlington!  Check out our DC page!

By Staff Writer John Manuel:

Here are the five things Washington Redskins need to do to beat Giants on Monday Night Football:

1. As always with a weak secondary the Redskins will need to get to Eli Manning all night.

This is the team’s most certain area of concern and it was shown by putting a claim in on Jason Babin who is a 4-3 defensive end.  What worries me is that the Redskins the past couple seasons have been fortunate in facing the Giants without or with a banged up Hakeem Nicks.  This game he seems to be back and mostly healthy.  We all know the issues keeping with Victor Cruz so a healthy Nicks will not help.  It is time for Kerrigan to do what we see each week from guys like Aldon Smith and Von Miller for their teams.  Not asking for a 4 sack effort but just to make Eli feel the heat all night and force the Giants into a few holding calls.

2. Pressure on Eli was easy so is this one.  Robert Griffin III has to play like he has the past few weeks and like in New York.

I was very confident the big stage of Thanksgiving in Dallas would not be a worry for RG3 and I am confident neither will his Monday Night Football debut.  I am worried though his offensive line, which has played well as of late could tank versus the Giants defensive front.  Griffin has to be…well Griffin, make plays by giving his receivers more time to get open and also get a few big runs.  Garcon wasn't there in New York remember, so that will be big.  Not only does Griffin need to make plays in the passing game but so does his ball catchers as well.  Griffin's short history shows he will not disappoint in prime time.

3. Another shocker, win the turnover battle.

The Redskins ability to constantly win the turnover battle has probably kept this team from being the Chiefs or Jaguars.  Eli always gives us a few chances and the secondary cannot afford to miss out.  Even Atogwe was able to pick one off last season.  We cannot have any Carlos Rogers-like bobbles and drops.  On the other side fumbles crushed us in New York and they cannot happen Monday.  Mostly sure handed RG3 and Alfred Morris both coughed it up in big situations which ended up to be costly as well the Santana fumble to end the game.  The Giants have to remember this and should be looking to do this again.

4. The offensive line has to hold their own.

Tyler Polumbus will be key in this game, as he will have his hands full with Pierre-Paul, Tuck, Umenyiora and others all night.  We can't see another effort like the one versus Carolina.  The ability to get off the ball and be able to run the ball versus the Giants will be needed.  Washington can't get into a one dimensional passing situation so that the Giants pass rush crew can go to town.  I think the Giants underestimated Griffin's skill set in the first meeting but won't for sure this week.  The offensive line has seemed to come together and has stayed healthy and intact and this will need to continue.

5. I say it everything week and now that we are at Washington's twelfth game it is about time it happens.  Do something Brandon Banks!

Make a play in the return game or can we please try Santana back on punts?  Word is Shanny and Smith have looked into why Banks has been useless on returns and this week would be a good time to break one.  As for the kicking game, everyone has to be thrilled with Kai Forbath especially after the late game kick in Dallas.  I have full confidence in Forbath and the "he is due to miss a big kick" thoughts are slowly evaporating.

I hope Washington is over the home field disadvantage of the past year and now that they have won back to back games finally a third can happen.  The defense is still bad but they play ok enough to keep it close for Griffin to put on a show and the Skins win 31-23.  Homer call but I have a feeling they pull this one.

 

 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 2 Comments »

Picture of Steve Shoup

by Steve Shoup

Redskins versus Cowboys: 5 Keys to the Game

November 21, 2012 in Washington Redskins Keys to the Game

1. Burn the Clock:

I know after last week's game most people would like to see Robert Griffin III throw deep more for long touchdown strikes, but that really isn't the Washington Redskins offense. Last week saw the Redskins take advantage of a very undisciplined defense and make them pay. The Cowboys are a far tougher opponent, and their secondary has been fairly strong this year. Opposing quarterbacks are completing just 61.8 % of their passes, and just one (Matt Ryan) has gone over the 300 yard mark. The Redskins are better suited for quicker throws anyways, and that is the best way to attack this defense.

The Redskins also keep their banged up defense off the field as much as possible, by controlling the clock and meticulously going down the field. The Redskins defense was already injured and porous to begin with, but with Brandon Meriweather out, and questions surrounding the health of Josh Wilson and London Fletcher it's a whole new situation. The Redskins would be best served by limiting the exposure of their defense, and that starts on the offensive side of the ball.

2. Don't Defer the Ball:

I've talked about it before, but it makes even less sense this week with the Redskins defense banged up. Mike Shanahan should let his offense and star rookie RB and QB dictate the game, and not the Cowboys Pro Bowl QB, WR and TE. Given the struggles that Dallas has had at home with their fans not supporting the team, it's a great opportunity to go out there and score early putting pressure on Dallas.

3. Stop the Penalty Parade:

The Redskins had 13 accepted penalties last week at home coming off a bye. That is completely unacceptable. The Cowboys are nearly as bad as the Redskins in penalties, so this would be a great week for Washington to get their act together. Not only can they even the penalty gap, but Washington could actually have an advantage in this game if they just play smart. The Offense continues to be the biggest offenders, with the offensive line committing most of the fouls. It might be a short week, but Washington has to tighten up if they want to keep any playoff hopes alive.

4. Stop DeMarcus Ware:

Dallas has a strong defense overall, but there is one guy the Redskins need to ensure they stop and that is DeMarcus Ware. Despite Robert Griffin's running ability he  remains one of the more sacked quarterbacks in the league (based on attempts). The line needs to do a better job of holding up in general. Last week versus the Eagles Griffin was sacked twice, but that number would have been 6 or 7 times, if not for Griffin's amazing escapability. What is even sadder is the fact that it was only in about 25 dropbacks. Dallas overall ranks 21st in the league with 20 sacks, Ware though ranks 4th in the league with 10 of those sacks. Regardless of which side he's rushing from the Redskins need to account for Ware on every play, and would do well to help out both Trent Williams and Tyler Polumbus with a tight end or back. Yes Griffin may escape some of his rushes, but that is the last resort and shouldn't be the game plan for stopping Ware.

5. Stay Creative on Defense:

The Redskins defense is going to be their weakest link, but last week showed they can still do their part to help get a win. The Redskins last week were able to get a lot of pressure on Nick Foles, and forced three total turnovers. They held the Eagles to just 257 yards of total offense. Now they were helped by playing a rookie quarterback in his first start, behind an offensive line missing a number of starters, so a repeat performance is unlikely. That doesn't mean though the defense can't still have some degree of success. Last week saw the Redskins utilize a number of more creative blitzes which led to a number of big defensive plays. The Redskins should continue with that, to help mitigate the injuries and ineffectiveness overall. The Cowboys could be missing both their LT and top two running backs meaning the Skins can have some advantages. They can afford to play their safeties back to ensure they don't get beat deep, at the same time they should look to overload the left side of the offensive line. Tony Romo will still make some plays, but it can lead to some big sacks/turnovers for the defense as well.

Tags: , , , 2 Comments »

Picture of John Manuel

by John Manuel

Dallas Week: Big Short Week as Redskins Prepare for Thanksgiving Match-up

November 21, 2012 in Washington Redskins Keys to the Game

By Staff Writer John Manuel:

Now that the Redskins are back in the playoff race (well slightly) after beating a horrible Eagles team, the next two weeks will clearly determine where they end up this season.  Win both and they are sitting in great shape in the NFC East.  Lose both and they are done.

The Redskins vs. Cowboys rivalry heats up on Thanksgiving Day this year with 2nd place in the NFC East on the line.

The Redskins vs. Cowboys rivalry heats up on Thanksgiving Day this year with 2nd place in the NFC East on the line.

Last time we looked at a two game stretch it was New York and Pittsburgh and that didn't go well.  So let’s just start with Dallas for now and Thursday’s game.  Here are five things that must happen to win there.

1- Dallas seems to play everyone the same no matter how good or bad a team is.

Go to Atlanta and barely lose, home to Cleveland and barely win.  Each week their opponent is in the game so it comes down to things like turnovers and penalties.

As for penalties, we must worry because the Skins are the worst.  So this needs to change right away.  The Dallas crowd doesn't really concern me so hopefully false starts will be at a minimum.  We can't get 15 yarders either.

As for turnovers, Griffin has been amazing but they cannot have key fumbles like the second half of the Giants game.  Have to get to Romo also but we look at that next.

2- And here we go on Tony Romo.

Washington needs to get to Romo early and often.  Last week we said they need to take advantage of the Eagles poor offensive line and they did.  Time to do this again.  And if the ball bounces off Dez Bryant's hands they need to be there to snag it.  That's if Bryant doesn't break curfew Wednesday night, a traditional party night.

Romo like Griffin can buy time and our defensive backs really don't like sticking with receivers for long periods of time, so we have to run him down quickly.  I predicted before the season a beginning of the end of Romo's time in Dallas and this would be a good week to start that.

3- Make Jason Garrett coach.

The Redskins need to get up early and see if Jason Garrett is a true NFL coach.  He was able to bring them back against the Browns last week but that was against a horrible coach in Pat Shurmur.  So it’s time to call out the $7 million tan man Mike Shanahan and see if he can out-coach Garrett.  Shanahan proved me right week one against the Saints but many times has killed me.  A good sign will be Jerry Jones on the sidelines by the mid third quarter if things are going well.

4- Is Brandon Banks still on the roster?

I think so but he is now really only known for being part of shaky offensive play calls.  Do something Banks in the return game and do it this week.  As I have said many times I wouldn't mind giving Santana a chance on a punt return or two because we need something.

Really think Shanahan blew it not adding Shawne Merriman and dropping someone like Banks or Grossman.  Merriman is older and worn down but he looked pretty good for Buffalo last week.  Key again is that they need something from Banks.  Special teams have covered fine and Kai Forbath has been perfect on kicks, so it’s time for the return game to step up.

5- Finally I think Robert Griffin plays big in a nationally televised game back in his home state.

This season has shown for him not to fold at all under pressure in these types of situations.  RG3 and Luck have gone back and forth all season as the better rookie quarterback and last week Griffin proved better and I think it will continue this week.  The Skins have to attack downfield like last week and look for big plays.

I think they can run the ball against Dallas without a guy like Lee in there but Griffin has to be able to do more than slants and screens.  Garcon although hurt does make the defense have to watch for him, and hopefully he can go.  I could easily see Griffin putting on a show in Big D on Thanksgiving.

 

 

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Comments Off

Picture of Steve Shoup

by Steve Shoup

Washington Redskins 5 Keys to the Game: Week 11

November 17, 2012 in Washington Redskins Keys to the Game

1. Run The Football:

I know they will be tempted to pass the football on the Eagles and their disappointing passing defense, but it is a mistake to try to rely on the passing game. It looks tempting given that the Eagles pass rush hasn't been potent, and their safeties have been a huge liability. The problem with that thinking is it ignores how poor the Redskins pass blocking has been. If the Eagles can get some pressure, those Philly defensive backs can be very opportunistic. Running is the safer game plan for the Redskins as it has been the most consistent part of their offense. The Eagles Wide-9 defense can also be more susceptible to the run than the pass, allowing the Redskins strength to attack the Eagles weakness.

2. Attack Nick Foles:

Nick Foles is a rookie quarterback behind a line that is missing four starters. it doesn't matter whom the Redskins are missing, they have to be able to get pressure. There is no excuse to not be able to make the rookie uncomfortable at home. They have to force Foles into some errant throws and some turnovers. Ryan Kerrigan and Stephen Bowen are the two players that need to step up the most in this game, as they are the top remaining rushers for Washington.

3. Protect Robert Griffin:

The offensive line has started to get more exposed these couple of weeks, and it is starting to affect Robert Griffin III's play. Part of the Redskins problem is they have been utilizing shot gun formations and quick passing less and less (in part due to the opponents score). That is forcing Griffin in the pocket for over 2.5, a timeframe that this line is incapable of blocking for. The Redskins have to use their backs and TE's to chip defensive ends on their way out for routes (or actually stay in to block). Also the Redskins need to limit their passes that will take longer than 2.5 seconds ensuring that Griffin will have the time to complete his passes.

4. Limit the Penalties:

The Redskins are the most penalized team in the NFL and it is costing them games. They can't keep averaging 8.3 penalties a game if they want to be a legitimate contender going forward. The Redskins biggest problem has been on offense were they have committed over 50% of their penalties. The increased penalties in recent weeks is one of the reasons why the Redskins offense has started to stall out, and the scoring has slowed down

5. Get Creative:

Look the Redskins are 3-6 and their playoff hopes are all but lost, but that doesn't mean you give up. What it does mean is everything should be on the table. While the Redskins have run some tick plays on offense, for the most part they have been telegraphed (having Banks on the field) and unimaginative. The Redskins need to get more creative on offense and defense, hopefully coming up with some much needed big plays. On Special Teams the Redskins could use a trick play or two to shake things up.

Tags: , , 2 Comments »

Picture of Steve Shoup

by Steve Shoup

5 Things The Washington Redskins Need To Fix

November 12, 2012 in Washington Redskins Keys to the Game

1. Eliminate the Penalties:

Look you can't completely get rid of penalties, but you have to minimize them as much as possible. Heading into week 10 the Redskins led the NFL with 75 accepted penalties. They've had 38 on offense, 27 on defense and 10 on special teams. The offense may be the most troubling given that they went out and spent so many resources to fix that side of the ball. Also the offense has been the strength of this team, so the fact that they have so many self-inflicted wounds limits their overall effectiveness. The defensive penalties are also troubling given that they only committed 22 defensive penalties all of last season. The Redskins need to exercise better discipline, and the coaching staff needs to hold chronic offenders accountable.

2. Utilize A Home Field Advantage:

The Redskins are just 1-3 at home this season, but their lack of homefield issues goes well beyond that. The Bengals twice held leads of 14points in that game, and the Redskins passing offense was shutdown until the final 8 minutes of the game. Though the Falcons game appeared close, Atlanta's offense ran 80 plus plays in that game and was in total control. Finally the 1-6 Carolina Panthers came in last week and outplayed the Redskins in every facet of the game. The Washington Redskins are just getting out played at home and it needs to stop. In years past you could maybe say that other team's fan f had taken over the stadium, but that hasn't been the case this season.

3. Special Teams, Need to be Special:

So far this season the Washington Redskins Special teams have been somewhere between awful and ordinary. Kai Forbath has finally given the Redskins a good placekicker, but he is the only positive so far. While Forbath has been automatic on field goals, his kickoffs haven't had much hangtime leading to a number of solid returns. Punter Sav Rocca has already seen two of his punts blocked, and has had multiple poor punting games. On the flip side returner Brandon Banks has done next to nothing in both kick-off and punt returns, and has on many decisions made poor decisions that cost the Redskins either yards or time. The Redskins need to get better production out of their Special Teams if they want to win some of those close games.

4. The Offensive Line Needs to Start Winning More Battles:

Many people want to point to the offensive line being more of a success given the strong rushing numbers and the fact that sacks are down. The problem with that is both of those numbers are highly misleading. Sacks as a whole may be down, but that is only because the Washington Redskins are throwing the ball less this season. The Redskins are allowing a sack 7.2% of their dropbacks, which is 9th worst in the league. That is 2% higher than Rex Grossman last season (John Beck skewed the overall numbers a bit). That 7.2% is even worse when you consider, how many sacks Robert Griffin III has run away from this year, not to mention all the quick passing and throwing out of shotgun. Two factors that should reduce the number of sacks allowed. As for the rushing numbers, they aren't solely based on the offensive line. Much of Robert Griffin's rushing success has come from scrambling away from pass rush pressure. Also Alfred Morris has dealt with contact on far too many rushes at or behind the line of scrimmage. He typically can still fight his way for positive yards, but it is usually in spite of the offensive line than because of it.

5. Getting Pressure on the opposing quarterback:

Since losing Brian Orakpo the Redskins pass rush has become a huge liability. Not only are they not even getting to the quarterback for sacks, but they rarely are getting pressures on the opposing quarterback. While sacks are obviously the best outcome for a pass rush, you can't get a sack unless you get a pressure first, making it next to impossible to get a lot of sacks if you aren't getting a lot of pressures. Ideally you are generating a pressure at least 20% of the time (30% or more is considered very good), but the Redskins defense isn't close to that 20% goal. In fact they appear closer to 10% than 20%, which is allowing opposing quarterbacks pick them apart.That just isn't acceptable with Ryan Kerrigan and Stephen Bowen still on the team. Yes the Redskins may be missing their top pass rusher, but they still have their 2nd and 3rd best, and they have to do a better job for the final 7 games of the season.

Tags: , , , 6 Comments »