Redskins Preseason Recap – 5 Thoughts from Saturday’s Win Over Bills

My biggest impressions from Redskins Preseason win over Bills on Saturday:

Free NFL Pick-ems Game! Sign-up Here!

1.  First we have to look at the game’s major injury.

Even though Richard Crawford was battling for the 4th or 5th corner spot he was valuable in other ways.  The Redskins lost the guy who looked to be the favorite as the teams punt returner,  although his two returns before the injury were bad.

Now the Skins have to decide if they want to go with Chase Minniefield on the 53 or will they pursue a veteran corner for depth.

2.  Crawford’s injury also opened up a true competition for the punt returner spot.         

Skye Dawson had been taking most returns after Crawford, but can they afford to keep him over other receivers?

Crawford’s injury now may have opened up hope for rookie runner Chris Thompson.  Thompson’s second fumble Saturday looked to end his chances but then he stepped it up and also looked decent on returns.  The preseason finale will be huge for Thompson especially if he can break a return.

3.  The penalties are still a huge concern after three weeks.

Washington should have pitched a shutout versus Buffalo Saturday.  On the Bills lone scoring drive the Skins D had them stopped but a 15 yard facemask gave the Bills a first down.

Washington also had two long pass interference calls go against them as Josh Wilson and David Amerson were beat.  It had to bring back concerns of last season where the defense gave up way too many big plays.  Maybe penalties are better than giving up long touchdowns?  I would rather see neither.

4. One veteran who has stood out in preseason has been Darryl Tapp.

Once again Tapp came to play versus the Bills.  The outside linebackers look to be the teams 2nd strongest position next to the quarterbacks.  It is good to see Tapp perform well being a local guy and a fan of the Redskins growing up.

Two months ago depth at that spot was not looking good after the suspension of Rob Jackson and the injury return of Orakpo.   But both Tapp and Brandon Jenkins have impressed now solidifying the outside rush backer position.

5. While  Jenkins has impressed as a rookie we had seen very little of Jordan Reed until Saturday.

Reed looked pretty good in his first extensive playing time.  I was kind of surprised by Reed’s size and have to change my tune of a few weeks ago when I questioned if Reed was heading to a redshirt season.

Reed looks like he should contribute this season due to his size and ability.  His only problem may be that there are three tight ends ahead of him that have also looked ready to go.  But the more talent the better, unlike the Zorn or Ceratto days.