This just came from a Network Now update from the NFL Network. This can mean only one thing, obviously. Mike Shanahan will be the next coach of the Washington Redskins. Apparently, he just got off the plane.
The Redskins fired Jim Zorn earlier today, as expected. Looks like we'll finally have a real GM and a tough coach together at the same time.
4:12 pm UPDATE
Adam Schefter reports on ESPN, Shanahan was flown in on Daniel Snyder's personal plane to Dulles International, and was whisked away in a limosuine to Redskins Park in Ashburn, VA.
Showing posts with label Washington Redskins. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Washington Redskins. Show all posts
Monday, January 4, 2010
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Redskins End 2009 Season, Zorn is Already Gone
It was the same as it ever was for this season...they showed flashes of absolute brilliance but couldn't pull it out. The San Diego Chargers pulled it out with a last-minute touchdown to get a 23-20 victory over the Skins in San Diego.
Jason Campbell spent another day getting pounded by an opposing defense due to having no pass protection, but still played well. He finished the game 28-of-42 for 281 yards and 2 touchdowns, as well as an electrifying 84 yard pass to Malcolm Kelly to set up the Skins 2nd touchdown right before halftime.
At halftime, it was reported that Zorn will be fired tomorrow. Mike Shanahan is the leading candidate, and Jerry Gray (assistant defensive coordinator - defensive backs coach) has already been interviewed.
Jason Campbell spent another day getting pounded by an opposing defense due to having no pass protection, but still played well. He finished the game 28-of-42 for 281 yards and 2 touchdowns, as well as an electrifying 84 yard pass to Malcolm Kelly to set up the Skins 2nd touchdown right before halftime.
At halftime, it was reported that Zorn will be fired tomorrow. Mike Shanahan is the leading candidate, and Jerry Gray (assistant defensive coordinator - defensive backs coach) has already been interviewed.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
45-12...
Ugh...As a Skins fan, I must say that this is very typical. The minute you start to believe in these guys, they find a way to kill all of your faith in them. Tonight's game was a piss-poor performance and the Giants rightfully whipped our asses.
It is a good thing that Bruce Allen got here and has the opportunity to see who he wants to keep and who he wants to get rid of. These next 2 games are definitely an audition for next season.
However, once again, it's Dallas week...nothing to lose, guys...let's spoil their season!
It is a good thing that Bruce Allen got here and has the opportunity to see who he wants to keep and who he wants to get rid of. These next 2 games are definitely an audition for next season.
However, once again, it's Dallas week...nothing to lose, guys...let's spoil their season!
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Cerrato is GONE!
A bit overdue, but still promising news for the future of the organization.
Actually, as much as Vinny Cerrato is responsible for the problems that the Washington Redskins have had over the past decade, it's players that he specifically sought after that have stepped up and performed well during the past 5 weeks. I'm glad to see him go, the team needs a fresh approach to it's drafting and free agent mentalities, and hopefully Daniel Snyder will stand out of the way.
New GM Bruce Allen has obvious ties to the team and the area, as he is the son of former Skins coach George Allen, and former Virginia Governor and Senator George F. Allen. Bruce Allen, given his track record, should have no problems addressing the team's most glaring weakness...the offensive line. He's done a good job in the past with this.
Now, the question remains, is this a sign that Jon Gruden is coming to DC? Gruden was head coach in Oakland and Tampa Bay during Allen's tenures with both of those teams.
Actually, as much as Vinny Cerrato is responsible for the problems that the Washington Redskins have had over the past decade, it's players that he specifically sought after that have stepped up and performed well during the past 5 weeks. I'm glad to see him go, the team needs a fresh approach to it's drafting and free agent mentalities, and hopefully Daniel Snyder will stand out of the way.
New GM Bruce Allen has obvious ties to the team and the area, as he is the son of former Skins coach George Allen, and former Virginia Governor and Senator George F. Allen. Bruce Allen, given his track record, should have no problems addressing the team's most glaring weakness...the offensive line. He's done a good job in the past with this.
Now, the question remains, is this a sign that Jon Gruden is coming to DC? Gruden was head coach in Oakland and Tampa Bay during Allen's tenures with both of those teams.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Redskins Take Saints to the Limit in OT Thriller
The Redskins had multiple 10-point leads, but couldn't put the still-undefeated Saints away. The final score was 33-30.
I thought Saints' coach Sean Payton's attempts to try and score a TD in OT when they had a guaranteed game-winning field goal was a bit unnecessary, as if he had to make a point with the Redskins having pushed the Saints to the brink of a loss.
Shawn Suisham blew a game-sealing 23 yard field goal late in the 4th quarter, which is the second time in 3 weeks he has done this (if you recall, he missed two potential game-winners in Dallas). This allowed the Saints to move the ball 80 yards in 33 seconds with no timeouts left. C'mon now, this is the New Orleans Saints, they're too good to give any breathing room to them.
However, considering how injury-riddled this team is, the Redskins looked phenomenal for most of the game. Jason Campbell (who I feel is unfairly criticized, considering he hasn't had much protection until lately) had a career day, picking apart the Saints secondary for 367 yards and 3 TDs. Vaunted young WR Devin Thomas finally had his breakout day, catching 7 passes for 100 yards and 2 TDs. The passing offense is finally coming together, and the RB-by-committee has given the team balance.
I almost feel that Jim Zorn may deserve one last chance if this sudden lift in performance continues through the rest of the season. Almost...
I thought Saints' coach Sean Payton's attempts to try and score a TD in OT when they had a guaranteed game-winning field goal was a bit unnecessary, as if he had to make a point with the Redskins having pushed the Saints to the brink of a loss.
Shawn Suisham blew a game-sealing 23 yard field goal late in the 4th quarter, which is the second time in 3 weeks he has done this (if you recall, he missed two potential game-winners in Dallas). This allowed the Saints to move the ball 80 yards in 33 seconds with no timeouts left. C'mon now, this is the New Orleans Saints, they're too good to give any breathing room to them.
However, considering how injury-riddled this team is, the Redskins looked phenomenal for most of the game. Jason Campbell (who I feel is unfairly criticized, considering he hasn't had much protection until lately) had a career day, picking apart the Saints secondary for 367 yards and 3 TDs. Vaunted young WR Devin Thomas finally had his breakout day, catching 7 passes for 100 yards and 2 TDs. The passing offense is finally coming together, and the RB-by-committee has given the team balance.
I almost feel that Jim Zorn may deserve one last chance if this sudden lift in performance continues through the rest of the season. Almost...
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Goodbye Mr. Monk
I must say, I thoroughly enjoyed the series finale of "Monk". It was an example of how one can make a very good and intriguing show without always having to find new envelopes to push. Hats off to Tony Shalhoub for his wonderful performance as the title character over the past 8 seasons.
Speaking of "Monk"-related items. Today is the birthday of my favorite football player of all time, Redskins Hall-of-Famer Art Monk. :)
Speaking of "Monk"-related items. Today is the birthday of my favorite football player of all time, Redskins Hall-of-Famer Art Monk. :)
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Joe Gibbs to Announce Retirement Later Today...?
That's what we believe today's 3 pm press conference will be about.
Kudos to Gibbs, who took the Redskins to more playoff appearances in 4 years (2) than they had managed in the previous 12 (1).
Rumor has it Bill Cowher is going to succeed Gibbs, and has even been taking his daughter around local universities (GMU, GW) on recruiting trips, as she is a high school basketball star.
We shall see...
Kudos to Gibbs, who took the Redskins to more playoff appearances in 4 years (2) than they had managed in the previous 12 (1).
Rumor has it Bill Cowher is going to succeed Gibbs, and has even been taking his daughter around local universities (GMU, GW) on recruiting trips, as she is a high school basketball star.
We shall see...
Sunday, January 6, 2008
The Ride is Over...
...but it was fun while it lasted.
The Redskins late-season surge ended with a 35-14 loss to the Seattle Seahawks yesterday. Though they lost by 21 points, the game was much closer than the score indicates.
Both teams found yardage hard to come by, but the Seahawks were able to turn an early advantage in field position into 13 points in the first 3 quarters.
Down 13-0 as the 4th Quarter started, Todd Collins found Antwaan Randle-El for a 7 yard touchdown pass to bring the Redskins within 6. Suddenly, Safety LaRon Landry invoked images of the fallen Sean Taylor, intercepting a Matt Hasselbeck pass 2 plays later to set up a 30-yard Collins-to-Santana Moss touchdown, and give the Redskins a 14-13 lead.
The Redskins got a gift when Nate Burleson failed to catch the ensuing kickoff and the Skins recovered. However, the drive stalled and the normally-reliable Shawn Suisham missed a 30-yard field goal by mere inches. The Seahawks moved down the field, but Landry picked off his second pass of the day, but the Redskins failed to move the ball, and poor punt by Derrick Frost allowed provided the Seahawks with both good field position and momentum. Seattle promptly drove down the field and scored a touchdown with a 2-point conversion to take the 21-14 lead with just over 6 minutes remaining in the game.
Todd Collins tried to will the Redskins back down the field, but overthrew Santana Moss on a long sideline pass, and Marcus Trufant picked off the floater and returned it 78 yards for a touchdown. With 27 seconds left, Collins was intercepted again by Jordan Babineaux, who returned the pick 57 yards for the final score.
Collins should be lauded for his efforts, and went 29-50 for 266 yards and two touchdowns and two interceptions. Clinton Portis found no room to run, gaining 52 yards on 20 carries, but added 28 yards on 4 receptions. Antwaan Randle-El caught 10 passes for 94 yards and a touchdown, and Moss added 6 catches for 68 yards and a touchdown. All-Pro TE Chris Cooley had a quiet afternoon, snagging 5 catches for 46 yards.
Credit the Redskins for not giving up when down, just like they never gave up when they were sitting with a record of 5-7 and playoff hopes were bleak. This team has shown a lot of heart and character throughout the season, and should be a strong contender next year with a mature Jason Campbell and a young-but-battled-tested core of players.
In last night's other playoff game, the Jacksonville Jaguars upended the Pittsburgh Steelers 31-29 in an incredible game that saw the Steelers come back from 18 points down in the 4th Quarter to take the lead, only to have Jacksonville kick the game winning field goal with 37 seconds left.
The Redskins late-season surge ended with a 35-14 loss to the Seattle Seahawks yesterday. Though they lost by 21 points, the game was much closer than the score indicates.
Both teams found yardage hard to come by, but the Seahawks were able to turn an early advantage in field position into 13 points in the first 3 quarters.
Down 13-0 as the 4th Quarter started, Todd Collins found Antwaan Randle-El for a 7 yard touchdown pass to bring the Redskins within 6. Suddenly, Safety LaRon Landry invoked images of the fallen Sean Taylor, intercepting a Matt Hasselbeck pass 2 plays later to set up a 30-yard Collins-to-Santana Moss touchdown, and give the Redskins a 14-13 lead.
The Redskins got a gift when Nate Burleson failed to catch the ensuing kickoff and the Skins recovered. However, the drive stalled and the normally-reliable Shawn Suisham missed a 30-yard field goal by mere inches. The Seahawks moved down the field, but Landry picked off his second pass of the day, but the Redskins failed to move the ball, and poor punt by Derrick Frost allowed provided the Seahawks with both good field position and momentum. Seattle promptly drove down the field and scored a touchdown with a 2-point conversion to take the 21-14 lead with just over 6 minutes remaining in the game.
Todd Collins tried to will the Redskins back down the field, but overthrew Santana Moss on a long sideline pass, and Marcus Trufant picked off the floater and returned it 78 yards for a touchdown. With 27 seconds left, Collins was intercepted again by Jordan Babineaux, who returned the pick 57 yards for the final score.
Collins should be lauded for his efforts, and went 29-50 for 266 yards and two touchdowns and two interceptions. Clinton Portis found no room to run, gaining 52 yards on 20 carries, but added 28 yards on 4 receptions. Antwaan Randle-El caught 10 passes for 94 yards and a touchdown, and Moss added 6 catches for 68 yards and a touchdown. All-Pro TE Chris Cooley had a quiet afternoon, snagging 5 catches for 46 yards.
Credit the Redskins for not giving up when down, just like they never gave up when they were sitting with a record of 5-7 and playoff hopes were bleak. This team has shown a lot of heart and character throughout the season, and should be a strong contender next year with a mature Jason Campbell and a young-but-battled-tested core of players.
In last night's other playoff game, the Jacksonville Jaguars upended the Pittsburgh Steelers 31-29 in an incredible game that saw the Steelers come back from 18 points down in the 4th Quarter to take the lead, only to have Jacksonville kick the game winning field goal with 37 seconds left.
Saturday, January 5, 2008
Debates Tonight, Redskins in 10 Minutes!
Be sure to tune in to NBC at 4:30 to watch the Washington Redskins stomp the Seattle Seahawks. If you're at work, you can follow the game via the live coverage from ESPN on your computer.
Also, remember that there will be debates for both the Republican Party and the Democratic Party tonight starting at 7 pm on ABC. If the Skins game doesn't go into OT, that's going to be over 7 hours of football and politics.
All I need is a 6-pack, and I'll be set for the evening!
Also, remember that there will be debates for both the Republican Party and the Democratic Party tonight starting at 7 pm on ABC. If the Skins game doesn't go into OT, that's going to be over 7 hours of football and politics.
All I need is a 6-pack, and I'll be set for the evening!
Monday, December 31, 2007
Heart, Guts, Talent...Skins Thump Dallas, Make Playoffs
The equation holds true.
Skins/Cowboys + Skins at home x Something important at stake = Redskins Victory.
The Redskins dominated the Dallas Cowboys for 60 minutes yesterday, and will be heading into the playoffs on a 4 game winning streak after their convincing 27-6 victory.
Clinton Portis bulled his way through the vaunted Dallas defense for 104 yards on 25 carries and 2 touchdowns, and became the only player this season to rush for over 100 yards against the Cowboys. Todd Collins carved up the Dallas secondary with precision timing and accuracy. Collins went 22-31 for 244 yards and a 42-yard touchdown pass to Santana Moss that sealed the victory for the Redskins.
Moss finished the day with a total of 8 catches for 115 yards to go along with his touchdown reception.
The defense put on one of it's greatest efforts of the season, holding the Cowboy rushing attack to only 1 yard, which is a new Dallas franchise-low for a single game. Media darling Tony Romo was humbled by the Redskins, going only 7-16 for a mere 86 yards and 1 INT before leaving the game in the 3rd quarter after the Redskins had gone up 20-3 and were firmly in control of the game.
Redskins outgained the Cowboys in total offense by a margin of 354-147.
The Redskins will face the NFC West champion Seattle Seahawks in the first round of the playoffs. The game will be at Qwest Field in Seattle, and will start at 4:30 ET on Saturday, January 5th. The game will be televised on NBC.
Key Redskin stats from the regular season...
Clinton Portis had another fine year...325 carries, 1262 yards, 11 TDs, as well as 47 receptions and 389 yards out of the backfield.
Before going down with an injury in week 13 against Chicago, Jason Campbell was having a pretty good year despite the "growing pains" of a young quarterback. Campbell went 250-417 (60% comp), 2700 yards, 12 TDs and 11 INTs in 12 1/2 games.
Todd Collins has filled in for Campbell with spectacular play over the final 3 1/2 games. Collins has gone 67-105 (63.8%), 888 yards, 5 TDs and 0 INTs.
Santana Moss turned it up in the final half of the season, finishing with 61 rec, 808 yards, and 3 TDs. Chris Cooley had a Pro-Bowl season with 66 rec, 786 yards, and 8 TDs.
Defensive leaders...
Tackles - London Fletcher - 129 (101 solo)
Tackles For Loss - Anthony Montgomery - 5.5
Sacks - Andre Carter - 10.5
Forced Fumbles - Andre Carter/Phillip Daniels - 4
INTs - the late Sean Taylor with 5 for 98 yards
On a Final Note...
Does anyone else just love watching Brett Farve play? I don't think anyone has simply enjoyed the game of football the way Farve has in his career. He has had his best season in a decade at the age of 38, and his "low-fiving" the referee after a touchdown pass yesterday was a perfect depiction of how much Brett Farve loves playing football. We need more guys like this in professional sports.
Skins/Cowboys + Skins at home x Something important at stake = Redskins Victory.
The Redskins dominated the Dallas Cowboys for 60 minutes yesterday, and will be heading into the playoffs on a 4 game winning streak after their convincing 27-6 victory.
Clinton Portis bulled his way through the vaunted Dallas defense for 104 yards on 25 carries and 2 touchdowns, and became the only player this season to rush for over 100 yards against the Cowboys. Todd Collins carved up the Dallas secondary with precision timing and accuracy. Collins went 22-31 for 244 yards and a 42-yard touchdown pass to Santana Moss that sealed the victory for the Redskins.
Moss finished the day with a total of 8 catches for 115 yards to go along with his touchdown reception.
The defense put on one of it's greatest efforts of the season, holding the Cowboy rushing attack to only 1 yard, which is a new Dallas franchise-low for a single game. Media darling Tony Romo was humbled by the Redskins, going only 7-16 for a mere 86 yards and 1 INT before leaving the game in the 3rd quarter after the Redskins had gone up 20-3 and were firmly in control of the game.
Redskins outgained the Cowboys in total offense by a margin of 354-147.
The Redskins will face the NFC West champion Seattle Seahawks in the first round of the playoffs. The game will be at Qwest Field in Seattle, and will start at 4:30 ET on Saturday, January 5th. The game will be televised on NBC.
Key Redskin stats from the regular season...
Clinton Portis had another fine year...325 carries, 1262 yards, 11 TDs, as well as 47 receptions and 389 yards out of the backfield.
Before going down with an injury in week 13 against Chicago, Jason Campbell was having a pretty good year despite the "growing pains" of a young quarterback. Campbell went 250-417 (60% comp), 2700 yards, 12 TDs and 11 INTs in 12 1/2 games.
Todd Collins has filled in for Campbell with spectacular play over the final 3 1/2 games. Collins has gone 67-105 (63.8%), 888 yards, 5 TDs and 0 INTs.
Santana Moss turned it up in the final half of the season, finishing with 61 rec, 808 yards, and 3 TDs. Chris Cooley had a Pro-Bowl season with 66 rec, 786 yards, and 8 TDs.
Defensive leaders...
Tackles - London Fletcher - 129 (101 solo)
Tackles For Loss - Anthony Montgomery - 5.5
Sacks - Andre Carter - 10.5
Forced Fumbles - Andre Carter/Phillip Daniels - 4
INTs - the late Sean Taylor with 5 for 98 yards
On a Final Note...
Does anyone else just love watching Brett Farve play? I don't think anyone has simply enjoyed the game of football the way Farve has in his career. He has had his best season in a decade at the age of 38, and his "low-fiving" the referee after a touchdown pass yesterday was a perfect depiction of how much Brett Farve loves playing football. We need more guys like this in professional sports.
Monday, December 24, 2007
Redskins Take Matters Into Their Own Hands
The Redskins came into the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome last night with a sense of purpose, drive, desire, and momentum.
Combining a grinding running attack with a timely passing game and a punishing defensive effort, the Washington Redskins walked out of last night's game 32-21 winners over the Minnesota Vikings.
Clinton Portis ground out 76 yards and a rushing touchdown against the top-ranked rush defense in the NFL, and also threw a touchdown pass to Antwaan Randle-El in the 2nd quarter. Todd Collins, starting again in place of the injured Jason Campbell, had a magnificent performance. Collins completed 22 of 29 passes for 254 yards and two TD's, with no interceptions.
The receiving corps had one of their better days overall, as well. Santana Moss caught 4 passes for 71 yards and a touchdown, and Antwaan Randle-El had 5 catches for 66 yards and the aforementioned touchdown reception from Portis.
The defense forced 3 turnovers, including two interceptions off of the arm of Vikes QB Tavaris Jackson, and stuffed rookie sensation Adrian Peterson to just 27 yards on 9 carries. Peterson, as you may recall, set an NFL single-game record with 296 yards rushing against the Chargers earlier this year.
The Redskins (8-7) did not turn the ball over once, and even led 25-0 at halftime. When the Vikings (8-7) closed the gap to 25-14 in the 4th quarter, the Redskins marched down the field and scored another touchdown to make the game 32-14 with less than 6 minutes to go and solidified their victory. A Viking touchdown with less than 2 minutes remaining in the game rounded out the scoring.
This is their 3rd win in a row, and also a big win as the Redskins HAD to beat Minnesota to keep their hopes alive for the playoffs. Now, they control their destiny, as a victory against the 13-2 Dallas Cowboys next week at FedEx Field will give them a playoff berth. In fact, if the Skins lose next week, they're still in the playoffs if Minnesota loses next week, as well.
They have been playing solid football all-around over the past 3 weeks, ever since Sean Taylor's funeral and the injury to Jason Campbell, it seems this team is turning tragedy into triumph. After falling to 5-7, the Redskins won 24-16 over Chicago, 22-10 over the Giants, and now an 11 point victory over the upstart Vikings, none of these wins have been flukes, and they have all come against good football teams.
With the Cowboys having wrapped up the division, and Terrell Owens injured, many suspect that this gives the Redskins (who nearly beat the Cowboys in Dallas) a good shot at winning and earning their 2nd playoff trip in the last 3 years.
History tells us that this could be a Redskins win, as well...any time the Skins and Cowboys play a game that has anything beyond the rivalry at stake, and the game is in Washington...the Skins win.
- 1972 NFC Championship - Redskins 26, Cowboys 3
- 1982 NFC Championship - Redskins 31, Cowboys 17
- Dec. 1992, Skins need to win to earn playoff berth - Redskins 20, Cowboys 13
- Dec. 1997, Last game at RFK - Redskins 37, Cowboys 10
- Dec. 2005, Skins need win to keep playoff hopes alive - Redskins 35, Cowboys 7
Need I go on? I didn't think so. This Redskins team is refocused, re-energized, and ready to roll!
HAIL TO THE REDSKINS!!!
Combining a grinding running attack with a timely passing game and a punishing defensive effort, the Washington Redskins walked out of last night's game 32-21 winners over the Minnesota Vikings.
Clinton Portis ground out 76 yards and a rushing touchdown against the top-ranked rush defense in the NFL, and also threw a touchdown pass to Antwaan Randle-El in the 2nd quarter. Todd Collins, starting again in place of the injured Jason Campbell, had a magnificent performance. Collins completed 22 of 29 passes for 254 yards and two TD's, with no interceptions.
The receiving corps had one of their better days overall, as well. Santana Moss caught 4 passes for 71 yards and a touchdown, and Antwaan Randle-El had 5 catches for 66 yards and the aforementioned touchdown reception from Portis.
The defense forced 3 turnovers, including two interceptions off of the arm of Vikes QB Tavaris Jackson, and stuffed rookie sensation Adrian Peterson to just 27 yards on 9 carries. Peterson, as you may recall, set an NFL single-game record with 296 yards rushing against the Chargers earlier this year.
The Redskins (8-7) did not turn the ball over once, and even led 25-0 at halftime. When the Vikings (8-7) closed the gap to 25-14 in the 4th quarter, the Redskins marched down the field and scored another touchdown to make the game 32-14 with less than 6 minutes to go and solidified their victory. A Viking touchdown with less than 2 minutes remaining in the game rounded out the scoring.
This is their 3rd win in a row, and also a big win as the Redskins HAD to beat Minnesota to keep their hopes alive for the playoffs. Now, they control their destiny, as a victory against the 13-2 Dallas Cowboys next week at FedEx Field will give them a playoff berth. In fact, if the Skins lose next week, they're still in the playoffs if Minnesota loses next week, as well.
They have been playing solid football all-around over the past 3 weeks, ever since Sean Taylor's funeral and the injury to Jason Campbell, it seems this team is turning tragedy into triumph. After falling to 5-7, the Redskins won 24-16 over Chicago, 22-10 over the Giants, and now an 11 point victory over the upstart Vikings, none of these wins have been flukes, and they have all come against good football teams.
With the Cowboys having wrapped up the division, and Terrell Owens injured, many suspect that this gives the Redskins (who nearly beat the Cowboys in Dallas) a good shot at winning and earning their 2nd playoff trip in the last 3 years.
History tells us that this could be a Redskins win, as well...any time the Skins and Cowboys play a game that has anything beyond the rivalry at stake, and the game is in Washington...the Skins win.
- 1972 NFC Championship - Redskins 26, Cowboys 3
- 1982 NFC Championship - Redskins 31, Cowboys 17
- Dec. 1992, Skins need to win to earn playoff berth - Redskins 20, Cowboys 13
- Dec. 1997, Last game at RFK - Redskins 37, Cowboys 10
- Dec. 2005, Skins need win to keep playoff hopes alive - Redskins 35, Cowboys 7
Need I go on? I didn't think so. This Redskins team is refocused, re-energized, and ready to roll!
HAIL TO THE REDSKINS!!!
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Pro Bowl Announced, Sean Taylor Makes Team Posthumously
Taylor actually was the top vote-getter at free safety for the NFC, and had been the top vote-getter even before his death. Still, it is a tribute to both his hard work on the field and his untimely death.
Teams with the most Pro Bowlers - Dallas with 11, New England and San Diego with 8 each, Minnesota with 6 each, Seattle and Indianapolis with 5 each, Green Bay, Chicago, and Pittsburgh with 4 each
The Washington Redskins will send a total of 3 players to the Pro Bowl, the aforementioned Taylor, as well as LT Chris Samuels and TE Chris Cooley.
The Jacksonville Jaguars, who have a 10-4 record after this past weekend, sent nobody to the Pro Bowl. This came as a surprise to some. However, one must keep in mind that Pro Bowl voting is done by the fans...which partially explains why the 12-2 Dallas Cowboys (with their large fanbase) are sending 11 players to the Pro Bowl, but the undefeated Patriots are only sending 8 and the 12-2 Green Bay Packers are only sending 4.
Teams with the most Pro Bowlers - Dallas with 11, New England and San Diego with 8 each, Minnesota with 6 each, Seattle and Indianapolis with 5 each, Green Bay, Chicago, and Pittsburgh with 4 each
The Washington Redskins will send a total of 3 players to the Pro Bowl, the aforementioned Taylor, as well as LT Chris Samuels and TE Chris Cooley.
The Jacksonville Jaguars, who have a 10-4 record after this past weekend, sent nobody to the Pro Bowl. This came as a surprise to some. However, one must keep in mind that Pro Bowl voting is done by the fans...which partially explains why the 12-2 Dallas Cowboys (with their large fanbase) are sending 11 players to the Pro Bowl, but the undefeated Patriots are only sending 8 and the 12-2 Green Bay Packers are only sending 4.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Playoff Hopes Still Alive: Skins Beat Giants
Hail to the Redskins! They triumphed over their divisional rival, the New York Giants, 22-10 despite a frigid, swirling wind that wreaked havoc on the passing and kicking game of both teams. They won due to tough defense, a strong running game, and a solid gameplan.
Clinton Portis ran for over 120 yards and a touchdown. Todd Collins, filling in for the injured Jason Campbell, made his first start in a decade and threw for 166 yards, including 75 yards to Santana Moss, who he hit twice on deep passes. The offensive line looked solid, the defense played a good "bend-but-don't-break" style.
Next week, the Redskins (7-7) will be playing at Minnesota (7-6, plays Chicago tonight on MNF) in the game that could decide who gets the final playoff spot in the NFC.
The Giants (9-5) will take on the Chicago Bears next week.
Clinton Portis ran for over 120 yards and a touchdown. Todd Collins, filling in for the injured Jason Campbell, made his first start in a decade and threw for 166 yards, including 75 yards to Santana Moss, who he hit twice on deep passes. The offensive line looked solid, the defense played a good "bend-but-don't-break" style.
Next week, the Redskins (7-7) will be playing at Minnesota (7-6, plays Chicago tonight on MNF) in the game that could decide who gets the final playoff spot in the NFC.
The Giants (9-5) will take on the Chicago Bears next week.
Friday, December 7, 2007
Finally!
The Redskins beat the Chicago Bears 24-16 last night. It was a pretty solid win, with the Bears never getting closer than 4 points (14-10, and later 17-13).
However, the Skins also lost Jason Campbell for the rest of the season with a knee injury. However, veteran Todd Collins came into the game in the 2nd quarter and went 15-20 for 224 yards and two TDs. In fact, the Skins' passing game was excellent all-around. Before he left the game, Campbell had gone 10-16 for 100 yards. That's a combined 25-36 and 324 yards...the kind of game any NFL QB would want to have.
Collins, who had not thrown a touchdown pass in the 21st century, looked very good and will hopefully continue to look this good as the Skins attempt to make a run at a wild-card berth in the playoffs.
Urgency may have finally set in with these guys, as they were up 17-13 in the 4th quarter, but has blown so many leads previously. So what did they do? They marched downfield, and threw the ball several times, culimating in a nice Collins dump-off pass to Ladell Betts over the middle for a 16 yard catch-and-run TD.
Clinton Portis found it tough to run against the Bears' stout defense in the freezing cold, only running for 36 yards on 17 carries...but he caught 6 passes for 86 yards (a career high), including a 54 yard catch-and-run that put the Skins inside the Bears' 5 yard line and set up a 1-yard TD run by big Mike Sellers. Portis also missed some time in the 3rd quarter due to stomach illness, which he later attributed to eating some shrimp at a tailgate party as he entered the stadium, because he had not eaten anything all day.
However, the Skins suffered injuries besides Campbell's. Guard Randy Thomas suffered an elbow injury, Portis bruised his hand and was able to return, All-Pro TE Chris Cooley suffered a leg injury but he also returned, and Fred Smoot missed about 1 1/2 quarters due to his leg cramping up in the cold.
Another key point, the Skins only turned the ball over 1 time, they did a good job avoiding the turnovers that plagued them over the past 4 games.
It was a solid performance by Skins, especially the defense. They took the lead right before halftime, and never gave it up. A great tribute to the fallen Sean Taylor, who was buried on Monday.
6-7, and still in the playoff hunt with 3 games to go! Hail to the Redskins!
UPDATE: Jason Campbell's knee does not need surgery, after all. He will be out at least one week (week 15, at the New York Giants), but could possibly be back in either week 16 at Minnesota or week 17 when Dallas comes to town in the regular season finale.
However, the Skins also lost Jason Campbell for the rest of the season with a knee injury. However, veteran Todd Collins came into the game in the 2nd quarter and went 15-20 for 224 yards and two TDs. In fact, the Skins' passing game was excellent all-around. Before he left the game, Campbell had gone 10-16 for 100 yards. That's a combined 25-36 and 324 yards...the kind of game any NFL QB would want to have.
Collins, who had not thrown a touchdown pass in the 21st century, looked very good and will hopefully continue to look this good as the Skins attempt to make a run at a wild-card berth in the playoffs.
Urgency may have finally set in with these guys, as they were up 17-13 in the 4th quarter, but has blown so many leads previously. So what did they do? They marched downfield, and threw the ball several times, culimating in a nice Collins dump-off pass to Ladell Betts over the middle for a 16 yard catch-and-run TD.
Clinton Portis found it tough to run against the Bears' stout defense in the freezing cold, only running for 36 yards on 17 carries...but he caught 6 passes for 86 yards (a career high), including a 54 yard catch-and-run that put the Skins inside the Bears' 5 yard line and set up a 1-yard TD run by big Mike Sellers. Portis also missed some time in the 3rd quarter due to stomach illness, which he later attributed to eating some shrimp at a tailgate party as he entered the stadium, because he had not eaten anything all day.
However, the Skins suffered injuries besides Campbell's. Guard Randy Thomas suffered an elbow injury, Portis bruised his hand and was able to return, All-Pro TE Chris Cooley suffered a leg injury but he also returned, and Fred Smoot missed about 1 1/2 quarters due to his leg cramping up in the cold.
Another key point, the Skins only turned the ball over 1 time, they did a good job avoiding the turnovers that plagued them over the past 4 games.
It was a solid performance by Skins, especially the defense. They took the lead right before halftime, and never gave it up. A great tribute to the fallen Sean Taylor, who was buried on Monday.
6-7, and still in the playoff hunt with 3 games to go! Hail to the Redskins!
UPDATE: Jason Campbell's knee does not need surgery, after all. He will be out at least one week (week 15, at the New York Giants), but could possibly be back in either week 16 at Minnesota or week 17 when Dallas comes to town in the regular season finale.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Sean Taylor's Funeral a Beautiful Affair
I made sure I DVR'd Sean Taylor's funeral yesterday. It was a very nice affair and a moving tribute to the fallen Redskins star. I was impressed with everything, except for the occasional agenda push (which I did expect), but otherwise it was a very nice affair and a fitting way to honor Sean Taylor.
In other news, I'm glad to hear that three of the men charged in Taylor's death have been held without bail. Let them sit in jail and think about what's coming to them.
In other news, I'm glad to hear that three of the men charged in Taylor's death have been held without bail. Let them sit in jail and think about what's coming to them.
Sunday, December 2, 2007
When It Becomes More Than Bad Luck
Off politics for a minute...let me talk about the one other thing that gets me going in emotional rollercoasters and fits of excitement and depression.
The Washington Redskins.
Sean Taylor's death was tragedy that goes beyond football, that is undeniable. I am ecstatic that they apparently have found the hoodlums responsible for the slaying of a man who was trying to do right in his life, and died protecting both his home and his family. The gesture of the Redskins to start today's game with only 10 men (instead of 11) was honorable and a moving symbol of the loss they are feeling.
However, in a strictly football sense, this tragedy is one in a long line of them for the Washington Redskins.
It's been 15 years since "Hail To The Redskins" meant "Hail To The Champions". Since then, heartbreak and tragedy has been all that this team has known.
Joe Gibbs retired after the 1992-93 season after taking a talented but extremely old and injured Redskins team to the playoffs, and nearly upending the 49ers in the divisional playoff...who had the league's best record that season. Richie Petitbon took over, and people thought that Gibbs' defensive guru would pick up where he left off, and the Skins were projected to still be one of the better teams in the NFC.
Not quite.
After a blowout 35-16 win over the defending champion Cowboys on Monday Night Football to start the 93 campaign, the Redskins went on to finish 4-12 to complete their worst season in 30 years. Petitbon was fired and replaced with Norv Turner, who would end up with an even worse season in 1994 with a record of 3-13. However, Turner had a core of younger players that were replacing the worn and aging starters of the past. The next year, the Skins went 6-10 and were poised for a return to greatness.
In 1996, the Skins started the season 7-1, then managed to lose 6 of their last 8 games to miss the playoffs at 9-7...the 37-10 stomping of the Cowboys to close out venerable RFK stadium was the season's highlight. 1997 was another playoff "near-miss", as boneheaded mistakes like Gus Frerotte's headbutting of the wall after a touchdown caused him to jam his neck and miss the rest of the season, and Michael Westbrook's slamming of his helmet after a blown call by a referee caused the Redskins to miss a chance at a game winning field goal in a must-win game...the Skins finished just out of the playoffs again at 8-7-1.
After injuries forced a 6-10 season in 1998, The Redskins fulfilled a dream that many fans craved for...they won the NFC East with a 10-6 record, and nearly made it to the NFC Championship game...except a botched snap of the game-winning chip-shot field goal cost the Skins the victory. Super Bowl hopes in 2000 and 2001 were destroyed by bad personnel decisions, bad coaching, and mediocre play...both times, the team went 8-8, once under Norv Turner and Terry Robiskie, and once under Marty Schottenheimer.
They went back to losing ways under Steve Spurrier, finishing 7-9 in 2002 and 5-11 in 2003. Spurrier was fired, and Gibbs was brought back.
2004 was a rebuilding and adjustment year, as the Skins went 6-10. However, the Skins made it back to the playoffs at 10-6, and once again lost out in the divisional playoffs.
Last year was an injury-marred season for Clinton Portis and a rebuilding year as Jason Campbell went through some growing pains after being given the starting job with 7 games left in the season. The 5-11 finish was disappointing, but we've kept hope.
This year...well, we should be better. However, this team has had a tradition of "giving" games away since Gibbs' first retirement. This year, they've handed victories to other teams in ways I can't even imagine. Just like today, where the Skins allowed the Buffalo Bills to remain in the game...and the Bills won 17-16...and all of their points came on 5 field goals and a safety. THE BILLS DIDN'T EVEN SCORE A TOUCHDOWN, AND WE STILL LOST! We're now 5-7, and we could be 10-2 or 11-1. The only game the Skins lost where they were never in it was against the Patriots.
I'm beginning to think this team is cursed. The incredibly bad timing of injuries, the way they've given games away, Sean Taylor's death, Norv Turner's inexplicable firing when the Skins had a chance at a playoff berth.
This team, including playoff games, is 102-137-1 (after today's loss) since Gibbs retired the first time. If you look back at the talent this team had, and all of the insane misfortunes this team has suffered over the past 15 years, you just have to scratch your head as a Skins fan and ask yourself...
WHY, WHY, WHY???
But, I will go on. I will cheer my heart out every week for these Redskins, and every other Redskins team that comes afterwards. I will expect them to win, or at least put up a valiant fight. I will sing "Hail To The Redskins" as loud as possible whenever they score.
And when they lose, I will once again sink into a depression as we diehard fans do. No matter how inevitable the outcome was before the game started.
It's something I will do, and something I can never get used to. I grew up around a winning tradition and incredible pride in my hometown team. One day, I hope, they will return to a winning tradition...if nothing else, for the sake of my son, who (at the age of 2) is already exhibiting signs of becoming part of another generation of Skins fans.
He doesn't need this kind of exhilaration/depression cycle...it's not healthy.
The Washington Redskins.
Sean Taylor's death was tragedy that goes beyond football, that is undeniable. I am ecstatic that they apparently have found the hoodlums responsible for the slaying of a man who was trying to do right in his life, and died protecting both his home and his family. The gesture of the Redskins to start today's game with only 10 men (instead of 11) was honorable and a moving symbol of the loss they are feeling.
However, in a strictly football sense, this tragedy is one in a long line of them for the Washington Redskins.
It's been 15 years since "Hail To The Redskins" meant "Hail To The Champions". Since then, heartbreak and tragedy has been all that this team has known.
Joe Gibbs retired after the 1992-93 season after taking a talented but extremely old and injured Redskins team to the playoffs, and nearly upending the 49ers in the divisional playoff...who had the league's best record that season. Richie Petitbon took over, and people thought that Gibbs' defensive guru would pick up where he left off, and the Skins were projected to still be one of the better teams in the NFC.
Not quite.
After a blowout 35-16 win over the defending champion Cowboys on Monday Night Football to start the 93 campaign, the Redskins went on to finish 4-12 to complete their worst season in 30 years. Petitbon was fired and replaced with Norv Turner, who would end up with an even worse season in 1994 with a record of 3-13. However, Turner had a core of younger players that were replacing the worn and aging starters of the past. The next year, the Skins went 6-10 and were poised for a return to greatness.
In 1996, the Skins started the season 7-1, then managed to lose 6 of their last 8 games to miss the playoffs at 9-7...the 37-10 stomping of the Cowboys to close out venerable RFK stadium was the season's highlight. 1997 was another playoff "near-miss", as boneheaded mistakes like Gus Frerotte's headbutting of the wall after a touchdown caused him to jam his neck and miss the rest of the season, and Michael Westbrook's slamming of his helmet after a blown call by a referee caused the Redskins to miss a chance at a game winning field goal in a must-win game...the Skins finished just out of the playoffs again at 8-7-1.
After injuries forced a 6-10 season in 1998, The Redskins fulfilled a dream that many fans craved for...they won the NFC East with a 10-6 record, and nearly made it to the NFC Championship game...except a botched snap of the game-winning chip-shot field goal cost the Skins the victory. Super Bowl hopes in 2000 and 2001 were destroyed by bad personnel decisions, bad coaching, and mediocre play...both times, the team went 8-8, once under Norv Turner and Terry Robiskie, and once under Marty Schottenheimer.
They went back to losing ways under Steve Spurrier, finishing 7-9 in 2002 and 5-11 in 2003. Spurrier was fired, and Gibbs was brought back.
2004 was a rebuilding and adjustment year, as the Skins went 6-10. However, the Skins made it back to the playoffs at 10-6, and once again lost out in the divisional playoffs.
Last year was an injury-marred season for Clinton Portis and a rebuilding year as Jason Campbell went through some growing pains after being given the starting job with 7 games left in the season. The 5-11 finish was disappointing, but we've kept hope.
This year...well, we should be better. However, this team has had a tradition of "giving" games away since Gibbs' first retirement. This year, they've handed victories to other teams in ways I can't even imagine. Just like today, where the Skins allowed the Buffalo Bills to remain in the game...and the Bills won 17-16...and all of their points came on 5 field goals and a safety. THE BILLS DIDN'T EVEN SCORE A TOUCHDOWN, AND WE STILL LOST! We're now 5-7, and we could be 10-2 or 11-1. The only game the Skins lost where they were never in it was against the Patriots.
I'm beginning to think this team is cursed. The incredibly bad timing of injuries, the way they've given games away, Sean Taylor's death, Norv Turner's inexplicable firing when the Skins had a chance at a playoff berth.
This team, including playoff games, is 102-137-1 (after today's loss) since Gibbs retired the first time. If you look back at the talent this team had, and all of the insane misfortunes this team has suffered over the past 15 years, you just have to scratch your head as a Skins fan and ask yourself...
WHY, WHY, WHY???
But, I will go on. I will cheer my heart out every week for these Redskins, and every other Redskins team that comes afterwards. I will expect them to win, or at least put up a valiant fight. I will sing "Hail To The Redskins" as loud as possible whenever they score.
And when they lose, I will once again sink into a depression as we diehard fans do. No matter how inevitable the outcome was before the game started.
It's something I will do, and something I can never get used to. I grew up around a winning tradition and incredible pride in my hometown team. One day, I hope, they will return to a winning tradition...if nothing else, for the sake of my son, who (at the age of 2) is already exhibiting signs of becoming part of another generation of Skins fans.
He doesn't need this kind of exhilaration/depression cycle...it's not healthy.
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