SB Nation DC: All Posts by Homer McFanboyhttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/48897/dc-fave.png2010-11-23T08:48:26-05:00https://dc.sbnation.com/authors/brian-murphy/rss2010-11-23T08:48:26-05:002010-11-23T08:48:26-05:00Vince Young Shows Why Washington Redskins Should Be Thankful For Donovan McNabb
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/GcwYP3o4HTJfbf5MKhKYcAwsp3I=/0x189:481x510/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/photo_images/1477761/GYI0062560519.jpg" />
<figcaption>Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>After watching Vince Young's epic meltdown this past weekend, the Washington Redskins should be grateful to have Donovan McNabb in town.</p> <p>If ever there was a game that clearly illustrates why the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins">Washington Redskins</a> were willing to sign a soon-to-be 34-year-old <span>Donovan McNabb</span> to a five-year contract extension, it was the 19-16 overtime win over the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.musiccitymiracles.com/">Tennessee Titans</a>.<br><br>Not because he completed 30 of 50 passes for 376 yards with one touchdown and one interception. Not because the Redskins’ offense, led by McNabb, converted eight of 16 third downs on the day and had the ball for more than 40 minutes. Not even because the 12-year veteran was able to overcome a lack of conditioning and football smart to put his team in a position to kick the game winner in overtime.<br><br>No, the Titans game is a perfect example of why the Redskins were willing to keep McNabb longer not so much because of anything he did, but rather, because of the actions of the opposing quarterback.<br><br>You might have heard that Titans quarterback <span>Vince Young</span> was pulled from the game in the second half after suffering a torn flexor tendon in his right thumb Sunday. The fifth-year pro apparently banged the thumb on his throwing hand on the helmet of Redskins defensive lineman Maake Kemoeatu and was affected by the play enough that his head coach thought it best to finish the game without him.<br><br>"If I thought Vince could go out and give us the best chance to win, then he would've gone back on the field," said Tennessee coach Jeff Fisher after the game. "I was not going to put him on the field, knowing ahead of time he had an injury that would prohibit him from throwing accurately."<br><br>Young, of course, was not thrilled to learn his day was over. And really, it’s hard to blame any competitor for wanting to go back into the game when the outcome is still very much up in the air. But instead of handling the situation properly, Young had a hissy fit. He had a temper tantrum. He took his ball and went home.<br><br>Young took his jersey and shoulder pads and threw them into the crowd as he stormed off the field. And then, while Fisher was attempting to address his team after the loss, Young continued to be a distraction – muttering obscenities under his breath but loud enough to cause another scene and ensure everyone nearby knew he was still disgruntled.<br><br>When Fisher tried to talk to him, Young <a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=5835429">opted to storm out of the locker room.</a><br><br>"Don’t walk out on your teammates," Fisher said to Young.<br><br>"I’m not walking out on them, I’m walking out on you," his supposed franchise quarterback responded.<br><br>And then, to the absolute surprise of no one, Tennessee announced 24 hours later that Young’s season is over. Sure, Fisher was kind enough to say that Young needs season-ending surgery on his thumb and that’s the reason why the 27-year-old is done, but you get the sense that after Sunday’s outburst this was really the only possible outcome.<br><br>And now the Titans are in the hands of someone allegedly named <span>Rusty Smith</span>, a baby-faced rookie out of Florida Atlantic. The sixth-round pick might very well turn out to be the next <span>Tom Brady</span>, who was also a sixth rounder, but he wasn’t up to the task against Washington.<span style="line-height: 9px;"> </span>In his first live action as a pro, Smith completed three of nine passes for 62 yards with one interception. Smith’s quarterback rating for the day was 19.0, which is fitting because he looks young enough to still be a teenager.<br><br>Now, I bring all of this up to remind Redskins fans just how fortunate we are to have McNabb in town. He’ll be the first to admit that he needs to perform better on the field than he did the first half of the 2010 season, but there’s no questioning how McNabb handles himself off of the field.<br><br>He’s a consummate professional. Bullies like Rush Limbaugh and <span>Terrell Owens</span> might walk up to him and try to start a fight, but McNabb’s never going to stoop to their level. Mike Shanahan might stand up in front of a sea of microphones and question his quarterback’s lack of conditioning and football smarts after a disappointing loss to lowly Detroit, but he’s not going to make a scene.<br><br>No, he simply shrugged his shoulders and said, "It happens." He doesn’t want to be benched in the deciding moments of a very winnable game. He doesn’t want his coach to throw him under the bus. He doesn’t want to deal with any of those kinds of unnecessary distractions. But he’s such a classy guy that he bites his tongue and keeps his true feelings under wraps.<br><br>Nothing good can come out of a public feud with your head coach, and McNabb knows it. If he stood up defiantly and fired back at anyone and everyone named Shanahan currently employed at Redskins Park, it would only splinter an already-fragile locker room. It would only make things more difficult for a 5-5 team that has already dealt with more than its fair share of adversity in 2010.<br><br>So instead, he says nothing. He just keeps his head down and works harder. How does throwing half of your uniform into the crowd help your team get better? What message – other than "when things get tough, I’m out of here" – does storming out of the locker room send to your teammates?<br><br>Young’s actions were completely inexcusable and you can bet the Titans coaching staff would be more than happy to part ways sooner rather than later with their emotionally unstable quarterback. Of course, when it comes to all thing Young related, the Tennessee owner Bud Adams is completely irrational.<br><br>A man who otherwise seems like a pretty solid owner turned into a cheerleader – pom poms and all – when Young is involved. Last season, you may recall, Adams basically demanded Fisher play the former Texas Longhorn – a move that would likely get Redskins owner Daniel Snyder crucified in Washington. Forget fantasy football; that’s Jerry Jones territory right there.<br><br>And even after Young’s epic meltdown this past weekend, Adams <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.tennessean.com%2Farticle%2F20101122%2FSPORTS01%2F101122042%2F2162%2FBud%2BAdams%2B%2BYoung%2B%2BFisher%2Bhave%2Bto%2Bget%2Balong&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fdc.sbnation.com%2Fwashington-redskins%2F2010%2F11%2F23%2F1831853%2Fvince-young-benched-jeff-fisher-titans-donovan-mcnabb-redskins" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">is already </a>in full-fledge spin control for the player who can do no wrong in his eyes.<br><br>"They are going to have to work together," he said. "I haven’t given up on Vince, and I am sure Fisher hasn’t either.<br><br>"Vince is a young guy and a good player and he has never had an injury like this before, and it is getting to him," Adams continued. "He told me he wanted to go back in the game, but the doctors didn’t think it would be a good idea. He was hurting, but he was going to play anyway.<br><br>"This will all go away pretty quick," he said.<br><br>Well then. Glad we’ve settled that. You’ve already cut your head coach’s authority more than once when dealing with Young, so why not go that route once more, for old time’s sake.<br><br>But honestly, as Redskins fans, what happens next in Tennessee is irrelevant. Adams could name himself the team’s starting quarterback next week and all anyone will care about in this town is whether or not the Redskins defeat the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Minnesota Vikings</a>.<br><br>And although the injuries are piling up and the team may or may not have enough players to make it through next weekend’s game, the fact is, we’re able to turn our attention to that game because McNabb was willing to be the bigger man, even when his head coach couldn’t be.</p>
https://dc.sbnation.com/washington-redskins/2010/11/23/1831853/vince-young-benched-jeff-fisher-titans-donovan-mcnabb-redskinsHomer McFanboy2010-11-16T12:37:50-05:002010-11-16T12:37:50-05:00The Media Got The Donovan McNabb Contract Situation All Wrong
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ZOJdXBUf0I_DUDZdLv4d5sPhTtk=/0x0:600x400/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/photo_images/1452877/GYI0062480681.jpg" />
<figcaption>Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Remember when all those media members said Donovan McNabb would never re-sign with the Washington Redskins? Where's the accountability now that he has a new contract?</p> <p>On days like this, I completely understand why so many fans of the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins">Washington Redskins</a> despise the media. We now live in a world where anyone and everyone with a keyboard or microphone in front of them say or write anything that pops into their head with absolutely zero accountability.<br><br>That was clearly evident when Washington Redskins head coach Mike Shanahan opted to bench quarterback <span>Donovan McNabb</span> in the deciding moments of a winnable game against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Detroit Lions</a> two weeks ago.<span style="line-height: 9px;"> </span>Once the media sensed blood in the water, countless writers, yodelers and talking heads did their best to pile on, igniting a firestorm that culminated with Shanahan being labeled everything from egotistical to a racist.<br><br>As soon as the herd was done slamming Shanahan for the decision to willingly insert backup <span>Rex Grossman</span> into the deciding moments of a football game, the topic inevitably turned to the future of Shanahan, McNabb and the franchise, in general.<span style="line-height: 9px;"> </span>That’s when the "experts" stepped up their game with definitive statement after definitive statement about how one questionable decision in the heat of the battle had no doubt doomed the Redskins for years to come and ensured a messy divorce was on the horizon.<br><br>"I don’t believe for a second that Donovan McNabb is going to be here now," said Michael Wilbon on <i>The Tony Kornheiser Show</i>. "Not for a second. Done. First of all, the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/">Arizona Cardinals</a>, where he lives, need him too much. Or Minnesota. Or the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/">Chicago Bears</a>, where he lives."<br><br>Wilbon went on to say, "This is what has always plagued the Redskins – ego and arrogance." <br><br>This, mind you, is coming from a guy who openly admits he’s pals with McNabb. They’re neighbors in Arizona and have a long-standing friendship, so it wouldn’t be unreasonable to think that when Wilbon speaks on the subject, he’s got more of an insider’s perspective than most.<br><br>But don’t think for a second that Wilbon was alone.<br><br>"Donovan McNabb is never going to re-sign here," said David Aldridge during the same show. "That’s over. You have now wasted two more draft picks on somebody that’s not going to be here." <br><br>It was more of the same on the national stage, as the "worldwide leader in sports" happily trotted out an onslaught of so-called NFL experts to also shed light on the situation at Redskins Park.<br><br>"Personally I just think that Mike Shanahan was acting in the moment, and in a moment of anger, because this soup has been simmering for a while," said ESPN’s Chris Mortensen. "It's almost the worst-kept secret in the league, as far as I'm concerned. There's been no enamorement with Donovan McNabb going back to the summer, and then as you went into the season you kept hearing that Mike Shanahan and Kyle Shanahan – his son and the offensive coordinator of the Redskins – had not been happy with the way Donovan practices."<br><br>And just for the hell of it, here’s one more quote on the subject:<br><br>"If you don't want Donovan McNabb to be your quarterback, you have to say that," said Tom Jackson, also of ESPN. "The message sent across is I don't want you to be my quarterback, I have another guy in mind, whenever I can find that guy. What this has done, though, for the rest of this year – because we're still in this season – you have now, to some extent, fractured probably forever your relationship with the quarterback and your relationship therefore with the locker room."</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/imported_assets/592064/gyi0062484421.jpg"><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/592064/gyi0062484421_medium.jpg" class="photo" alt="Gyi0062484421_medium"></a></p>
<p>In related news, the Redskins and McNabb <a href="http://dc.sbnation.com/2010/7/1/1548087/donovan-mcnabb-redskins-contract-extension-nfl">agreed</a> on a five-year, $78-million contract extension Monday, with the 33-year-old taking home $41 million guaranteed.</p>
<p><i>UPDATE: It's actually $3.75 million guaranteed if the Redskins decide to cut him after the season, </i><a href="http://dc.sbnation.com/washington-redskins/2010/11/16/1817508/donovan-mcnabb-contract-extension-redskins-guaranteed-money-salary-figure">as first reported today.</a><br><br>Oh wait, that’s not related at all. In fact, some would even suggest that this news directly contradicts everything each of these well-respected media members said. To borrow a phrase from Wilbon – I’m not surprised.<span style="line-height: 9px;"> </span>If no one ever holds these guys accountable, then what’s to stop them from continuing to babble on senseless rhetoric?<br><br>It’s one thing to say "If I were McNabb, there’s no way I’d re-sign in Washington," but that’s not what any of these guys said. And look, Wilbon, Aldridge, Mortensen and Jackson were far from the only media guys to look completely foolish here. They’re just a few examples I’ve chosen to illustrate that we’re now stuck in a world where our sports coverage is delivered to us by drama queens.<br><br>Here’s the kicker – Aldridge, of all people, should have known better. He had McNabb on his TBD radio show and asked him about whether or not re-signing with the Redskins was an option.<br><br>"I'll be here in D.C.," McNabb said to Aldridge when asked about his contract situation. "I'll be here. I look to be here for the next couple years and continue to grow with these guys, and be able to bring some consistency and some excitement to the D.C. area."<br><br>Of course, that’s when the "experts" chimed in again with "Well of course he’s going to say that now. What else would you expect from him during the season?"<br><br>Okay, fine. If McNabb’s words can’t be trusted during the season, then let’s turn to Redskins general manager Bruce Allen.<br><br>"He's a mature player who knows that he's gonna be paid well, but there'll be a right time," he said, <a target="_blank" href="http://voices.washingtonpost.com/dcsportsbog/2010/07/bruce_allen_says_mcnabb_will_b.html">way back in July</a>. "We made a great investment in trading for him and we like the guy, we really like him as a leader on this team, and the players have really accepted him. And we think he's gonna be a great Redskin for years to come."<br><br>For months, McNabb and his agent repeatedly said they wanted to be here and you’ve got Redskins management also saying all along that they have every intention of ensuring McNabb retires in Washington, but still the media couldn’t take the hint.<br><br>Sure, there was smoke. But there couldn’t have been fire here. Not unless we’re talking about Shanahan burning a bridge between himself and his locker room by disrespecting McNabb, right?<br><br>But what everyone forgot, or chose to ignore, is that McNabb really, truly and honestly wants to be here. Even though he just inked a contract for five more seasons, he’s already planning for life after football and knows that he can make a difference with his charity works, etc. in our nation’s capital.<br><br>From a Redskins perspective, McNabb still represents the best quarterback the franchise has had in 20 years. He hasn’t been as good as advertised in 2010, but he’s still a whole lot better than most other options that would be available to the Redskins this offseason. Unless Shanahan fired McNabb just to send some sort of vindictive message, this was the only possible outcome since day one.<br><br>Some of us were <a target="_blank" href="http://twitter.com/HomerMcFanboy/status/29493269479">smart enough to know that</a>, but unfortunately, not everyone got the memo. Here’s hoping the next time controversy finds its way to Redskins Park, media members take an extra second to compose their thoughts rather than once again overreacting like a bunch of drama queens.</p>
https://dc.sbnation.com/washington-redskins/2010/11/16/1817731/donovan-mcnabb-contract-extension-redskins-media-wrongHomer McFanboy2010-11-09T09:12:35-05:002010-11-09T09:12:35-05:00Washington Redskins' 10 Defining Moments of 2010
<figure>
<img alt="DETROIT - OCTOBER 31: Kyle Vanden Bosch #93 of the Detroit Lions hits Donovan McNabb #5 of the Washington Redskins during the first quarter of the game at Ford Field on October 31 2010 in Detroit Michigan. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images)" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/zqhfBb8iznhZLXXIXPe6jTx4VT4=/0x17:600x417/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/photo_images/1389553/GYI0062273350.jpg" />
<figcaption>DETROIT - OCTOBER 31: Kyle Vanden Bosch #93 of the Detroit Lions hits Donovan McNabb #5 of the Washington Redskins during the first quarter of the game at Ford Field on October 31 2010 in Detroit Michigan. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images) | Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Just because a bingo caller didn't come out of retirement to take over the playcalling duties doesn't mean there wasn't plenty to talk about in the first half of the season for the Washington Redskins.</p> <p>As sad as it is for football fanatics to admit, the 2010 season is now officially halfway over. While there is still plenty of meaningful football left to be played this season, it’s important to pause for a moment to look back at how the first half has played out for the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins" class="sbn-auto-link">Washington Redskins</a>.<br><br>With that in mind, I’ve compiled a list of the team's 10 defining moments of the 2010 season. But before we get to that, here are a few moments that just missed the cut:<br><br><b><span>Clinton Portis</span>' 53 flavors.</b> For better or worse, we’ve officially reached the point of the Portis era where his most memorable moments come off the field, rather than on it. Sure, he didn’t know much about the incident involving Ines Sainz and the <a href="https://www.ganggreennation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">New York Jets</a>, but that didn’t stop him from sharing the following nugget:</p>
<blockquote>"And I mean, you put a woman and you give her a choice of 53 athletes, somebody got to be appealing to her. You know, somebody got to spark her interest, or she’s gonna want somebody. I don’t know what kind of woman won’t, if you get to go and look at 53 men’s packages."<br>
</blockquote>
<p>Although Portis’ career is clearly winding down, let’s all hope and pray he continues to do radio even after he hangs up the cleats.<br><br><b><span>Lorenzo Alexander</span> hit sticks.</b> The Redskins’ special teams unit has brought the pain all season long, but the biggest knockout shot came courtesy of Alexander, who <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrfTGTAOYi8" target="_blank">simply destroyed</a> <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Eagles</a> returner <span>Jorrick Calvin</span>.</p>
<blockquote>"He seems to do this each week, regardless if they double-team him or not," <a href="http://blog.redskins.com/2010/10/04/lorenzo-alexander-makes-another-big-hit/">said</a> Redskins head coach Mike Shanahan of Alexander. "But that was one of the best hits I've been around since I've been in the NFL. I mean, that was an explosion on the sidelines. So that was very, very special." </blockquote>
<p><b>Week 3 still hurts.</b> After losing to Detroit last season and St. Louis this year – both in humiliating fashion – I’ve already started a petition to make Week 3 Washington’s bye week next season.<br><br><b><span>Devin Thomas</span> gets cut.</b> Thomas was the 34th overall pick in the 2008 NFL draft. Less than three seasons later, he was released because the team no longer felt he could contribute. Maybe he gets it together in Carolina with the <a href="https://www.catscratchreader.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Panthers</a>, but Thomas’ time in Washington can only be remembered as disappointing.<br><br><b><span>Derrick Dockery</span> sits down.</b> Last season, Dockery was considered one of the only bright spots on Washington’s terrible offensive line. This year, he’s getting paid to watch games in street clothes. <br><br>Dockery, who is in the second year of a five-year, $26.5 million contract, had played in 111 consecutive games before Shanahan decided to sit him in favor of someone named <span>Kory Lichtensteiger</span>, who is allegedly more athletic than Dockery. My counterargument would be that it doesn’t matter how athletic you are when you’re getting pushed back five yards a snap, but in this offense, I guess it does.<br><br><b><span>Anthony Armstrong</span> catches.</b> There’s a lot to like about Armstrong, whose career began in a <a href="http://fredericksburg.com/News/FLS/2010/082010/08262010/571031/printer_friendly" target="_blank">parking lot</a> in Nowhere, Texas. It’s too early to say whether or not he can definitively become a number-two receiver in the NFL, but he’s proven he belongs on the playing field.<br><br> And now, onto the 10 defining moments of 2010:</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/586655/71845_redskins_eagles_football.jpg"><img src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/586655/71845_redskins_eagles_football_medium.jpg" class="photo" alt="71845_redskins_eagles_football_medium"></a></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold;"><span style="line-height: 11px;">10. </span><span style="line-height: 11px;"><span>Donovan McNabb</span></span><span style="line-height: 11px;"> gets cheered.</span></span></p>
<p>Seriously, if I suggested before the season began that Philly fans would handle McNabb better than Shanahan people would have laughed me out of the building. And yet, Eagles fans shocked everyone – McNabb included – by doing something classy for once and giving a standing ovation to the man who was the face of their franchise for 11 seasons in his return to Philadelphia.<br><br>Once the game started, Philly fans resorted back to booing McNabb whenever possible, but that was okay too. McNabb led the Redskins to victory, so we’ll call it even.</p>
<h4><span style="line-height: 11px;">9. <span>Joey Galloway</span> doesn't</span></h4>
<p> </p>
<p>The only reason I can come up with as to why Galloway continues to remain employed by the Redskins – let alone find his way onto the field during actual games – is that he must have blackmail photos of someone important at Redskins Park.<br><br>Case in point: the Redskins ran 516 plays on offense in their first eight games. Galloway was on the field for 289 of those plays and has just nine catches for 141 yards to show for it. In the last six games, Galloway has six total catches for 53 yards.</p>
<blockquote>"We're going to play the best players," Shanahan <a href="http://voices.washingtonpost.com/redskinsinsider/offensive-line/shanahan-says-lichtensteiger-i.html">said</a>. "It's based on film. You evaluate everything."</blockquote>
<p>Clearly Galloway has film of something he shouldn’t.</p>
<h4><span style="line-height: 11px;">8. <span>Phillip Buchanon</span> stops running </span></h4>
<p>I admit: in the heat of the moment, I blame safety <span>Reed Doughty</span> for letting <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Texans</a> receiver <span>Andre Johnson</span> haul in a touchdown on a desperation 4th-and-10 play that would have sealed the game for Washington in Week 2 against the Texans. But when I went back and watched the play again, it was clear that Buchanon gave up on the play at around the 10-yard-line, leaving Doughty alone to defend one of the premier receivers in the game.</p>
<h4><span style="line-height: 11px;">7. <span>LaRon Landry</span> flexes </span></h4>
<p>Okay, so Landry has seemingly been flexing after every play since he came into the league, but at least his play warrants some celebration this season. It appears that all Landry needed to do was be placed back at his preferred strong safety spot rather than trying to play centerfield against those pesky wide outs who utilize double moves far too often for Landry’s liking. <br><br>Landry has played at an All-Pro level all season long, but his overtime interception against Green Bay is easily one of the biggest moments of his young career.</p>
<h4><span style="line-height: 11px;">6. <span>Larry Johnson</span> says goodbye </span></h4>
<p>Johnson looked great all offseason. He was easily one of the standout players through minicamp and training camp, and then a funny thing happened. Games began and suddenly Johnson couldn’t play football anymore.<br><br>Fortunately for Redskins fans, Ryan Torain stepped in and filled the void. A backfield that started out with Portis, Johnson and <span>Willie Parker</span> now features 24-year-old Torain, who leads the team with 391 yards and three touchdowns.</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/586661/68253_redskins_camp_football.jpg"><img alt="68253_redskins_camp_football_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/imported_assets/586661/68253_redskins_camp_football_medium.jpg"></a></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold;"><span style="line-height: 11px;">5. </span><span style="line-height: 11px;"><span>Albert Haynesworth</span></span><span style="line-height: 11px;"> goes airborne</span></span></p>
<p><b></b>Hey, remember when everyone turned on Haynesworth and begged the Redskins to cut ties with Fat Albert "for the good of the team?" Yeah, me neither.<br><br>As far as my revisionist history goes, we’ve all always loved and supported Haynesworth and he’s responded by getting better each week this season. His goal-line stop of <span>Jay Cutler</span> against the <a href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Chicago Bears</a> was huge – enabling linebacker <span>London Fletcher</span> time to get involved and strip the Bears quarterback of the ball.<br><br>If that play doesn’t happen, we’re likely forced to sit around and figure out how on earth the Redskins lost a game in which the defense created six turnovers. Not exactly a situation I’m in a rush to deal with.</p>
<h4><span style="line-height: 11px;">4. <span>Brandon Banks</span> runs fast</span></h4>
<p> </p>
<p><b></b>Banks is Washington’s most electrifying player since Brian Mitchell set the standard in the return game. He’s cut straight from the mold of <span>Joshua Cribbs</span> in Cleveland and <span>Devin Hester</span> in Chicago as a guy who only needs a small opening to make magic happen in the return game.<br><br>Against Detroit, Banks became the first returner to take a kick for a touchdown since 2006 and he set a franchise record for return yards in a single game with 271. Not bad for a guy who the Redskins cut before the season started.</p>
<h4><span style="line-height: 11px;">3. <span>Brian Orakpo</span> gets held</span></h4>
<p><b></b>If not for Orakpo, Dallas quarterback <span>Tony Romo</span> completes a 13-yard touchdown pass to receiver Roy Williams to steal victory for the hated rival on the final play of the season opener. <br><br>Thankfully, offensive lineman <span>Alex Barron</span>, the most penalized player in football, simply couldn’t keep up with Orakpo and was forced to blatantly mug the second-year standout on the game’s pivotal play. Since then, Orakpo has remained among the league leaders in sacks even though he’s been held more than any other defensive player in the NFL, while the <a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Cowboys</a> have completely self destructed. Good times.</p>
<h4><span style="line-height: 11px;">2. <span>DeAngelo Hall</span> catches footballs</span></h4>
<p><b></b>Hall became the 19th player in NFL history to get four interceptions in a single game. Making the achievement more impressive is the fact that Hall needed just one half to tie the record. For reasons known only to morons, Cutler kept throwing at him and the Virginia Tech product kept making the Bears pay.<br><br>Hall now has six interceptions on the year and has scored two touchdowns – a 32-yard fumble return against Dallas and a 92-yard interception return against Chicago. I’d point out that Hall has contributed way more offensively than Galloway could dream of this season, but why bother?</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/586670/74008_redskins_lions_football.jpg"><img alt="74008_redskins_lions_football_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/586670/74008_redskins_lions_football_medium.jpg"></a></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold;"><span style="line-height: 11px;">1. </span><span style="line-height: 11px;"><span>Rex Grossman</span></span><span style="line-height: 11px;"> enters the game ...</span><span style="line-height: 11px;"> <b>or, more accurately,</b> </span><span style="line-height: 11px;">Mike Shanahan talks cardio.</span></span></p>
<p>The only thing dumber than Shanahan’s decision to bench McNabb in favor of Grossman in the deciding moments against Detroit was his explanation of the move afterwards. Honestly, the only two people who thought Grossman gave the Redskins a better chance at victory were Shanahan and Grossman’s mom. Even his dad knew it wasn’t going to work.<br><br>For future reference, please <a href="http://www.homermcfanboy.com/2010/11/02/honeymoon-is-over-for-shanahan/" target="_blank">have the courtesy to lie</a> to Redskins fans and tell us your franchise quarterback is hurt when you bench him. That’ll go over much better than questioning his intelligence and conditioning.</p>
https://dc.sbnation.com/washington-redskins/2010/11/9/1803178/washington-redskins-10-defining-moments-of-2010Homer McFanboy2010-10-26T09:53:11-04:002010-10-26T09:53:11-04:00Washington Redskins' Offense Is Still Missing In Action
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/cwuch2iziZTZ9A5g5Qh4aedTvcY=/0x26:400x293/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47828113/large_dc.sbnation.com.minimal.0.png" />
</figure>
<p>Even though the Washington Redskins have won three of their last four games, there is plenty of work that must be done to fix the team's offense. Otherwise, the team will not continue to have success this season.</p> <p>After outlasting the <a href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Chicago Bears</a> 17-14 this past weekend, the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins" class="sbn-auto-link">Washington Redskins</a> are now 4-3 and very much in the thick of things in the wide open NFC.<br><br>In fact, nine teams in the conference are currently 4-3 or better, but only the <a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">New York Giants</a> have a better record within the NFC (the Giants are 4-0 against the conference, while the Redskins are 4-1). And if the playoffs started today, the Redskins would be a part of the postseason festivities, which is noteworthy itself after just how bad the team was one season ago.<br><br>But don’t think for a minute that all is well in our nation’s capital. Sure, the Redskins have won three out of their last four games and have now matched their win total from 2009 with nine games to go, but Washington could just as easily be a one- or two-win team at this point.<br><br>That’s because the Redskins offense – even with the additions of head coach Mike Shanahan, offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan and quarterback <span>Donovan McNabb</span> – is still painfully inconsistent.</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/576261/66692_redskins_camp_football.jpg"><img alt="66692_redskins_camp_football_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/imported_assets/576261/66692_redskins_camp_football_medium.jpg"></a></p>
<p>Look no further than the win in Chicago, where the Redskins had ideal field position throughout the entire first half and still failed to capitalize on it. Three of the team’s first six possessions actually started at midfield. Washington’s offense went three-and-out in two of those three instances, and they settled for a field goal the third time.<br><br>The Bears offense was equally inept, but Chicago led at the half 14-10 because of a McNabb interception returned for a touchdown. If not for the stellar play of cornerback <span>DeAngelo Hall</span> – who became just the 19th player in NFL history to intercept four passes in a single game – then the mood at Ashburn would be decidedly different this week.<br><br><i>[Seriously, let’s pause and think about this for a second: if the Redskins didn’t get called for a delay of game penalty, then McNabb throws his third interception of the day, with the Bears returning two of them for touchdowns. If that play stands, then the Redskins likely lose a game in which their defense created six turnovers. Has that ever happened in the history of football?]</i><br><br>It also helped that the Bears’ offense was no match for the Redskins’ defense. Here’s a breakdown of their drives in the second half: fumble, interception, interception, fumble, interception, punt, interception. When lasting long enough to punt is the closest thing you have to an actual highlight, you know it’s not your day.<br><br>But even as Chicago continually handed the ball back to Washington, the Redskins offense was unable to take advantage. McNabb threw two interceptions – with a third one called back only because of a delay of game penalty on the Redskins – and Washington, as a whole, fumbled the ball six times. Fortunately, the team only lost one of the six fumbles, but teams are rarely that lucky.<br><br>Had the Redskins offense been somewhat respectable against the Bears, the game would have been a blowout. With the picture-perfect field position and the six turnovers forced by Washington’s defense, this game should have been something along the lines of a 33-10 beatdown. But that’s something this offense simply isn’t able to make happen yet.<br><br>Case in point: in five of seven games this season, the Redskins have scored 17 points or less. Oddly enough, the two games in which Washington scored more than 17 points this year were both losses – a 30-27 in overtime to Houston and the 27-24 loss to Indianapolis.<br><br>If not for a fumble recovery returned for a touchdown by Hall in the season opener, the Redskins lose to Dallas. If not for his 92-yard interception return for a touchdown against Chicago, the Redskins lose to Chicago too. Seriously, even though Hall plays defense, he’s tied with receiver <span>Santana Moss</span> and tight end <span>Chris Cooley</span> for touchdowns on the season with two. And sadly, those two are the only legit receiving options McNabb has.</p>
<p>I’d compare Hall’s five interceptions (which he’s returned 92 yards with one touchdown) to receiver <span>Joey Galloway</span>’s eight catches for 139 yards in seven games, but that would only further embarrass a senior citizen who has no business on a football field. It’s not his fault the coaching staff continues to let him take the field though. Galloway is simply doing what is asked of him – which is apparently standing around and letting other people do all of the work.<br><br>With stiffs like Galloway and <span>Roydell Williams</span> taking up valuable space on the depth chart, it’s no wonder the offense is struggling. But things are actually worse than you might imagine.</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/576264/58621_cowboys_redskins_football.jpg"><img alt="58621_cowboys_redskins_football_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/576264/58621_cowboys_redskins_football_medium.jpg"></a></p>
<p>Through seven games, McNabb has completed 142 of 247 passes for 1,761 yards with six touchdowns and seven interceptions and has a quarterback rating of 76.0.<span style="line-height: 9px;"> </span></p>
<p>Last season, quarterback <span>Jason Campbell</span> completed 136 out of 206 passes for 1,481 yards with eight touchdowns and seven interceptions and had a quarterback rating of 85.8. And let’s not forget – Campbell was actually benched during that stretch for being ineffective. Can you imagine the chaos that would ensue if McNabb was benched? It’s safe to say that it wouldn’t be pretty.<br><br>Here’s my issue: even with McNabb only having limited resources to work with – namely Moss, Cooley and running back Ryan Torain – the offense should be producing better than this.<span style="line-height: 9px;"> </span>The Redskins have scored 130 points this season, which places them tied with Jacksonville for 19th best in the NFL. As good as the defense has been this year – and they’ve been downright dominant at times – they’ve allowed 133 points (16th best in the league). The defense is keeping Washington in games, but at some point, the offense needs to show up and do their part. <br><br>I’m honestly starting to wonder if Kyle Shanahan forgot his playbook in Houston and is instead working out of Al Saunders’ 700 pages of vanilla. We’re talking about the man who led the <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Texans</a>’ top-ranked passing attack in 2009. He comes to town to reunite with his father in the feel-good story of the offseason and all we’ve got to show for it is a bunch of three-and-outs.<br><br>People talk about saving the best for last, but unless that involves Hall playing receiver to give the team a second option at wide out after Moss, I’m not sure this offense has what it takes to make the playoffs. And that’s a shame.</p>
<p>The NFC is so watered down that the <a href="https://www.bucsnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a> are claiming to be the conference’s top team. While it’s both laughable and admirable that head coach Raheem Morris would actually make that claim, it’s further proof that there is no dominant team in the NFC.<br><br>They haven’t been able to do it yet, but if the Redskins can string together at least four consecutive quarters of competent football on offense, Washington could be in good shape the second half of the season. If not, then there’s little doubt we’ll be looking back at the 2010 season and thinking about what could have been.</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/576270/25-oct-10_98718656jd048_washington_re.jpg"><img alt="25-oct-10_98718656jd048_washington_re_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/576270/25-oct-10_98718656jd048_washington_re_medium.jpg"></a></p>
https://dc.sbnation.com/washington-redskins/2010/10/26/1775134/redskins-offense-struggling-donovan-mcnabb-bears-nfl-week-7Homer McFanboy2010-10-19T10:13:30-04:002010-10-19T10:13:30-04:00The Washington Redskins Are Bringing The Pain On Special Teams
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/IZGyk2znZfOkD3U7r4mQiJu2KQI=/0x0:600x400/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/photo_images/1224031/GYI0061822748.jpg" />
<figcaption>Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Redskins' offense and defense have both been inconsistent, so what's been the most enjoyable aspect of the Washington Redskins' 2010 season? Watching the special teams unit lay people out.</p> <p>Even though the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins">Washington Redskins</a> are coming off of a 27-24 loss to the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.stampedeblue.com/">Indianapolis Colts</a> on primetime television, the mood around the team these days is generally positive. </p>
<p>Of course, after a disastrous 4-12 season in which all hope was lost, Redskins fans are just happy to have their favorite team be relevant once again. Bringing in Mike Shanahan as the new head coach and <span>Donovan McNabb</span> as the new quarterback instantly brought a certain level of credibility that appears to have the rest of Redskins Park (minus one disgruntled defensive lineman) completely buying in to the new regime.<br><br>The Redskins currently stand 3-3, with wins over Dallas, Philadelphia and Green Bay. All three of those teams were in the playoffs last year. Washington also remained respectable in close losses to Houston and Indianapolis, which only proves this team is going to be competitive week in and week out.<br><br>Here’s the kicker: the Redskins haven’t played a full 60 minutes of football yet in 2010. The offense has yet to truly fire on all cylinders yet this season, and the defense still suffers lapses in decision making and tackling abilities too often.</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/570569/gyi0062092027.jpg"><img alt="Gyi0062092027_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/570569/gyi0062092027_medium.jpg"></a></p>
<p>Taking a closer look at the Washington offense, I think it’s safe to suggest that the Redskins should feel fortunate to be in their current position. The offensive line appears to be a revolving door – with new players shuffled in and out of the rotation on a weekly basis. As a result, the ground game has struggled mightily this season. <br><br>Running back <span>Clinton Portis</span> hardly looked the part before a groin injury sidelined him for the foreseeable future, and while Ryan Torain has set his career-high for rushing yards in a game twice this season (with 70 yards against Philly and 100 yards against Indy), he’s got a little while to go before we should "crown his ass."<br><br>I’d mention the passing game, but it’s nowhere to be found. McNabb has done well throwing early and often at wide out <span>Santana Moss</span> and tight end <span>Chris Cooley</span>, but they’ve been the only two reliable options on a weekly basis. And, oh by the way, <a href="http://dc.sbnation.com/washington-redskins/2010/10/18/1758371/chris-cooley-concussion-redskins-vs-colts-sunday-night-football">Cooley is now dealing with a concussion</a>.<br><br>I like what receiver <span>Anthony Armstrong</span> and tight end <span>Fred Davis</span> bring to the table, but, statistically speaking, they’re both only good for one or two catches a game on average. And then there’s the Joey Galloway-Roydell Williams combo. Let’s just say I wasn’t stunned when a Colts defender intercepted <a href="http://dc.sbnation.com/washington-redskins/2010/10/17/1758356/colts-vs-redskins-aaron-francisco-interception-photo">McNabb’s final pass attempt of the evening Sunday night</a>, because I didn’t think for a minute Galloway would end up with the ball. He hauled in one 62-yard pass while Houston was asleep at the wheel, and since then has five total catches for 51 yards over the last four weeks. But he keeps finding his way onto the field.<br><br>On the other side of the ball, it’s safe to say the switch to a 3-4 defense is still very much a work in progress. Players like linebacker <span>Brian Orakpo</span> and safety <span>LaRon Landry</span> have excelled in their new roles, but others are still struggling to find their groove in Jim Haslett’s defense.<br><br>And honestly, at times it still seems like Haslett is learning on the fly too. The first quarter of the Green Bay and Indianapolis games featured way too much read and react for my taste. It pained me to relive the Greg Blache era, as <span>Aaron Rodgers</span> and <span>Peyton Manning</span> systematically picked apart Washington’s passive defense with ease.<br><br>Luckily, just when all hope appeared to be lost, Haslett remembered he’s allowed to pressure the opposition. While they did a better job of getting to Rodgers than Manning, the defense at least began to once again resemble an NFL-caliber unit. Sure, running backs still gash this defense with 40- and 50-yard runs far too frequently, but in the instances when a Redskins defender actually stops the opposition, they’re bringing the pain. Bodies are dropping like a <span>Carlos Rogers</span> interception, as <span>Andre Johnson</span>, Steven Jackson, <span>Michael Vick</span> and half of the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Packers</a> roster can all tell you.<br><br>You’ve got to figure that if the first guy on the scene does a better job of making the play and limiting these backbreaking runs, then the defense will be in pretty solid shape. The Redskins will undoubtedly spend this offseason bringing in players they feel better fit this 3-4 scheme, but there’s enough in place now to keep the burgundy and gold in games.</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/570572/gyi0061477619.jpg"><img alt="Gyi0061477619_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/570572/gyi0061477619_medium.jpg"></a></p>
<p>But surprisingly, the most solid aspect of the 2010 Redskins is the special teams unit. Sure, kicker <span>Graham Gano</span> needs to do a better job of converting long-range field goal attempts, but otherwise, there’s a lot to like on teams.</p>
<p>Hunter "The Punter" Smith is back and is an instant upgrade to whatever it was <span>Josh Bidwell</span> allegedly contributed. <span>Devin Thomas</span> was excelling in kick return coverage before his release, but the Redskins feel <span>Chad Simpson</span> will be able to match his production. And on punt return, the Redskins finally have a dynamic playmaker in <span>Brandon Banks</span>.<br><br>For the first time since Brian Mitchell, the Redskins have a player who can finally tilt the field back in favor of the burgundy and gold. Every time he touches the ball, the crowd at FedEx Field begins to stir with excitement. You don’t know if he’s going to bust off a 40 yard return or get crushed into pieces. You don’t know if he’s going to fumble to ball or make multiple defenders look foolish in pursuit of the 5-foot-7 and 155-pound returner. You just don’t know. <br><br>Banks is a secret pleasure that Redskins fans can only hope to keep to themselves for a little while longer. Remember how quickly Chicago speedster <span>Devin Hester</span> became a household name? Well, it’s only a matter of time before the same is true of Banks (which is why this weekend’s matchup of Hester vs. Banks is my favorite subplot as the Redskins travel to Chicago).<br><br>And the absolute best aspect of the Redskins special teams unit is the hit stick. I’m not talking about video game jargon. It’s the totem pole looking thing guys like fullback <span>Mike Sellers</span> and linebacker <span>Lorenzo Alexander</span> can be seen with after delivering a TKO on special teams. <br><br>It’s the badge of pride special teamers strive for that can only be earned by annihilating the opposition like <span>Chris Wilson</span> did on the opening kickoff against the Colts this week. Or Sellers did against Green Bay. Or Alexander did in Philadelphia. Without question, once a week a Redskins special teamer can be seen crushing an opponent with a bone-rattling hit. <br><br>Maybe <span>Steve Slaton</span> was on to something earlier this season when he opted to step out of bounds at the 1-yard line. Maybe he knew it was safer to deal with his coach’s wrath rather than let Sellers, Alexander or Wilson line him up. <br><br>Sure, the offense and defense are still struggling with consistency, but the special teams guys are getting it done. You’ve got to figure it’s only a matter of time before the rest of the roster gets with the program.</p>
https://dc.sbnation.com/washington-redskins/2010/10/19/1761020/washington-redskins-special-teams-brandon-banks-lorenzo-alexander-big-hitHomer McFanboy2010-10-12T07:32:18-04:002010-10-12T07:32:18-04:00Washington Capitals Take On A New Personality
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/cwuch2iziZTZ9A5g5Qh4aedTvcY=/0x26:400x293/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47828113/large_dc.sbnation.com.minimal.0.png" />
</figure>
<p>If we've learned nothing else over the first week of the NHL season, it's that these aren't the same old Washington Capitals.</p> <p>At first glance, the 2010-11 <a href="https://www.japersrink.com/">Washington Capitals</a> appear to be awfully similar to previous incarnations. Sure, we're only three games into the season, but it's never too early to make a first impression.</p>
<p>We're less than a week into the regular season, but it's painfully obvious that some players still suffer mental lapses in the defensive zone. And yes, some players still take selfish penalties at the worst-possible time. Oh, and the Capitals can still play quality hockey for 20 minutes a night and beat most teams in the NHL.</p>
<p>Add in the highest-scoring offense in hockey and it would appear that, even though a handful of the names and faces have changed, the Caps are very much the same team that was unbeatable during the regular season and then fell asleep at the wheel in the playoffs.</p>
<p>I could understand if you watched the team's first three games and had a bad case of déjà vu (followed by profuse consumption of alcohol). But let me make one counterargument - even though many of the key pieces on this team are the same, the mindset in the locker room and on the ice is very different this time around.</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/565075/66670_devils_capitals_hockey.jpg"><img alt="66670_devils_capitals_hockey_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/imported_assets/565075/66670_devils_capitals_hockey_medium.jpg"></a></p>
<p>Take, for example, the home opener against the <a href="https://www.allaboutthejersey.com/">New Jersey Devils</a> this past weekend.</p>
<p>The Capitals got off to a sluggish start (surprise, surprise), but woke up in the second period and eventually steamrolled the Devils in a 7-2 thumping. I don't care who you are or where you're playing hockey - whether it's a beer league or the NHL - it hurts feelings when you get waxed by an opponent.</p>
<p>People take that seriously, and if guys think an opponent is trying to show them up or run up the score, then tempers are going to flare. I can't speak on behalf of the Devils, but apparently Caps coach Bruce Boudreau is qualified to do so.</p>
<p>"They're frustrated because they're a proud team," he said after the game. "I don't know if they've been beaten like that for a while."</p>
<p>Once the Caps decided to show, they made up for lost time - scoring an even-strength goal, a shorthanded goal, a powerplay goal (for the first time since Ronald Reagan was in office) and a penalty shot.</p>
<p>After allowing four goals on eight shots in the second period, Devils goalie <a href="../../../../../nhl/players/54811/martin-brodeur">Martin Brodeur</a> was pulled. Defenseman <a href="../../../../../nhl/players/54383/anton-volchenkov">Anton Volchenkov</a> left the game with a broken nose after taking the brunt of a <a href="../../../../../nhl/players/54343/nicklas-backstrom">Nicklas Backstrom</a> slapshot. While those two players had little say in their nights ending early, the rest of the roster was left there to suffer until the very bitter end.</p>
<p>Eventually they had seen enough and Devils players apparently decided to show their displeasure by getting physical with Washington. And although <a href="../../../../../nhl/players/54359/donald-brashear">Donald Brashear</a> is long gone and newly acquired tough guy <a href="../../../../../nhl/players/54830/d-j-king">D.J. King</a> was a healthy scratch, the Caps had no problem standing up for themselves and refusing to let anyone push them around.</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/565078/66739_devils_capitals_hockey.jpg"><img alt="66739_devils_capitals_hockey_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/565078/66739_devils_capitals_hockey_medium.jpg"></a></p>
<p>So <a href="../../../../../nhl/players/54927/jason-chimera">Jason Chimera</a> dropped the gloves. As did <a href="../../../../../nhl/players/55503/matt-hendricks">Matt Hendricks</a>. <a href="../../../../../nhl/players/54338/matt-bradley">Matt Bradley</a> has always been willing to bleed on ... I mean fight when the time calls, so he too joined in the fun.</p>
<p>And here's the kicker - <a href="../../../../../nhl/players/54355/mike-green">Mike Green</a> got into a fight. Yes, that Mike Green. The guy who routinely leads all defensemen in points scored decided to throw down with <a href="../../../../../nhl/players/55442/ilya-kovalchuk">Ilya Kovalchuk</a> in the third period, and while it won't bring tears of joy to tough guys like Stephen Peat, Craig Berube and Chris Simon, it did serve a larger purpose.</p>
<p>It let the rest of the league know that the Capitals aren't going to stand there and get pushed around.</p>
<p>"I think we did make a statement that we're not the same team that we were last year," said forward <a href="../../../../../nhl/players/55010/mike-knuble">Mike Knuble</a>. "We've got some different personnel and we can still do it on the scoreboard, but when it gets physical, we're not going to get pushed around. It was good to see.</p>
<p>"I don't know if we had a game like this last year, but they can bring a team together faster than anything," he continued.</p>
<p>As strange as it may sound to some, Knuble suggested that the four fights the Caps were involved in against New Jersey mean more to a team trying to establish a new identity than the seven goals they scored that night.</p>
<p>"Yeah, it's a Saturday night and this game will get picked up," Knuble said. "Teams will see the highlights and I think it's a great statement we made by standing up for ourselves in the last five minutes of the game there."</p>
<p>If you're sitting there expecting Boudreau to chastise his players like a disappointed parent dealing with a kid who got in a fight at school ... well ... you're in for a letdown.</p>
<p>"We're the least fighting major team in the league and we didn't have D.J. King in the lineup," Boudreau said. "We accepted the challenges because we're a group that accepts challenges."</p>
<p><a href="../../../../../nhl/players/54337/alex-ovechkin">Alex Ovechkin</a> has always been a player willing and able to stand up for himself. Guys like Chimera and Bradley will never be confused with NHL heavyweights, but both are also happy to throw down when the situation calls for it. But this game showed that those aren't the only players in town who are fed up.</p>
<p>And maybe that's what it's going to take for this team to get over the proverbial hump. Maybe the players need to get a little pissed off. Maybe they need to develop a mean streak. Maybe that's what it's going to take to get them to make that long-lost extended playoff run.</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/imported_assets/565084/66836_senators_capitals_hockey.jpg"><img alt="66836_senators_capitals_hockey_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/565084/66836_senators_capitals_hockey_medium.jpg"></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Like I said at the top, we're not even a week into the season yet. But as far as first impressions go, this was a very strong one. This isn't the same old Caps team. As the Devils left the Verizon Center defeated on the scoreboard and on the judge's scorecards, you can rest assured they learned the hard way.</p>
<p>They should just feel fortunate that King wasn't involved and pray like hell he's not in the lineup the next time these two teams square off.</p>
<p>As for the rest of the league, they'd be best to learn from another team's mistake. This is not a team you want to see motivated and focused. Try them if you must, but don't be surprised if things play out a little differently than they have in years past.</p>
https://dc.sbnation.com/washington-capitals/2010/10/12/1746450/washington-capitals-nhl-fight-personality-new-jerey-devilsHomer McFanboy2010-10-05T10:43:11-04:002010-10-05T10:43:11-04:00Six Players To Watch On The 2010 Washington Capitals
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/5Mhxe-fpwZZ0syimOaVXGHF2nuo=/0x10:600x410/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/photo_images/617374/GYI0060252613.jpg" />
<figcaption>Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Unlike the Washington Redskins and Wizards, the Capitals actually value the draft. Because they put time, energy and resources into the evaluation process and actually attempt to acquire additional draft picks via trades, the proverbial cupboard is stocked with young talent. Here are a handful of young players who are ready to contribute.
</p> <p>This weekend, the <a href="https://www.japersrink.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Washington Capitals</a> will once again begin their quest for the franchise’s first-ever Stanley Cup victory.<br><br>And yes, the pain from last season’s stunning opening-round loss at the hands of eighth-seeded Montreal is still very fresh in the minds of many Caps fans. But trust me when I say the Capitals organization has moved on and is only looking forward.<br><br>The high-flying Capitals offense set record after record during the regular season, even capturing the first Presidents’ Trophy in franchise history, but couldn’t put the puck in the net in the playoffs. And somehow, for the third-consecutive season, the Capitals lost a Game 7 at home, in front of a sellout crowd at the Verizon Center.<br><br>Many front offices would have been tempted to retool the roster after witnessing such a disastrous collapse, but general manager George McPhee remained convinced that the pieces are already in place.<span style="line-height: 9px;"> </span>Critics continue to say that the Caps need to upgrade at center, defense and goalie, but McPhee firmly believes a handful of youngsters from within are more than capable of stepping up and filling the void.<br><br>Casual fans already know the names of the "Young Guns" – <span>Alex Ovechkin</span>, <span>Nicklas Backstrom</span>, <span>Alexander Semin</span> and <span>Mike Green</span>. But, if McPhee is to be believed, the next wave of young talent is here to stay.<br><br>If the Capitals are going to get over the proverbial hump this season and make that elusive playoff run, then these six homegrown players are likely going to play a vital role.</p>
<h4><a href="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/559533/66148_capitals_bruins_hockey.jpg"><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/559533/66148_capitals_bruins_hockey_medium.jpg" class="photo" alt="66148_capitals_bruins_hockey_medium"></a></h4>
<h4>
<a href="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/559533/66148_capitals_bruins_hockey.jpg"></a><b><span style="line-height: 11px;"><span>Marcus Johansson</span></span></b>
</h4>
<p>With the 24th pick in the 2009 NHL draft, the Capitals selected Marcus Johansson, a smooth-skating Swedish center. Although he’s barely old enough to shave (he turns 20 tomorrow), Washington believes they found a gem in Johansson. During the Caps Convention this past weekend, the always-candid Bruce Boudreau even compared Johansson to Backstrom, the team’s other Swedish center, who Boudreau said just might be the best all-around player in the entire NHL. <br><br>Johansson has speed, he’s smart and he’s defensive minded, which could earn him solid minutes on the penalty kill. A lot of 19-year-olds get their first glimpse of NHL action and wilt under the pressure, but Johansson has continued to play well and look the part so far this preseason.<br><br>Even if he’s not a mainstay on the roster this season, by all accounts he’s going to be around for a while once he does earn his way into the rotation. Backstrom is the top-line center for good reason, but there appears to be an opportunity for a youngster like Johansson to lock down the second- or third-line center role.</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/559536/51729_panthers_capitals_hockey.jpg"><img src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/559536/51729_panthers_capitals_hockey_medium.jpg" class="photo" alt="51729_panthers_capitals_hockey_medium"></a></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold;"><b><span style="line-height: 11px;"><span>Mathieu Perreault</span></span></b></span></p>
<p>While Johansson came to Washington as a highly-regarded first-round pick, his main competition at center is a guy who had to face much stiffer odds. Perreault is also a Capitals draft pick, but his name wasn’t called until the sixth-round (177th overall) in the 2006 draft.<br><br>Over the last two seasons with the Hershey Bears, Perreault has registered 27 goals and 73 assists for 100 points in 133 regular-season games. In his limited time with the Capitals last season, Perreault picked up four goals and five assists for nine points in 21 games.<br><br>"He’s a really skilled forward and he’s really quick," said Hershey teammate <span>Keith Aucoin</span> of Perreault. "I haven’t seen a defense yet who is able to hold him off down low. He’s so quick and wiry, and he sees the ice as well as any player I’ve ever played with. He’s also a really solid passer. At times, he reminds me of me a little bit, back when I was younger. I may have lost a couple steps since then, but he reminds me a little bit of me back when I was younger. He’s a really great player though and he’s got a really bright future ahead of him."</p>
<p>Perreault will start the season in Hershey, but it’s a safe bet that he’ll see time in Washington again in the not-too-distant future.</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/559539/55941_canadiens_capitals_hockey.jpg"><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/559539/55941_canadiens_capitals_hockey_medium.jpg" class="photo" alt="55941_canadiens_capitals_hockey_medium"></a></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold;"><b><span style="line-height: 11px;"><span>Karl Alzner</span></span></b></span></p>
<p>Many Caps fans, myself included, thought Alzner would be an 82-game player last season for Washington. He was the fifth overall pick in 2007 and he’s been considered one of the organization’s blue chip prospects ever since.<br><br>And yet, Boudreau went with limited players such as <span>John Erskine</span> and <span>Tyler Sloan</span> instead. Instead of pouting, Alzner just kept his head down and waited his turn. Now, he says he’s ready to handle the pressure of life in the NHL.<br><br>"I think I’m a more confident player out on the ice now," Alzner told me. "I’m not afraid to handle the puck for an extra second, if I have to. I’m not just looking to give it away and I’m not afraid to make an extra move to give myself more time and space to make a play, whereas before I’d always try to make the safest play. A good saying is ‘It’s not always the right play, but it’s never the wrong play,’ and that’s kind of how I was looking things. Now, I’m trying to jump up in the rush a little more and trying to play an all-around game."</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/559542/gyi0061860400.jpg"><img src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/559542/gyi0061860400_medium.jpg" class="photo" alt="Gyi0061860400_medium"></a></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold;"><b><span style="line-height: 11px;"><span>John Carlson</span></span></b></span></p>
<p>Call him Captain America. Call him the other half of "<a target="_blank" href="http://www.russianmachineneverbreaks.com/tag/carlzner/">Carlzner</a>." Call him whatever you’d like, as long as you get used to saying his name. Carlson came into our lives as the 27th overall pick in the 2008 draft and is already considered one of the best prospects in all of hockey.<br><br>At the 2010 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships, he scored the game-winning goal in overtime to bring home the gold medal for Team USA. Boudreau has said repeatedly that Alzner and Carlson were Washington’s two best players on the ice in Game 7 of last year’s playoffs.<br><br>This is where I point out that he’s only 20, so if he’s half as good as Caps fans think he is, he’ll be a fixture on the blueline for the next decade. That’s what happens when you actually put some time and effort into the draft (a concept Redskins and Wizards fans know nothing about).</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/559551/63108_capitals_canadiens_hockey.jpg"><img src="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/imported_assets/559551/63108_capitals_canadiens_hockey_medium.jpg" class="photo" alt="63108_capitals_canadiens_hockey_medium"></a></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold;"><b><span style="line-height: 11px;"><span>Semyon Varlamov</span></span></b></span></p>
<p>Out of everyone on this list, he’s probably the most well-known name to casual Caps fans. That’s because he was the primary backup to <span>Jose Theodore</span> last season – going 15-4-6, with a 2.55 goals against average and a .909 save percentage.<br><br>Varlamov is the epitome of a streaky goaltender. On the nights when he’s on his game, he’s impossible to beat. But if he gives up an early goal or gets rattled, Varlamov is just as likely to give up goals in waves.<br><br>The other issue with Varlamov is durability. Since he first arrived in D.C., he’s been in and out of the lineup because of various ailments – including groin and knee injuries. The former first rounder is seemingly always <a target="_blank" href="http://voices.washingtonpost.com/capitalsinsider/semyon-varlamov-on-nagging-inj.html">dealing with nagging injuries</a>, which is another reason he’s yet to lock down the number-one goaltender spot.<br><br>But on pure skill alone, it’s impossible to count out Varlamov. If you’re the Caps and you’re banking on Varlamov, you just might want to make sure you’ve got a solid insurance policy and a backup plan – just in case.</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/559554/56583_capitals_panthers_hockey.jpg"><img src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/559554/56583_capitals_panthers_hockey_medium.jpg" class="photo" alt="56583_capitals_panthers_hockey_medium"></a></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold;"><b><span style="line-height: 11px;"><span>Michal Neuvirth</span></span></b></span></p>
<p>Here’s all you need to know about Neuvirth: he’s the first goalie in history to win back-to-back American Hockey League championships in his first two seasons. During that span he went 30-10 with a 1.98 goals against average and a .927 save percentage.<br><br>In his limited time in Washington, Neuvirth has an 11-5 record with a 2.80 goals against average and a .910 save percentage. He’s fundamentally sound and rarely ever caught out of position. While Varlamov is more of a high-risk, high-reward player, Neuvirth is much more solid and even keeled. <br><br>In related news, Boudreau essentially named Neuvirth the opening-night starter over the weekend at the Caps Convention. So you’ll get to see plenty of Neuvirth from the get go. And for my money, if he gets in there and plays as well as he has over the last two seasons, it’s Neuvirth’s job to lose.</p>
https://dc.sbnation.com/washington-capitals/2010/10/5/1731818/2010-washington-capitals-preview-nhl-six-players-to-watchHomer McFanboy2010-09-28T09:43:06-04:002010-09-28T09:43:06-04:00Is Albert Haynesworth The Voice Of Reason On The Redskins Defense?
<figure>
<img alt="ST. LOUIS - SEPTEMBER 26: Steven Jackson #39 of the St. Louis Rams rushes against the Washington Redskins at the Edward Jones Dome on September 26 2010 in St. Louis Missouri. The Rams beat the Redskins 30-16. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images)" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/U2Vh0dAGOGK3GhLlBhfzif24H3I=/0x0:600x400/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/photo_images/1223995/GYI0061822731.jpg" />
<figcaption>ST. LOUIS - SEPTEMBER 26: Steven Jackson #39 of the St. Louis Rams rushes against the Washington Redskins at the Edward Jones Dome on September 26 2010 in St. Louis Missouri. The Rams beat the Redskins 30-16. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images) | Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The usually stout Redskins defense has been unable to stop anyone this season. Is the switch from a 4-3 defense to a 3-4 scheme to blame or is something bigger going on here?</p> <p>Since 1999, when quarterback <span>Brad Johnson</span>, running back <span>Stephen Davis</span> and receiver Michael Westbrook teamed up to power the NFL’s second-best offense, the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins">Washington Redskins</a> have consistently failed to score points and rack up yardage.<br><br>Conversely, the Redskins defense has finished in the top 10 in eight of the last 10 seasons. For better or for worse, that’s what Washington Redskins football has boiled down in recent history. The defense keeps the team in the ballgame and then it’s a question of whether or not the offense can do enough to win the ballgame.<br><br>Well, after giving up 30 points in back-to-back games against Houston and St. Louis, it’s clear something is not right with the Redskins defense.</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/554261/gyi0061822733.jpg"><img src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/554261/gyi0061822733_medium.jpg" class="photo" alt="Gyi0061822733_medium"></a></p>
<p>You can point to the offense and rightly wonder why running back <span>Clinton Portis</span> seems to be falling down to avoid contact, or why receiver <span>Joey Galloway</span> is prominently involved even though he hasn’t been productive in years, but I would counter that the defense is held to a higher standard.<br><br>The offense, regardless of who is drawing up the plays or who is active on game day, still can’t score consistently in the red zone. It still can’t put together time consuming drives to keep the Redskins defense fresh. The offense still takes dumb penalties at the worst possible times.<br><br>But that’s what we expect from the offense at this point. <span>Stephon Heyer</span> isn’t very good, so when he’s in the game, you know an ill-timed holding penalty by Heyer is surely going to erase a key third-down conversion. That’s what happens when a below-average player is asked to play one of the most important positions in football.<br><br>For my money though, there’s nothing more troubling than watching the once-reliable Redskins defense fail to stop anyone. It’s one thing to give up yards in bulk to <span>Matt Schaub</span> and the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.battleredblog.com/">Texans</a>’ offense. They had the top passing attack in football last season and can score points with ease on anyone.<br><br>But it’s another story entirely when the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/st-louis-rams">Rams</a>, led by a rookie quarterback and without the services of Steven Jackson for half of the game, light you up. That’s when it’s time to panic.<br><br>"I don’t know whether you want to call it playing down to the level of the opponent, but whatever you call it, we definitely do that against teams that haven’t won in a long time," said middle linebacker <span>London Fletcher</span>. "The Rams haven’t won at home in two years. They haven’t scored 30 points in a long time. We all have ownership in this."</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/554264/gyi0061822753.jpg"><img src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/554264/gyi0061822753_medium.jpg" class="photo" alt="Gyi0061822753_medium"></a></p>
<p>How can we honestly say the Redskins "play down" to the level of the opponent when they consistently find ways to lose to every doormat they line up against? <br><br>In a one-year span, the Redskins lost to Detroit, who snapped a 19-game losing streak by beating Washington, Kansas City, which had dropped 16 of 17, and St. Louis, which had lost 27 of 28. When that happens, it’s safe to say you’re not "playing" anymore. You’re officially as bad as the rest of them.<br><br>"We didn’t focus," said defensive lineman <span>Albert Haynesworth</span>. "We kind of expected, ‘Oh, this is the Rams, we’re just gonna come in here and beat them.’ But they’re an NFL team too. They get draft picks, just like we do. They prepare, just like we did. We just kind of let them off the hook. We spotted them 14 points and gave them confidence that they could play with us." <br><br>You know it’s bad when Haynesworth, of all people, is the voice of reason.<br><br>Equally as alarming was the fact that some Redskins players began to use the switch from a 4-3 defense to a 3-4 as an excuse for the recent woes – suggesting that it takes time for everyone to fully grasp their responsibilities in a new scheme. While that is true, to a small extent, that has nothing to do with the Redskins giving up 60 points and 891 yards in their last two games.<br><br>Think about it – opponents aren’t airing it out with 50-yard bombs or killing defenders with double moves, like they were a year ago. They’re dinking and dunking their way down the field. They’re handing it off and happily settling for four or five yards per run to give them manageable third downs.<br><br>Both Schaub and Rams rookie <span>Sam Bradford</span> took three-step drops and got rid of the ball quickly. Redskins defenders have been in position to make plays, they’re just failing to get the job done. A week after he said this was his defense, there was cornerback <span>DeAngelo Hall</span>, falling down in coverage of Rams receiver <span>Mark Clayton</span> at the worst possible time.<br><br>A week ago it was safety <span>Reed Doughty</span>, left alone in coverage against Texans standout <span>Andre Johnson</span> on a key fourth down because cornerback <span>Phillip Buchanon</span> lost track of the ball and quit on the play at the 10-yard line.<br><br>And damn near every long play the defense has given up this year happens because a defender got an arm on the ball carrier, but failed to bring him down. Make one guy miss and suddenly you’re looking at daylight. It’s how Jackson busted off his 42-yard touchdown in the first quarter – two defenders got a hand on him, but couldn’t even slow Jackson down.<br><br>The players are in position to make the play; they’re just not getting it done. And while it may be easier to point the finger at the transition to a new defensive scheme, "film don’t lie." When those players see the game film, they’re going to have to accept the fact that this loss falls on their shoulders. They need to stop making excuses and start making plays.<br><br>"We're coming into a new defense, and we've just got to feel comfortable with ourselves in this defense," Haynesworth said. "We've got to rely more on the scheme and figure out what we need to do."</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/554267/68822_ravens_redskins_football.jpg"><img src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/554267/68822_ravens_redskins_football_medium.jpg" class="photo" alt="68822_ravens_redskins_football_medium"></a></p>
<p>This, mind you, is coming from the guy who can’t stand the scheme. If he’s saying everyone needs to get with the program, then what else do you need? The next month is going to be brutal for the Redskins. Philadelphia, Green Bay, Indianapolis and Chicago all have dynamic offenses, meaning if the Washington defense can’t get it together, then the season will be over before Halloween.<br><br>Will players drop the excuses and embrace the new defense or are Redskins fans destined for another heartbreaking season? Ask me again in a month and I’ll have the answer for you.</p>
https://dc.sbnation.com/washington-redskins/2010/9/28/1716767/redskins-vs-rams-nfl-week-3-defense-failure-albert-haynesworthHomer McFanboy2010-09-21T08:35:15-04:002010-09-21T08:35:15-04:00Donovan McNabb Is Already A Steal For The Redskins
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/cwuch2iziZTZ9A5g5Qh4aedTvcY=/0x26:400x293/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47828113/large_dc.sbnation.com.minimal.0.png" />
</figure>
<p>While fellow quarterbacks Jason Campbell and Kevin Kolb have struggled this season, Donovan McNabb has had no trouble transitioning to Washington and helping a once-dormant offense finally show signs of life.</p> <p>I know fans of the Washington Redskins are still hurting after watching the Houston Texans rally back from a 27-10 deficit to win in overtime, 30-27. And you know what? Honestly, I can't blame them.</p>
<p>The Redskins had several chances throughout that game on offense, defense and special teams, and for whatever reason, they simply couldn't seal the deal.</p>
<p>Even with head coach Mike Shanahan, one of the most successful coaches in today's game, on the sidelines, the Redskins still looked an awful lot like what we've grown accustomed to in recent years. Do just well enough to get everyone's hopes up and then find a new and creative way to lose in dramatic and heartbreaking fashion.</p>
<p>Even though it's already crystal clear that the 2010 Redskins are leaps and bounds better than anything we saw during the Jim Zorn era (which is the polite way of saying the team now takes the field on even footing, as opposed to losing the game before kickoff), Washington still has work to be done. Like linebacker Lorenzo Alexander told me in the post-game locker room, the Redskins need to learn how to win.</p>
<p>But what I am taking away from that game is that, with not much else to work with around him, Redskins quarterback Donovan McNabb showed definitively that he's still got plenty of miles left on those tires. The guy who couldn't even make it through the preseason without being sidelined due to injury has not only avoided further injury -- he's been the team's best player.</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/imported_assets/548652/gyi0061730369.jpg"><img alt="Gyi0061730369_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/548652/gyi0061730369_medium.jpg"></a></p>
<p>On Sunday, McNabb completed 28 of 38 attempts for 426 yards and a touchdown. He completed 73 percent of his passes, didn't turn the ball over and finished the day with a 119.0 quarterback rating. This on a day when the Redskins<a href="http://dc.sbnation.com/2010/9/20/1699282/redskins-vs-texans-clinton-portis-run-game-nfl-week-2"> ground game finished with 18 yards on 17 carries</a> (the third-lowest output in franchise history). I should also point out that, last I checked, McNabb only has two reliable weapons in the passing game -- receiver Santana Moss and tight end Chris Cooley.</p>
<p>So basically, he's got two options in the passing game, no support for the ground game and a coaching staff that inexplicably thinks now is a good time to start rotating offensive linemen. Forget continuity and everything else that professional football has taught us -- Kory Lichtensteiger and Stephon Heyer are so talented, the Redskins have to find a way to get them onto the field (wait, can either of them play receiver? Nevermind.)</p>
<p>But I digress.</p>
<p>The last time a Washington Redskins quarterback threw for more yards than McNabb did in just his second game in burgundy and gold was Brad Johnson, back in 1999. On the day after Christmas, Johnson threw for a franchise-record 471 yards against San Francisco. As it stands now, McNabb's effort against Houston was the third-best day of his career and the fourth-best effort by a Redskins quarterback.</p>
<p>During the game, McNabb passed Steve Young and Phil Simms to move into 20th place on the NFL's all-time passing list and moved ahead of Johnny Unitas and Jim Everett into 17th place on the NFL's all-time completion list. If he completes 30 passes this weekend against St. Louis, McNabb will move to 15th place.</p>
<p>In short, McNabb is still capable of playing at an elite level and by all accounts was an absolute steal for the Redskins this past offseason. Not that McNabb is in a hurry to pat himself on the back or anything.</p>
<p>"I’m a guy that is a competitor and I hate losing," McNabb said. "It doesn’t matter if I pass for 400 or 500 yards or if I pass for 100 and something yards. It’s about winning, and that’s what the bottom line is. At the end of the season, it’s about the wins and losses. Who has eight, nine, 10 wins to get into the playoffs or who’s not able to get into the playoffs. I think this team is talented enough where we can be able to bounce back after a game like this and get this thing rolling. I look forward to being able to lead that for these guys."</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/imported_assets/548655/gyi0061730304.jpg"><img alt="Gyi0061730304_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/548655/gyi0061730304_medium.jpg"></a></p>
<p>Just look in Oakland, where quarterback Jason Campbell got benched at halftime of his second game. The former Redskins quarterback was eight of 15 for 87 yards with an interception before coach Tom Cable felt he had seen enough. Sure, the Redskins lost to Houston, but does anyone think Campbell would have given the team a better chance at victory? No need to speak up. Redskins fans already know the answer.</p>
<p>And look in Philadelphia -- you know, the place that felt no longer needed McNabb. They had Kevin Kolb waiting in the wings and just knew he was the next Phillip Rivers or Aaron Rodgers. Except Kolb looked terrible in the limited action we've seen from him this season, completing just five of 10 passes for 24 yards while being sacked three times in one half of football. Damn. Even Campbell could do better than that.</p>
<p>But he's the guy they had to clear the way for. He's the next big thing. Too bad Mike Vick has looked 100 times better calling the shots for the Eagles. With 459 passing yards and three touchdowns (and 140 yards rushing to boot), Vick has shown he's the quarterback who gives Philadelphia the best chance at victory on Sundays. Too bad the Eagles have no choice but to turn the team back over to Kolb.</p>
<p>That being said, I've always enjoyed watching Philly fans suffer, so I'm all for Kolb jumping back into the starting role. The entire football-watching world will be focused on Kolb, Campbell and McNabb all season long, and while fans in Oakland and Philly are already cheering for Bruce Gradkowski and Vick, there's no doubt that 'Skins fans have already fully embraced McNabb.</p>
<p>As odd as it may be to say, McNabb is officially the face of the franchise. When football fans think about the Washington Redskins, it's McNabb's soup-eating mug that they envision.</p>
<p>Sure, there's still plenty of work to be done (like establishing a rushing attack, or at least teaching Larry Johnson which way to run when he gets the football), but it could definitely be worse. Don't take my word for it -- ask a Raiders fan, if you can find one.</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/548658/70463_cowboys_redskins_football.jpg"><img alt="70463_cowboys_redskins_football_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/imported_assets/548658/70463_cowboys_redskins_football_medium.jpg"></a></p>
https://dc.sbnation.com/2010/9/21/1701487/donovan-mcnabb-redskins-quarterback-steal-texans-nfl-week-2Homer McFanboy2010-09-07T09:23:30-04:002010-09-07T09:23:30-04:00Season On The Line For Redskins This Weekend
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/cwuch2iziZTZ9A5g5Qh4aedTvcY=/0x26:400x293/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47828113/large_dc.sbnation.com.minimal.0.png" />
</figure>
<p>The Redskins were a joke one year ago. This weekend's game against the Dallas Cowboys will go a long way towards proving just how much better things are this season.</p> <p>I typically try to avoid hyperbole whenever possible, so keep that in mind when you read this next statement – the entire season in on the line when the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins" class="sbn-auto-link">Washington Redskins</a> host the <a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Dallas Cowboys</a> this weekend.<br><br>For my money, that’s how important it is that the Mike Shanahan era get started off correctly. <br><br>Think about it. When Shanahan and friends inherited this charity case, they took over a 4-12 team. The Redskins, in case you’ve forgotten, went winless in the division in 2009 and are 3-9 in the NFC East over the last two years.<br><br>It goes without saying that a team’s success or failure in a given year depends completely on how it fares in the division. If the Redskins can’t get it done against Dallas, New York and Philadelphia again this season, then get ready for more heartache.<br><br>And I’m one of those "cautiously optimistic" fans who would happily take an 8-8 season this year – no questions asked. Seeing the Redskins double their win total from a year ago would be huge for me, and if nothing else, I could sleep easy knowing that at least the guys wearing burgundy and gold have a chance at victory any given Sunday.<br><br>That’s not something we’ve been able to say since Grandpa Gibbs headed off to the retirement home again.</p>
<p>If I could have handpicked any opponent for the opener, I would have happily selected the Cowboys. Think about it – there’s no bigger test than your hated rival who just so happens to believe that they’re a legitimate Super Bowl contender.</p>
<p>Dallas, by the way, had their way with the Redskins last season. In two games, they outscored Washington 24-6 and rarely had to break a sweat in the process. They’re also 6-1 lifetime against the Redskins in season openers.<br><br>Having Shanahan on board guarantees that the ‘Skins will at least be prepared when they take the field. But how many victories will the two-time Super Bowl winning coach realistically be able to bring in year one?<br><br>We’re about to find out.</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/imported_assets/537713/68306_redskins_camp_football.jpg"><img alt="68306_redskins_camp_football_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/imported_assets/537713/68306_redskins_camp_football_medium.jpg"></a></p>
<p>And while most of the national media’s attention has focused on the ever-popular <span>Albert Haynesworth</span> drama, there’s plenty to like these days if you’re a Redskins fan.<br><br>The defense, which is seemingly ranked in the top 10 year in and year out, actually appears capable of creating turnovers. It’s one thing to have a defense that statistically ranks among the league’s elite because of yards allowed per game. It’s a whole different ballgame when you have an aggressive defense that attacks for every conceivable angle.<br><br>Former defensive coordinator Greg Blache encouraged his players to read and react. The mindset was passive and turnovers were a rarity. Under Jim Haslett though, this new 3-4 defense aims to punch the opposition in the mouth. He’s a lot more like Gregg Williams than Greg Blache, and that mentality served Williams’ troops in New Orleans well last year, didn’t it?<br><br>There’s also the revamped offensive line, which features two new highly-touted tackles. Folks around town might have wanted the ‘Skins to select lineman <span>Russell Okung</span> with the fourth overall pick in the draft, but <span>Trent Williams</span> has stepped right in and killed that nonsense. He’ll have his ups and downs during his rookie campaign, but the kid has already shown he can play with the big boys.<br><br>The arrival of <span>Jammal Brown</span>, who will step in at right tackle, is just as huge for Washington. He’s got an impressive resume – with two Pro Bowl selections – and will hopefully enable quarterback <span>Donovan McNabb</span> more time in the pocket than <span>Jason Campbell</span> was afforded during his final season in D.C.<br><br>And speaking of McNabb and juicy storylines, he’s also got something to prove against Dallas. His last two games as a member of the <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Philadelphia Eagles</a> resulted in two lopsided losses to the Cowboys, with Donovan fumbling three times and throwing an interception. I think it’s safe to say those poor outings against a hated divisional opponent might have played a part in Philly’s decision to move on without McNabb.<span style="line-height: 9px;"> </span>So he’s here now and highly motivated to show his detractors that he can still be productive, even at 33. I can’t think of a better way for him to make a lasting first impression in Washington than by beating Dallas at home on primetime television.</p>
<p><a href="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/537716/55765_redskins_cowboys_football.jpg"><img alt="55765_redskins_cowboys_football_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/imported_assets/537716/55765_redskins_cowboys_football_medium.jpg"></a></p>
<p>The Redskins head into this battle a huge underdog. The only people giving them a chance against the Cowboys this Sunday night are those who will be wearing burgundy and gold this weekend. </p>
<p>Even though their offensive line looks as susceptible as Washington’s did a year ago, the general consensus is that the Cowboys are stacked enough to win anyways. This is just a tune up for Dallas as they bide time until the lock up the division. Do they really even need to play this game?<br><br>That’s okay. Let them have the fanfare and expectations. Let ESPN continue to slurp Jerry’s kids. We all know that as long as <span>Tony Romo</span> is the quarterback and playoff games are played in January, there’s no chance the Cowboys will be a part of the Super Bowl in Texas Stadium (unless they buy a ticket).<br><br>The Redskins were a 4-12 team a year ago. This weekend, with the nation’s eyes locked on them, we’ll see just what kind of squad they’ve got this season.</p>
https://dc.sbnation.com/2010/9/7/1674041/redskins-cowboys-nfl-week-1-score-seasonHomer McFanboy