When the post-lockout preseason finally began, it was assumed Washington Redskins running back Ryan Torain would be the starter for head coach Mike Shanahan. But a funny thing happened in August. Torain injured himself (again), and newly acquired Tim Hightower performed extremely well in game action, meaning it is highly likely the Arizona Cardinals' cast-off will be the opening day starter for the Redskins. Via Joseph White of the AP:
"He's done a good job," coach Mike Shanahan said Saturday. "I'm not going to say he's our starter, but if you were betting in Vegas you'd probably bet in that direction."
Hightower was originally obtained to serve as a back-up and compliment to Torain, but his play in the preseason has been excellent, both running the ball and picking up the rush. Hightower has 170 yards on 25 carries (a gaudy 6.8 ypc), scoring two touchdowns in three preseason contests.
Torain will finally see the field in Washington's preseason finale against he Tampa Bay Buccaneers, perhaps battling Evan Royster and Roy Helu Jr. for the role of backup to Hightower.