Gibbs Confirms Arrington Benching (LaMerged Mergington)

[kingdaddy]

http://aolsvc.news.aol.com/special1/article.adp?id=20051003194909990007

[kingdaddy]

http://aolsvc.news.aol.com/special1/article.adp?id=20051003194909990007

[Griff]

Gibbs Confirms Arrington Has Lost Starting Job

Linebacker Has Seen Limited Playing Time in Redskins' Unbeaten Start
By JOSEPH WHITE, AP Sports

WASHINGTON (Oct. 3) - In the jubilation of three thrilling victories and a surprising first-place perch atop the NFC East, one nagging question persists for the Washington Redskins.

What happened to LaVar Arrington?

Coach Joe Gibbs finally gave the direct answer Monday: "He's not a starter."

Yes, Arrington, the fearsome linebacker known to change games with an interception or jarring sack, the Pro Bowl selection each of his last three healthy seasons, the player with the much-disputed $68 million contract, is now one of the most popular and expensive bench-warmers in franchise history.

No one is more flummoxed than Arrington himself, who for the first time is talking openly about the prospects of playing elsewhere.

"I hate not playing, but I don't make those decisions," Arrington said. "It's interesting to me that the finger is pointed at me when I'm not playing like, 'Why aren't you playing LaVar?' or 'What am I doing wrong not to be playing?' I'm here every day. I'm here on time. I don't get in trouble off the field. I don't get in trouble on the field. I do what I'm asked to do. That's how I've always been."

Arrington was on the field for two plays and didn't do anything to register on the stat sheet in Sunday's 20-17 overtime victory over Seattle. He's been used on a few plays through three games - including the first play of the Dallas game, which technically gave him credit for one start - and has just two tackles to show for his efforts.

"If the direction is going away from me and going towards other things then, as a man, I have to accept that," Arrington said. "I have to move on and figure out what's next for me."

Stars rise and fall with regularity in the NFL, but Arrington's dive has perplexed fans more than usual because he is arguably the most-liked player on the team. His autograph was the one most in demand at training camp, and his No. 56 jersey easily trumps anyone else's at any substantial gathering of Redskins' faithful.

Initially, coaches explained Arrington's lack of playing time by saying they were working him into a few packages to get him back in the flow after knee surgery. That explanation wore out quickly: Arrington said he's "100 percent healthy" and he hasn't been listed on the team's official injury report.

"He's not a starter and hasn't started," Gibbs said. "I know he's disappointed in not making more of an impact, not playing more, but I think it's something we have to work our way through. I think it's one of those things scheme-wise for our defense, it's the best way I would answer that. We've got a lot of guys that are talented guys who can do a lot of things for us. ... Health-wise, I think he's back."

That's a load of coach-speak for "We think someone else can do the job better."

Perhaps as surprising as Arrington's benching is how well he's handling it. He's been known to go on a mini-tirade when something doesn't go his way, but he's played the good soldier this time.

"I obviously lost the job. I'm not a starter anymore. If people want to ridicule me and condemn me for losing a job after an injury then so be it, that's what I have to deal with it, but I'm still not going to be part of an ongoing soap opera about why I'm not playing," Arrington said. "I'm going to be supportive of my teammates. I don't need to sit here and throw mud."

The No. 2 overall pick from Penn State in 2000, Arrington made the Pro Bowl from 2001-03 with play that was reckless but made an impact. He gave a career-ending concussion to Dallas quarterback Troy Aikman and returned from a near-concussion of his own to turn around the 2001 season with an interception and score against Carolina.

A knee injury made Arrington a non-factor last season. He played in four games and was obviously ailing. The defense didn't need him anyway - they ranked No. 3 in the league using the aggressive mix-and-match packages of new assistant coach Gregg Williams.

Arrington's frustrations boiled over in the spring when he accused the Redskins of mishandling his knee injury and of stalling the outcome of a dispute over a bonus that Arrington contends was left out of his contract. Arrington met with Gibbs to mend their differences, and the contract matter was settled with a compromise in late August.

He missed much of training camp during his final weeks of recovery from knee surgery, but he was back on the field for the third preseason game and looked ready to resume his old place in the lineup.

But it never happened. Free agent signee Warrick Holdman has been starting on the weak side despite a minimal presence in the first three games. When the defense needs an extra linebacker to apply pressure, the team usually calls on Chris Clemons, who played in all of six NFL games before this season.

"I have youth," the 27-year-old Arrington said. "That's a beautiful thing. I'm hungry. I'm by no means a content individual. I'm not content with where I'm at. I don't need to be motivated. I'm motivated. I'm ready to go."

[Heavy Jumbo]

http://www.extremeskins.com/forums/showthread.php?t=118744

Merge

[pez]

EDIT: oops ya beat me to it :laugh:

Gibbs Confirms Arrington Has Lost Starting Job
Linebacker Has Seen Limited Playing Time in Redskins' Unbeaten Start
By JOSEPH WHITE, AP Sports

WASHINGTON (Oct. 3) - In the jubilation of three thrilling victories and a surprising first-place perch atop the NFC East, one nagging question persists for the Washington Redskins.

King of the Hill Fantasy Football


What happened to LaVar Arrington?

Coach Joe Gibbs finally gave the direct answer Monday: "He's not a starter."

Yes, Arrington, the fearsome linebacker known to change games with an interception or jarring sack, the Pro Bowl selection each of his last three healthy seasons, the player with the much-disputed $68 million contract, is now one of the most popular and expensive bench-warmers in franchise history.

No one is more flummoxed than Arrington himself, who for the first time is talking openly about the prospects of playing elsewhere.

"I hate not playing, but I don't make those decisions," Arrington said. "It's interesting to me that the finger is pointed at me when I'm not playing like, 'Why aren't you playing LaVar?' or 'What am I doing wrong not to be playing?' I'm here every day. I'm here on time. I don't get in trouble off the field. I don't get in trouble on the field. I do what I'm asked to do. That's how I've always been."

Arrington was on the field for two plays and didn't do anything to register on the stat sheet in Sunday's 20-17 overtime victory over Seattle. He's been used on a few plays through three games - including the first play of the Dallas game, which technically gave him credit for one start - and has just two tackles to show for his efforts.

"If the direction is going away from me and going towards other things then, as a man, I have to accept that," Arrington said. "I have to move on and figure out what's next for me."

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Stars rise and fall with regularity in the NFL, but Arrington's dive has perplexed fans more than usual because he is arguably the most-liked player on the team. His autograph was the one most in demand at training camp, and his No. 56 jersey easily trumps anyone else's at any substantial gathering of Redskins' faithful.

Initially, coaches explained Arrington's lack of playing time by saying they were working him into a few packages to get him back in the flow after knee surgery. That explanation wore out quickly: Arrington said he's "100 percent healthy" and he hasn't been listed on the team's official injury report.

"He's not a starter and hasn't started," Gibbs said. "I know he's disappointed in not making more of an impact, not playing more, but I think it's something we have to work our way through. I think it's one of those things scheme-wise for our defense, it's the best way I would answer that. We've got a lot of guys that are talented guys who can do a lot of things for us. ... Health-wise, I think he's back."

That's a load of coach-speak for "We think someone else can do the job better."

Perhaps as surprising as Arrington's benching is how well he's handling it. He's been known to go on a mini-tirade when something doesn't go his way, but he's played the good soldier this time.

"I obviously lost the job. I'm not a starter anymore. If people want to ridicule me and condemn me for losing a job after an injury then so be it, that's what I have to deal with it, but I'm still not going to be part of an ongoing soap opera about why I'm not playing," Arrington said. "I'm going to be supportive of my teammates. I don't need to sit here and throw mud."


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The No. 2 overall pick from Penn State in 2000, Arrington made the Pro Bowl from 2001-03 with play that was reckless but made an impact. He gave a career-ending concussion to Dallas quarterback Troy Aikman and returned from a near-concussion of his own to turn around the 2001 season with an interception and score against Carolina.

A knee injury made Arrington a non-factor last season. He played in four games and was obviously ailing. The defense didn't need him anyway - they ranked No. 3 in the league using the aggressive mix-and-match packages of new assistant coach Gregg Williams.

Arrington's frustrations boiled over in the spring when he accused the Redskins of mishandling his knee injury and of stalling the outcome of a dispute over a bonus that Arrington contends was left out of his contract. Arrington met with Gibbs to mend their differences, and the contract matter was settled with a compromise in late August.

He missed much of training camp during his final weeks of recovery from knee surgery, but he was back on the field for the third preseason game and looked ready to resume his old place in the lineup.

But it never happened. Free agent signee Warrick Holdman has been starting on the weak side despite a minimal presence in the first three games. When the defense needs an extra linebacker to apply pressure, the team usually calls on Chris Clemons, who played in all of six NFL games before this season.

"I have youth," the 27-year-old Arrington said. "That's a beautiful thing. I'm hungry. I'm by no means a content individual. I'm not content with where I'm at. I don't need to be motivated. I'm motivated. I'm ready to go."

10/03/05 19:48 EDT

[jnhay]

Though a lot of people here would probably disagree with me, I like how LA's handling this whole situation. He says he wants to play, and will continue to work and support his teammates. I hope to see him get some play time in the future. Maybe he can prove he's worth playing as the season goes on.

[CrazyZeb]

Your subject title's screwing up the forum page. :)

[TD_washingtonredskins]

I'd agree with that jnhay...he's not rocking the boat but still showing that he's not willing to throw in the towel.

[Drunken Master III]

This is BS.... the whole situation.

[Spaceman Spiff]

Gibbs Confirms Arrington Has Lost Starting Job
Linebacker Has Seen Limited Playing Time in Redskins' Unbeaten Start
By JOSEPH WHITE, AP Sports

WASHINGTON (Oct. 3) - In the jubilation of three thrilling victories and a surprising first-place perch atop the NFC East, one nagging question persists for the Washington Redskins.




What happened to LaVar Arrington?

Coach Joe Gibbs finally gave the direct answer Monday: "He's not a starter."

Yes, Arrington, the fearsome linebacker known to change games with an interception or jarring sack, the Pro Bowl selection each of his last three healthy seasons, the player with the much-disputed $68 million contract, is now one of the most popular and expensive bench-warmers in franchise history.

No one is more flummoxed than Arrington himself, who for the first time is talking openly about the prospects of playing elsewhere.

"I hate not playing, but I don't make those decisions," Arrington said. "It's interesting to me that the finger is pointed at me when I'm not playing like, 'Why aren't you playing LaVar?' or 'What am I doing wrong not to be playing?' I'm here every day. I'm here on time. I don't get in trouble off the field. I don't get in trouble on the field. I do what I'm asked to do. That's how I've always been."

Arrington was on the field for two plays and didn't do anything to register on the stat sheet in Sunday's 20-17 overtime victory over Seattle. He's been used on a few plays through three games - including the first play of the Dallas game, which technically gave him credit for one start - and has just two tackles to show for his efforts.

"If the direction is going away from me and going towards other things then, as a man, I have to accept that," Arrington said. "I have to move on and figure out what's next for me."


Redskins Talk
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Stars rise and fall with regularity in the NFL, but Arrington's dive has perplexed fans more than usual because he is arguably the most-liked player on the team. His autograph was the one most in demand at training camp, and his No. 56 jersey easily trumps anyone else's at any substantial gathering of Redskins' faithful.

Initially, coaches explained Arrington's lack of playing time by saying they were working him into a few packages to get him back in the flow after knee surgery. That explanation wore out quickly: Arrington said he's "100 percent healthy" and he hasn't been listed on the team's official injury report.

"He's not a starter and hasn't started," Gibbs said. "I know he's disappointed in not making more of an impact, not playing more, but I think it's something we have to work our way through. I think it's one of those things scheme-wise for our defense, it's the best way I would answer that. We've got a lot of guys that are talented guys who can do a lot of things for us. ... Health-wise, I think he's back."

That's a load of coach-speak for "We think someone else can do the job better."

Perhaps as surprising as Arrington's benching is how well he's handling it. He's been known to go on a mini-tirade when something doesn't go his way, but he's played the good soldier this time.

"I obviously lost the job. I'm not a starter anymore. If people want to ridicule me and condemn me for losing a job after an injury then so be it, that's what I have to deal with it, but I'm still not going to be part of an ongoing soap opera about why I'm not playing," Arrington said. "I'm going to be supportive of my teammates. I don't need to sit here and throw mud."



Green Bay QB Brett Favre

Watch Roy Firestone's exclusive interview with the superstar quarterback.

Exclusive Interview
Watch | Discuss the NFL

KW: Time Out

The No. 2 overall pick from Penn State in 2000, Arrington made the Pro Bowl from 2001-03 with play that was reckless but made an impact. He gave a career-ending concussion to Dallas quarterback Troy Aikman and returned from a near-concussion of his own to turn around the 2001 season with an interception and score against Carolina.

A knee injury made Arrington a non-factor last season. He played in four games and was obviously ailing. The defense didn't need him anyway - they ranked No. 3 in the league using the aggressive mix-and-match packages of new assistant coach Gregg Williams.

Arrington's frustrations boiled over in the spring when he accused the Redskins of mishandling his knee injury and of stalling the outcome of a dispute over a bonus that Arrington contends was left out of his contract. Arrington met with Gibbs to mend their differences, and the contract matter was settled with a compromise in late August.

He missed much of training camp during his final weeks of recovery from knee surgery, but he was back on the field for the third preseason game and looked ready to resume his old place in the lineup.

But it never happened. Free agent signee Warrick Holdman has been starting on the weak side despite a minimal presence in the first three games. When the defense needs an extra linebacker to apply pressure, the team usually calls on Chris Clemons, who played in all of six NFL games before this season.

"I have youth," the 27-year-old Arrington said. "That's a beautiful thing. I'm hungry. I'm by no means a content individual. I'm not content with where I'm at. I don't need to be motivated. I'm motivated. I'm ready to go."

10/03/05 19:48 EDT

[PortisForPresident]

"He gave a career-ending concussion to Dallas Quaterback Troy Aikman"

:dallasuck

[Mark911]

I don't really like how Gibbs is handling some of these replacements. Pat was the starter, he got hurt, Mark went in, Pat was fine, but initially Gibbs let Mark play because he was concerned for Ramsey...Then Ramsey was fine, Mark's the starter...

Now, Lavar isn't playing because he's been hurt, training camp, we're working him back in slowly, etc, etc...Now, he's not playing because he lost his starting job.

It just seems a little sketchy to me. I don't know if Gibbs is just buying time with excuses while he makes his decision, or if he's afraid of the feeddback he'll get from coming right out and making these decisions...

I'm not complaining, 3-0, looking pretty good, but I would like to see Lavar on the field cracking some heads. Put him in, if he blows in, then I don't think anyone will have a problem with benching of trading Lavar.

[Om]

Gibbs has never, and likely will never, discuss a player's shortcomings in public. To expect otherwise at this point is a waste of time. Like his style or not, it's his style. :)

As to the LA situation itself ... reading between the lines, the ONLY explanation that makes any sense to me is that the man, for all his physical gifts and engaging personality, either cannot or will not perform within Gregg Williams' system well enough for their comfort level.

This group is about WINNING, and if they thought this guy could help them win right now he'd be out there. We've seen it again and again---guys that play within the system and don't make mistakes play; those that struggle in those areas do not.

Until and unless we hear that there's something more than that going on here, that's what I believe is the issue. To FIX that, I think LaVar's going to have to be proactive with the coaches in terms of finding out what if anything he can do that he's not doing now---film study, extra work after practice, whatever---to earn their confidence back.

I respect him for not shooting off to the press, but I also hope his pride won't keep him from knocking on Coach Williams' door at some point real soon (assuming he hasn't already) and saying, "Excuse me, Coach? This is killing me. Please tell me straight---is there ANYTHING I can do to get back on the field?"

Coach Williams strikes me as a pretty pragmatic guy and straight shooter. My guess is he'd give LA a straight answer.

[daveakl]

"Put him in, if he blows in, then I don't think anyone will have a problem with benching of trading Lavar."

So if he gives up the big play and we lose it's then ok to bench him. But if he is blows it in practice and the coach's see it but you don't then its not ok?

[TheDarb]

Arrington's not starting? Why haven't we heard anything about this?

[HaVoC]

I'm not too happy about this, as a fan. I'm not a coach therefore I will not make any judgements on their decisions. If they think Holdman is doing a better job, then bye bye Lavar. The thing that sucks is we will NOT get our money's worth in a draft pick/trade for him. Everyone knows he's going to be simply cut. That SUCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[bportfootball52]

"Put him in, if he blows in, then I don't think anyone will have a problem with benching of trading Lavar."

So if he gives up the big play and we lose it's then ok to bench him. But if he is blows it in practice and the coach's see it but you don't then its not ok?

I don't agree with your philosophy, we have all heard the statement you play the way you practice, and that is what is going on. If LA is not getting it done in practice then you would have to think he would not get it done in a game. Don't get me wrong I am a Lavar fan, since he was at Penn State, but if he is not at 100% then he will not be the force that we are expecting him to be. Once he is 100% I am sure that he will be put on the field as a stater and be an impact player again.

[ross3909]

I still have not seen Gibbs steer us wrong so far so until then...he drives and I cheer.

[Fred Jones]

I agree with OM on this one. I don't think Lavar fits into William's defense. Also, Gibbs is not benching Lavar, Williams is benching Lavar. For whatever reason, and I don't think health is an issue, the coaches don't believe Lavar can get the job done better than Holdman. I do like the idea of him moving to play some Dline because it would get him in the game more and hopefully create havic.

[capt1an chaos]

Let me start off by saying that when i pray i pray to joe gibbs, However i just cant see how in the world LA could hurt our D. Sure he likes to rome around and mirror the quaterback but hey what is the only weak point of our D ? Its the pass rush! I honestly cant think of anyone id rather have as a pass rusher so gimmie a break there is more to this than meets the eye i gaurantee it!

[Fred Jones]

Let me start off by saying that when i pray i pray to joe gibbs, However i just cant see how in the world LA could hurt our D. Sure he likes to rome around and mirror the quaterback but hey what is the only weak point of our D ? Its the pass rush! I honestly cant think of anyone id rather have as a pass rusher so gimmie a break there is more to this than meets the eye i gaurantee it!


I also wondered why Lavar was not playing, but than I told myself I was just a fan and not a long time NFL coach that is respected throughout the league and everything became clear.

[laurent]

Well I'll be darned! Arrington not a starter, you don't say? I must say this caught me completely off-guard.

[aspkikn]

I still believe we'll see more of him in the next couple weeks. We haven't blitz much in the past two weeks.

[robzombie]

when we play the Eagles, that's when we are going to need Lavar.

[PotomaSkinsFan]

Though a lot of people here would probably disagree with me, I like how LA's handling this whole situation. He says he wants to play, and will continue to work and support his teammates. I hope to see him get some play time in the future. Maybe he can prove he's worth playing as the season goes on.

I agree. I think just about any other three-time pro bowler would be bitching with every possible oppurtunity.

Lavar is the man. And, i think, he'll be playing a lot towards the end of the year. And, hell, if we suffer an injury on the defense, we've got the best backup in the league in arrington.

[PotomaSkinsFan]

when we play the Eagles, that's when we are going to need Lavar.

spying mcnabb. thats a great point/idea. i hope we do that, he's got the athleticism to stay with mcnabb

[pogoism9]

its simple. next home game, get a loud persistant chant going "We want LaVar". They want us to arrive early, and be loud, let them listen to what we have to say. I would LOVE to see the coaching staff get antsy on the sideline by being forced to hear 90,000+ screaming "We want LaVar" over and over and over and over.

Just my 2c

P.S. They are holding him out so he cannot get to the Pro Bowl, therefore not being entitled to HIS money. Flame On!

[pogoism9]

by the way, there is no guarantee that McNabb will even be playing ina few weeks. The man is injured all over and personally, I don't think he will survive many hits, as you know Dallas (as much as I hate them) will put him on the ground SEVERAL times.

[G-Prime]

Lavar deserves a chance. He's given a lot to this team and this community, to see some of the so called fans turn on him so quickly is sickening. Yeah we're 3-0 without him, but you can not sit there and tell me that any defence wouldn't be better with 56 on the field.

Lavar is a not only a good football player he's a good man. He gives his time and money to help those in need in the community, not just the Katrina victims, but plenty of things before that. Lavar has been one of the front runners in community work for years. Add that to the fact he's a good football player and to me you have quite the deserving individual.

Now on the flip side, if the coaches come and him and say "We want you to do this and only this" and he doesn't do it, well granted maybe he needs to be punished, but cmon atleast give the guy a game, hell we gave Patrick Ramsey a quarter, we can't do the same for Lavar?

[TheLongshot]

Let me start off by saying that when i pray i pray to joe gibbs, However i just cant see how in the world LA could hurt our D. Sure he likes to rome around and mirror the quaterback but hey what is the only weak point of our D ? Its the pass rush! I honestly cant think of anyone id rather have as a pass rusher so gimmie a break there is more to this than meets the eye i gaurantee it!

But, if he hurts your D in a way you are strong, would you be gaining anything?

Anyways, I think a lot of this is deeper than just this, but the overall philosophy now is that you aren't going to be given a waiver just because you are hugely talented and getting paid tons of money if your play isn't up to snuff. I think too many players have been given a waiver in the past, and that is something that has to change.

Jason

[Matt Kyriacou]

its simple. next home game, get a loud persistant chant going "We want LaVar". They want us to arrive early, and be loud, let them listen to what we have to say. I would LOVE to see the coaching staff get antsy on the sideline by being forced to hear 90,000+ screaming "We want LaVar" over and over and over and over.

Just my 2c

P.S. They are holding him out so he cannot get to the Pro Bowl, therefore not being entitled to HIS money. Flame On!

Joe Gibbs caving to 90,000 know nothings?

:no:

Don't hold your breath.

[Awesome2]

If they aren't going to let him start at linebacker, they should at least have him play DE.

You can't have a guy as gamechanging (and expensive) as he is sit on the bench.

Seriously, how could he possibly blow a play playing DE? All he has to do is run at the quarterback every play.

[pogoism9]

Joe Gibbs caving to 90,000 know nothings?

:no:

Don't hold your breath.

but DAMN it would make for some good TV :applause:

[tn_skin_fan_21]

LA is better then Holdman... i mean LA might miss a big play but he also will make a big play and its not like Holdman has done anything really ...+ i think he would help with the turnovers like he has in the past

[Ghost of Nibbs McPimpin]

Joe Gibbs caving to 90,000 know nothings?

:no:

Don't hold your breath.

yeah, I'm sure the deafening boos vs. Cincy and Brunell's poor play at the start of that game didn't help him make that decision there.

As for this whole thing--it's yet another example of what I've been talking about. I don't expect Gibbs to openly discuss every detail. However, what I DO EXPECT is for the truth to come out when it IS the truth. I don't want to hear:

"We're bringing him along"
then "He's just not in those packages they're calling"
then "he's not a starter."

That's dishonorable, I don't CARE WHO IS DOING IT. If ANYONE else did this kind of thing, be it Gibbs or Williams to blame, they'd be called what they are.

Either level with teh player and the team and the fans, or don't. But it shouldn't come out a couple weeks after you talked about lame "packages" or "bringing him along, his knee was drained."

Either something is or it isn't. I fully understand the stuff said in the summer, because Lavar wasn't healthy. But if that's not been the issue since the start of the season or even game 1, then the coaches should have been man enough to say so. Don't give us a line of garbage then go back on it.

That's EXACTLY what happened with Ramsey. If somethin's up, say so. YOu don't have to go into detail about the flaws with a player, but if people are sitting there scratching their heads, don't give them the runaround THEN go on and do something else.

I took the org's side in Pierce and SMoot negotiations, so you can't accuse me of "continually disrespecting XYZ." This is about someone's expectations as a fan and what they expect out of men like GIbbs and Williams.

Meanwhile, Sean Taylor continues to bite on fakes, came over slow due to false steps to help out vs. Seattle and gets all the play in the world.

[Joncevensen]

no suprise, he hasnt been playing, but he better get every oppurtunity to earn it back

[Art]

I'm confused by the article. Wasn't this quotes from a couple of days ago from Gibbs? And, what confirmation, exactly, is it we need? Arrington wasn't on the field with starters. That means he's not a starter. We know :).

[Art]

its simple. next home game, get a loud persistant chant going "We want LaVar". They want us to arrive early, and be loud, let them listen to what we have to say. I would LOVE to see the coaching staff get antsy on the sideline by being forced to hear 90,000+ screaming "We want LaVar" over and over and over and over.

Just my 2c

P.S. They are holding him out so he cannot get to the Pro Bowl, therefore not being entitled to HIS money. Flame On!

Except no actual Redskin fan wants Lavar.

Lavar is probably my second favorite player on the team and I don't want Lavar. I want Gregg Williams and his staff to do the things that allow our defense to be successful. If that includes Lavar Arrington, I'll cheer. If it doesn't, I'll cheer.

I suspect Lavar will be in more and more as the season wears on, so that's great. But, seriously, what kind of ignorance would it take to make a chant of this sort if we're a 4-1 or 5-0 team heading into the Niners game. How about we want to win as a chant? Or something team oriented?

[Derick461]

This is BS, Lavar does not fit the system. A system that is all about puting pressure on the quarterback. There has got to be more to the situation. He needs and deserves to be out on the field. The skins owe Lavar. In my opinion he was a big part of why the skins were worth watching when they weren't worth watching the last few years.

[Art]

Ghost, no one is sitting anywhere scratching their heads.

Lavar's not in because he's not comfortable with the defense and the coaches don't trust him. He won't be in as long as he has to read the plays off his wrist. We wouldn't want him in if he can't pick things up. Lavar knows exactly why he's not in. There's some tension there, to be sure. But, no one is actually one bit confused by any of this.

I'm baffled that people act as if this is a mystery. It's not. Lavar will play when he can be trusted by the men who need to trust him. And, THOSE men have validated they deserve our trust.

[Art]

This is BS, Lavar does not fit the system. A system that is all about puting pressure on the quarterback. There has got to be more to the situation. He needs and deserves to be out on the field. The skins owe Lavar. In my opinion he was a big part of why the skins were worth watching when they weren't worth watching the last few years.

By what rationale does he "deserve" to be on the field?

Lavar is a highly visible player capable of breathtaking plays. We all see that. We don't see, as often, the mistakes he makes that hurt the team more than his positive plays help the team. No one doubts the immense ability Arrington has. No one doubted Jeff George's ability either.

Arrington has to gain the trust of the staff of this team. Whatever he's doing isn't doing that. That's clear. He'll be in soon enough. He'll be angry and hungry when he is. And, when he is, I'll have confidence he's in the game because the staff trusts him not to mess it up. I'd rather start Campbell at linebacker than Arrington if the staff feels one will do his job and the other struggles with that.

[bedlamVR]

If that happens and La Var blows another key assignment do the 92.000 fans take the blame ?

[kingdaddy]

First of all, sorry I screwed up the original post, I never posted an article before. I've learned from that mistake.

I can't help but think about what Marvin Lewis said about Lavar's freelancing and costing the Redskins some games. He made it clear that Lavar was out of position and totally screwed up the entire defense in game film he watched. I don't know if that's why he isn't playing now, but, I know he still has a good motor and there has to be a way to utilize his skills. Even if it's as a 3rd down pass rush specialist.
I also think there may be more to this. 3-0 is 3-0 so how can we question how Gibbs and Williams are handling this? Until our defense gets torched pretty good, it's hard to question them without knowing everything they do.

[SnyderShrugged]

To me, it seems like a two-fold purpose.
1. Lavar sits until he buys into william's system (which I suspect that he isnt)
2. Sends a message to the players with thoughts of spouting off in the off-season about their contract and the way the team handles a player that is returning from injury.

I think he will return soon and will have learned a valuable lesson.

"There is no I in team"

as the cliche says.

[ironmic]

This is BS.... the whole situation.
yes i agree...... :bsflag:

[Art]

What's so disappointing to me is how fans of this team flash such high levels of idiocy in hypocritical statements over the years. We all remember the undisciplined play of past staffs. We all remember the stories old Gibbs players told that Gibbs could always forgive a physical error, but he wouldn't tolerate MENTAL errors. If you blew a play because someone beat you on it, that was one thing. If you blew a play and hurt your team because you didn't do the right thing, you'd never see the field.

We BEGGED for someone to come in and be STRONG enough to FIX it. We knew it was SOOOOOOO easy to fix too. Just start cutting, trading, benching players who were making errors. That would fix it. And, it is STARTING to fix it. It's not fixed. But, it's GETTING fixed.

We should be JUMPING FOR JOY we have a staff that is STRONG enough to take the heat on themselves by limiting the play of popular, talented players. For far too long our coaches have been too weak to put a great talent like Lavar down. Now they aren't. This is exactly what we've asked for since Gibbs first left.

NOW that we have it, we have fans actually saying we should chant for Lavar to be inserted. We have fans acting as if we are owed an explanation for their reasons for not playing a player. I can't believe how low we've fallen as fans. I'm glad we aren't 0-3. Imagine then :).

[Art]

If they aren't going to let him start at linebacker, they should at least have him play DE.

You can't have a guy as gamechanging (and expensive) as he is sit on the bench.

Seriously, how could he possibly blow a play playing DE? All he has to do is run at the quarterback every play.

Seriously, how could you lack the knowledge to ask the question how he could blow a play playing DE? Are you really so clueless about football as to NOT know the answer? First, we've SEEN Lavar blow countless plays at defensive end by rushing hard around the edge opening up huge running lanes where he was supposed to be.

Man, we're about to play a team built on the running game with the bootleg coming out of it. How many times do you recall watching a Norv team beaten on the boot and wondered how hard could it be to defend? Remember George Edwards against Tampa when they got three or four touchdowns on boots? Remember how outraged we were that we couldn't get our players to defend the damn play?

Now, you want to put the most undisciplined player we have in there at end and send him screaming at the runner on the far side of the field while Jake Plummer comes out where he's supposed to be to pick us apart? How damn dumb have we gotten to be BEGGING to play the one guy we KNOW has NEVER displayed the discipline necessary to do JUST the job he's asked now against a team that takes advantage of over aggressive, undisciplined defensive ends as bread and butter?

[Skins11]

Haha, Art is angry. Lay down the law!

[bcl05]

What's so disappointing to me is how fans of this team flash such high levels of idiocy in hypocritical statements over the years. We all remember the undisciplined play of past staffs. We all remember the stories old Gibbs players told that Gibbs could always forgive a physical error, but he wouldn't tolerate MENTAL errors. If you blew a play because someone beat you on it, that was one thing. If you blew a play and hurt your team because you didn't do the right thing, you'd never see the field.

We BEGGED for someone to come in and be STRONG enough to FIX it. We knew it was SOOOOOOO easy to fix too. Just start cutting, trading, benching players who were making errors. That would fix it. And, it is STARTING to fix it. It's not fixed. But, it's GETTING fixed.

We should be JUMPING FOR JOY we have a staff that is STRONG enough to take the heat on themselves by limiting the play of popular, talented players. For far too long our coaches have been too weak to put a great talent like Lavar down. Now they aren't. This is exactly what we've asked for since Gibbs first left.

NOW that we have it, we have fans actually saying we should chant for Lavar to be inserted. We have fans acting as if we are owed an explanation for their reasons for not playing a player. I can't believe how low we've fallen as fans. I'm glad we aren't 0-3. Imagine then :).

AMEN!!!!

Imagine Norval and the ole' ball coach for a sec. Freelancing, wackiness, occaisonal flashes of brilliance. Many, many penalties, missed tackles and close, frustrating losses.

Now we have a disciplinarian, a coach that doesn't accept mental mistakes. Noone is above the team, including our most marketable "superstar." This kind of approach is EXACTLY what we need.

Now we're converting 3rd downs, not missing tackles, playing tough defense, not commiting penalties, and WINNING. 3 close games, 3 wins. If we had Norval of Spurrier, we'd be 0-3. There's little doubt in my mind.

Take this as a breath of fresh air. No more me-first nonsense. No more stars, just a team that wins.

Thank goodness for some sanity.

[Om]

Pretty funny, Art. I've just finished writing some rather similar sentiments as part of tomorrow's column. Without calling everybody idiots, though ... so it probably won't be quite as much fun.

You're so much better at that, you magnificent bastige. :)

[dinzelwashington]

no one is perfect.. i think this is imperfected of gibbs to bench lavar.. ill take him over holdman and clemons together anyday.. sure lavar may make mistakes but sure he may force a fumble or an interception for a comeback we need.. how can u bench a tackler, a playmaker... just doesnt make sense.. o well. we winning.. just as long lavar will be a part of it.. he deserves it....

[Larry]

What's so disappointing to me is how fans of this team flash such high levels of idiocy in hypocritical statements over the years. We all remember the undisciplined play of past staffs. We all remember the stories old Gibbs players told that Gibbs could always forgive a physical error, but he wouldn't tolerate MENTAL errors. If you blew a play because someone beat you on it, that was one thing. If you blew a play and hurt your team because you didn't do the right thing, you'd never see the field.

We BEGGED for someone to come in and be STRONG enough to FIX it. We knew it was SOOOOOOO easy to fix too. Just start cutting, trading, benching players who were making errors. That would fix it. And, it is STARTING to fix it. It's not fixed. But, it's GETTING fixed.

We should be JUMPING FOR JOY we have a staff that is STRONG enough to take the heat on themselves by limiting the play of popular, talented players. For far too long our coaches have been too weak to put a great talent like Lavar down. Now they aren't. This is exactly what we've asked for since Gibbs first left..

I will point out, you shouldn't be surprised.

I recall a few years back, this team hired a disciplinarian and gave him full controll for life, just take charge, kick booty, and whip these "me" guys into shape. Everybody knew that some discipline was what was needed to seperate out the workers from the pretenders.

Remember how much tolerance we gave him when he did what we all said Had To Be Done?

(I'll agree with you though: Marty started 0-5. Maybe Gibbs can get us to 5-0? Winning shure does fix a lot of things. But aparantly, it doesn't fix everything.)

[NoCalMike]

My Main issue with this is that Arrington isn't even being used as a fourth LB in passing situations. I mean does Chris Clemons REALLY know this scheme that much better then Arrington?

People tend to forget that when Arrington is on the field, he may not make the tackle or even be in on the play but defenses tend to change the way they play because of him, ala always running AWAY from wherever he is lined up at LB.

Let me reiterate that if this truly due to Lavar's lack of discipline and overall lack of knowledge of the scheme and not anything personal, then I side with the coaches as they know much more about football then me.

[Om]

My Main issue with this is that Arrington isn't even being used as a fourth LB in passing situations. I mean does Chris Clemons REALLY know this scheme that much better then Arrington?

People tend to forget that when Arrington is on the field, he may not make the tackle or even be in on the play but defenses tend to change the way they play because of him, ala always running AWAY from wherever he is lined up at LB ...


Sure about that, Mike? Seems to me we've seen plenty of evidence of teams routinely running AT LaVar, or running influence plays to play on his aggressiveness and draw him out of position. Art touched on some ... and I think most of us who have watched him play for 4 years now have suspected all along that at least SOME of the whispers about being undisciplined out there had some basis.

That's why I think he's not playing. The team isn't going to risk having plays routinely breaking down because there are 10 guys playing their assignments, and one guy running after the ball with his hair on fire and leaving a hole. They don't NEED to risk it, not with the unit playing as well as it is.

Again ... that's just my opinion. But if there's ANY other logical explanation anyone can offer at this point as to why he's not starting, I'd like to hear it.

[matt_chew]

My Main issue with this is that Arrington isn't even being used as a fourth LB in passing situations. I mean does Chris Clemons REALLY know this scheme that much better then Arrington?

People tend to forget that when Arrington is on the field, he may not make the tackle or even be in on the play but defenses tend to change the way they play because of him, ala always running AWAY from wherever he is lined up at LB.

Let me reiterate that if this truly due to Lavar's lack of discipline and overall lack of knowledge of the scheme and not anything personal, then I side with the coaches as they know much more about football then me.

Like you said, i think its less about Arrington knowing the schemes better than anyone else, but the fact that he might not be buying into Gregg Williams system.

[NoCalMike]

Like you said, i think its less about Arrington knowing the schemes better than anyone else, but the fact that he might not be buying into Gregg Williams system.


Well if I remember correctly, Arrington hated Marvin Lewis's theme at first too because he was put in a different position and wasn't simply a rush-happy LB, but he also put up his best stats of his career sacks-wise and was a force to be reckoned with and even came around towards the end of the year, realizing it was his stubborn-ness in accepting the scheme that held him back.

[Res_Novae]

Just curious, would it be possible to play LaVar at MLB and put Marshall back at OLB?

[Fred Jones]

Just curious, would it be possible to play LaVar at MLB and put Marshall back at OLB?

If Lavar has trouble playing outside LB, he will have more trouble playing inside LB.

[SonnyJ]

The MLB calls the signals for the D. While I'm sure it doesn't HAVE to be the MLB, it is the most centrally located position.

If they don't trust him to play WLB, there is no way they would entrust the signal-calling to him.

[SonnyJ]

Well if I remember correctly, Arrington hated Marvin Lewis's theme at first too because he was put in a different position and wasn't simply a rush-happy LB, but he also put up his best stats of his career sacks-wise and was a force to be reckoned with and even came around towards the end of the year, realizing it was his stubborn-ness in accepting the scheme that held him back.

I seem to remember Lavar never really accepting his role with Lewis. In fact, didn't he say towards the end of the season that the defense was regressing?

Lewis put Arrington at DE because he is an explosive player and he wanted the edge pressure from somewhere w/o blitzing. And also because he didn't trust Arrington in coverage.

The problem is that Arrington really isn't a great pass rusher. He struggles going against OL-men on a consistent basis. He operates a lot better in space. He was at his most dominant in 2001 when he was allowed to do so. But Gregg Williams and his staff have different ideas about how things are to be done. I don't see how one can question their judgment in this matter.

This just feels like Wilber Marshall all over again. He chafed initially under Petibone. But, once he accepted his role, he became an outstanding LB. There's a lesson there for Lavar: learn your job. Once he's done that, I think he'll find that there is a fair amount of latitude in HOW he accomplishes that.

[Art]

I will point out, you shouldn't be surprised.

I recall a few years back, this team hired a disciplinarian and gave him full controll for life, just take charge, kick booty, and whip these "me" guys into shape. Everybody knew that some discipline was what was needed to seperate out the workers from the pretenders.

Remember how much tolerance we gave him when he did what we all said Had To Be Done?

(I'll agree with you though: Marty started 0-5. Maybe Gibbs can get us to 5-0? Winning shure does fix a lot of things. But aparantly, it doesn't fix everything.)

The problem with Marty wasn't doing what he did. It was STOPPING that. The team revolted on him and Marty caved. That was his problem.

[TheLongshot]

My Main issue with this is that Arrington isn't even being used as a fourth LB in passing situations. I mean does Chris Clemons REALLY know this scheme that much better then Arrington?

Does Williams play four linebackers? According to ESPN, Clemmons hasn't played a down on defense. Campbell has only played in one game. Looks like it is mostly just the starters, with the occasional Lavar appearance.

I agree with Art. I think there have been too many players here who have been given a free pass because they were talented and given lots of money.
It is time that we did have some accountability for that.

It seems like the only positions here on Lavar that are valid for some people here is that either Lavar should start because he's getting screwed by the man, or we should trade the bum. Neither is the reality. I'm sure that the staff is not Meshawning Lavar. They aren't sitting him because they have something against him. At the same time, they aren't sitting him because the staff thinks he's worthless. I think they want to make sure everyone is on the same page. It is when people are not when mistakes happen.

Jason

[HittinSkinz]

goes to show that coaches not players always get the last laugh.. if the front office wasnt happy about the way lavar acted with the contract dispute... they might purposely limit his time on the field so that he cant make the probowl and get be eligible for his incentive-laden contract

[SamSneed36]

Perhaps eventually LA will learn the lesson being taught here, which is that you gotta play the way Greg Williams tells you to play. Its his defense, and LA needs to just do what the scheme calls for him to do. Until he stops freelancing, he will be on the bench. Maybe thats why they are trying him at DE, then they can just say go get em LaVar, sick the quarter back. I think LA could be a monster at the DE spot and if he could apply pressure we would get turnovers off of errant throws. I personally have no issue with the way the situatiuon is being handeled by the coaches, I just hope things workout and we can find a way to get LaVar to use his great physical talents to make this a seriously dangerous Defense

[Art]

goes to show that coaches not players always get the last laugh.. if the front office wasnt happy about the way lavar acted with the contract dispute... they might purposely limit his time on the field so that he cant make the probowl and get be eligible for his incentive-laden contract

Yes, because as we know coaches love benching players they believe are Pro Bowl level to prevent Pro Bowl appearances. How desperate are people to find any reason other than the only reason there is for why Lavar's not playing.

We went through this exercise with Ramsey. Now we're doing it with Lavar. We're searching for some strange hidden meaning or direction behind it. There is none. All there is, though, is a play sheet around Lavar's wrist. It doesn't take a lot of thought to figure out where he's failing.

[SoCalRedskinFan]

LA is better then Holdman... i mean LA might miss a big play but he also will make a big play and its not like Holdman has done anything really ...+ i think he would help with the turnovers like he has in the past

One thing that keeps coming up in all the interviews I see it the turn-over ratio!
If anyone can mix things up and get us that ball its LaVar.

Like Henry Winkler said "Get me the Ball!"

and the response?

"GET YOU THE BALL!"

Hell I say give the guy a game at least, he deserves that after taking out Aikman!:dallasuck

[HeHateMe]

I'll gladly take him in Dallas.

[jrockster21]

LaMerge Mergington...:rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao:

I busted out laughing in the middle of my grad office....people were definitely giving me the crazy eye.....:laugh:

[jrockster21]

I'll gladly take him in Dallas.


Thank you! You should have a talk with Thehereafter; he likes to lie and say he most definitely would NOT want LA in Dallas. There isn't a team in the NFL (except the Redskins, apparently) who wouldn't want LA starting on their defense.

This really boggles my mind. I mean, I trust Williams -- he undoubtedly knows what is best for the team and all that, but I just can't come to grips with LA not on the field being best for the team.

My only hope is that LA keeps doing it in practice, and wins his spot back before too long. I really think he could do some damage out there in this defense. Let's all hope! :fingersx:

[HeHateMe]

Thank you! You should have a talk with Thehereafter; he likes to lie and say he most definitely would NOT want LA in Dallas. There isn't a team in the NFL (except the Redskins, apparently) who wouldn't want LA starting on their defense.

This really boggles my mind. I mean, I trust Williams -- he undoubtedly knows what is best for the team and all that, but I just can't come to grips with LA not on the field being best for the team.

My only hope is that LA keeps doing it in practice, and wins his spot back before too long. I really think he could do some damage out there in this defense. Let's all hope! :fingersx:

Im pretty much on my own here with the Cowboys.

Ken is good though.

But I would love a player like LA in Dallas.

And Im happy to see he wont be able to contribute in DC.

He is a game changer. Theres no doubt about that.

But you have to trust Williams; dont fix it if it aint broke.

And right now, its aint broke in DC.

[tizzod]

its simple. next home game, get a loud persistant chant going "We want LaVar". They want us to arrive early, and be loud, let them listen to what we have to say. I would LOVE to see the coaching staff get antsy on the sideline by being forced to hear 90,000+ screaming "We want LaVar" over and over and over and over.

Just my 2c

P.S. They are holding him out so he cannot get to the Pro Bowl, therefore not being entitled to HIS money. Flame On!

All that sounds fine, except about 99.9999% of you have no clue what you are talking about.

[Zazzaro703]

Lavar simply needs to work harder to earn his job back. The way our D is if one person is out of place it leaves us vulnerable to a big play. Once Lavar proves he knows the Defense he will be back. Whether he accepts that he needs to bust his ass and work hard to get his job back cause nothing gets handed to you or is content with not playing and looking to move on we'll just have to wait and see.

[FranklinNoble]

I just wanna give props to the thread title here... "LaMerged Merginton"

Classic.

:D

[stdyroc]

All of you idiots who doubt LaVar's ability should jump on the Cowboys bandwagon! We have not touched a quarterback this year! LaVar on the edge will create havoc. The man has produced for the Skins but now his "loyal" fans doubt him. The only big plays from the LB position have been from Marcus. The defense will not suffer when LaVar is slamming Jake the Snake out of bounds for a 15 yard loss. SYSTEM, is this part of the same system on offense that plays not to lose....or the system that stopped blitzing against SEA and almost allowed them to win? A hungry LaVar equals a hurt QB. Play your best players and great things will happen.

[GhostofAlvinWalton]

Could you guys cut the crap with the "LaVar deserves to be on the field" statements? Are you guys at practice? Are you in the film room? Have you spoken with the defensive coaching staff? I'll help you out. The answers are NO!!!

Just root for your "suposed" favorite TEAM and STFU!!! :redpunch:

[rvan1]

we need lavar on this team, lets not blow off everyone who plays hard for us