WP: Five Things to Watch: Patriots vs. Redskins

[bubba9497]

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/08/25/AR2006082501191.html


click link for full article


Five Things to Watch: Patriots vs. Redskins

Saturday, August 26, 2006; E04



A FOR EFFORT

No matter the outcome, the Redskins at least need to display a motivated attitude and serious work ethic tonight after two lackluster efforts. Coach Joe Gibbs was angry after the last loss, the coaches worked the players hard all week in practice, and now it's time for them to respond on the road.

OFFENSIVE OFFENSE?

The starting offense has produced close to nothing through two games, and this could be its last real chance to do much in the preseason. They'll probably play the first half, and sustaining a drive or two, finding a way to connect on third down and getting the ball downfield against the Patriots' starters would be a step in the right direction.

CROWDED BACKFIELD

New RB T.J. Duckett is not in line for too many carries in his Redskins debut, but no doubt RBs Ladell Betts and Rock Cartwright and FB Mike Sellers will want to make a strong impression. All expressed shock at Duckett's acquisition this week, and believed they can handle the chores with starter Clinton Portis out with a partially dislocated shoulder.

[LightenupSandyBaby]

Correct me if I'm wrong....but I only see 3 things.

[Woofer]

Correct me if I'm wrong....but I only see 3 things.

You didn't click the link. Lighten up, huh?

[Chris 44]

Correct me if I'm wrong....but I only see 3 things.


Gotta click on the link.

[DWinzit]

OUT OF THE CORNER

A group of understudy cornerbacks are fighting to start Week 1 with stalwart Shawn Springs unlikely to be ready for quite some time as he recovers from abdominal surgery. Veterans Kenny Wright and Mike Rumph both had their problems in their first games with the team and will be looking to show the coaches tonight that they have learned from those mistakes.



This will be a huge learning opportunity for the DB's. They will be needed throughout the season, especially early while Springs recovers.

[LightenupSandyBaby]

You didn't click the link. Lighten up, huh?

My Bad...I stand corrected!

[kappaluvacee]

I am most concerned about our CB situation.

[c4man5282]

OUT OF THE CORNER

A group of understudy cornerbacks are fighting to start Week 1 with stalwart Shawn Springs unlikely to be ready for quite some time as he recovers from abdominal surgery. Veterans Kenny Wright and Mike Rumph both had their problems in their first games with the team and will be looking to show the coaches tonight that they have learned from those mistakes.



This will be a huge learning opportunity for the DB's. They will be needed throughout the season, especially early while Springs recovers.

I like how Wright came back and played last week and thought Rumph did a pretty good job for only being around the defense one week.

[waterwagen]

I expect to see quite a performance from the RBs tonight. If I don't, I'll be disappointed in their mental makeup. Don't think I'll be disappointed though.

[Blondie]

The backfield IS crowded.......but we all can feel secure our guys.....in whatever order....can get it done.

The corner position is the one that scares me. REALLY scares me. SS is out for a while.......and in that while.......we could have some long games.....if opposing offenses stay on the field a long time.

Can Rumph make more of a statement?

Blondie

[Park City Skins]

I think we've been seeing Rumph a bit more in there since he was brought in. I could be wrong, but it does seem he's getting his fair share of playing time. I'm going to say that we probably see more of that tonight.

Wouldn't mind seeing a just a little more improved special teams play tonight. Saying this knowing that there are guys on there trying to find a spot on the team and it's going to be a bit rough around the edges at times.

[ciresolstice]

I'm also a bit concerned with the CB position...just think if we didn't draft Carlos..we would really be in a bind.

[The Rook]

HERE'S THE KICKER

The Redskins basically have not needed anyone to kick field goals this preseason, because they so rarely have been in position to attempt one. With starter John Hall coming off more major injuries, it would behoove the team to let him try a few from 40 yards or longer, where he struggled in a scrimmage a few weeks back. It might be nice to see what the backup kickers and punters can do, too, with incumbent P Derrick Frost weak on punts and kickoffs last weekend.

How true :doh:

I would also like to see some real good play from our 2nd Oline unit :helmet:




:point2sky :cheers: :point2sky

[Lawrence]

All I want is the REDSKINS to play well, and avoid anymore serious injuries.

GO REDSKINS !!!!:helmet:

[Jimbo]

I would LOVE to see our starting O-Line get a good push so we can establish the run. I fell confident the passing game will be OK once the season starts but getting our running game going would make me feel a LOT better.

[SkinsNatsFan]

Veterans Kenny Wright and Mike Rumph both had their problems in their first games with the team and will be looking to show the coaches tonight that they have learned from those mistakes.


I like how Wright came back and played last week and thought Rumph did a pretty good job for only being around the defense one week.

I agree. Wright looked much better last week and Rumph definitely held his own.

I agree that they are clearly players to watch, but ignoring last week's play by Wright, and ignoring the fact that Rumph looked good considering had been on the team less than a week is typical of the Post.