Washington Redskins 2010 season preview (NY Times)

I agree Ruh, it is difficult to argue against the article but it seems rather generic in following the Skins-bash formula of writers. Point out Snyder's shortcomings as an owner, talk about the age of the team (ignoring that the Saints were one of the NFL's oldest teams last year-age is overrated), talk about the middling WR group being less than what McNabb had in Philly, talk about the OL weaknesses from '09 and of course the obligatory Haynesworth commentary. Blah, blah, blah.

I'd love to see a national writer talk about the value of a winning pedigree with Shanahan and McNabb and the positives they bring. Talk about how even in the midst of the Zorn debacle the team was in all but about 4 games last year so there is talent here.

It also amazes me that Portis, Johnson and Parker are 'worn down' but no-one mentions Marion Barber & Brandon Jacobs fading badly the past 2 seasons. Felix Jones is fast but fragile and what has McCoy proven in Philly? Nobody will confuse our trio with young and spry but are they ready for the retirement home like most writers seem to think?

The article isn't wrong factually nor is it overly biased against us, just kinda lazy.

It's wrong from the first line. Snyder is taking a new hands-off approach. Losing Vinny was also a huge change for the organization.

Shanahan and Allen are transforming this team, addressing needs that were long ignored (O-line, True Franchise QB) and making changes we've never seen before (3-4 defense).

This is a path we've never traveled down before. Sure, there is the alleged similarity to the "Over the Hill Gang", but not entirely, as we have a good young core of young players as well as experienced. Where we could not fill gaps with rookies and young talent with upside, we've plugged with proven vets.

Of course, it is the NY Times, tough to take their sports analysis seriously. It's also easy for any media source to just recycle the same annual arguments and insults against the Redskins and Dan Snyder. If they were REALLY paying attention like we do as fans, they'd see a completely new path and attitude at Redskins Park.

Season starts we look good all these reporters will change there story and say I told you they were going to be good nobody polices them. Lets see how we look in Pre-season then lets talk.

HTTR.

It's a good read. Addresses concerns while also acknowledging positive changes. I mean they do say they expect us to be the most improved team in the division, but we have a long climb up.

Hey...at this point, I don't want people to prognosticate 10-11 wins and then have teams gearing up for us. I would rather we take this year as a learning opportunity and sneak up on some squads who aren't expecting it.

At this point (given all the changes), it's better to be a dark horse than the frontrunner

I don't think any teams sneak up on people anymore. Coaches put in so much work to construct game plans, and I am sure the Redskins won't really sneak up on anyone.

One thing that is going to work to our advantage though is teams won't have alot of game tape on us till week 6 or 7.

It's a good read. Addresses concerns while also acknowledging positive changes. I mean they do say they expect us to be the most improved team in the division, but we have a long climb up.

Would have been cool if he at least picked us third. Me being the homer I am, I believe we will win the East. ;)

I agree with others comments though, it would be nice to not hear the same old beating drum about the Skins, things have changed but it will take us winning for a few seasons in a row before people will start to look at this franchise as relevenant again. I think MS and BA will return us to glory.

Anybody want some KOOLAID, I have plenty on tap. ( Mixed liquor and purple drank in so it is a particulary potent version of Redskins koolaid. I actually renamed it Burgandy Lean ) http://www.thewarpath.net/images/icons/icon12.gif

Burgandy Lean I like the sound of that please post the recipe. :laughing-

HTTR.

Yeah I am still perfecting that one NYC... http://www.thewarpath.net/images/icons/icon10.gif

The article had some good solid facts but I would disagree that our 3 top backs are not washed up. CP is reported to be in the best shape of his career. LJ has very few miles on him the last 2 season. Fast Willie has been injured but still should have a burst. I like our backfield and we have 3 backs that can carried the load if if and when called upon.

I also like the off season signing of Carriker , Holiday, Kemo , and Chris Draft to help our defense transition into the 3-4 def.