Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[B]1. The Redskins have the oldest, most injury prone OL in the division.[/B]
Actually the Cowboys have the oldest offensive line with no starter under 30 years old and an average age of 30.8. The Eagles have a younger offensive line but have 2 starters coming off of season ending injuries (Andrews-back and Andrews-torn ACL) and another addition that gave up 11.5 sacks (Peters). Samuels is the only Redskins OL that didn't finish the season last year and their average age is 29.8 years with 2 starters under 30.

[B]2. The Redskins have the least productive returning receiving corp in the division.[/B]
If you read anything in any preseason magazine or on any website or listened to any sports radio you'd think we had Santana Moss and a bunch of camp bodies catching the ball. In reality, we have the most productive receiving group in the division. Here are the top 6 returning pass catchers (WR, TE, RB) for every team in the NFC East:
Eagles
214 receptions, 2839 yards, 15 TD

Giants
159 receptions, 1795 yards, 12 TD

Cowboys
232 receptions, 2585 yards, 15 TD

Redskins
280 receptions, 3024 yards, 11 TD

While we're behind on the TD passes, it's pretty clear that we have the most productive receiving group. By the way, the Redskins numbers don't include Kelly or Davis, both of whom are expected to contribute much more to the passing game.

[B]3. The Haynesworth signing represents the 'same old Redskins' way of building a team and overall organizational instability.[/B] Of approximately 23 player additions to the roster over the past 3 years, 18 were either drafted or originally acquired by the Redskins (this includes Smoot and Dockery who returned in FA). The team is also the only one in the division who is returning it's entire coaching staff from last season and the only one who hasn't replaced their defensive coordinator from the start of last season.

I just wanted to throw some positive vibes and reality out there on the brink of training camp.

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

Good stuff man, good stuff

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

Fantastic thread...which unfortunately will fall on many deaf ears (or blind eyes in the case of a message board)

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

Damn son you nailed it!!! Point three is huge IMHO...it's something we might have heard before but grasping the importance of continuity among the coaches isn't automatic. I think the Giants have lost the most talent in the coaching dept. once Spags left...I really, really want to believe we can sweep those guys in '09.

The WR corp does look good on paper but we need better redzone production and fewer dropped passes on big downs...doesn't the law of averages insist this season will be better in those aspects than we've seen for a while? :)

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=Paintrain;569972][B]2. The Redskins have the least productive returning receiving corp in the division.[/B]
If you read anything in any preseason magazine or on any website or listened to any sports radio you'd think we had Santana Moss and a bunch of camp bodies catching the ball. In reality, we have the most productive receiving group in the division. Here are the top 6 returning pass catchers (WR, TE, RB) for every team in the NFC East:
Eagles
214 receptions, 2839 yards, 15 TD

Giants
159 receptions, 1795 yards, 12 TD

Cowboys
232 receptions, 2585 yards, 15 TD

Redskins
280 receptions, 3024 yards, 11 TD

While we're behind on the TD passes, it's pretty clear that we have the most productive receiving group. By the way, the Redskins numbers don't include Kelly or Davis, both of whom are expected to contribute much more to the passing game.[/quote]

Maybe I'm not following here, but are you talking about starting pass catchers only?

Here's the way the stats line up in the NFC East according to NFL.com:

philly = 6th in the league in passing, 362 completions
dallas = 9th, 328 completions
nyg = 18th, 298 completions
was = 23rd, 318 completions

I guess there are statistical myths, as you've pointed out, but then there's actual results, and our passing game has been downright impotent for years.

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

Nice kick in the ass Pain!

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

good thread except the receiving one seems a little off base, yes the returning ones are the most productive but keep in mind that desean jackson is now in his second year and dmac now has macklin. Just because plaxico isn't returning doesn't mean those yards will disappear from the giants passing game. Finally, as much as i hate to admit it, romo is a good/very good regular season passer and the loss of to will not lead to a large dropoff in total passing yardage as roy williams will be in his second year in the system.
Now, admittedly, it is time for thomas, kelly, and davis to step up and contribute solidly to the passing game for us as well so as a whole the division looks to be pretty solid. But using returning stats is not very smart because by that logic, the pats are returning 0 yards...does that mean they suck?? The other two are huge points though so props for bringing that up

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=Beemnseven;569981]Maybe I'm not following here, but are you talking about starting pass catchers only?

Here's the way the stats line up in the NFC East according to NFL.com:

philly = 6th in the league in passing, 362 completions
dallas = 9th, 328 completions
nyg = 18th, 298 completions
was = 23rd, 318 completions

I guess there are statistical myths, as you've pointed out, but then there's actual results, and our passing game has been downright impotent for years.[/quote]

You wanna borrow this avatar?

[IMG]http://images3.makefive.com/images/200844/808157b459848caf.jpg[/IMG]

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=Beemnseven;569981][B]Maybe I'm not following here, but are you talking about starting pass catchers only?[/B]

Here's the way the stats line up in the NFC East according to NFL.com:

philly = 6th in the league in passing, 362 completions
dallas = 9th, 328 completions
nyg = 18th, 298 completions
was = 23rd, 318 completions

I guess there are statistical myths, as you've pointed out, but then there's actual results, and our passing game has been downright impotent for years.[/quote]

I don't think you're following. Paintrain pointed out that these numbers "are the top 6 [B]returning [/B]pass catchers (WR, TE, RB) for every team in the NFC East."

Great points, Paintrain. Well done.

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=rbanerjee23;569985]good thread except the receiving one seems a little off base, yes the returning ones are the most productive but keep in mind that desean jackson is now in his second year and dmac now has macklin. Just because plaxico isn't returning doesn't mean those yards will disappear from the giants passing game. Finally, as much as i hate to admit it, romo is a good/very good regular season passer and the loss of to will not lead to a large dropoff in total passing yardage as roy williams will be in his second year in the system.[/quote]

Gotta disagree....Desean Jackson will be better, but Macklin is a rookie and wont make a huge impact like some are thinking he will. The Giants losing Plax is HUGE, he is obviously an idiot for shooting himself, but teamed with Eli they really had something good going. There isnt a "proven" receiver on the Giants roster, just alot of promising youngsters. The loss of TO is gonna be an issue for Romo, and will lead to alot more attention for Witten. Roy Williams is a good receiver, but doesnt bring the same scare factor as TO. I think this leads to a drop off for Mr. Homo.

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=roth74va;569991]Gotta disagree....Desean Jackson will be better, but Macklin is a rookie and wont make a huge impact like some are thinking he will. The Giants losing Plax is HUGE, he is obviously an idiot for shooting himself, but teamed with Eli they really had something good going. There isnt a "proven" receiver on the Giants roster, just alot of promising youngsters. The loss of TO is gonna be an issue for Romo, and will lead to alot more attention for Witten. Roy Williams is a good receiver, but doesnt bring the same scare factor as TO. I think this leads to a drop off for Mr. Homo.[/quote]

yeah, you're also forgetting that OL wise, the eagles, giants and cowboys are way, way better off and dmac is just more established. Jackson wasn't meant to have a huge impact as that wr corps was nothing to speak off and he had a decent year. With two targets, mcnabb will light it up. And, say what you want but the giants have a nice young wr corps in hixon, moss, boss etc. While they won't get the production of burruss, they won't need to with the running game they have led by the tremendous o-line up in ny. Finally, dallas may have lost t.o. and that will affect the passing yardage of course, but their o-line is also solid and they have a scary threesome of backs in barber, jones, and choice. Passing wise, philly will be better, ny and dallas will drop but not significantly, but the rest of the offense is more than good enough to make up for it.

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=Mattyk72;569986]You wanna borrow this avatar?

[IMG]http://images3.makefive.com/images/200844/808157b459848caf.jpg[/IMG][/quote]

"HEY EVERYONE I JUST ONE THE LOTTO!" said Paintrain
"You still have to pay taxes." said Debbie

Im riding the Paintrain. HAIL 2 ALL REDSKINS.

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

Great work, PT

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

Good post PT, i'm very excited about this season and love to hear negative things about our Division rivals and positive things about the REDSKINS. I want our rivals to be at full strength when we play them i want know excusess when we beat the S%*T out of them.

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=Mattyk72;569986]You wanna borrow this avatar?

[IMG]http://images3.makefive.com/images/200844/808157b459848caf.jpg[/IMG][/quote]

So I take it that everyone thinks our passing game is just fine and what I saw last year was just a mirage?

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

Good stuff Paintrain. I'll take fact over fiction any day.

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=GMScud;569987]I don't think you're following. Paintrain pointed out that these numbers "are the top 6 [B]returning [/B]pass catchers (WR, TE, RB) for every team in the NFC East."

Great points, Paintrain. Well done.[/quote]

Okay, I really hate to piss in everybody's cornflakes this morning, but if our passing game ranks 23rd in the league (not to mention near the very bottom in scoring) despite the fact that our starters are catching more passes, how effective are our starters really?

I know it's been eight long months since the end of the '08 season, and perhaps I'm suffering from amnesia, but I seem to remember that our main problem was scoring, particularly through the air.

I'm sure someone will tell me how I'm wrong ... :rolleyes:

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=Beemnseven;570016]Okay, I really hate to piss in everybody's cornflakes this morning, but if our passing game ranks 23rd in the league (not to mention near the very bottom in scoring) despite the fact that our starters are catching more passes, how effective are our starters really?

I know it's been eight long months since the end of the '08 season, and perhaps I'm suffering from amnesia, but I seem to remember that our main problem was scoring, particularly through the air.

I'm sure someone will tell me how I'm wrong ... :rolleyes:[/quote]

You're not wrong. We need to increase our scoring in general and our scoring in the redzone in particular. With the top 6 returning pass catchers in the NFC East and the second year in this offense, it gives us hope we can do just that.

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=Beemnseven;570016]Okay, I really hate to piss in everybody's cornflakes this morning, but if our passing game ranks 23rd in the league (not to mention near the very bottom in scoring) despite the fact that our starters are catching more passes, how effective are our starters really?

I know it's been eight long months since the end of the '08 season, and perhaps I'm suffering from amnesia, but I seem to remember that our main problem was scoring, particularly through the air.

I'm sure someone will tell me how I'm wrong ... :rolleyes:[/quote]
Our main problem last year was definitely scoring, especially through the air and in the red zone. My point with the [B][U]returning[/U][/B] pass catchers was basically demonstrating continuity. The Cowboys lost their #1 WR. The Giants lost their #1 and #2A WR. The Eagles lost their starting TE (although Celek was as much of a contributor as Smith) and their #3 WR. We're bringing back everyone but our #5 WR in Thrash.

Looking at statistical rankings from last year and projecting that to this year is meaningless because each team (other than the Redskins) in the division has to replace approximately 70 receptions and 900 yards in their passing attack. Every team in the division has question marks at the receiver position and while the Cowboys have R. Williams, the Eagles and Giants are relying upon big contributions from rookie WR and we all know how perilous that can be!

If we get the anticipated improvement of JC along with the development of the 2nd year players then we should have the most dynamic passing game in the division.

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=Paintrain;570018]Our main problem last year was definitely scoring, especially through the air and in the red zone. My point with the [B][U]returning[/U][/B] pass catchers was basically demonstrating continuity. The Cowboys lost their #1 WR. The Giants lost their #1 and #2A WR. The Eagles lost their starting TE (although Celek was as much of a contributor as Smith) and their #3 WR. We're bringing back everyone but our #5 WR in Thrash.

Looking at statistical rankings from last year and projecting that to this year is meaningless because each team (other than the Redskins) in the division has to replace approximately 70 receptions and 900 yards in their passing attack. Every team in the division has question marks at the receiver position and while the Cowboys have R. Williams, the Eagles and Giants are relying upon big contributions from rookie WR and we all know how perilous that can be!

If we get the anticipated improvement of JC along with the development of the 2nd year players then we should have the most dynamic passing game in the division.[/quote]

Alright, fair enough. I'm especially skeptical about the Cowboys; Roy Williams still has much to prove. And while the Giants lost Burress and Toomer, they've done a good job at drafting replacements, plus they have a dynamic running game with a great O-line. We'll see what happens with them... As for Philly, they seem to do fine and they NEVER seem to have good receivers.

In a way, I hope we [I]don't[/I] have continuity in that we don't want to see the same lack of production with our passing offense. Hopefully, Campbell is the missing cog in the wheel, and things will turn around.

We'll get a taste of where things are in just 20 days with the first preseason game.

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

Only the wins and losses can't be debated. Sports writers and the fans of our rivals can say whatever they want to say about us but they can't erase the whuppins we put on their favorite teams' asses.

So, I wouldn't care if others had the false perception that our OL averages 86 years old and we have a one-legged man starting at Right Tackle as long as we win.

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=rbanerjee23;569995]yeah, you're also forgetting that OL wise, the eagles, giants and cowboys are way, way better off and dmac is just more established. Jackson wasn't meant to have a huge impact as that wr corps was nothing to speak off and he had a decent year. With two targets, mcnabb will light it up. [b]And, say what you want but the giants have a nice young wr corps in hixon, moss, boss etc. While they won't get the production of burruss, they won't need to with the running game they have led by the tremendous o-line up in ny. Finally, dallas may have lost t.o. and that will affect the passing yardage of course, but their o-line is also solid and they have a scary threesome of backs in barber, jones, and choice.[/B] Passing wise, philly will be better, ny and dallas will drop but not significantly, but the rest of the offense is more than good enough to make up for it.[/quote]

If I was a Giants fan, I'd be pretty concerned about the passing game. Not only did they lose Plaxico but they also lost Burress (48 rec, 580 yds, 4 TD) and Derrick Ward (41 rec, 384 yds), not to mention Ward's running yards (1,025). Moss has shown nothing but being injury prone for his 3 years and Manningham did zero last year.

I think for Dallas to be successful on offense this year, they need to run the ball 65% of the time or more. Romo is a good QB but Williams is no T.O. and the rest of their group is pretty weak.

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

Very nice thread.
Point 1 - the OLine has to develop a sense of team. Every time I read that Samuels Dockery Williams and Heyer are working out in Arizona(I believe together) I get excited. My firm belief is that good line play is 70% talent (maybe less) and 30%(maybe more) trusting the guy beside you. This is why I think the Eagles line, though star filled, will be less successful. I don't think that their line is as integrated as ours, its much more of a patchwork line. As for the Giants, they have been seriously lucky to have not had any injuries to their line over the last 3 years, I think that comes to an end this season. Dallas has a slightly old line, but I think they play well together, and will probably be a key if Romo does have success.

Point 2: very interesting receiving stats. Not sure any media outlet would ever give that point of view. Our division is definitely run first, but DT working with JC (successfully unlike reports of Romo RW working and not clicking) may be the biggest single boon for our offense this year. It will be an interesting sideshow watching how all the NFCE receiving corps stack up through the year.

3rd - The AH signing represents the same old way of doing business but with more clarity. When DS came in he threw money at names, not potential. Now he is still throwing money around, but also evaluating the future potential of the player.

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

Excellent post, Paintrain.

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=Paintrain;569972][B]1. The Redskins have the oldest, most injury prone OL in the division.[/B]
Actually the Cowboys have the oldest offensive line with no starter under 30 years old and an average age of 30.8. The Eagles have a younger offensive line but have 2 starters coming off of season ending injuries (Andrews-back and Andrews-torn ACL) and another addition that gave up 11.5 sacks (Peters). Samuels is the only Redskins OL that didn't finish the season last year and their average age is 29.8 years with 2 starters under 30.

[B]2. The Redskins have the least productive returning receiving corp in the division.[/B]
If you read anything in any preseason magazine or on any website or listened to any sports radio you'd think we had Santana Moss and a bunch of camp bodies catching the ball. In reality, we have the most productive receiving group in the division. Here are the top 6 returning pass catchers (WR, TE, RB) for every team in the NFC East:
Eagles
214 receptions, 2839 yards, 15 TD

Giants
159 receptions, 1795 yards, 12 TD

Cowboys
232 receptions, 2585 yards, 15 TD

Redskins
280 receptions, 3024 yards, 11 TD

While we're behind on the TD passes, it's pretty clear that we have the most productive receiving group. By the way, the Redskins numbers don't include Kelly or Davis, both of whom are expected to contribute much more to the passing game.

[B]3. The Haynesworth signing represents the 'same old Redskins' way of building a team and overall organizational instability.[/B] Of approximately 23 player additions to the roster over the past 3 years, 18 were either drafted or originally acquired by the Redskins (this includes Smoot and Dockery who returned in FA). The team is also the only one in the division who is returning it's entire coaching staff from last season and the only one who hasn't replaced their defensive coordinator from the start of last season.

I just wanted to throw some positive vibes and reality out there on the brink of training camp.[/quote]

Good one. Show me the money!

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

We don't like all this "reality" you're bringing here. Please find some other place for your reason and pragmatism.

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=Paintrain;570018]Our main problem last year was definitely scoring, especially through the air and in the red zone. My point with the [B][U]returning[/U][/B] pass catchers was basically demonstrating continuity. The Cowboys lost their #1 WR. The Giants lost their #1 and #2A WR. The Eagles lost their starting TE (although Celek was as much of a contributor as Smith) and their #3 WR. We're bringing back everyone but our #5 WR in Thrash.

Looking at statistical rankings from last year and projecting that to this year is meaningless because each team (other than the Redskins) in the division has to replace approximately 70 receptions and 900 yards in their passing attack. Every team in the division has question marks at the receiver position and while the Cowboys have R. Williams, the Eagles and Giants are relying upon big contributions from rookie WR and we all know how perilous that can be!

If we get the anticipated improvement of JC along with the development of the 2nd year players then we should have the most dynamic passing game in the division.[/quote]

We make a big deal out of continuity, because we don't have it, but other teams add and lose players on offense each and every year and keep humming along. TO dropped more passes than anyone and was more of a disruption to the offense than anything else. Dallas will still have a potent passing attack, the Eagles move the ball up and down the field regardless of whose on the field (Westbrook misses a ton of time each year and they still manage to score points) and the Giants will still run the ball down everyone's throats and Eli will be just good enough to keep defenses honest. The Skins just need to be better, and I think they will. I just don't think the other teams will be dramatically worse.

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=Paintrain;570021]If I was a Giants fan, I'd be pretty concerned about the passing game. Not only did they lose Plaxico but they also lost Burress (48 rec, 580 yds, 4 TD) and Derrick Ward (41 rec, 384 yds), not to mention Ward's running yards (1,025). Moss has shown nothing but being injury prone for his 3 years and Manningham did zero last year.

I think for Dallas to be successful on offense this year, they need to run the ball 65% of the time or more. Romo is a good QB but Williams is no T.O. and the rest of their group is pretty weak.[/quote]

If I were a Giants fan I'd be concerned somewhat about the running game as well. Plax kept folks from putting 8 in the box to stop the run; right now, the Giants lack a comparable threat. I think the Giants will have more trouble running this year because they will face more 8-man fronts.

Added to this, it is not clear that Ware or another back will capably replace Ward in the running game.

I think the Giants will score fewer ppg this year.

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=Beemnseven;570019]Alright, fair enough. I'm especially skeptical about the Cowboys; Roy Williams still has much to prove. And while the Giants lost Burress and Toomer, they've done a good job at drafting replacements, plus they have a dynamic running game with a great O-line. We'll see what happens with them... As for Philly, they seem to do fine and they NEVER seem to have good receivers.

In a way, I hope we [I]don't[/I] have continuity in that we don't want to see the same lack of production with our passing offense. [B]Hopefully, Campbell is the missing cog in the wheel, and things will turn around.[/B]

We'll get a taste of where things are in just 20 days with the first preseason game.[/quote]

Your skepticism of our offense is justified IMO bro but don't ignore the positives we have going and the challenges facing our rivals. JC needs better protection and another big playmaker for a target. I'm still nervous about our line but as others have said it's great to hear they're working out together. I tend to think the group knows it was an embarrassment last year, that it failed JC and Buges and the fans. I think Chris and Dock and Randy are probably dead-set on reestablishing the line as an offensive strength and instilling this in the younger guys. As to the new playmaker Devin should be leaps and bounds ahead of where he was last year. We don't hear about this guy missing/skipping work and living stupid. We hear he's taking it very serious, working his ass off and hoping to be a superstar.

I agree the Eagles will be very good because they're always competitive and Dono does have more weapons at his disposal than the previous few years. However I just don't see how anyone can be intimidated by Dallas and NY. Our defense has improved more than either offense...I think it's simple as that. Dallas has big question marks at WR, as does NY. But the bonus is NY also has questions at RB. While Ward was the elder of the group he was also the most consistent. Now it's mostly on Jacobs...a guy almost guaranteed to miss time every year and get nicked up. Do we really think the sub 200 lb Bradshaw can carry maintain the running game? Psshht...please. NY will not be able to pound the ball consistently this year. Count on it. And defensively we hear Boley won't be available for training camp (suspended for first game)...I don't think the Giants off-season or their '09 prospects are anything impressive.

HTTR!!!

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

I'm on the Paintrain also.

I just don't see the other teams having as good a yr as they have in the past even if they have the better O-line. Baring injuries I think we have the better D-line which will reak havoc with them. No one can tell me that Dallas will be better this yr with out T.O. As much of a pain in the butt he can be he's still one of the best WR's. Media outlets are already talking about how Romo and Williams are having a hard time connecting. Last yr teams had to account for both talented WR's now they only have to account for one. CB Hall and Rogers will keep him in check.

In Eli's first few yrs he had all day to throw and no one to throw to. This is how I see their season again this yr. Yes they have Moss but he's not as good as his brother. Other then that they have no decent WR's to worry about. Most of the plays will be to the RB's and TE's. Unless the new D coordinator knows the system inside and out I see them changing systems which will create some small problems for them.

The Eagles are our only real threat as I see it. What they lack is WR's. Yes they have Jackson who will know the offense better and that's it. They will be in the same position we were in last yr except we also had ARE. Unless their new drafted WR turns out to be another CJ, T.O., Fitzgerald, or Bolden then it will take a yr just like it has Kelly and Thomas for us. I'm not saying he won't just saying he has a major leap to make and it rarely happens as we found out. If he turns out to be like those others then we will have some problems, but McNabb will have to get the ball out faster with our pash rushers. Secondly they have no secondary on defense. If Kelly and Thomas can step up I see us picking them apart.

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=The Goat;570053]Your skepticism of our offense is justified IMO bro but don't ignore the positives we have going and the challenges facing our rivals. JC needs better protection and another big playmaker for a target. I'm still nervous about our line but as others have said it's great to hear they're working out together. I tend to think the group knows it was an embarrassment last year, that it failed JC and Buges and the fans. I think Chris and Dock and Randy are probably dead-set on reestablishing the line as an offensive strength and instilling this in the younger guys. As to the new playmaker Devin should be leaps and bounds ahead of where he was last year. We don't hear about this guy missing/skipping work and living stupid. We hear he's taking it very serious, working his ass off and hoping to be a superstar.

I agree the Eagles will be very good because they're always competitive and Dono does have more weapons at his disposal than the previous few years. However I just don't see how anyone can be intimidated by Dallas and NY. Our defense has improved more than either offense...I think it's simple as that. Dallas has big question marks at WR, as does NY. But the bonus is NY also has questions at RB. While Ward was the elder of the group he was also the most consistent. Now it's mostly on Jacobs...a guy almost guaranteed to miss time every year and get nicked up. Do we really think the sub 200 lb Bradshaw can carry maintain the running game? Psshht...please. NY will not be able to pound the ball consistently this year. Count on it. And defensively we hear Boley won't be available for training camp (suspended for first game)...I don't think the Giants off-season or their '09 prospects are anything impressive.

HTTR!!![/quote]

The Skins don't need to be all-world on offense to be one of the elite teams in the NFL this year. They just need to be 5-8 points better per game. It boils down to 2 things - can Zorn coach and can Campbell play. If the answer to both is yes, then look-out!

We have a pro-bowl receiver, pro-bowl tight-end, pro-bowl running back, pro-bowl full-back and pro-bowl RT. Would it be nice to have a Larry Fitzgerald-like WR as well? Of course, but most teams get by with a lot less. We have plenty of talent to be a 20 point per game team, which would make the Skins a force to be reckoned with, assuming the defense is elite and we can keep injuries to a minimum. It's all on Zorn and Campbell.

The Giants had so many good RBs a couple of years ago that they waived a guy named Ryan Grant (their 5th best RB). They'll plug someone in and have just as potent a 3-headed monster that they had last year. Maybe they aren't as good without Plax, but they'll still score enough to be a contender. Plax left the Steelers and they won the Super Bowl the next year, so let's not pretend he's the Messiah.

TO wanted every pass thrown to him, which gave the rest of the offense fits. Despite his late season meltdowns, Romo is legit, Whitten is still there and Roy Williams is plenty capable. He put up some monster numbers in Detroit, before falling off the radar. I think every team will be in the hunt again this year, but if Zorn and Campbell are the real deal, the Skins could run away with the NFC East. The defense could be one of the best units the Skins have ever had.

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

how does NY not intimidate you, their second string defensive line is better than most starting defensive lines. They were already the best with the d line they had last year and then they got umenyiora back and added chris canty. Plus, their offensive line is arguably the best in the league. Just on the strength of the lines, NY could be the team to beat in the East

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=44Deezel;570060]The Skins don't need to be all-world on offense to be one of the elite teams in the NFL this year. They just need to be 5-8 points better per game. It boils down to 2 things - can Zorn coach and can Campbell play. If the answer to both is yes, then look-out!

We have a pro-bowl receiver, pro-bowl tight-end, pro-bowl running back, pro-bowl full-back [B]and pro-bowl RT[/B]. Would it be nice to have a Larry Fitzgerald-like WR as well? Of course, but most teams get by with a lot less. [B] We have plenty of talent to be a 20 point per game team, which would make the Skins a force to be reckoned with, assuming the defense is elite and we can keep injuries to a minimum[/B]. It's all on Zorn and Campbell.

The Giants had so many good RBs a couple of years ago that they waived a guy named Ryan Grant (their 5th best RB). They'll plug someone in and have just as potent a 3-headed monster that they had last year. Maybe they aren't as good without Plax, but they'll still score enough to be a contender. Plax left the Steelers and they won the Super Bowl the next year, so let's not pretend he's the Messiah.

TO wanted every pass thrown to him, which gave the rest of the offense fits. Despite his late season meltdowns, Romo is legit, Whitten is still there and Roy Williams is plenty capable. He put up some monster numbers in Detroit, before falling off the radar. [B] I think every team will be in the hunt again this year, but if Zorn and Campbell are the real deal, the Skins could run away with the NFC East. The defense could be one of the best units the Skins have ever had[/B].[/quote]

I like Heyer but you're really putting a lot of faith in him aren't you? :) I agree about JC and Zorn. I think they'll show they're the real deal this year. If not, we're screwed. But I think they prove they're legit this year. I'm not gonna put a lot of heat on Zorn after his first year as coach. Especially with the limited coaching experience he's had in the NFL. He made some mistakes and I think he's smart enough to know it and make corrections. I think JC and Zorn did pretty well until the line started breaking down. Even Portis has pointed out how the line affected the whole offense in the second half of the season. For a coach with as limited experience as Zorn has, he coached some pretty good wins against some good teams in the first half of the season. If we're gonna give him some blame for the losses, we should give him some credit for the wins. I've had doubts about JC myself, but Cooley stated how JC was under TREMENDOUS pressure the second half of the season and believes Jason is going to have a great year. I'll take his word for it along with my belief that Jason will be a lot more comfortable and more aggressive this year.

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=rbanerjee23;570064]how does NY not intimidate you, their second string defensive line is better than most starting defensive lines. They were already the best with the d line they had last year and then they got umenyiora back and added chris canty. Plus, their offensive line is arguably the best in the league. Just on the strength of the lines, NY could be the team to beat in the East[/quote]

Not that NY is not good, but they have several attackable weaknesses, and did very little to strengthen those areas. Yes they got Boley and Canty, but their DLine was not questioned. Their safeties and WR's are their weak links. Also, as I said earlier, their OLine has been together for 3yrs without injury, if they do that again then a) it would be a statistical fluke, and b) they would scare me a little more. Without Plax their play and offense declined significantly, and now they also lost an outstanding DC.

This will very likely be a down year for them (probably 7-9 or 8-8, they will still beat up on the AFC West)

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=53Fan;570065]I like Heyer but you're really putting a lot of faith in him aren't you? :) I agree about JC and Zorn. I think they'll show they're the real deal this year. If not, we're screwed. But I think they prove they're legit this year.[/quote]

Yeah, got my sides mixed up. Unless I'm just subliminally psychic;)

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=CRedskinsRule;570067]Not that NY is not good, but they have several attackable weaknesses, and did very little to strengthen those areas. Yes they got Boley and Canty, but their DLine was not questioned. Their safeties and WR's are their weak links. Also, as I said earlier, their OLine has been together for 3yrs without injury, if they do that again then a) it would be a statistical fluke, and b) they would scare me a little more. Without Plax their play and offense declined significantly, and now they also lost an outstanding DC.

This will very likely be a down year for them (probably 7-9 or 8-8, they will still beat up on the AFC West)[/quote]

Who needs safeties if your D-line is in the QBs face all day and who needs great WRs if you have all day to throw? Used to be what made the Skins so good for so long. Great line play on both sides of the ball.

But I hear ya. You could be right.

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=44Deezel;570069]Yeah, got my sides mixed up. [B] Unless I'm just subliminally psychic[/B];)[/quote]

I hope so! :)

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=CRedskinsRule;570067]Not that NY is not good, but they have several attackable weaknesses, and did very little to strengthen those areas. Yes they got Boley and Canty, but their DLine was not questioned. Their safeties and WR's are their weak links. Also, as I said earlier, their OLine has been together for 3yrs without injury, if they do that again then a) it would be a statistical fluke, and b) they would scare me a little more. Without Plax their play and offense declined significantly, and now they also lost an outstanding DC.

This will very likely be a down year for them (probably 7-9 or 8-8, they will still beat up on the AFC West)[/quote]

Not to mentions we brought in AH cause we had no pass rush. He alone will command teams to double team him in effect clogging up the line of scrimage and taking blocker out of the play, someone will be free to rush the QB. They will be in the same boat we were during the Gibbs era into the playoffs. A great O-line but no passing attack. people will stack the box.

Also for those who want to point out our passing stats.....we were mostly a running team. Perhaps due to our difficulty at scoring in the redzone or what ever Zorn tried TD's with our RB's. Maybe I'm mistaken and you guys did look at over all offensive scoring. Hopefully this yr will be different and we have a lot more offensive weapons in the passing catagory. ie; Kelly, Thomas, Davis, Cooley, Moss, ARE, Mitchell.....etc.

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=SBXVII;570093]Also for those who want to point out our passing stats.....we were mostly a running team. Perhaps due to our difficulty at scoring in the redzone or what ever Zorn tried TD's with our RB's. Maybe I'm mistaken and you guys did look at over all offensive scoring. [B]Hopefully this yr will be different [/B]and we have a lot more offensive weapons in the passing catagory. ie; Kelly, Thomas, Davis, [B]Cooley, Moss, ARE[/B], Mitchell.....etc.[/quote]

Yeah, I've been hoping "this yr will be different" with Cooley, Moss, and ARE for about three seasons now.

Re: Debunking top 3 myths about the '09 Redskins
 

[quote=Paintrain;570021]If I was a Giants fan, I'd be pretty concerned about the passing game. [B]Not only did they lose Plaxico but they also lost Burress (48 rec, 580 yds, 4 TD)[/B] and Derrick Ward (41 rec, 384 yds), not to mention Ward's running yards (1,025). Moss has shown nothing but being injury prone for his 3 years and Manningham did zero last year.

I think for Dallas to be successful on offense this year, they need to run the ball 65% of the time or more. Romo is a good QB but Williams is no T.O. and the rest of their group is pretty weak.[/quote]

Whaaaa? Plaxico Burress is really two people? So maybe he really did shoot himself... ;-)