How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

With the acquisition of Donovan McNabb, Mike Shanahan can now put the pieces together for a playoff year. Since Coach/GM Shan took over, the over-riding question has been; "Who is the QB and leader for this team?" It was clear from the beginning that Big Mike wanted his own guy to lead his team. He finally found him right up 95 in Philly. ShanAllen now know what their QB's abilities are, and they can pick and choose the players to fit the scheme they intend to run.

McNabb will be the locker-room leader, and the on-field leader that Coach Mike wants and needs. Offensive co-ordinator Kyle can now unleash his full playbook, and have full confidence in Donovan being able to run and execute all the plays.

The receivers will all be better as Donovan is a move in the pocket passer who can extend plays, the running game will be better as defenses have to respect McNabb's arm, and the line will be better because Shanahan knows what he is doing.

I don't know how they will do it yet; be it trades, the draft, or picking up additional free agents; but we can rest easy in knowing that Mike and Bruce will get the pieces in place to compete this year.
There are 2 main reasons that I believe the Redskins will make the playoffs this year:

Reason number 1: Mike Shanahan, and Reason number 2: Donovan McNabb.

I rate Shanny as 3 wins better than Zorn, and McNabb as 3 wins better than Campbell. I can now see this team winning 10 games this year.
Philly is now rebuilding, and I expect a sweep. I believe we will split with Dallas and the Giants. I expect wins against Detroit, Tampa, St. Louis, and Jacksonville. Remember, Mike Shanahan is coaching. That would give us 8 wins, and DonoShan will find a way to win at least 2 games from the remaining opponents: Packers, Vikes, Colts, Texans, Bears, and Titans.

Shanahan and McNabb already have the full faith, confidence, and trust from the players. McNabb knows how to lead, and he has a Mission now. He has something to prove, and I expect him to have Laser Focus on the task at hand, and to keep everyone else focused as well.

My prediction: Playoffs this year, and a Super Bowl Championship in 3 years. I believe Mike and McNabb both retire after 4 years together.
Now is the time to get behind this team and enjoy the ride.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

Or, this thread could be titled "Why I love being an Off-season champion"

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

Please remember that the laws of physics do exist and chums like Stephon Heyer cannot play at the same level they did last year, even if it was not all their fault.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

How about we get a left tackle before we talk playoffs?

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[quote=Lotus;684699]How about we get a left tackle before we talk playoffs?[/quote]

And a couple of LB's and a replacement NT (if Haynesworth is traded), etc.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

Those are some bold predictions but I'd love to see them come true. I think that Mike and team will be able to utilize whomever we have better than Zorn or Gibbs were able to. Haslett is still a bit of a concern for me but we'll just have to cross that bridge once we get to it. I'll be interested to see the success or lack thereof that a lot of our positional coaches have elsewhere. Unfortunately, for that evaluation, some have retired.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

It's cliche I know, but champions are made in the off season.
The team made the 2 biggest moves a team can make to be a winner.
Hired a great coach, and picked up a great QB
I think Heyer will be much better this year, and I am sure the team will get a
solid, if not great, LT in the draft.
They have 5 months before the season starts, look at what they have done in the last 2 months. They have plenty of time to get solid players in place.
They already have the 2 most important pieces a team needs to win. Coach and QB.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[quote=jdc65;684710]It's cliche I know, but champions are made in the off season.
The team made the 2 biggest moves a team can make to be a winner.
Hired a great coach, and picked up a great QB.[/quote]

And Defense wins championships. If Haynesworth is traded they better get Suh or McCoy.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

DonoShan???


That's HORRIBLE, God forbid people start calling them that.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[quote=SFREDSKIN;684712]And Defense wins championships. If Haynesworth is traded they better get Suh or McCoy.[/quote]

A defense is NECESSARY to win championships. Most SB winners have stout O's

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[QUOTE]It's cliche I know, but champions are made in the off season.

The team made the 2 biggest moves a team can make to be a winner.

Hired a great coach, and picked up a great QB.[/QUOTE]
after the past 10 years, you can say that and keep a straight face. championship teams are built, and sustained, not bought and pimped. Maybe shanahan and allen are making the right moves, maybe we make 9+ wins, but as of now, we are simply off-season champs for the 4th year in a row. hopefully it will turn out better than 4-12.

and no offense, but this is a retarded thread when we don't even have a starting left tackle yet.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[quote=REDSKINZ-RIDEORDIE;684713]DonoShan???


That's HORRIBLE, God forbid people start calling them that.[/quote]

Yeah I've always found those names really lame, it all started with Benifer BEN AND JEN and its never stopped since. People think its cool or clever.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

Quarterbacks provide a lot of utility to the team. That doesn't mean they can turn water into wine. But laymen love the "he's like Jesus" metaphor, no matter how silly it is.
Super Bowl teams have players who can make enough plays from to win it all. Where it comes from, it depends. There is not enough playmakers to go be so certain of a playoff run this year. A transitioning defense means growing pains as they learn it, which means plays that hurt the team. An unproven O-line coach and unproven O-linemen means that we don't know how much of a foundation McNabb has to stand on.
I believe that Shanny+McNabb is going to be an excellent combo, but they aren't going to be miracle workers.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[quote=REDSKINZ-RIDEORDIE;684713]DonoShan???


That's HORRIBLE, God forbid people start calling them that.[/quote]

[quote=warpaint;684722]Yeah I've always found those names really lame, it all started with Benifer BEN AND JEN and its never stopped since. People think its cool or clever.[/quote]

nice points paintordie

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[quote=tryfuhl;684744]nice points paintordie[/quote]

:laughing2

Hilarious...speaking of funny things, is this thread the first candidate in 2010 for the Thread Hell section?

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[quote=tryfuhl;684744]nice points paintordie[/quote]

Whats paintordie? Does it it mean Paint or die.

:doh:OK 20 minutes later. :laughing2 Now Im officially Homer Simpson lost child.:doh:

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

I'm not a fan of the DonoShan.

Someone came up with Shanovan Era. It just sound better.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[quote=SBXVII;684768]I'm not a fan of the DonoShan.

Someone came up with Shanovan Era. It just sound better.[/quote]

Agreed. "Redskins Ride the Shanovan to Super Bowl Title" sounds better

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[quote=Lotus;684699]How about we get a left tackle before we talk playoffs?[/quote]

And a right tackle, and some guards, and a safety. I think that in previous years playoffs would have been a no, but in the east the eagles have gotten worse, as have new york, so we have a chance to move up. plus we play the rams and lions this year. We do have a tough schedule however with three solid NFC north teams and 4 afc south teams we could lose to. My guess is we are 9-7/10-6 with a chance going into the last week.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

Flozell and Okung?

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

At this moment, this is not a playoff team.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[quote=irish;684783]At this moment, this is not a playoff team.[/quote]

A lot of elements have to come together quickly, but I think most will agree it's going to be interesting to see just what all the newness is going to produce.

Despite all the changes there will be many who will be profoundly dissapointed if this team does not make the playoffs.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[quote=jdc65;684692]With the acquisition of Donovan McNabb, Mike Shanahan can now put the pieces together for a playoff year. Since Coach/GM Shan took over, the over-riding question has been; "Who is the QB and leader for this team?" It was clear from the beginning that Big Mike wanted his own guy to lead his team. He finally found him right up 95 in Philly. ShanAllen now know what their QB's abilities are, and they can pick and choose the players to fit the scheme they intend to run.

McNabb will be the locker-room leader, and the on-field leader that Coach Mike wants and needs. [B]Offensive co-ordinator Kyle can now unleash his full playbook, and have full confidence in Donovan being able to run and execute all the plays.[/B]

The receivers will all be better as Donovan is a move in the pocket passer who can extend plays, the running game will be better as defenses have to respect McNabb's arm, and the line will be better because Shanahan knows what he is doing.

I don't know how they will do it yet; be it trades, the draft, or picking up additional free agents; but we can rest easy in knowing that Mike and Bruce will get the pieces in place to compete this year.
There are 2 main reasons that I believe the Redskins will make the playoffs this year:

Reason number 1: Mike Shanahan, and Reason number 2: Donovan McNabb.

I rate Shanny as 3 wins better than Zorn, and McNabb as 3 wins better than Campbell. I can now see this team winning 10 games this year.
Philly is now rebuilding, and I expect a sweep. I believe we will split with Dallas and the Giants. I expect wins against Detroit, Tampa, St. Louis, and Jacksonville. Remember, Mike Shanahan is coaching. That would give us 8 wins, and DonoShan will find a way to win at least 2 games from the remaining opponents: Packers, Vikes, Colts, Texans, Bears, and Titans.

Shanahan and McNabb already have the full faith, confidence, and trust from the players. McNabb knows how to lead, and he has a Mission now. He has something to prove, and I expect him to have Laser Focus on the task at hand, and to keep everyone else focused as well.

My prediction: Playoffs this year, and a Super Bowl Championship in 3 years. I believe Mike and McNabb both retire after 4 years together.
Now is the time to get behind this team and enjoy the ride.[/quote]

Best point so far regarding the mcnabb acquisition! Execution, execution, execution.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[quote=warpaint;684722]Yeah I've always found those names really lame, it all started with Benifer BEN AND JEN and its never stopped since. People think its cool or clever.[/quote]I also hate the whole "Team So&So" thing. "I'm with Team Campbell, he still can be great," "Well I'm with Team McNabb, he's a proven winner."

SHUT THE F' UP!!!

So, what's this thread about?

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[quote=Longtimefan;684785]A lot of elements have to come together quickly, but I think most will agree it's going to be interesting to see just what all the newness is going to produce.

Despite all the changes there will be many who will be profoundly dissapointed if this team does not make the playoffs.[/quote]

They better prepare for disappointment. This team wasnt 1 player away from being a contender and still has a lot of weaknesses.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[quote=irish;684791]They better prepare for disappointment. [B]This team wasnt 1 player away from being a contender and still has a lot of weaknesses.[/B][/quote]

Agree but, (most) teams that have gone to the SB were not 1 player away from being a contender. But somehow they got there anyway. That is the reason why you don't see a lot of back to back SB teams.

A lot of guys are using this "were not going anywhere because we are not 1 player away thing" but if history proves anything it makes no diff.

If they play inspired and as a team they can overcome there "weaknesses"

IMO

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

IF we get to the playoffs it will be a testament to Shanahan's abilities to get the most out of his players, not merely because McNabb is here instead of Campbell. Every action that the FO has made has been to get this group of players focused on winning, not focused on individuals. We have had talent for many years, we have not had that talent work towards the same goal. Maybe now we will, but it is still WAY to early to predict playoffs, or even an 8-8 record.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[quote=irish;684791]They better prepare for disappointment. This team wasnt 1 player away from being a contender and still has a lot of weaknesses.[/quote]

This team is being constructed to "win now".....expectations are high, just as they always are this time of year. The thing to watch for will be the fan reaction if this outfit does not perform to the expectations.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[quote=REDSKINZ-RIDEORDIE;684713]DonoShan???


That's HORRIBLE, God forbid people start calling them that.[/quote]

McMike would be another good one....

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[quote=Longtimefan;684801]This team is being constructed to "win now".....expectations are high, just as they always are this time of year. The thing to watch for will be the fan reaction if this outfit does not perform to the expectations.[/quote]

Honestly, haven't we always had a "win now" mentality? or the "1 big player away from the superbowl?"

I honestly can't remember 1 year where anyone ever said we are preparing for the future.

Things seem no different now than with Snyderato....Old players being signed, trading draft picks, win now, etc....

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

Very few teams openly say that they are rebuilding. And in this league, it is understandable why not. Since FA opened up, we have seen teams go from 1-15 to the playoffs in the next year. There really is no excuse for not fielding a competitive team and feeling that one or two players would make a difference on the field. That said, this off-season does not count in the 1 Player away scenario. We cut 10 players before FA started, that was a lot of deadwood. We brought in competition at RB, a new QB, and I believe a new OLine structure through the draft and FA. We are going under serious construction right now and if it is done correctly, we will compete. But it's not because we were one player away.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[quote=Lotus;684699]How about we get a left tackle before we talk playoffs?[/quote]

The redskins are talking to Flozell Adams and we know that either Russell Okung or Brian Bulaga will be a Redskin. We've added Artis Hicks who can play left or right tackle so we are certainly on our way to winning this division. Hail to the Redskins.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

If anything it would be DonoHan. (1st part of one name and second part of the other name) As in 'Brangelina' or Bennifer or Vaughniston...jeez ppl...name combining 101...

Personally I think Shanovan or McNabbahan.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[quote=SolidSnake84;684831]Honestly, haven't we always had a "win now" mentality? or the "1 big player away from the superbowl?"

I honestly can't remember 1 year where anyone ever said we are preparing for the future.

Things seem no different now than with Snyderato....Old players being signed, trading draft picks, win now, etc....[/quote]

Well!! I said when I first heard Bruce Allen was coming aboard, we were going to get older quickly, and draft picks were not going to be a plenty. My season ticket package was littered with "The Future Is Now" so reminiscent of the past.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[quote=Rajmahal33;684854]If anything it would be DonoHan. (1st part of one name and second part of the other name) As in 'Brangelina' or Bennifer or Vaughniston...jeez ppl...name combining 101...

Personally I think Shanovan or McNabbahan.[/quote]

I like Shanovan the best. Catchy. Maybe if we add Adams it can be Flozoshanovan. Heck. Let's keep adding all the old free agents. FlozoshanovanLJarker. Cool? cool.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[quote=CRedskinsRule;684836]Very few teams openly say that they are rebuilding. And in this league, it is understandable why not. Since FA opened up, we have seen teams go from 1-15 to the playoffs in the next year. There really is no excuse for not fielding a competitive team and feeling that one or two players would make a difference on the field. That said, this off-season does not count in the 1 Player away scenario. We cut 10 players before FA started, that was a lot of deadwood. We brought in competition at RB, a new QB, and I believe a new OLine structure through the draft and FA. [B]We are going under serious construction right now and if it is done correctly, we will compete. But it's not because we were one player away.[/B][/quote]

Yup. What this FO is doing similar but different than Snyderrato. As someone else mentioned, and as evident just by his comments on the Haynesworth issue, Shanahan is much more focused on the talent working as a team rather than aquiring talent for talent's sake. Yes we have holes. So does every team out there. The difference between teams that compete for the tops spots and the middle of the road teams is good teams maximize what talent they have and play to those strengths.

Seriously, does anyone think NO was the most talented team in the league? They had some serious DB issues. Offensively, their line is not made up of All-Pros last I checked.

Good coaching and by extension, good execution win games. With the talent level in the NFL, it's rare that you see a team just outclassed talent wise.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[quote=CRedskinsRule;684800]IF we get to the playoffs it will be a testament to Shanahan's abilities to get the most out of his players, not merely because McNabb is here instead of Campbell. Every action that the FO has made has been to get this group of players focused on winning, not focused on individuals. We have had talent for many years, we have not had that talent work towards the same goal. Maybe now we will, but it is still WAY to early to predict playoffs, or even an 8-8 record.[/quote]

Well said. :food-smil

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[quote=CRedskinsRule;684719]after the past 10 years, you can say that and keep a straight face. championship teams are built, and sustained, not bought and pimped. Maybe shanahan and allen are making the right moves, maybe we make 9+ wins, but as of now, we are simply off-season champs for the 4th year in a row. hopefully it will turn out better than 4-12.

and no offense, we dbut this is a retarded thread when on't even have a starting left tackle yet.[/quote]

What makes you think we won't have a starting left tackle by september?
They have a great chance to get Okung, or someone in the draft. They can still sign a FA, or make a few trades. My point is, I feel very confident that Shanahan and Allen will get what they need to compete before the season starts. Do you really think they are done making moves to improve the team?

I am trying to understand why many people are so negative about the team, and the direction. They are trying to win a championship now! Mike's son is in line to take over the team when he retires. He will build this team up for long term success.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

Of course it takes more than 1 player, but we now have a playmaker at THE most important position. That is huge. They can now focus on draft picks and getting system players in place to fill holes. The team is a whole lot closer to being a contender now then they were last week, and that is genuine reason for optimism.

Re: How DonoShan will take us to the Playoffs this year.
 

[quote=SBXVII;684768]I'm not a fan of the DonoShan.

Someone came up with Shanovan Era. It just sound better.[/quote]

I can deal with that. Or ShacNabb or McShan or DeMacShan
But Shanovan works as we are on the Shano-Van to the playoffs.