Better days ahead. (Off season part 1 thread)

[sdskinsfan2001]

Posted this in another thread, fits better in this one:

How to be better next year:
Better guard and center play (more specifically in regards to the running game)
Better pass rush

Both these areas will improve internally when we get injured guys back. Then add a few draft picks up front on both sides and I think we'll be greatly improved there. I also see Alfmo leaving and us drafting another rb.

[CRedskinsRule]

Originally Posted by JoeRedskin

Gruden has a ways to go as a coach. I think he improved from year one to year two. With that said, however, many times this year, it seemed the Skins were out schemed/game planned by opposing coaches.

While I know the running game has been non-existent for most of the year, Gruden doesn't seem particularly committed to it when the rubber hits the road. Ultimately, this is becoming a passing league but, to me, you still must have a commitment and ability to run the ball.

Yesterday, we were essentially one dimensional which has occurred to often over the course of the year. Against good teams, and in the play offs, that just doesn't fly.

We will see what next year brings, and I am hopeful that we will see a better team (even if record is not as good - first place schedule next year). My biggest concern is Gruden's default setting seems to, historically, be a passing game. Hopefully, we take some strides in establishing the run next year so in games like yesterday, the opposing team can't just pin their ears back and come full bore for the QB.

I think this staff comes into games really well prepared, but definitely in game adjustments are lacking. I don't really know whether that is a game skill that can be learned.

[Schneed10]

Originally Posted by irish

The O line need improved which should definitely help the running game. I really think the Skins lack of a run game hurt them big-time vs GB. They also need to let Morris go and find a more dynamic RB who can also catch passes.

The D needs improving at most positions but the line especially needs improved. I agree Knighton need to lose weight, he's not much good only being able to play 2 plays before he's winded.

This is spot on. I'm agreeing with irish way too much lately.

Our RB position is just not good enough, Morris is just not a homerun threat in any fashion. I think your starting RB needs to be that threat, and in the passing game too.

I've come around to chico's thinking on the center position, too. I don't think you outright cut Lichtensteiger but you definitely do what you can to upgrade it. If you successfully upgrade then you can let Steiger go.

Smart player but just not big enough.

[CRedskinsRule]

Originally Posted by Chico23231

Ive been watching the same team, but you think passing more against a great pass defense was the answer? Yeah, you could be expect more turnovers as well.

11 rushes for 50 yards...4.5 a carry isn't getting stuffed exactly. The argument makes sense if its like 3 or less yards a carry.

I'm surprised we didn't take more advantage of their passing D. They struggled with coverage in the middle and definitely didn't have the speed to cover DJax. But our line didn't hold up as well as it has against lesser lines (no that's not really shocking). Let's remember KC still posted a 300+ game. (not deducting the 59 yds of sacks), and a 91.7 passer rating.

[JoeRedskin]

We are picking 21st in the draft. Here are the 21st picks since the merger:
Draft Finder Query Results | Pro-Football-Reference.com

Some good names on the list, particularly in recent years. A solid blue-chip player should be reasonably expected.

[JoeRedskin]

Also, quick aside, since 1970, we have never picked in the 21st slot.

[SFREDSKIN]

Gallette will be back, check his arm.

ESPN: The Worldwide Leader in Sports

[kingj]

Still believe gruden is in over his head...just the adjustments or lack thereof as many have stated is probably biggest issue. The team did well to build leads but then we would always see dicey moments where game was in the balance which is not good when leading by 2 or 3 scores.

For better or worse, he is now joined at the hip with cousins. Very possible that both are here in 2 years or both gone.

Still not sold on gruden.

[Chico23231]

Originally Posted by CRedskinsRule

I'm surprised we didn't take more advantage of their passing D. They struggled with coverage in the middle and definitely didn't have the speed to cover DJax. But our line didn't hold up as well as it has against lesser lines (no that's not really shocking). Let's remember KC still posted a 300+ game. (not deducting the 59 yds of sacks), and a 91.7 passer rating.

I get it, but look at Aaron Rodgers numbers...efficient and they put the game away running the ball.

You need offensive balance in the playoffs. When Green Bay runs the ball they go from good to great team.

Ill take Rogers numbers, lacy numbers and the W.

[Chico23231]

Originally Posted by SFREDSKIN

Gallette will be back, check his arm.

ESPN: The Worldwide Leader in Sports

Gallette comes back and Hatcher retires/cut, don't be surprised to see Preston Smith with his hand on the ground more often.

[CRedskinsRule]

RG3 left a note on his locker



a bit of a shame that he had to make one last statement after handling this season so well.

[CRedskinsRule]

Originally Posted by kingj

Still believe gruden is in over his head...just the adjustments or lack thereof as many have stated is probably biggest issue. The team did well to build leads but then we would always see dicey moments where game was in the balance which is not good when leading by 2 or 3 scores.

For better or worse, he is now joined at the hip with cousins. Very possible that both are here in 2 years or both gone.

Still not sold on gruden.

To be fair, if we get a stronger defense, and the offense comes in like it has been, then we ought to win a heckuva lot more games.

[CRedskinsRule]

Originally Posted by Chico23231

I get it, but look at Aaron Rodgers numbers...efficient and they put the game away running the ball.

You need offensive balance in the playoffs. When Green Bay runs the ball they go from good to great team.

Ill take Rogers numbers, lacy numbers and the W.

If we go up 16-0, and the defense held, I promise Alf's numbers would have gone up. In fact, one more offensive TD would have changed the whole nature of the game, but it didn't happen.

[mredskins]

Originally Posted by CRedskinsRule

RG3 left a note on his locker



a bit of a shame that he had to make one last statement after handling this season so well.

Why? Nothing wrong with that note. Some sound advice on there.

[calia]

Originally Posted by CRedskinsRule

RG3 left a note on his locker



a bit of a shame that he had to make one last statement after handling this season so well.

Per Keim, he had this in his locker all season. A little passive aggressive to leave it behind, sure, but it isn't like he left a flaming bag of turd in his locker.

I wish RGIII well. The last half of 2012 was incredibly fun (destroying the 'Boys on Thanksgiving made that, well, pretty much the best Thanksgiving ever). Would love to see him resurrect his career someplace (not in the NFC East).