Great performance yesterday. I know it is the Raiders but we have had our own struggles this year and to beat the Raiders who had beaten the Eagles, Steelers, and Bengals at their place is still big.
The Skins have played much better over the last 5 and half weeks (starting with the second half of the Falcon game). Honestly, we look like a different team. What's even better is that we have nothing really to play for but the fact that these guys come out there and play hard is a testament to these players and coaches.
Here are my thoughts on the game:
1. Defense was MUCH more aggressive. I suppose the plan was to apply heavy pressure because we were stacking the line early and often. That led to 8 sacks with Orakpo in on 4 of them. He had a monster game. Still, the pressure resulted in them getting some bigger plays because the secondary had to be thinned out. Still, we made adjustments at halftime and pretty much shut them out.
2. I liked Landry playing closer to the line. Have to give credit to Scott and Deepie who I think both have said previously that Landry should be the SS. It's apparent this is where he is best suited. He isn't so much a ball hawk or open field tackler (both of these skills needed in the FS position). He is more of a guy that can provide the safety blitz and serve as almost another LB that can shed through blocks and make tackles with the occasional dropping back into pass coverage.
3. JC had another very good game. Another 100+ rating. He continues to impress not just with his passing but his ability to avoid pressure and then make the play. I have always been a JC supporter and would love to see him get rewarded. I certainly think he is deserving of it and definitely believe he is an NFL starting QB.
4. Once again, like that the young WRs are making plays. Fred Davis had another good game catching 2 TD passes. He seems to have really buckled down and is maturing and his play on the field is supporting that. Also, like that Thomas seems to be firming his role up as the #2 WR. He seems like a guy that can certainly spark the offense and make some big plays. Kelly chipped in with a catch or two. JC said that there are plays now designed for those guys so it's good to see that we are actually letting them play and utilizing them.
5. Randle El is useless as the punt returner. I have no idea what the fascination is with him back there but enough already. He can't run and now he can't even catch the punts. Please replace him!
6. New kicker seemed solid. His kickoffs were high and deep and he made a couple of FGs so good for him.
7. Coaching - have to hand it to JZ for keeping this team motivated. It would be very easy for them to lay down and quit given all that has taken place this year but they seem more prepared and focused than at any point during the year. Glad to see they still have fight in them.
8. Playcalling - very good. Again, nice mix of run and pass and very good job of distribution. Everyone is getting their hands on the ball. Over the last several weeks, the offense is now averaging around 350 yards/game and 24+ points/game. I suppose Bingo can call more than just numbers.
All in all, a very solid performance and entertaining game. Sure, we aren't playing for anything but with home games against the Giants and the Cowboys in the next two weeks we can play spoiler to two divisional rivals trying hard to get into the playoffs. Should be fun.
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