Interesting development as Jay Gruden has decided to bench RG3. Reports say that it does not necessarily mean the end of RG3's career in D.C. A few thoughts on this:
1. If McCoy struggles, who goes back in? Seems a little difficult to put RG3 back in there. On the other hand, it may take some of the pressure off of the guy as people will get their wish of having McCoy in there.
2. RG3 benched himself. He struggled. Yes, he didn't have the best help but he certainly didn't do himself any favors. Was watching the NFL Network this morning and LaVar and Terrell Davis were going over a few plays in which RG3 just did not see wide open receivers that could have gone for big plays. RG3 is just pressing. It clearly seems mental. He just isn't trusting either his arm or the WR. I'm not saying every play where he misses or checks down or takes a sack there is an open receiver but I imagine there are a lot of plays/points being left on the field because of his inability to make the right throw.
3. Where does he go from here? This is an interesting question because the Skins have left the door open. He has the physical tools to be successful. Coming out of college, he showed that he could make every throw needed in an NFL system. He thrived his rookie year in an offense that was built around his abilities. Since that rookie season, he has struggled for a variety of reasons. I think he needs to get his head right and get the pressure off of him and may very well need a clean slate (new team) to jump start his career. The question is that in year three and after as many starts as he has had, it is a little difficult to understand his inability to read defenses and go through progressions. TD of the NFL Network seemed to agree with this and that if he can't do it now, he can't see him learning it well enough to become a franchise QB.
In any event, RG3's career is at a crossroads. He will get another chance no question - whether it is in D.C. or some where else. We'll see what he does with it. Seems like the guy is bright and is willing to work hard. I think he will have a chip on his shoulder. Question is can he put it all together in a positive way and return to be a quality QB. Time will tell.
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Monday, November 24, 2014
RG3 sacks
So RG3 will inevitably get much of the blame for the offensive woes and for holding on to the ball and everything else. I am not excusing his performance entirely. No question he has to improve but to place full blame on him is silly. In looking at the sacks he took against SF, he just didn't have much time to release the ball. Here are the times from snap to sack:
3.7 seconds—On the first one, which came on the second play of the game, Griffin kept his eyes downfield. Rookie left tackle Morgan Moses fended off Aldon Smith for as long as could reasonably expected. Even then Griffin may have had a little more time but he drifted back and right into Smith’s path.
2.54 seconds—On third and nine Griffin dropped back from under center. Ray McDonald was lined up over Moses but he stunted, getting past Shawn Lauvao and then Kory Lichtensteiger. Maybe Griffin had time to get rid of the ball but he appeared to be looking downfield and McDonald was in his face in a hurry.
2.75 seconds—This was another third-down sack, this one with six to go in 49ers territory. Smith got past Moses, who probably should have had some help on the play, very quickly and got Griffin from the blind side.
6.9 seconds—This was the second play the Redskins first drive after they went down 17-13 in the fourth quarter. Griffin looked and started to scramble before being brought down for a loss of three by Aaron Lynch. It didn’t look like any receiver was open but maybe the all-22 will reveal someone that Griffin should have been able to hit.
2.4 seconds—This was in the final, desperation drive. End Justin Smith lined up wide on the right side, went around Moses, and blindsided Griffin, knocking the ball out.
For the record, he was sacked one other time in 2.1 seconds but that was negated on a roughing the passer penalty on Lynch.
Conversely, watching the Dallas/NY Giants game, Collinsworth and Michaels kept on talking about the Cowboy O line and how much time they were giving Romo to throw. On the Cowboy game winning drive, Romo had all day to throw. They even did some replays with a stopwatch in the corner of the screen showing multiple plays where Romo had 7-8 seconds to throw. Give a QB, that much time and any QB should be able to complete a pass.
Again, not excusing RG3 entirely but it's clear he needs some help.
3.7 seconds—On the first one, which came on the second play of the game, Griffin kept his eyes downfield. Rookie left tackle Morgan Moses fended off Aldon Smith for as long as could reasonably expected. Even then Griffin may have had a little more time but he drifted back and right into Smith’s path.
2.54 seconds—On third and nine Griffin dropped back from under center. Ray McDonald was lined up over Moses but he stunted, getting past Shawn Lauvao and then Kory Lichtensteiger. Maybe Griffin had time to get rid of the ball but he appeared to be looking downfield and McDonald was in his face in a hurry.
2.75 seconds—This was another third-down sack, this one with six to go in 49ers territory. Smith got past Moses, who probably should have had some help on the play, very quickly and got Griffin from the blind side.
6.9 seconds—This was the second play the Redskins first drive after they went down 17-13 in the fourth quarter. Griffin looked and started to scramble before being brought down for a loss of three by Aaron Lynch. It didn’t look like any receiver was open but maybe the all-22 will reveal someone that Griffin should have been able to hit.
2.4 seconds—This was in the final, desperation drive. End Justin Smith lined up wide on the right side, went around Moses, and blindsided Griffin, knocking the ball out.
For the record, he was sacked one other time in 2.1 seconds but that was negated on a roughing the passer penalty on Lynch.
Conversely, watching the Dallas/NY Giants game, Collinsworth and Michaels kept on talking about the Cowboy O line and how much time they were giving Romo to throw. On the Cowboy game winning drive, Romo had all day to throw. They even did some replays with a stopwatch in the corner of the screen showing multiple plays where Romo had 7-8 seconds to throw. Give a QB, that much time and any QB should be able to complete a pass.
Again, not excusing RG3 entirely but it's clear he needs some help.
Skins fall to 9ers 17-13
Skins hung in there but couldn't pull it out. Just a few thoughts:
1. Defense was good. As bad as they were the last couple of weeks, they deserve credit for keeping the game close. They got three turnovers and the secondary was solid particularly with all the injuries (D. Hall, Amerson, Porter, Biggers). They were down to some guy named Ducre who I had never heard of who ended up getting an INT. The only problem with this group was when it came time to get a stop near the end of the game they couldn't do it. That's the difference between good teams and bad teams.
2. Morris. Guy had his first 100+ yard rushing game. He was strong the entire game. He was able to cut back and make people miss and also break through tackles to extend runs. Looked more like the guy we are used to seeing the last couple of years.
3. RG3. Not that great. Wasn't terrible. I get that he will get the bulk of the blame but he didn't get much time. Still, I won't excuse his play. He has to get more comfortable and make some plays. Not every play will be ideal and the great QBs can still overcome and make plays. Generating only a little over 100 yards of passing offense is not good enough. However, this truly is a combination of his play, the O line not protecting, and play calling.
4. O line. It's a banged up O line with their best starter out and a rookie replacing him. It was a tough assignment for Morgan and there was more than one occasion where he just whiffed resulting in a sack/pressure. Just not good enough.
5. Special teams. WAY too many penalties that were just costly. They would have been good if not for the penalties.
Not a whole lot more to be said. At this point, really need to see what we have in RG3. This game was shaping up almost perfectly for him to silence his critics as he got the ball back with three minutes left down by four points. He wasn't able to generate anything. Again, it's not all on him but he certainly isn't excused for this. Great QBs somehow shine in these moments. Also, just someone on the entire team needed to make a play whether it was offense or defense or special teams and no one could come up with that late last play to put the game away. Good teams seem to find a way to make that play and we just aren't good enough to make that play.
It will be another week of RG3 discussion and then on to Indy next week.
1. Defense was good. As bad as they were the last couple of weeks, they deserve credit for keeping the game close. They got three turnovers and the secondary was solid particularly with all the injuries (D. Hall, Amerson, Porter, Biggers). They were down to some guy named Ducre who I had never heard of who ended up getting an INT. The only problem with this group was when it came time to get a stop near the end of the game they couldn't do it. That's the difference between good teams and bad teams.
2. Morris. Guy had his first 100+ yard rushing game. He was strong the entire game. He was able to cut back and make people miss and also break through tackles to extend runs. Looked more like the guy we are used to seeing the last couple of years.
3. RG3. Not that great. Wasn't terrible. I get that he will get the bulk of the blame but he didn't get much time. Still, I won't excuse his play. He has to get more comfortable and make some plays. Not every play will be ideal and the great QBs can still overcome and make plays. Generating only a little over 100 yards of passing offense is not good enough. However, this truly is a combination of his play, the O line not protecting, and play calling.
4. O line. It's a banged up O line with their best starter out and a rookie replacing him. It was a tough assignment for Morgan and there was more than one occasion where he just whiffed resulting in a sack/pressure. Just not good enough.
5. Special teams. WAY too many penalties that were just costly. They would have been good if not for the penalties.
Not a whole lot more to be said. At this point, really need to see what we have in RG3. This game was shaping up almost perfectly for him to silence his critics as he got the ball back with three minutes left down by four points. He wasn't able to generate anything. Again, it's not all on him but he certainly isn't excused for this. Great QBs somehow shine in these moments. Also, just someone on the entire team needed to make a play whether it was offense or defense or special teams and no one could come up with that late last play to put the game away. Good teams seem to find a way to make that play and we just aren't good enough to make that play.
It will be another week of RG3 discussion and then on to Indy next week.
Thursday, November 20, 2014
Caps vs. Avs tonight
Caps are looking to take two of three on their road trip tonight against the Avs. Varly is hurt so not sure if he will be playing. For the most part, I like the way the Caps play. The only thing is that every game is decided by one goal. Sure would be nice to have them be able to put a team away. Still, I'll take a win anyway they can get one.
Jordan Zimmerman's gift to Steven Souza
Jordan Zimmermann said he would buy something for Steven Souza, Jr. after the rookie's incredible catch to seal his no-hitter on the final day of the regular season. On Wednesday, we found it what it was.
According to MLB.com, Zimmermann bought Souza a gift card to Best Buy that doubled as a housewarming gift.
A GIFT CARD?!!!! Actually, I'm sure it was for a fair amount. Souza declined to say how much the gift certificate was worth, but the present from Zimmermann helped Souza out big time.
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
ESPN Power Rankings - Week 12
Skins: #29 - down 3 spots
Pears: #23 - up 4 spots
Puckers: #3 - up 2 spots
Iggles: #8 - down 4 spots
Still lots of football left and many things can change.
Pressure is on RG3 and the clock has started. He is on a six game tryout.
Trestman may be coaching his last six games for the Pears and Cutler needs to prove his is worth something near to what he is being paid.
Rodgers and the Puckers are on fire and been putting up ridiculous numbers the last couple of weeks. Can they continue?
Sanchez is driving the Iggles. Question is will he drive them off a cliff?
Pears: #23 - up 4 spots
Puckers: #3 - up 2 spots
Iggles: #8 - down 4 spots
Still lots of football left and many things can change.
Pressure is on RG3 and the clock has started. He is on a six game tryout.
Trestman may be coaching his last six games for the Pears and Cutler needs to prove his is worth something near to what he is being paid.
Rodgers and the Puckers are on fire and been putting up ridiculous numbers the last couple of weeks. Can they continue?
Sanchez is driving the Iggles. Question is will he drive them off a cliff?
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
RG3
The guy is facing probably the most pressure and adversity he has ever faced in his life in terms of his football career and abilities. Coming off of a lackluster performance followed by comments that give the impression he was throwing his team under the bus have resulted in him being slammed by critics.
It's great material for the media. My own thoughts are that it wasn't a great performance. He was not good. However, the team was not good. I won't deflect blame from him as he is the QB and more attention will go to him and more expectations are on him as the QB and a guy that was expected to be great and a guy that has been treated like a star without proving much. Still, we need to put things in perspective. None of us know what he is doing in practice. If he isn't performing there that's a bigger problem. All we see is game day. TB was one game. He has six more games to prove he is a franchise QB. It's on him. Gruden was very critical of him in Monday's press conference mentioning that his fundamentals and footwork needed work. He also mentioned that RG3 is receptive in listening and works hard so lets see if he progresses. The clock is on and RG3 needs to show something. Will be interesting to see how he handles these next six games.
On another front, RG3 spoke after the game and some of his comments were twisted to make it sound like he was throwing his teammates under the bus. Anyone that watched the comments would understand that that was not the case. He accepted blame and his message was that everyone in the locker room was together and understood the situation and that everything is going bad and everyone needs to step up and improve starting with himself. He was not deflecting blame nor was he ever comparing himself to Rodgers or Manning or anyone else. He was saying that no one can do it on their own and that football is a team sport and everyone needs to contribute. THAT SAID, RG3 should not have said any of this. I understand that he wasn't trying to disparage anyone or throw anyone under the bus but Jay Gruden cleared it up yesterday saying that RG3 should just talk about himself and not anyone/anything else. That is his job as the coach to discuss those things. Gruden had some meetings yesterday morning to clear the air recognizing how media/social media can take the words and spin them up and then it can get out of control. He said that they have to deal with those things in house. It's unfortunate because it creates unnecessary drama. Again, I don't doubt for a minute that RG3 did not intend to disparage anyone. He was trying to rally his team and said that he would battle with the guys in the locker room any time but things get twisted and it ends up having the opposite effect than what he intended. It's too bad but it is on him for talking too much. Just as he needs to learn his craft on the field, he needs to understand what the media does and their role and that it's best to just keep things simple and focused on himself. He has had a few brushes like this now and hopefully he is aware to just be quiet.
In the end, people are really starting to turn on RG3 and the Skins. It's a pretty critical time for him and this team. For me, I don't much care for wins at this point. Playoffs aren't even a consideration. What we need to see is progress and improvement -- week to week. We need to find out if RG3 is going to be part of the future as well as some other young guys. I would be most interested in finding about Morgan Moses, Spencer Long, and Phillip Thomas as all these guys are young, drafted pretty high, and would fill major gaps that this team has. Also, calls for McCoy or Cousins are silly. McCoy is a journeyman that was picked up off of the scrap heap. There is a reason for that. Cousins had his chance and loved throwing INTs almost as much as Cutler. These next six games are a tryout for RG3 to prove he can be that guy.
Wednesday is media day in the locker room so you can bet there will be much more stuff to be talked about this week.
It's great material for the media. My own thoughts are that it wasn't a great performance. He was not good. However, the team was not good. I won't deflect blame from him as he is the QB and more attention will go to him and more expectations are on him as the QB and a guy that was expected to be great and a guy that has been treated like a star without proving much. Still, we need to put things in perspective. None of us know what he is doing in practice. If he isn't performing there that's a bigger problem. All we see is game day. TB was one game. He has six more games to prove he is a franchise QB. It's on him. Gruden was very critical of him in Monday's press conference mentioning that his fundamentals and footwork needed work. He also mentioned that RG3 is receptive in listening and works hard so lets see if he progresses. The clock is on and RG3 needs to show something. Will be interesting to see how he handles these next six games.
On another front, RG3 spoke after the game and some of his comments were twisted to make it sound like he was throwing his teammates under the bus. Anyone that watched the comments would understand that that was not the case. He accepted blame and his message was that everyone in the locker room was together and understood the situation and that everything is going bad and everyone needs to step up and improve starting with himself. He was not deflecting blame nor was he ever comparing himself to Rodgers or Manning or anyone else. He was saying that no one can do it on their own and that football is a team sport and everyone needs to contribute. THAT SAID, RG3 should not have said any of this. I understand that he wasn't trying to disparage anyone or throw anyone under the bus but Jay Gruden cleared it up yesterday saying that RG3 should just talk about himself and not anyone/anything else. That is his job as the coach to discuss those things. Gruden had some meetings yesterday morning to clear the air recognizing how media/social media can take the words and spin them up and then it can get out of control. He said that they have to deal with those things in house. It's unfortunate because it creates unnecessary drama. Again, I don't doubt for a minute that RG3 did not intend to disparage anyone. He was trying to rally his team and said that he would battle with the guys in the locker room any time but things get twisted and it ends up having the opposite effect than what he intended. It's too bad but it is on him for talking too much. Just as he needs to learn his craft on the field, he needs to understand what the media does and their role and that it's best to just keep things simple and focused on himself. He has had a few brushes like this now and hopefully he is aware to just be quiet.
In the end, people are really starting to turn on RG3 and the Skins. It's a pretty critical time for him and this team. For me, I don't much care for wins at this point. Playoffs aren't even a consideration. What we need to see is progress and improvement -- week to week. We need to find out if RG3 is going to be part of the future as well as some other young guys. I would be most interested in finding about Morgan Moses, Spencer Long, and Phillip Thomas as all these guys are young, drafted pretty high, and would fill major gaps that this team has. Also, calls for McCoy or Cousins are silly. McCoy is a journeyman that was picked up off of the scrap heap. There is a reason for that. Cousins had his chance and loved throwing INTs almost as much as Cutler. These next six games are a tryout for RG3 to prove he can be that guy.
Wednesday is media day in the locker room so you can bet there will be much more stuff to be talked about this week.
Monday, November 17, 2014
This is how I feel about the Skins...
I support them. I stick up for them. They can't even beat the Bucs at home! Yeah, imagine me as Cerrano and Jobu is the Redskins.
Skins crushed by Bucs -- PATHETIC!!!!
I could go off on this game but it's not worth it. It was a total team FAILURE!!! It's sickening!
In other relevant NFL news:
1. Pears get a nice win. Jeff Cutler silenced critics for at least another week as they fended off the Viqueens for a divisional win.
2. For the second week in a row, the Puckers thrash their opponent. This time it was the Iggles. Their offense looks unstoppable and they are able to put some pressure on the QB. Sanchez looks like what we thought he was. Highly doubt he went out for a cheesesteak when he got back to Philly.
3. Amazing that at 4-6, the Falcones are leading that division. Even more amazing is that at 2-8, the Bucs are not out of it.
Right now, looks like the Cardinals (even without Palmer) and the Puckers have to be considered front runners in the NFC. However, things can change from week to week.
In other relevant NFL news:
1. Pears get a nice win. Jeff Cutler silenced critics for at least another week as they fended off the Viqueens for a divisional win.
2. For the second week in a row, the Puckers thrash their opponent. This time it was the Iggles. Their offense looks unstoppable and they are able to put some pressure on the QB. Sanchez looks like what we thought he was. Highly doubt he went out for a cheesesteak when he got back to Philly.
3. Amazing that at 4-6, the Falcones are leading that division. Even more amazing is that at 2-8, the Bucs are not out of it.
Right now, looks like the Cardinals (even without Palmer) and the Puckers have to be considered front runners in the NFC. However, things can change from week to week.
Friday, November 14, 2014
Skins vs. Bucs preview
Skins should be well rested coming off of a bye week. They get the 1-8 Bucs at home on Sunday. With playoffs seemingly out of the equation at this point, the shift goes to evaluating players none more so than RG3. The staff needs to find out if he is the guy moving forward. Here are a couple of thoughts on the game:
1. RG3: He needs to step up. He was decent in the last game against the Viqueens. He had two bad throws at critical moments that tarnished the effort but having missed nearly the entire season, I was pleased with the way he played against a pretty tough Minnesota defense on the road. He'll be back at home this week and I almost feel like there is more pressure on him this week than last week. He can silence the critics with a good game. I think he's going to be fine. People will want perfection but he needs to just play his game. If he makes a mistake, needs to shrug it off and move on. I just want to see improvement from week to week. I expect to see him have a solid game this week.
2. Defense/Haslett: This group was tremendously disappointing against Minnesota particularly coming off of a very strong game against Dallas. My thoughts are just blitz. Don't send the house but disguise blitzes and have them come from different people at different times. We blitzed 60% of the plays in Dallas. It worked. Former Redskin and current Cardinal DC Todd Bowles who is able to field a very good defense despite of a number of injuries to key players blitzes 40+% of the time. It works. You just have to be smart about it. Put the pressure on McCown. Make him cry again.
3. Return of Cofield and Hankerson: Cofield should help on the D line so it will be good to get him back as he will make his season debut on Sunday. Same for Hankerson. Would like to see him get in some in place of Roberts who has been pretty disappointing this year. Roberts has dropped a fair number of balls. Would like to see what Hank can do.
Not much more to say on this one. Tampa Bay has talent on their team but they are still 1-8 so, again, playoffs aren't much of a thought for the Skins but this is a must win game for them in terms of not allowing a 1-8 team come to DC and win. It's also important for a number of individual players to step up and have a good showing particularly RG3. I expect the Skins to be hungry and play with a chip on their shoulders. I expect a Skins win 27-17.
In other relevant news, the Iggles will visit the frozen tundra of GB in what should be a pretty good game. I think Sanchize will struggle with the cold and some pressure and will have a couple of turnovers. Rodgers is the much more confident and talented QB and will pick the Philly defense apart. If the Iggles have a chance, it will be to get McCoy, who has been largely disappointing all year, going. That and quick screens to Sproles and Maclin and let them do the work. If Dirty Sanchez has to play from behind and make plays, he'll make plays...bad ones. GB should win this one 31-24.
1. RG3: He needs to step up. He was decent in the last game against the Viqueens. He had two bad throws at critical moments that tarnished the effort but having missed nearly the entire season, I was pleased with the way he played against a pretty tough Minnesota defense on the road. He'll be back at home this week and I almost feel like there is more pressure on him this week than last week. He can silence the critics with a good game. I think he's going to be fine. People will want perfection but he needs to just play his game. If he makes a mistake, needs to shrug it off and move on. I just want to see improvement from week to week. I expect to see him have a solid game this week.
2. Defense/Haslett: This group was tremendously disappointing against Minnesota particularly coming off of a very strong game against Dallas. My thoughts are just blitz. Don't send the house but disguise blitzes and have them come from different people at different times. We blitzed 60% of the plays in Dallas. It worked. Former Redskin and current Cardinal DC Todd Bowles who is able to field a very good defense despite of a number of injuries to key players blitzes 40+% of the time. It works. You just have to be smart about it. Put the pressure on McCown. Make him cry again.
3. Return of Cofield and Hankerson: Cofield should help on the D line so it will be good to get him back as he will make his season debut on Sunday. Same for Hankerson. Would like to see him get in some in place of Roberts who has been pretty disappointing this year. Roberts has dropped a fair number of balls. Would like to see what Hank can do.
Not much more to say on this one. Tampa Bay has talent on their team but they are still 1-8 so, again, playoffs aren't much of a thought for the Skins but this is a must win game for them in terms of not allowing a 1-8 team come to DC and win. It's also important for a number of individual players to step up and have a good showing particularly RG3. I expect the Skins to be hungry and play with a chip on their shoulders. I expect a Skins win 27-17.
In other relevant news, the Iggles will visit the frozen tundra of GB in what should be a pretty good game. I think Sanchize will struggle with the cold and some pressure and will have a couple of turnovers. Rodgers is the much more confident and talented QB and will pick the Philly defense apart. If the Iggles have a chance, it will be to get McCoy, who has been largely disappointing all year, going. That and quick screens to Sproles and Maclin and let them do the work. If Dirty Sanchez has to play from behind and make plays, he'll make plays...bad ones. GB should win this one 31-24.
Wednesday, November 12, 2014
Shanny to the Pears?
As the Chicago Bears season unravels, the team has given up more than 50 points in back to back games, rumors are growing that Shanahan could take over the Bears if the team fires coach Marc Trestman. Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk expanded on the idea:
Shanny is more of a no nonsense guy which Chicago needs and he does know a couple of their star players. Still, he's an arse and a control freak and has no problem rail roading his team/organization if things don't go his way. I think he is a decent coach but can do without his antics.
Why not Shanahan? He’s an Oak Park, Illinois native who played at Eastern Illinois. He led the Broncos to a pair of Super Bowl wins. And he somehow managed to take an inherently dysfunctional Washington franchise to the postseason in 2012.Shanahan has connections to the Bears two-highest profile players, QB Jay Cutler and WR Brandon Marshall. In fact, Shanahan drafted both while he was in Denver.
Shanny is more of a no nonsense guy which Chicago needs and he does know a couple of their star players. Still, he's an arse and a control freak and has no problem rail roading his team/organization if things don't go his way. I think he is a decent coach but can do without his antics.
ESPN Power Rankings - Week 11
Skins - #26 - had the bye week so no change.
Pears - #27 - down six spots as they got pummeled giving up 50+ points for the second straight game.
Puckers - #5 - up three spots as they looked like they could have put up 80 points on the Pears.
Iggles - #4 - no change. Beat up a disappointing Carolina team where Cam looked like he was stoned.
About right. Big game this week with the Puckers facing the Iggles. Should give us some idea about how good these teams really are.
Pears - #27 - down six spots as they got pummeled giving up 50+ points for the second straight game.
Puckers - #5 - up three spots as they looked like they could have put up 80 points on the Pears.
Iggles - #4 - no change. Beat up a disappointing Carolina team where Cam looked like he was stoned.
About right. Big game this week with the Puckers facing the Iggles. Should give us some idea about how good these teams really are.
Tuesday, November 11, 2014
Caps go for three in a row tonight
I've watched pretty much every Caps game so far this year and there really has only been one or two games where they didn't look good. They have been in every game this year with nearly all of their games being decided by one goal (occasionally there may be a two goal differential because of an empty netter).
I like the style of their play. There is a clear difference from last season as it is very much all five guys have to be two way players. It still looks clunky at times as I think guys are getting used to the system and Trotz is mixing and matching lines. Still, it seems like it is coming together and the Caps have put together back to back wins over the past weekend. They look to make it three in a row tonight against a struggling Blue Jacket team. Hopefully they can get on a bit of a tear as the Metropolitan division is very jumbled with several teams jockeying for second through sixth place (Pittsburgh has separated themselves in first).
Looking forward to the game and hopefully we can keep the modest win streak going.
I like the style of their play. There is a clear difference from last season as it is very much all five guys have to be two way players. It still looks clunky at times as I think guys are getting used to the system and Trotz is mixing and matching lines. Still, it seems like it is coming together and the Caps have put together back to back wins over the past weekend. They look to make it three in a row tonight against a struggling Blue Jacket team. Hopefully they can get on a bit of a tear as the Metropolitan division is very jumbled with several teams jockeying for second through sixth place (Pittsburgh has separated themselves in first).
Looking forward to the game and hopefully we can keep the modest win streak going.
Monday, November 10, 2014
Puckers pummel Pears
Enjoy the Trestman era while it lasts because it isn't going to last much longer.
Last night the Puckers spanked the Pears building a 42-0 lead at HALF TIME! I'm sure they could have put up another 20-30 points in the second half but dialed it down and let starters rest. The Pears are in utter disarray. Here are just a few of their problems:
1. Jeff Cutler: The guy is getting paid like a top flite QB and producing like a second (or even a third) stringer. His indifference is bothersome too. On the INT that bounced off of Long's head and was returned for a pick six, George made little effort to try and catch him. Yes, the game was out of reach. Yes, George probably wasn't going to catch him. However, as a "leader" of the team, show some pride. He quit on that play. I'm sure there are plenty of guys on that team that don't believe they can win with Jay George.
2. Trestman: He's lost control of the team. Back to back games of giving up 50+ points. Show some pride. He looks like a guy that has lost control. He looks overmatched. Trestman seems like a good coordinator and maybe a good head coach in the CFL or a small time program but he doesn't look like a guy that can get it done in the NFL particularly in a large market like Chicago. His time is done.
3. Defense is offensive: Apparently tackling is optional for this group. On Lacy's long run off of the screen for a TD, the defenders didn't look like they even wanted to try and tackle him. Just poor effort. Hate to see that. D Coordinator Mel Tucker should be fired immediately.
4. Too much talent on the offense to not be scoring: With guys like Marshall, Jefferey, Forte, Bennett, they should be putting up some points. I don't think anyone thought the defense was going to be great this year. The strength was the offense but they too are struggling. Trestman was brought in to help foster the offense and take them to another level. I suppose he did get them to another level...another level of suckiness. This group is a disappointment.
Just a slew of other problems:
- No identity.
- No control.
- Aging vets (Briggs, Tillman).
- GM sucks
In the end, they are going to have to blow this up and start over (new coach, new GM, new players). It's going to take a couple of years before the Pears get competitive.
As far as the Puckers, they are hitting their stride. They should have a tougher test next week against the Iggles but they are looking formidable. Rodgers is looking like the elite QB that he is and they have several weapons on offense. If their defense can solidify, they will be tough to beat.
In other league news:
1. Feel terrible for Carson Palmer and Arizona: It's looking like Palmer may have suffered an ACL injury. This is tough for Palmer in that he was having a solid year and he doesn't have too many years left. It's extra tough given that AZ had the best record in the NFL and it's going to be difficult to lose their starting QB. Injuries are part of the game and teams have to do their best to backfill.
2. Skins had a bye week and get back to work today in preparation for TB. Frankly, the Skins better beat the Bucs at home. If we don't, I may just have to start considering denouncing the Skins.
3. Iggles play tonight in the start of the Dirty Sanchez era. The Iggles weren't thrilled with Foles anyways and seemed to be pondering sitting him so the injury may not be such a bad thing. I'm sure Sanchez is happy to get back to being a starter so we'll see how he does with a fresh start on a new team. It's MNF so it's a national stage but they are playing a disappointing Carolina team so he should be okay.
4. Seattle seems to have bounced back. A much needed win for them against the Giants. Lynch was truly a beast with FOUR TDs.
Another week and another set of stories. Still a lot of football left to be played and I'm sure there will still be more great stories to come.
Last night the Puckers spanked the Pears building a 42-0 lead at HALF TIME! I'm sure they could have put up another 20-30 points in the second half but dialed it down and let starters rest. The Pears are in utter disarray. Here are just a few of their problems:
1. Jeff Cutler: The guy is getting paid like a top flite QB and producing like a second (or even a third) stringer. His indifference is bothersome too. On the INT that bounced off of Long's head and was returned for a pick six, George made little effort to try and catch him. Yes, the game was out of reach. Yes, George probably wasn't going to catch him. However, as a "leader" of the team, show some pride. He quit on that play. I'm sure there are plenty of guys on that team that don't believe they can win with Jay George.
2. Trestman: He's lost control of the team. Back to back games of giving up 50+ points. Show some pride. He looks like a guy that has lost control. He looks overmatched. Trestman seems like a good coordinator and maybe a good head coach in the CFL or a small time program but he doesn't look like a guy that can get it done in the NFL particularly in a large market like Chicago. His time is done.
3. Defense is offensive: Apparently tackling is optional for this group. On Lacy's long run off of the screen for a TD, the defenders didn't look like they even wanted to try and tackle him. Just poor effort. Hate to see that. D Coordinator Mel Tucker should be fired immediately.
4. Too much talent on the offense to not be scoring: With guys like Marshall, Jefferey, Forte, Bennett, they should be putting up some points. I don't think anyone thought the defense was going to be great this year. The strength was the offense but they too are struggling. Trestman was brought in to help foster the offense and take them to another level. I suppose he did get them to another level...another level of suckiness. This group is a disappointment.
Just a slew of other problems:
- No identity.
- No control.
- Aging vets (Briggs, Tillman).
- GM sucks
In the end, they are going to have to blow this up and start over (new coach, new GM, new players). It's going to take a couple of years before the Pears get competitive.
As far as the Puckers, they are hitting their stride. They should have a tougher test next week against the Iggles but they are looking formidable. Rodgers is looking like the elite QB that he is and they have several weapons on offense. If their defense can solidify, they will be tough to beat.
In other league news:
1. Feel terrible for Carson Palmer and Arizona: It's looking like Palmer may have suffered an ACL injury. This is tough for Palmer in that he was having a solid year and he doesn't have too many years left. It's extra tough given that AZ had the best record in the NFL and it's going to be difficult to lose their starting QB. Injuries are part of the game and teams have to do their best to backfill.
2. Skins had a bye week and get back to work today in preparation for TB. Frankly, the Skins better beat the Bucs at home. If we don't, I may just have to start considering denouncing the Skins.
3. Iggles play tonight in the start of the Dirty Sanchez era. The Iggles weren't thrilled with Foles anyways and seemed to be pondering sitting him so the injury may not be such a bad thing. I'm sure Sanchez is happy to get back to being a starter so we'll see how he does with a fresh start on a new team. It's MNF so it's a national stage but they are playing a disappointing Carolina team so he should be okay.
4. Seattle seems to have bounced back. A much needed win for them against the Giants. Lynch was truly a beast with FOUR TDs.
Another week and another set of stories. Still a lot of football left to be played and I'm sure there will still be more great stories to come.
Tuesday, November 4, 2014
"Amateurish" jounalism - part trois
SI did a piece on the "amateurish" journalism done by McHenry. It is an independent piece with Post reporter Jason Reid being interviewed for much of it. Anyone that has read and listened to Reid on JFK knows he has been very critical of the Skins over the years so I don't think he can be counted on as a "homer" or anything.
McHenry has her perception of things and perceived the disruption to be a revolt against RG3. Reid mentions that players would not do something so public if they truly felt that way towards their QB. He also mentioned that McHenry is not close enough to understand the Skins locker room and if she had any questions, he would have been happy to have helped her out. All the report did was to create more of an unnecessary distraction and doesn't do anyone any good. I suppose except for McHenry who has gotten a heck more play than she ever has in her career.
The article can be read here: http://www.si.com/nfl/2014/11/04/robert-griffin-iii-washington-redskins-britt-mchenry-espn
McHenry has her perception of things and perceived the disruption to be a revolt against RG3. Reid mentions that players would not do something so public if they truly felt that way towards their QB. He also mentioned that McHenry is not close enough to understand the Skins locker room and if she had any questions, he would have been happy to have helped her out. All the report did was to create more of an unnecessary distraction and doesn't do anyone any good. I suppose except for McHenry who has gotten a heck more play than she ever has in her career.
The article can be read here: http://www.si.com/nfl/2014/11/04/robert-griffin-iii-washington-redskins-britt-mchenry-espn
Caps thoughts
Caps are trying to end a 4 game skid tonight against Calgary. After the last game, Trotz had had enough and was fairly critical of the Caps and the same mistakes that are plaguing them (bad penalties and costly turnovers in their zone). He seems very much about accountability and indicated there could be changes.
For me, I have enjoyed watching the Caps this year. The mistakes are frustrating but it's clear there is much better play from this team. Stats point out that after the first 10 games this year, we have outshot the opponents in 8 of those 10 games - compared to only 3 out of 10 last year. Also, we have given up around 80 shots less than a year ago after 10 games. This is proof showing the difference in play. There is a real commitment to playing two way hockey. Offensive players need to get back on defense and defenders are expected to engage in offensive runs and create chances.
I like the play but again the mistakes are frustrating and costly. Heard Brooks Laich a few days back and he mentioned how different it is under Trotz (in a good way) and that the team is still settling into the new system and how Trotz is still figuring out line combinations. He mentioned that things should start to settle down at game 20 or 30. We'll see if this is the case. Again, I like the style of play and we are competing but we need to start winning.
One thing that has been really bugging me is the trade McPhee made for Erat. He gave up our top pick in Filip Forsberg who at 20 years old is already showing signs of becoming a quality player in Nashville. Erat was a malcontent that isn't even on the team anymore so we basically got Latta out of that trade. It's clear who got the better end BY FAR out of that trade.
For me, I have enjoyed watching the Caps this year. The mistakes are frustrating but it's clear there is much better play from this team. Stats point out that after the first 10 games this year, we have outshot the opponents in 8 of those 10 games - compared to only 3 out of 10 last year. Also, we have given up around 80 shots less than a year ago after 10 games. This is proof showing the difference in play. There is a real commitment to playing two way hockey. Offensive players need to get back on defense and defenders are expected to engage in offensive runs and create chances.
I like the play but again the mistakes are frustrating and costly. Heard Brooks Laich a few days back and he mentioned how different it is under Trotz (in a good way) and that the team is still settling into the new system and how Trotz is still figuring out line combinations. He mentioned that things should start to settle down at game 20 or 30. We'll see if this is the case. Again, I like the style of play and we are competing but we need to start winning.
One thing that has been really bugging me is the trade McPhee made for Erat. He gave up our top pick in Filip Forsberg who at 20 years old is already showing signs of becoming a quality player in Nashville. Erat was a malcontent that isn't even on the team anymore so we basically got Latta out of that trade. It's clear who got the better end BY FAR out of that trade.
Monday, November 3, 2014
"Amateurish" journalism part deaux
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/dc-sports-bog/wp/2014/11/02/jay-gruden-vehemently-denies-report-by-espns-britt-mchenry/
This sheds some light on the "amateurish" story written by McHenry. People want gossip and negativity and that's what sells but McHenry either was knowlingly fabricating this story or she just didn't get it.
What's worse is that the Redskins people asked the journalists to keep the incident in house so that the Skins could deal with the individuals themselves (to think that this is unique to the Skins is also silly) but McHenry chose to disregard that message and not only put the story out there but do it inaccurately.
Media is given the right to meet with players but they should do so responsibly. It's a shame when trust is broken. Frankly, this is why I hate most of these "reports" because you never know what to believe. Things can be taken out of context or it's one person's perception of what was said. I know I have said things and thought I was trying to convey a certain message only to find out that the person I was speaking to took it completely different than what I intended.
Whatever. It's too bad this story even came out but that's the nature of media/social media.
This sheds some light on the "amateurish" story written by McHenry. People want gossip and negativity and that's what sells but McHenry either was knowlingly fabricating this story or she just didn't get it.
What's worse is that the Redskins people asked the journalists to keep the incident in house so that the Skins could deal with the individuals themselves (to think that this is unique to the Skins is also silly) but McHenry chose to disregard that message and not only put the story out there but do it inaccurately.
Media is given the right to meet with players but they should do so responsibly. It's a shame when trust is broken. Frankly, this is why I hate most of these "reports" because you never know what to believe. Things can be taken out of context or it's one person's perception of what was said. I know I have said things and thought I was trying to convey a certain message only to find out that the person I was speaking to took it completely different than what I intended.
Whatever. It's too bad this story even came out but that's the nature of media/social media.
Redskins in bus crash on way to game
Original reports were that it was a fairly minor accident. It turns out it could have been a lot worse than people thought. From Brian McNally of WJFK, apparently it was the police escort that missed the exit and then tried to over correct and cut in front of the first bus to make the exit causing the bus to avoid the cruiser, slamming on the brakes, getting hit from behind by the second bus, and hitting the guard rail. Fortunately, the bus did not break through the guard rail as they could have gone over an embankment and on to a highway where it could have been a much more serious if not catastrophic accident.
McNally reported that RG3 did fly around the bus on impact as did I believe it was Ryan Clark. Stephen Bowen apparently was in the back cursing loudly as he thought he had re injured his knee. Some of the players mentioned that they had never been so scared in their life.
Again, the good news is that no one was seriously hurt but this certainly could have been a much much worse accident.
McNally reported that RG3 did fly around the bus on impact as did I believe it was Ryan Clark. Stephen Bowen apparently was in the back cursing loudly as he thought he had re injured his knee. Some of the players mentioned that they had never been so scared in their life.
Again, the good news is that no one was seriously hurt but this certainly could have been a much much worse accident.
"Amateurish" journalism
So there was a report from ESPN's Britt McHenry reported last week that RG3 had alienated himself from the team so much so that during an interview in the locker room last week, about a dozen players interrupted the session in protest so much so that the interview had to be moved to the hallways. McHenry indicated that the players interruption was a result of their feelings towards RG3.
McHenry is a young woman who used to report for WUSA in D.C. She is fairly new to ESPN and I'm sure she is trying to promote herself and probably thought her report would get her noticed. It did but it has since become clear the report was inaccurate.
Yes, there was a disruption during RG3's interview but it had nothing to do with RG3. Was listening to Brian McNally (the beat reporter for WJFK) and he said that he is friend's with McHenry and thought the report was accurate in that there was a disruption but completely disagreed with McHenry in that in had anything to do with RG3. From McNally's standpoint and everyone else he talked to, they felt the players had no issue with RG3. McNally mentioned that the players yelling were immature and some thought it was a prank and others were genuinely bothered by the media and some of their reporting and were voicing their displeasure.
Was trying to find McHenry's report on ESPN today and it appears that it has been removed.
It's this type of nonsense that causes hysteria. Silly fans will automatically buy into it and it causes unnecessary distractions.
McNally also reported that the Skins were embarrassed by the players yelling and asked the media to not report about it indicating that those individuals would be dealt with in house. McHenry apparently felt like she should report on it. I have a feeling McHenry won't be covering the Skins any more and if she does, she will certainly have a hard time at Redskins Park from players and management alike.
McHenry is a young woman who used to report for WUSA in D.C. She is fairly new to ESPN and I'm sure she is trying to promote herself and probably thought her report would get her noticed. It did but it has since become clear the report was inaccurate.
Yes, there was a disruption during RG3's interview but it had nothing to do with RG3. Was listening to Brian McNally (the beat reporter for WJFK) and he said that he is friend's with McHenry and thought the report was accurate in that there was a disruption but completely disagreed with McHenry in that in had anything to do with RG3. From McNally's standpoint and everyone else he talked to, they felt the players had no issue with RG3. McNally mentioned that the players yelling were immature and some thought it was a prank and others were genuinely bothered by the media and some of their reporting and were voicing their displeasure.
Was trying to find McHenry's report on ESPN today and it appears that it has been removed.
It's this type of nonsense that causes hysteria. Silly fans will automatically buy into it and it causes unnecessary distractions.
McNally also reported that the Skins were embarrassed by the players yelling and asked the media to not report about it indicating that those individuals would be dealt with in house. McHenry apparently felt like she should report on it. I have a feeling McHenry won't be covering the Skins any more and if she does, she will certainly have a hard time at Redskins Park from players and management alike.
Skins fall to Vikings 29-26
Disappointing. Makes the win over Dallas pretty meaningless. They had a chance to string three wins in a row and go into the bye week feeling pretty good. Instead, it leaves a sour taste in their mouths that they couldn't get the job done. Here are my thoughts:
1. RG3. Wasn't perfect but given that the guy has missed nearly the entire season, I was happy with the way he played. I know everyone is giving him grief for the INT before the half that led to the Vikings first score. However, I put this as much on the play call as I do on RG3. The Skins were up 10-0 and had just stopped the Vikings on a 4th and 2. We get the ball back around our 35 yard line with just over a minute left. I would have been content with the 10-0 lead and having all the momentum. I get that there was time to get an additional score. However, if you are going to go for it, call a VERY high percentage play. Call a bubble screen or a regular screen or a draw play...anything that is VERY high percentage and if you get some significant yardage they can proceed with trying to get more points on the board. They called an out pattern that is no guarantee. Obviously, the pass sucked and RG3 would be the first to admit to that but the play call should have been much more conservative in that situation. Still, other than that play, I was fine with his play. He made some really nice throws and did a good job of eluding pressure which was on him much of the day. He led a great drive late in the game when the Skins were down 21-20 to take back the lead 26-21. He certainly is not the reason why we lost.
2. Morris. Thought he had a strong game. For the first time all season, he looked more like the Morris we are used to seeing. I'm sure part of this is a direct result of having RG3 back. Hopefully we see more of this Morris moving forward.
3. Desean Jackson has been worth it. The guy is a playmaker. He is not going to get a ton of balls thrown his way but he will get big yards when it is thrown his way. He is good for 2-3 long balls each game and getting him balls in space is dangerous for opposing defenses as he is small and quick enough to elude guys.
4. Defense SUCKED!!!! Giving up four TDs on the Vikings last five offensive drives is INEXCUSABLE. I gave Haslett and company credit last week for doing a great job against Dallas but this week he was terrible. They let a rookie QB who is one of the lowest rated in the NFL pick us apart. The Skins put up 26 points against a solid defense. That should be enough to win that game but the defense couldn't get it done. Don't understand why we couldn't get pressure on Bridgewater. I do chalk up a lot of this to coaching. He just didn't get the job done. I think there is enough talent on this defense that it should be better. London Fletcher didn't seem thrilled with Haslett as he left in retirement. I would not be opposed to letting him go now and installing Raheem Morris in as DC for the remainder of the season to see what he can do. It's sickening. They lost this game for us. With the score 17-14 Skins winning, the defense allowed Bridgewater to march the length of the field to score a TD. RG3 leads a TD drive to take back the lead 26-21. The defense again allows Bridgewater to lead a length of the field drive for the game winning TD. UNACCEPTABLE!!! The poor play of the defense was the story of the game. They blew it.
Not much else to say.
1. RG3. Wasn't perfect but given that the guy has missed nearly the entire season, I was happy with the way he played. I know everyone is giving him grief for the INT before the half that led to the Vikings first score. However, I put this as much on the play call as I do on RG3. The Skins were up 10-0 and had just stopped the Vikings on a 4th and 2. We get the ball back around our 35 yard line with just over a minute left. I would have been content with the 10-0 lead and having all the momentum. I get that there was time to get an additional score. However, if you are going to go for it, call a VERY high percentage play. Call a bubble screen or a regular screen or a draw play...anything that is VERY high percentage and if you get some significant yardage they can proceed with trying to get more points on the board. They called an out pattern that is no guarantee. Obviously, the pass sucked and RG3 would be the first to admit to that but the play call should have been much more conservative in that situation. Still, other than that play, I was fine with his play. He made some really nice throws and did a good job of eluding pressure which was on him much of the day. He led a great drive late in the game when the Skins were down 21-20 to take back the lead 26-21. He certainly is not the reason why we lost.
2. Morris. Thought he had a strong game. For the first time all season, he looked more like the Morris we are used to seeing. I'm sure part of this is a direct result of having RG3 back. Hopefully we see more of this Morris moving forward.
3. Desean Jackson has been worth it. The guy is a playmaker. He is not going to get a ton of balls thrown his way but he will get big yards when it is thrown his way. He is good for 2-3 long balls each game and getting him balls in space is dangerous for opposing defenses as he is small and quick enough to elude guys.
4. Defense SUCKED!!!! Giving up four TDs on the Vikings last five offensive drives is INEXCUSABLE. I gave Haslett and company credit last week for doing a great job against Dallas but this week he was terrible. They let a rookie QB who is one of the lowest rated in the NFL pick us apart. The Skins put up 26 points against a solid defense. That should be enough to win that game but the defense couldn't get it done. Don't understand why we couldn't get pressure on Bridgewater. I do chalk up a lot of this to coaching. He just didn't get the job done. I think there is enough talent on this defense that it should be better. London Fletcher didn't seem thrilled with Haslett as he left in retirement. I would not be opposed to letting him go now and installing Raheem Morris in as DC for the remainder of the season to see what he can do. It's sickening. They lost this game for us. With the score 17-14 Skins winning, the defense allowed Bridgewater to march the length of the field to score a TD. RG3 leads a TD drive to take back the lead 26-21. The defense again allows Bridgewater to lead a length of the field drive for the game winning TD. UNACCEPTABLE!!! The poor play of the defense was the story of the game. They blew it.
Not much else to say.
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