#1: Balance in the offense a.k.a. a running game. This calls for improvements in Jim Zorn's scheme and play-calling, the offensive line's preparation and performance, the passing game's effectiveness and lastly, the play of Clinton Portis.
Where to start? The Skins seem to have as many running plays in their playbook as the old NFL Blitz video game offered. They rely on the strength of the left side of their line anchored by perennial pro bowler Chris Samuels. They use motion and pre-snap movement to create blocking mismatches but rarely do they run anything but an off-tackle or dive left. That's it.
Did anyone watch the MNF game between Dallas and Carolina? Dallas's variety of running plays resulted in numerous carries in which Cowboy RBs went untouched into the 2nd and 3rd level of the Carolina D. Near the goal line, Romo faked the quick pass to the right then handed it off to T. Choice on a draw behind the left guard. Choice ran 5 yards untouched for the score.
Now compare that to anything Washington has run, especially the goal line and 4th down runs in which Portis has been stopped short. Yes, the majority of professional O-lines should be able to gain 1 yard but in reality, the only way the Skins are going to get better play out of their aging unit is through next year's draft. Zorn has to mix it up.
A balanced offense with an improved running game will result in more T.O.P, less reliance on JC and the passing game, and more rest for an old defensive unit that proved its inability to win the 3rd down battle against the Lions. Portis is averaging less than 16 carries a game. Give him the rock Zorn.
#2: Big plays on defense. If I have to hear "Football is a game of momentum" one more time I'm going to relinquish all my possessions and apply for monk-hood. But they're right and the only way to capture momentum is big plays, particularly on defense such as sacks, forced fumbles, INTs and big hits.
The NY game was lost after Osi sacked JC and returned his fumble for a TD. The St. Louis game was won when Horton knocked the ball loose from Ram WR Donnie Avery's grasp. What was missing from the Detroit game? A momentous defensive play.
In 3 games, the Washington defense has recorded 4 sacks, 2 recovered fumbles and 1 INT. Need I say more? Greg Blatche has got to dial it up especially if his unit continues to struggle on 3rd down. The Bucs recently replaced Leftwich with Josh Johnson who has yet to start an NFL game. #98 better be tattooed all over Johnson's jersey when it's over with.
#3: Emotion. Excluding a few names like Samuels, Andre Carter and Fletch, the Redskins seemingly play with none. You want to win the fans back at FedEx this weekend? Get fired up. Get in the faces of your opponent like Sean Taylor used to. Get your teammates hyped up like Marcus Washington used to. Earn that swagger.
Ray Lewis, Adrian Peterson, Dwight Freeney, Joey Porter, Troy Polomalu. All the great ones wear that heart on their sleeve and it's impossible to miss all game, all week, all season. It's contagious. This isn't Hollywood- it shouldn't be on the coach. Pacino's not going to walk in and give you that "Inches" speech from Any Given Sunday. Play with a pulse.
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