The unbiased observer in me realizes the inferior team (eliminated from the playoffs seemingly decades ago) ultimately made the same mistakes that led to their dismal 3-9 record: 4 turnovers (however bizarre), over 450 yards allowed, and countless opportunities squandered.
But, the fanatic in me pities the Redskins... excluding Suisham and probably Landry too, the Redskins' best impression of All-World bust Kwame Brown.
For the last year, seemingly, Redskins fans have been calling for Campbell's head. Zorn's been on the hottest seat this side of Mars, the offensive line has been lampooned, and all of it has sadly overshadowed the defense's superhuman performance all year despite constantly fighting an uphill battle. But Sunday, the Redskins did something that no one could foresee. When the same team who ended the Lions' 19-game losing streak in week 3 went up 10-0 on the undefeated Saints, all was forgotten.
Campbell haters momentarily forgot about the possibility of drafting Jimmy Clausen (ugh, double ugh, triple UGH) in April's draft. The Fire Zorn Contingent commended his aggressive game management matching the fast-paced Saints blow for blow. And all those (myself included) who've nitpicked our bowling-pin-like offensive line all season were silenced as Campbell was kept vertical on 39 of 42 drop backs. ZERO SACKS.
As the FG team took the field with the opportunity to stretch the lead to 10, therefore putting the game all but out of reach in the final 2 minutes, my reaction was candid: "Damn, go get 'em Skins."
But then Dead Kicker Walking shanked the unshankable kick. 23 yards, at HOME. It was like peeing off a boat and missing the ocean. Landry gave up a big play over the top soon after, then the Saints closed the curtains minutes into overtime.
The 12-0 New Orleans Saints are arguably the best team in the NFC, if not the entire NFL. They absolutely embarrassed Tom Brady's Patriots the week before much like the 11 opponents they faced before them. But on Sunday, the Skins gave them their best test of the season to date. Maybe they weren't the better team but they were equal.
And maybe finger-pointing Redskin fans and those named Snyderrato should think twice before turning over the roster and coaching staff following the season's end. Sure, I have a short list of players I'd like to never see don the burgundy and gold after this season. But not anyone not named Suisham.
Over the last 4 games, these lesser known players are stepping into starting roles and challenging Vinny's commitment to invest in big names. Had a few balls bounced in the Skins favor, the Washington "replacements" could be 6-6 riding a 4-game winning streak against opponents with a combined 36-12 record (the last 3 losses have been decided by 7 points combined with Washington leading in the 4th quarter of each).
Campbell, Cartwright, Ganther (who?), even the forgotten 2008 second rounders and ragbag offensive line are laying the foundation. These disregarded stand-ins, however less talented, are revealing the difference between heart and hype. If I was Snyder, I'd go and get a GM and some young draft picks to build upon it.
Just ask the Saints. They were 3-13 just 4 years ago before Sean Payton was brought in. Then he went 25-23 in his first 3 years.
Zorn said it took 3 years in Seattle. I say give it to him.
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