The high and low points of Sunday's win

First, the high: Newly acquired OT Levi Jones.

Big number 76. 6 feet 5 inches. 307 pounds. But you probably didn't notice him on Sunday.

That's the point.

The ex-Bengal/almost-Lion was signed October 20 following a shameful 14-6 loss to the Chiefs in which the offense, minus Portis's 78-yard scamper, tallied just 187 total yards, 6 first downs, and allowed 3 sacks.

But, even then, the former 1st round pick wasn't immediately inserted into the starting lineup. He sat quietly and watched as lame-duck replacements (Heyer, Batiste, Williams) mirrored turnstiles allowing Campbell to be sacked 6 and 5 times in consecutive weeks.

Eventually, with no other options, Jones's number was called.

The Redskins sat at 2-6 sporting a pathetic offense that was insurmountably crippled by its undermanned line. Even worse, they'd be hosting Denver soon, a top-5 defense led by NFL sack leader Elvis Dumervil. Having been dismissed from Lions training camp, of all teams, Jones couldn't have asked for a tougher assignment heading into Sunday.

60 minutes later, it was official: Levi's baaack.

Jones visibly dominated Dumervil and every other pass rusher that lined up across from him on Sunday. Dumervil did register one sack in the game but it was attributable to Campbell's lack of pocket presence - Jones had clearly held him off long enough for Campbell to get rid of the football.

Not only does Jones' arrival solidify the left tackle position but it allows Heyer to return to right tackle, a position he feels far more comfortable in and is less-tested. It was no coincidence the Skins' offense put up season highs in points, first downs, and rushing yards.

Now the low: the Redskins pass defense.

Greg Blatche's unit, for the majority of the season, has undeniably carried this team. On Sunday, disturbingly, the offense carried them.

In the first half alone, Washington's traditionally "bend-don't-break" defense fractured for plays of 28, 40, and 75. Orton could have had Marshall for a certain 69-yard TD had he not overthrown him.

Just 2 weeks ago, the Skins gave up similarly big plays to the Eagles' DeSean Jackson. Horton was replaced, then brought back, and is now on injured reserve. Smoot has been losing time to Tryon. And now Rogers has recently been benched after displaying his emphatic gullibility for the stop-and-go on the fourth play from scrimmage.

But there was more.

It wasn't just one player exploited on Sunday. On more than one occasion, Washington's entire defensive backfield looked duped. Smoot, the closest defender to Marshall when he crossed the goal line, was nearly 20 yards away when the receiver first caught the football. Later, DeAngelo Hall let known-deep-threat Brandon Marshall sprint by him untouched.

It seems as if the Redskins, under Snyderrato, have personified the "1 step forward, 2 steps back" expression. This year's team, already lacking talent, can't afford to lose focus at this point in the season.

Will the real Redskin defense please stand up?

That's the ticket...

... and that's the closest thing to a complete game the Redskins have played since Zorn took over back in February of 2008.

• 27 points, the most scored in over 14 months.
• 22 first downs, tied for most on the season.
• 8 of 16 on 3rd down, considerably better than DC's 35.6 season average.
• 174 rushing yards, tops on the season.
• 2 penalties, ZERO turnovers.
• 35:43 time of possession, who's your daddy?

The Redskins, including the 2nd half of the Falcons game, have put together 6 commendable quarters uninterrupted. I believe that qualifies as momentum (perfect timing for Dallas week). And they've done it with the same basic formula that has left fans wondering what took so long to figure out.

Despite a few permissible inaccurate throws, Campbell showed his ability to protect the football and manage the game when given a running attack. Betts and Cartwright filled in nicely for Portis for the second straight week and, again, proved more effective than the alleged star tailback (35 carries, 155 yards).

Newly acquired OT Levi Jones made the Bengals and Lions look foolish for passing on him in the offseason after completely neutralizing NFL sack leader Elvis Dumervil. Fred Davis led all receivers with 4 catches for 50 yards and has arguably proved to be the most beneficial 2008 draft pick in Cooley's absence. However, 9 other receivers caught passes on Sunday, demonstrating Campbell's vision and Sherman Lewis's scheme.

On the defensive side of the football the Redskins have regrettably seemed to digress of late, allowing big plays early and often. Sunday was no different as Orton connected with Brandon Marshall on 2 long TD catches. Orton nearly made it 3 had he not overthrown a wide-open Marshall.

But Washington weathered the storm in the second half by continuously hurrying Orton's backup, Chris Simms, into make ill-advised throws leading to 2 turnovers. Doughty, Horton's replacement, led the way with 10 tackles and a fumble recovery, but it was Carter and defensive rookie of the year candidate Brian Orakpo who largely disrupted the Denver backfield. The 2 combined for 13 tackles, 3 sacks, 5 tackles for loss, and 6 QB knockdowns. Not a bad day at the office.

Lastly, and most unexpected, was the special teams. Hunter Smith, recruited by Notre Dame to play QB over a decade ago, hit Sellers on a 35-yard bomb for Washington's second score. Despite 2 illegal procedure penalties, Suisham continued his perfect season by connecting on both FG attempts.

Those who have neglected to pay any attention to the Redskins thus far into the season might skim through this recap and wonder, "A balanced offense, a sound defense, and a few big plays on special teams? That's not such an unfathomable blueprint for success."

Those who have followed the 3-6 Redskins would simply reply, "What took so long?"

Sunday's 3rd quarter? Not too shabby

Washington lost its fourth straight game Sunday in Atlanta dropping to 2-6 halfway into the season. Ironically, that's the same record they finished with last season.

Even so, the Redskins, if only for 15 minutes Sunday, finally played like the team many expected to see take the field in early September. The team that finally had a full season of experience in Zorn's west coast offense. The team who spent over $140 million in free agency to significantly upgrade its underachieving roster. The team that was finally expected to show off its young talent at wideout, linebacker, and corner. Yada yada yada.

But the Redskins finally looked the part, at least for a quarter:

• Total plays: Atlanta-3, Washington-22
• Total yards: Atlanta-9, Washington-134
• Campbell: 9 for 13, 102 yards passing, 26 yards rushing, 1 touchdown
• Betts and Cartwright: 17 carries, 72 yards, 1 touchdown
• Time of possession: Atlanta-2:15, Washington-12:45

It seemed as if the Redskins haven't scored 17+ points in a decade. On Sunday, they scored 14 in a quarter.

I'm not saying these are the real Redskins when they play the way they're supposed to because they're not. They're simply overpaid and underachieving. The inspired team that took the field after halftime Sunday is simply the Redskins when they play their best - something no owner, GM, or coach has been able to consistently galvanize since Gibbs's first go-round. The Z-man seemed no different.

But something must have snapped in Zorn's head, whether it was one play or the weight of the entire season, because several players interviewed after the game claimed the lambasted head coach "went off" at halftime.

Good. What took so long?

Every time the camera showed Zorn with his play sheet on the sideline following another missed opportunity, he outwardly resembled a 90-year-old just handed an iPhone. Confused. Flummoxed. Downright stupid. It's not composure, he just seemed to have no idea where to begin to fix it all.

But whatever he conjured up on the walk back to the locker room at halftime finally got through to the players. And they finally responded. The oft-criticized Oline showed no trace of the ineffectiveness they've displayed all season. They kept Campbell upright, opened up holes for Betts and Cartwright, and stayed off the referee's laundry list, excluding a forgivable hold on Mike Williams.

The defense held steady forcing the Atlanta offense to go 3 and out on their only possession of the quarter. Lionized free safety LaRon Landry even made the crucial 3rd down stop, a play Redskins fans hoped the 6th overall pick would make more consistently at this point in his career rather than his usual careless and out of control attempt at tackling.

It is said that one learns most from failure rather than success. Despite the losses, the miscues, the inconsistency, the lack of offensive production, and the shameful (lack of) character from alleged "team leaders," some coaches and players are still fighting and, consequently, proving their worth to this team.

3 conclusions made from Sunday's game

Some thought the outcome of week 9 would most accurately define the Washington Redskins and provide a realistic glimpse of what to expect from a team that has appallingly failed to meet expectations. Down 24-3 at halftime, having allowed 5 sacks, and having witnessed their starting RB knocked out with a head injury, the Redskins conceivably seemed to mirror the infamous "deer in headlights" look.

This season alone, Washington has trailed at halftime 7-17, 6-7, 0-13, 0-10, 0-3, and 10-27. They've trailed in every game so far with the exception of the Carolina game in which they surrendered a 10-2 lead. For fans, it has reached that painful point when constant incompetence fails to surprise anymore. Desensitization.

That's why fans merely rolled their eyes when Washington went sack 3-and-out on their first possession following Atlanta's penalty-aided 74-yard opening scoring drive. That's why fans merely shook their head when Fred Davis let an easy catch slip through his hands and into Tye Hill's for a 62-yard INT return touchdown. And that's why fans merely closed their eyes each of the 5 times Campbell was drilled to the ground barely able to continue playing.

That was merely the first half and those were merely the Redskins fans have become accustomed to watching.

But the second half proved different. The second half validated 3 noteworthy things that affect not only the rest of the 2009 season, but also the future of this franchise.

#1 Four weeks ago change was suggested. Now change is mandatory and players have proved themselves expendable.

Clinton Portis, age 28, has failed to return to his early 2008 form when he led the NFL in rushing. Seemingly, he is never 100% and has proven incapable of turning the corner, breaking the tackle, or making the move needed for a big play. After he went down with a head injury, Betts and Cartwright not only adequately filled in but actually proved more effective than Portis. Portis is 15th in the NFL in rushing yards, 27th in YPC and 45th in TDs. Expendable.

Santana Moss, age 30 and alleged top WR for the Redskins, dropped 3 crucial passes in Sunday's game. He dropped a sure TD against the Eagles. He has 33 catches on the season, 2 TDs, and it's time his questionable hands gave way to younger WRs such as Marko Mitchell who impressed in his first action of the year. Excluding his punt return ability, expendable.

Lastly, and most overrated, is DeAngelo Hall. $40 million dollars? That money would have been better used if Snyder just refunded all the neglected season ticket holders. Hall can't cover. Hall can't tackle. And Hall can't keep his mouth shut even when trailing 21-3. The Redskins defense surely upgraded when they added Haynesworth and Orakpo, but they visibly downgraded when they attempted to replace Shawn Springs with Hall. Expendable, with talent and team chemistry considered.

#2 LaRon Landry wasn't worth the 6th overall pick in the 2007 NFL draft. Especially considering players such as Adrian Peterson, Patrick Willis, and Darrelle Revis were drafted immediately after.

Don't be fooled by his Pro-Bowl-alternate selections, those were based purely on hype. The 3rd-year combine standout has failed to live up to expectations and comparisons to the late, great Sean Taylor. On Sunday it was unmistakable. On three separate occasions he failed to tackle the Atlanta running back resulting in 2 TDs. On another play he foolishly speared Matt Ryan out of bounds drawing a 15-yard unnecessary roughness flag and sparking a sideline brawl. And following his only respectable play of the game, down 24-10 in the 3rd quarter, he posed by himself after stopping Aaron Stecker on 3rd down.

Whether it's because he was forced to change positions following Taylor's murder or it's merely the unwarranted comparisons to the late defensive star, Landry is playing scared, stupid, and substandard. Expendable.

#3 Some of the Redskin players still genuinely give a damn.

Backstabbed in the offseason (twice, Cutler and Sanchez), benched in week 6, and scapegoated by nearly every fan and critic, Jason Campbell has seen every side of disloyalty and faithlessness imaginable. He's the 3rd-most sacked QB in the league, 11 in the past 2 games, yet he never complains. He never points the finger at another teammate nor does he ever badmouth a coach. And on Sunday he never quit despite the 5 sacks and 8+ hits he took on just 22 drop backs (that means he was hit over 50% of all pass plays).

Jason Campbell exemplifies how a Redskin player should handle himself after all that has occurred this disappointing season. If he can play, he will. He'll give 110 % and he'll never thrown in the towel.

As Redskins fans begin to consider quitting on their once-proud team, they should be appreciative and take note that at least some players haven't quit on them.

Bye week, where have you been all season?

2-5, 5th-worst in the NFL. Debatably ranked 25th in ESPN's power rankings.
0-3 on the road, 0-2 in the division.
28th in points/game (13.7), 24th in total yards/game (296).
25th in rush yards/game (93.4). 27th in rushing TDs (2).
3rd-most sacks allowed (23).
10th-most penalty yards (347).
28th on 3rd down (29%).
30th in time of possession/game (27:44).
29th in turnover margin (-8)...

That's out of all 32 teams that make up the NFL.

It goes without saying that the Washington Redskins have nosedived to the bottom of the league. Over the course of the easiest 7 weeks in NFL history, they've proved themselves incapable of executing standard tasks such as snapping the football, tackling an immobile QB in the open field, or defending against 3rd and 22.

The QB has been benched (then brought back), the play-caller has been replaced, the star RB and DT are calling out their teammates, the GM is sidestepping questions concerning his defective roster, the owner is attempting to muzzle the disgruntled fans, allegiance is turning into apathy, and no one has any clue on where to begin to fix it all.

You couldn't ask for a better time for a bye week.

What needs to change? What can be changed midway though the season without furthering this franchise's descent to despondency? Only one man can realistically right the ship and that's the head coach. Regardless of recently being stripped of his play-calling duties, JZ is still the head coach of this football team and, therefore, is still responsible for leading this team.

As Julius Campbell asserted in Remember the Titans, "Attitude reflect leadership, captain."

It's no secret. The dispirited attitudes of these players stick out like a sore thumb on game day. Watch Campbell walk with his head down after another sack. Watch Portis throw his helmet in frustration. Watch Chris Horton drag his feet back to the huddle after giving up a 57 yard TD.

The Redskins are hemorrhaging and to make matters worse, their upcoming schedule is hardest in the league- only the Raiders have a losing record.

Likely 2010 first round pick Sam Bradford can't help them now. Neither can a new play-caller or another $100 million acquisition. Zorn must confront his players and explain to them that the only way out of this hole is the same way they got here. The only reason Snyder and Cerrato are being held accountable for the Redskins' fiasco is because the franchise now relies on them to fix all their problems with big names and new faces in the offseason.

The season is far from over but the end is looming near for the seemingly anemic Washington Redskins. It's time the players and coaches put an end to the "offseason champs" reputation during the season.

Officially ending the "Need for a new GM" debate

Executive VP of Football Operations Vinny Cerrato was recently asked if he thought management had provided Jim Zorn a playoff-worthy roster. Cerrato simply replied, "Yes."

What? Vinny, have you resorted to hallucinogenic drugs to cope with this season's debacle or are you just in denial? There is only one appropriate way to debunk this downright delusion. Here's a list of players drafted by the Washington Redskins in the past 5 years that are still with the team:

Rogers, Campbell, Rocky, Anthony Montgomery, Doughty, Kedric Golston, Landry, H.B. Blades, Devin Thomas, Fred Davis, Malcolm Kelly, Chad Rinehart, Justin Tryon, Kareem Moore, Colt Brennan, Rob Jackson, Chris Horton, and then most recently, Orakpo, Kevin Barnes, Eddie Williams and Marko Mitchell.

How many pro bowlers from those 5 draft classes? One, Landry has been named an alternate twice in his 3-year career. Moreover, Cerrato has continually neglected to address Washington's most glaring weakness dating back to the first post-Gibbs era. Here's a list of lineman Cerrato has drafted in his 2 controversial stints with the Redskins (in which they've gone 52-65):

Jon Jansen, Derek Smith, Chris Samuels, Michael Moore, Reggie Coleman, Derrick Dockery, Mark Wilson, Jim Molinaro, and only Kili Lefotu and Chad Rinehart in the past 5 years.

Cerrato has been in charge of drafting players for the Redskins for 9 years and he's drafted just 10 lineman, only 3 of which have had any success in the NFL. Unacceptable? That's inconceivable. According to anyone that knows anything about football, the offensive line is the foundation of a franchise. Joe Gibbs won 3 super bowls with pedestrian skill players playing behind hall-of-fame offensive linemen.

But then Cerrato went on to say that he's made the effort to improve the O-line. Here's a list of offensive lineman drafted after the Redskins' first selection in the past 5 draft classes that are currently flourishing in the NFL:

Jamaal Brown (Saints), Alex Barron (Rams), Chris Spencer (Seahawks), Logan Mankins (Pats), David Baas (49ers), Nick Kaczul (Pats), Chris Kemoeatu (Ravens), Winston Justice (Eagles), Deuce Lutui (Cardinals), Daryn Colledge (Packers), Marcus McNeill (Chargers), Jeremy Trueblood (Bucs), Eric Winston (Texans), Max Jean-Giles (Eagles), Jahri Evans (Saints,) Chilo Rachal (49ers), Mike Pollak (Colts) Jeremy Zuttah (Bucs), Joe Staley (49ers), Ben Grubbs (Ravens), Aaron Sears (Bucs), Justin Blalock (Falcons), Tony Ugoh (Colts), Ryan Kalil (Panthers), Ryan Harris (Broncos), Alex Mack (Browns), Michael Oher (Ravens), Eric Wood (Bills), Eben Britton (Jags), Max Unger (Seahawks) and Phil Loadholdt (Vikings).

No talent, huh Vinny?

If that wasn't enough to chew on, as Mike Wise so eloquently put in Tuesday's Post, "DeSean Jackson, who danced in the Redskins' end zone twice, was drafted after Devin Thomas [and Fred Davis] in the second round." I rest my case.

Redskins fans can only hope that it won't take as long to rebuild this essential unit as it did for Cerrato to completely dismantle it.

Change in the nation's capital

Obama promised it, fans wanted it, Snyderrato made it happen.

To list a few offensive changes from this young but memorable season:

-Change on the offensive line. RG Randy Thomas is out for the year. LT Chris Samuels is done for at least that. Undrafted RT Stephon Heyer has been moved to LT. Back-up RG Mike Williams has taken Heyer's original spot so 3rd-string RG Will Montgomery (who?) is filling the void originally left by Thomas. Why not? And Campbell had the nerve to say he wasn't entirely sure of his O-line during the Chiefs game. Psshhh.

-Changes at quarterback. Statistically, JC has been Washington's best offensive player through the first 6 weeks, yet he was benched at halftime of the Chiefs game trailing 0-3. Why not? 74-year-old career back-up Todd Collins played the entire second half and showed no signs of improvement so Campbell is back in the starting lineup this week.

-Changes at WR. 2nd-year wideout Malcolm Kelly was named starter after an impressive preseason. 6 weeks later he's totaled 7 catches for 73 yards and no touchdowns so Devin Thomas will start opposite of Santana this week. Oh yeah, Thomas has 4 catches for 26 yards and no scores either this season but why not?

-Lastly, changes at play-caller. Zorn's offense ranks 26th in the league in yards and 29th in points scored so recently unemployed Sherman Lewis has been handed any and all play-calling duties. Why not? So what if he mistakenly calls out B-11 on 3rd and 15?

Lewis's promotion is only one of many examples of the embarrassing mess that is the Washington Redskins football franchise. In a league where consistency is coveted, the Redskins have successfully managed the opposite. 6 head coaches in over 10 years. Why not? And Zorn looks to be on his way out followed shortly thereafter by Jason Campbell. Hey, maybe if we're lucky we can swap Portis for some other overpaid RB on the downside of his career. Why not? That way we can completely start over from scratch once again with a new coach, a new offense, a new QB and maybe a new RB.

Oh wait, the offensive line desperately needs extensive rehabilitation but Snyderrato could surely delay that another few years, couldn't he? Why not?

My thoughts on Z-man

Jim Zorn. Geeze, where to begin?

Z-man was hired during the 2008 offseason, the same offseason that saw Gibbs retire and successful defensive coordinator Gregg Williams leave only to take the same position with Jacksonville. He was originally hired as offensive coordinator, an upgrade from quarterbacks coach, his previous position with the Seahawks. But when no other candidates filled the vacancy left by Gibbs, Zorn was promoted.

At first, I felt the move was chancy, perhaps ignorant, considering the history of Snyderrato decision making. But witnessing another disappointing season/era under another failed Redskins coach, results from the unexpected move seemed imaginable.

Young coaches appeared to be the direction the league was moving in and Gibbs's foremost criticism had been he was too old and the game had passed him by. Zorn was 55, an ex-QB and had aided in the development of pro bowl QB Matt Hasselback in Seattle. The possibility of morphing young Jason Campbell into the second coming of Doug Williams spurred optimism.

The charismatic, candid and genuine Jim Zorn led the Redskins to a 6-2 record halfway through his first year. Washington had beaten Dallas and Philly, both away, in consecutive weeks and the offense was clicking on all cylinders. That would be the high point of Zorn's career.

Since week 8 of last year Zorn has gone 4-10. The last six games (2-4) have come against winless teams, the easiest 6-game streak in NFL history. The worst part of it all is Zorn's offense has been predominantly to blame.

The running game has been a non-factor. QB Jason Campbell, Zorn's top responsibility when he was hired, has seemingly plateaued. The receiving weapons drafted, in spite of needs on the offensive line, have been busts. But without question, the paramount knock on Zorn has been his offense has proved unable to score points.

For me, Zorn's roller-coaster career hit rock bottom Sunday when he replaced Campbell for Todd Collins after an ineffective first half. Not because I believe Campbell is not to blame for the offense's lack of production but because it was the first time James Arthur Zorn showed weakness, vulnerability and doubt.

No matter his record or success as play-caller, I always admired Zorn's unwavering confidence in himself and his plan for this team. The Washington Redskins fan base has thrown every possible criticism and insult at this man, yet, until halftime of the Chiefs game he never faltered.

When it was announced that Todd Collins would replace Campbell for the remainder of the game it proved Zorn had finally given in. To yellow-bellied Snyder. To impatient fans. To fault-finding SportsCenter anchors whose words influence the opinions of impatient fans. When Zorn lost what always made him worthy in my eyes, he proved himself incapable of coaching my favorite team.

Immediately after the game, Cerrato "suggested" Zorn give up his play-calling responsibilities, his last significant obligation as head coach. That was his last chance to save face by refusing to admit his convictions were flawed like everyone around him had concluded.

But he agreed. And with his stripped play-calling duties went my respect.

Adios Jimbo.

Worst case scenario arrives in DC by week 7

Change.

After struggling through the easiest 6-game streak in NFL history, the time has come for change. Choice? Never. Not under Dan Snyder and Vinny Cerrato's totalitarian regime.

In the offseason before the 2008 year, change came in the form of a new coach. At halftime, change came in the form of a new QB (ugh). And after the game, change came in the form of a new play-caller. Now, the Redskins find themselves the most dysfunctional franchise on the planet.

Fans are on suicide watch. Who's to blame?

Players play. Coaches coach. Top front office executives put it all together and 7 weeks into the season, it has entirely fallen apart.

In my opinion, as a front-office exec, the only sure-fire way to claim respect in the game of football is to make a decision and stick by it. It could be referred to as loyalty or commitment or just plain accountability. Whatever you call it Dan Snyder lacks it and in the 10 years of owning this franchise he has successfully infected it and allowed it to trickle down all the way to coaches and players.

Snyder brought back Cerrato after he gave Marty the boot (undeservedly). Snyderrato, together, continually neglected to address the O-line in the offseason resulting in the current defective unit (3 sacks, 5 TFL and a safety to the league-worst Chiefs). Snyderrato brought in Spurrier then Gibbs and now Zorn. Snyderrato most likely pressured Zorn into making the QB change at halftime. And Snyderrato stripped Zorn's play-calling duties in favor of Sherman Lewis, a man they felt the need to bring in overlooking the fact he was calling out bingo numbers at a Michigan senior center just 2 weeks ago.

The changes these 2 men have collaborated to make in the last decade have crippled this franchise and leave it in a position that could result in more unwarranted firings. Jason Campbell might never earn another starting job in the NFL. Jim Zorn's reputation as a head coach might relegate him to the college level for some time. Todd Collins and Sherman Lewis are the newest men to be thrown into the gauntlet but only Snyderrato should be held accountable for sending 53 men into a gunfight wielding only knives.

It was rumored that Shanahan, Holmgren, Cowher, and Gruden were all addressed about possibly taking over the Redskins when Zorn is inevitably fired. My advice to them? No matter how man zeros spineless Dan Snyder offers you to coach this team, sign NO contract that doesn't include the following clause:

Vinny Cerrato will be terminated immediately as Executive VP of Football Operations and Dan Snyder will in NO way be involved in ANY football-related decisions.

Only one good thing will result from this year's underachieving and dysfunctional squad: finally the finger will be pointed at the men who are truly at fault. Which finger is up to you.

Carolina 20, Washington 17

Christmas came early for Washington up until halfway through the 3rd quarter. A forced fumble and INT - both returned inside the 5 yard line - were converted into 14 points. Add a Suisham field goal and the Skins put up the easiest 17 points of Zorn's short coaching career.

But... Carolina then scored 20, 18 of which came unanswered in the second half.

Campbell completed all but 6 passes for a 104.4 rating. The defense caused 2 turnovers and held the vaunted Carolina run game to 2.7 yards per carry. All-pro WR Steve Smith was more or less held in check for 65 yards and no scores. But once again, the Skins couldn't put together an entire game.

Seemingly, in every game, excluding week one at NY, the Skins have proved it possible to play without any consistency consistently. But how? On the face of it, JC is putting up win-worthy numbers. The defense generally carries its weight. The Ravens have been using this formula for the last decade. What gives?

It didn't help that Washington's most dependable player (Samuels) went down on the 2nd play of the game. The patchwork that followed sabotaged any attempt to run the football for the rest of the day. It also nullified Cooley's role in the passing game. DC gave up 5 sacks and 4 tackles for loss - that's most given up by Washington and most recorded by Carolina on the season.

Pathetic.

Did anyone step up in their absence? Nope. Portis? 57 yards, 3 yards per. Santana? 4 catches, 44 yards, no scores. The rookies, Kelly and/or Thomas? 4 catches, 27 yards combined.

And people are calling for Campbell to be replaced? Jump off a bridge. Todd Collins has a better chance of hosting Price is Right than leading that unit to victory.

Hard to give out props after this game. 2 for 9 on 3rd downs. 15 total 1st downs. 198 total yards and, once again, topped in T.O.P. 28:43 to 31:17.

Zorn's fault? Who knows. I'm jumping on the bandwagon to replace Cerrato. But that's only because Snyder isn't going anywhere for a long time. Gulp.

3 reasons why you can't blame Zorn

Alert the media. The Skins flopped again. Against another sub-par opponent again. Who's head are the fans and media calling for? Head coach Jim Zorn's... again.

Am I starting to believe that Zorn isn't the coach for this ball club? It's starting to appear that way, don't get me wrong. How can a man look so detached and so nonchalant despite his underachieving, seemingly apathetic ball club's disappointing performance week in and week out?

That's another question for another day (most likely tomorrow, that is, if he still has a job). On another note, here's 3 reasons you can't blame Mr. Popular for Sunday's 4th quarter flop in Carolina:

#1: FAIR CATCH INTERFERENCE?!? HELLO?!? I might be missing something here, but I was under the impression that no player, especially one being deliberately blocked into the return man, can impede the return man's attempt to fair catch the football on a punt.

A Carolina player unmistakably blocked #34 Byron Westbrook into Randle El after he signaled for a fair catch. As a result, the ball ricocheted off Westbrook's foot and was recovered by Carolina. 2 plays later, Carolina scored the winning touchdown. Am I missing something here?

Upon review, referees declared that the ball had indeed touched a Washington player and was, therefore, live. BUT THAT WASN'T WHAT WAS IN QUESTION! The play should have been ruled dead immediately and a 15-yard penalty for fair catch interference should have been awarded to Washington. What happened?

#2: Devin Thomas dropped a perfect ball, I repeat, a PERFECT ball from JC midway through the 4th quarter that would have undoubtedly changed the outcome of Washington's final drive. On 1st and 10, JC faked the handoff, turned and threw a gorgeous ball up the left sideline to Thomas who had beaten his man by a few steps. The 2nd year, 2nd-round-pick put both hands out and watched what little chance DC had at a comeback fall right through them.

If caught, the Skins would have surely been in Suisham's range for a tying field goal. Considering there was over 5 minutes remaining, Washington could have even possibly retaken the lead. Who knows? But before we move on, everybody thank Devin for further contributing to the idea that Campbell can't lead this team under pressure.

#3: DeAngelo Hall... 3rd and 8... over 1:30 remaining... fake handoff, naked bootleg right... do you see where I'm going with this? Never in my life, in my 20ish year history of watching football, have I seen a more pathetic effort by a defensive player to tackle the QB. Not to mention on the most pivotal play of the game. Not to mention when the defense needed a stop. Not to mention IT WAS JAKE-FRIGGIN'-DELHOMME!

Defenders are supposed to relish... no, salivate at the sight of a QB running in the open field with no blockers. Fletch would have crushed him. Orakpo would have flung him. Sean Taylor would have beheaded him had he not had the smarts to slide. What did $40 million DeAngelo Hall do? He got dragged 7 yards for the 1st down. Game over.

I don't care how much money has been invested in him. I don't care how many passes he's intercepted (they've all basically been handed to him to be honest). DeAngelo looked like a scared freshman high school player petrified of contact and, as a result, gave Washington's last chance for a comeback away. Way to show your true colors my friend.

All in favor of benching #23? Aye

Sherman Lewis's effect? curb your enthusiasm

New hire Sherman Lewis worked with Bill Walsh's 49ers, Holmgren's Packers and Denny Green's Vikings earlier in his career. Those were 3 exceptional passing offenses. Montana, Young, Rice, Favre, (Robert) Brooks, Freeman, Culpepper, Carter, Moss. But do NOT expect the Redskins offense to do a complete 180 this Sunday in Carolina.

Lewis was brought in as an "offensive consultant." In simpler terms, Snyderrato wants points ASAP and is becoming impatient with Zorn's play-calling but won't fire him just yet. What to expect? If anything, Lewis will merely help dot a few I's and cross a few T's. WRs might run crisper routes, RBs might identify blitz pickups a second or two quicker, and JC might hesitate a little less. But unless the head play-caller is replaced the only changes in this offense's performance will come directly from the execution of the players.

Here's what to look for Sunday when the offense takes the field:

#1: Offenses are moving the football on this Panther D. 267, 371 and 449 yards given up in their first 3 games respectively. Where's it coming from primarily? The running game.

Excluding Julius Peppers (who has been MIA so far this year) the only playmakers on this defense are the young linebackers Davis and Beason. The Panthers D-line has been manhandled in recent weeks and as a result have lost the T.O.P. battle in all 3 contests. Zorn has to use Clinton early and often this Sunday on every down and in all 4 quarters to maintain drives and keep Steve Smith and DeAngelo Williams off the field.

#2: Carolina is 3rd from last in the NFL in points allowed per game. The majority of those points are coming in the first half so Washington has to get out of their slow-starting funk to take advantage of Carolina's similar habit. Zorn would be smart to dial up big plays early to catch Carolina sleeping.

#3: Carolina is tied for last in the league in takeaways and is almost as bad in sacks and TFLs. They don't penetrate into the backfield and they don't force or capitalize on mistakes so Washington has no excuse for sloppy play or shooting themselves in the foot with missed blocks, turnovers or penalties.

Players to watch: The Panthers are giving up big games to tight ends and #1 WRs. Cooley will surely stand out and Santana will turn out his 3rd big game unless "Kelly Malcolm" (as Brian Billick would say) decides to show up and take it from him.

Carolina's favored but I got the Skins winning 20-17.

The new "maverick" defense

Is it for real? Is it here to stay? Or was it just because they played the Bucs and first-start QB Josh Johnson? Who knows, but I do think it's fair to say that the defense that showed up Sunday was undeniably better than the previous 3 weeks.

Yes, Tampa only managed 86 offensive yards the week before against NY but the Giants are no pee-wee defense. Tampa totaled 450 and 353 in the 2 weeks before that. No, they aren't Kurt Warner's Rams from 2000 but limiting them to 230 total yards (only 100 passing) is commendable.

Moreover, the defense fixed its 3rd down problem (2-13) and managed to put pressure on the QB. They forced 2 pivotal turnovers, registered 3 sacks and held Tampa scoreless in the red zone excluding the drive following Campbell's early INT. Those are the best numbers of the year for the Redskin defense.

What was the difference? I think Doughty starting over Horton, despite his impressive numbers, played only a small role. Rather, I think it was the noticeably more aggressive play. The DC front 7 finally got some penetration: 5 tackles for loss and 4 QB knockdowns. They also limited Tampa's running game- not including Johnson's scrambles, the Bucs were held to 88 rush yards (3.8 avg).

But my favorite change? Finally seeing D-backs in the backfield. Landry, Tryon and Rogers all made plays near and behind the line of scrimmage.

Most Impressive Player goes to Doughty for stepping in and stepping up: 11 total tackles and, more importantly, no mistakes. Props to Orakpo and Tryon for big games as well. But MVP goes to Fletch for the 3rd time in 4 weeks. He racked up 9 tackles, 1 sack, 2 tackles for loss and a QB knockdown. Did I mention he leads the NFL in tackles by 12? Should be no surprise considering he's the top tackler of the decade.

Ugly win? It's all a matter of perception

The Redskins are 2-2 4 games into the season. Their wins have come against arguably 2 of the worst teams in the league by a combined total of 5 points. Their losses were by a total of 11 points. It's fair to say it's been an ugly season. Certainly the majority thought Sunday's game was no different but maybe, retrospectively, it is their perceptions that are in fact distorted.

Ladies and gentlemen, these are your Washington Redskins. Quit expecting Super Bowl contenders for it is that mentality that has kept this franchise in the doldrums for the last decade. That same "Snyderrato" mentality that echoes impatience, rejects anything but instant results and fires every bit of progress before its effects can be felt.

Instead of considering Portis done for the year, realize his season-high 98 yards were the difference in the game. Instead of dwelling on close games with the Rams and Lions, be impressed with the defense's response to condemnation and new-found swagger. Instead of mulling over JC's first half, focus on his second half in which he led the offense on 3 scoring drives.

Context is the name of the game people. Here's what to take away from this team one quarter into the season:

#1: This defense is capable of carrying the team when they play like they did Sunday. Three weeks into the season, the fans and media left this defense for dead. They claimed they were overpaid, they couldn't stop anyone on 3rd down, they couldn't put pressure on the QB and they couldn't force big plays or create turnovers. Well "riverboat gambler" Greg Blatche and Co. responded.

On Sunday the Skins D held Tampa Bay to 2 for 13 on 3rd down. They recorded 5 tackles for loss, 3 sacks and another 4 QB knockdowns. DeAngelo's pick early in the 3rd was the turning point and Horton's fumble recovery in the 4th sealed it. Blatche's "maverick" unit was noticeably faster, hit harder and played more aggressively. Lastly, of the 13 points allowed, 10 came off 2 rare Campbell INTs, but they still managed to hold Tampa to 1 of 3 in the red zone.

#2: Don't put a fork in JZ and the offense just yet. Knowing Snyder and the fans, I'm nothing less than astounded that Zorn never felt pressured to replace JC during or after his first half performance. And it paid off. Campbell rebounded from arguably his worst half of football ever to throw for 160 yards and 2 TDs in the second. That's how you really develop a QB. He connected on big plays with Moss and Cooley, and extended drives with his feet on numerous occasions. Resiliency. That's what a leader does. That's accountability. That's dependability.

Also, Zorn finally called Clinton's number and it paid off. Although his 98 yards on 25 carries won't wow any fantasy owners this weekend, it was the difference on offense. Not only did a banged up Portis churn out 5 1st downs, his runs kept the Bucs D guessing and set up the play-action beautifully on Moss's 59 yard score and several Cooley receptions.

#3: The Redskins aren't a bunch of zombies. The offense and defense visibly played with more emotion on Sunday. The offensive line finally opened up some holes for Portis. The defense hit harder and played faster than it had all year. Young bucks Orakpo and Tryon we're spotted in the backfield taking down Bucs QB Josh Johnson on more than one occasion. Whether it's a back-against-the-wall mentality or simply playing with a chip on their shoulder, the Redskins responded and refused to throw in the towel.

As Moss crossed the goal line following his 59 yard TD reception he put his finger to his lips hushing the crowd at FedEx. He wasn't hushing the boos from fans that simply want their team to succeed. Rather, it was the observers that tuned in expecting Zorn's Skins to raise their white flag only 4 weeks into the season. Guess again.

3 Things the Skins MUST address before Sunday

The Redskins currently sit at 1-2. Yes, they barely beat the Rams. Yes, they lost to the Lions. But in reality they are 1-2 with 13 games to be played. Should the Redskins begin to panic? Of course not, but there are some areas that demand improvement ASAP.

#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.

Different team, better numbers, same result

Generally, I'd start this post with statistics that proved Washington's offense to be somewhat successful Sunday in Detroit. But that'd be the third straight week that Zorn's unit underachieved despite marching up and down the field. They find themselves 1-2 having scored only 40 points through 3 games. That's 5th worst in the NFL. But at this point no one cares about stats, we just lost to the LIONS.

No one can truly put a finger on it, otherwise the entire DC surrounding area wouldn't be calling for Zorn's head. The players insist the blame should fall on themselves, citing that their head coaches put them in the best opportunities week in and week out, yet they fail to execute. The fans swear the finger should be pointed at head ball coach and play caller Jim Zorn.

My opinion? Starts at the very top. At first, it appears the Skins have hit rock bottom but in reality, Zorn has begun his coaching career 9-10, the same as his predecessors Gibbs and Spurrier. Don't forget DC was picked to finish last in the NFC East by so-called experts.

In Snyder's almost 11 year tenure as owner the Skins have won the division once and made the playoffs only 2 other times. Snyder has gone through 6 coaches and numerous big-name coordinators. He's fired Vinny Cerrato then brought him back and named him Executive VP of Football Operations only to maintain the underachieving, unmotivated, alleged superstar roster that recently has turned into "Big name, no game central."

Should Zorn be fired? An argument can be made for both sides. Yes, he has all but abandoned the run on a team whose strength seemed to be running. Yes, he's made numerous questionable decisions concerning 4th downs and field position that appear so easy in hindsight. Yes, it appears the increasing pressure of scoring TDs is now affecting his play calling in the red zone.

More than likely in the upcoming weeks, Snyder will lose all patience and Zorn will be replaced as head coach. As a result the team will probably lose the majority of their remaining games and Campbell won't be re-signed in the offseason. What does this mean for Skins fans that accept nothing but instant success and playoff appearances? More disappointment, more roster turnover, more unjustified enthusiasm and more expectations that won't be met.

For those who refuse to accept the truth and honestly believe that the Skins are generally the better team but somehow find a way to continue losing, look around. Only rarely do teams maintain ineptitude: the 49ers, Dolphins, Jets, Broncos, Vikings and Falcons are all on the rise after years of playoff no-shows. But the Skins somehow always find a way to begin every season as a contender and end the season a pretender. Don't believe me? When was the last year Skins fans felt that their team actually exceeded expectations?

As far as a solution goes, I would understand the firing of Jim Zorn despite my belief that he should be allowed to at least finish the season for the sake of Campbell's and the offense's development. I do believe he will be a successful head coach in the NFL one day but it does appear that he lacks the ability to motivate and focus his team right now.

We could all be wrong if the Skins rebound from this loss and play the rest of the season with a chip on their shoulder. But barring a significant change in scheme, execution, and/or results JZ could be gone before the bye week. The only real solution is to round up everyone that actually shows up to win, not work. The players, not those "employed" by Snyder.

This has only happened once in Snyder's tenure when Sean Taylor died and the team finished the season like they had something to fight for, something to prove. It was led by the players, not coaches. Campbell, Portis, Moss, Cooley, Samuels, Griff, Fletch, DeAngelo. The Redskins lack a true leader. It's time someone took responsibility and led this team like a Peyton Manning, or Tom Brady, or Ray Lewis. Otherwise, another bystander will fall victim to the incredibly overrated and unjustified Redskin expectation juggernaut.

Tampa Bay truly has no idea what to expect. Neither do I.

Motor City meltdown... what defense?

22 first downs. 390 total yards of offense. Santana Moss finally showed up and played out of his mind. What the hell happened? For the second time this year the Washington defense could simply not get off the field.

Losers of 19 straight, the Lions - led by their rookie QB - marched down the field on drives of 99, 74 and 86 yards in the first half. 12 plays, 11 plays, 18 plays. Worst part is, on each of those 3 consecutive drives, the lowly Lions assumed possession inside their 7-yard-line. They held the T.O.P. advantage in the first half by 14 minutes! That first half domination was the difference.

I officially owe the Lions offense an apology. I simplified stopping them to merely stopping Calvin Johnson. #81 was more or less held in check but it was everyone else that seemed to take part in the offensive clinic ran on Greg Blatche’s unit Sunday.

Stafford threw for 241 and no INTs. RB Kevin Smith racked up 100+ on a Skins defense that excelled at stopping the run in the first 2 games. Bryant Johnson caught one TD and was involved in a crucial defensive pass interference that put the game out of reach. Efficiency. Props to Lions offensive coordinator Scott Linehan for completely exposing the Washington D.

So what happened? The Lions ran for 154 yards. They converted 10 of 18 on 3^rd down. Where was Albert Haynesworth? Where was that pass rush? Why is Landry seemingly nonexistent in run support? How could Stafford be allowed to scramble for 21 yards on a pivotal 3^rd and long?

Greg Blatche was simply outcoached. The Redskins were outplayed. They rose to the occasion in the last 2 weeks but became complacent and overlooked a Lions offense that unofficially passed the torch for Most Embarrassing Franchise Sunday afternoon. It’s the unheralded players like Horton, Fletch and Doughty that show up every week they’re called upon. The aura of superiority placed on big names like Haynesworth, DeAngelo and Landry needs to be reevaluated at the end of the season.

MVP goes to Fletch. He led the Skins with 16 tackles, one for a loss. He laid the lumber on more than one occasion. More importantly, he never missed an assignment. If only the same could be said for the rest of his teammates.

Bad, bad loss. It will be interesting to see if someone from the defense steps up and takes responsibility knowing what kind of hostility Jim Zorn, and most likely Jason Campbell, will face in the next few days.

Defending the Lions offense... or just Calvin Johnson

Rookie QB Matt Stafford is bumping a 40.5 QB rating with a league-high 5 picks. RB Kevin Smith is averaging 2.6 ypc. Can you see where I'm going with this? Lock up Calvin Johnson and the Lions reach 20 straight losses.

To Detroit's credit, the Lions are probably playing with their most balanced offensive team in years. Stafford was the smartest choice at #1 for the Lions who have regrettably started Orlovsky, Culpepper, Kitna and all-decade bust Joey Harrington at QB in recent years. Stafford has a strong arm and can make all the throws even though the only one he really needs is the one that gets it to #81.

6'5'' Calvin Johnson is a top 10 WR in this league but falls victim to a suspect supporting cast. Nevertheless, the man is still a threat especially after recording a 44'' vertical earlier in the year. DeAngelo is going up against his hardest mark of the season so far, by far.

As far as the running game goes, don't expect much from the Lions. 30 percent of running plays against the Washington D have gone for 1 yard or less this season. That stat right there deserves a moment of silence...

... Against a similarly talented Viking D-line, Kevin Smith ran for 83 yards on 24 carries. Against the Saints, he only had 20 yards proving that Detroit will abandon the run early when trailing.

3 matchups to watch: Calvin Johnson vs. DeAngelo Hall. Look for Landry to shadow CJ all day possibly looking for the big hit. I'd be shocked if Blatche left D. Hall on Johnson 1-on-1 but that is what he's getting paid for.

Redskins D-line vs. Lions O-line. Double team or no double team, that pocket will be gone 2-3 seconds into every play. Lions might run some screens with Smith- he's got nice hands and good quickness in the open field- but the Redskins will inevitably add to their sack and TFL total.

Lastly, there's a chance Blatche overemphasizes coverage on CJ. If so, the Lions have capable secondary WRs like former first round pick Bryant Johnson or receiving TE Brandon Pettigrew.

Matchup not to watch: former Redskin OT Jon Jansen- he doesn't start. Redskins win 24-13.

JC and JZ mic'd up

Courtesy of NFL.com: http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-films-sound-efx/09000d5d812dca56/Sideline-sound-Zorn-and-Campbell

This is a nice video I found that really shows what JZ is trying to do play calling-wise. Also it shows JC's other side- his competitive side. I think it does a little to affirm JC as a leader and is capable of carrying this offense. Either way, it's worth watching. Enjoy.

Lions preview

Redskins are favored by 6 and a half... only? Ouch. Zorn and Co. are going up against a professional team (allegedly) trying to avoid their 20th straight loss. So what if the Skins only beat the lowly Rams by 3 at home? That's more of an insult than Robert Henson could ever tweet. Here's what to look for:

Zorn and Campbell, despite the disappointing play from the rest of the offense, are officially on the hot seat. They face a team that has given up 45 and 27 points respectively, so production from the offense is expected to say the least. Brees and Favre have combined for 513 yards and 8 TDs against the Lions' swiss-cheese-D in the first 2 weeks so there is no excuse for JC not have a 100+ QB rating this Sunday.

But the playmaker has to be Clinton. He has yet to eclipse 100 yards and has been held scoreless this season. Some of that can be put on the O-line but Detroit is allowing 4.5 ypc on SIXTY run plays. In the first 2 weeks alone, on average, they're allowing 390 ypg, 134.5 of which is on the ground. That's not even junior varsity, that's pee wee. Gotta call 26's number this weekend Jimbo.

Randy Thomas is gone but I doubt his replacement, whether it be Rinehart or Montgomery, will be a glaring weakness. Look for Zorn to keep RBs in to block or chip before going out on routes. Anthony Alridge? The boy is FAST but he won't see more than 3 carries this weekend.

Players to watch: This might come back to haunt me but I'm calling for #17. JC is banged up but WILL throw for 250+ and 2 TDs with a high completion rate. Santana WILL finally drop the swine flu and catch a TD and Portis WILL top 85 yards and find the end zone.

Skins win 24-13. Look for Zorn to be overly aggressive in his play-calling after being called out by Sonny and the rest of Redskins nation. Maybe an extra green light on 4th down or some big plays down the field to get the media monkey off his back. It's now or never for Skins fans... as always.