The preseason was a dangerous illusion.
The Washington Redskins defense looked spotty, the third down defense vulnerable. The offense sputtered and the running game was non-existent. The Redskins deserved the 1-3 mark.
Yet, none of that matters. The Redskins could turn around when opening at the New York Giants on Sept. 13. Coach Joe Gibbs was notorious for awful Augusts even during Super Bowl seasons. Then again, some bad preseasons didn’t change come Labor Day.
What will the Redskins be this season? A passing team despite traditionally running? A dominant defensive line that doesn’t pressure the passer?
Not likely. Clinton Portis ends his traditional preseason boycott to lead the running game. Albert Haynesworth will show up to anchor the defensive line. The playmakers are the difference when the real games begin.
But the Redskins passing game showed enough life over the final two preseason games to believe Washington has a chance to reach the postseason. Quarterback Jason Campbell has his confidence back, and that makes all the difference. He has a handful of targets and an offensive line that provides enough time to throw. Campbell possessed neither late last season during the 2-6 finish.
The Redskins now have a three-sided offense. They can run with Portis. There’s a two tight-end formation now that second-year Fred Davis has matured. After having only Santana Moss to throw to late last year, Washington goes five deep at receiver. Second-years Malcolm Kelly and Devon Thomas both appear ready after injuries saw neither do much last season.
It’s the improved offense that must make the difference this season. The defense was already No. 4 last year. It can’t get too much better, though more sacks and turnovers would help. The additions of Brian Orakpo and Haynesworth were impressive during the preseason. But Washington showed some weakness against the pass, especially if Carlos Rogers’ calf injury proves chronic.
The Redskins need a 4-2 start to offset a tougher final two months. After the Giants, Washington plays St. Louis, at Detroit, Tampa Bay, at Carolina and Kansas City. Anything less than 3-3 is disastrous. The Redskins won’t be able to give away tickets to brokers after that. New York and Carolina are the only expected losses with the other four opponents not expected to reach .500.
The smoke and mirrors of the preseason are finally done. Maybe now we can see the Redskins’ real playoff chances.
Rick Snider has covered local sports since 1978. Read more at TheRickSniderReport.com or e-mail [email protected].
