1 The Redskins were smart to have Robert Griffin III use quick throws vs. Buffalo’s defensive front. Griffin looked comfortable executing the plays; there was no hurry-up in his body language. That’s a stark contrast to many rookies, who tend to play too fast. Griffin did not. He stayed calm. The Redskins also didn’t have to use him on any runs, which is something you shouldn’t do in the preseason anyway.
2 Pierre Garcon may or may not make a big difference on big throws downfield. But he will make a difference when it comes to making yards after the catch. Garcon’s first catch showed just how physical he can be, and in any West Coast offense, a receiver like that is a big factor. He will turn shorter passes into long gains — and he even sought the contact. Garcon had a nice touchdown in the first quarter, but he can thank his blockers for that one: Left tackle Trent Williams occupied two defenders downfield, and Santana Moss threw a block at the line. Garcon just had to run.
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3 Brandon Banks is going to have to show a lot more at receiver to justify a roster spot — if the Redskins truly want him to help at this position. Banks slipped on one throw and appeared to stop his route on another, leading to a near interception of Rex Grossman. He also had a defender run through him after the ball arrived, jarring it free — this is a legitimate issue given his size. Niles Paul also needs to show more as a receiving tight end. His blocking was fine, but his hands were questionable. Meanwhile, tight end Logan Paulsen had a good night blocking.
4 Linebackers Ryan Kerrigan and Brian Orakpo do a good job playing off one another. Kerrigan’s sack came because of Orakpo’s pressure. He forced quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick up in the pocket. Because the tackles had collapsed the pocket, Fitzpatrick had nowhere to go, and Kerrigan, always relentless, finished the sack. Kerrigan’s hands looked a little quicker than a year ago, leading to more pressure.
