The Redskins finally won a game; but did they really? It was a win by the skins of their teeth. The team avoided a winless season but the question of whether they won or not begs to be asked. The Redskins won a 17-16 contest over the Miami Dolphins and to call that a definitive win is a far cry to say the least.
The beginning drives of the games almost lived up to the title of “Tank Bowl.” Both teams looked anemic rendering several three and out situations before the first score. Redskins drew first blood with a 25-yard pass to none other than “Scary” Terry McLaurin. Scary Terry would go on to score again in the third quarter, this time on a 33-yard pass. Other notable mentions for the Redskins:
- 2 interceptions (Quinton Dunbar & Sean Hamilton)
- 5 Sacks (Collins, Allen, Ioannidis, Hester)
- 118 yards on 23 carries for Adrian Peterson.
This was one of the better games considering a victory. However, this game exposes the Redskins to how bad they really are. The obvious fact is the score was 17 to 16. Washington beat the worst team in football by one point? That is literally a win by the skins of their teeth. That should send concern all throughout Redskins park and realistically, had the two-point conversion been successful, the Redskins would be sitting at 0-6 with a loss to the Dolphins. Let that soak in.
More pressing issues, Jordan Reed still has not played. Reed suffered another concussion in the 3rd preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons and has not played sense. Reed has an extensive injury history, so there are concerns for his long-term health. Trent Williams continues to hold out and the front office refuses to trade him in a battle of chicken. This is hindering the team as well by shelling out money to a player is not producing, or even in a position to produce. Finally, the defense, which was supposed to be the strong point of this team, still struggles not only against elite and good teams, now against the lower end of the talent pool. Former head coach Jay Gruden was let go, perhaps it is Manusky’s turn?
Looking ahead, the Redskins will be facing a few familiar faces. It all starts this Sunday against the 49ers at home. Though they would never admit it, former coaches always look to stick it to the former teams. Kyle Shanahan is sitting pretty with a 5-0 record.
While doing a media call, he was asked what the best part was of working for the Redskins. Kyle’s response was that he got to work with his dad. The follow up as you can imagine was what was the worst part. His response, “Everything else.” Listening to Grant & Danny, Danny Rouhier pointed out something of interest. Kyle’s response was telling because he learned how to deal with the media from his father who was a master of talking and not giving much information but somehow satiating the media.
The fact that Kyle was as direct as that speaks against Bruce Allen’s “The culture is damn good” comment. In any case, the Redskins certainly have their work cut out for them as they look to win their second game.
