After a successful season last year and another high profile offseason, the Redskins entered the season with some experts saying they could possibly represent the NFC in the Super Bowl. Even Sports Illustrated predicted the Redskins to finish first in the division and winning a playoff game.
But after only two weeks, not only are the Redskins looking disappointing, they don't even look like they'll be competitive. One of the key reasons (out of many) is the absolute lack of a running threat. Offensive guru Al Saunders is known for his power running games which set up aerial assaults no matter who was the QB. So far, though, his offense looks no better than Steve Spurrier's offense.
Going into the season some even said Ladell Betts could be a starter on most teams. Others even said TJ Duckett could given a chance. With those two lining up behind one of the NFL's marquee RBs, the Redskins looked like they had one of the best RB tandems in the league. The most productive runner on the team so far is Santana Moss (4 rushes for 47 yards averaging 11.8 yards a carry), only he's supposed to be catching passes. Ladell Betts has more yards but is only averaging 3.3 yards a carry. Ironically, the leading receiver stat-wise is Ladell Betts with 10 catches. The only rushing TD is scored by, well, Clinton Portis.
But it's not too late. Clinton Portis is back, and Saunders is addressing the need to refocus on the run. Joe Gibbs mentioned the reason the passing game hasn't been effective is defenses are keeping an extra man in coverage taking away the deep threat because there is no running game to fear. Mark Brunell has thrown for no TDs and has a QB rating of 67.7. With Portis lining up, though, things are expected to change.
And it helps that we're playing Houston this weekend. Their defense is giving up an average of 127 yards rushing a game (though only two games) and a whopping 350 yards passing (thanks primarily to Peyton Manning). QBs have completed 68.5% of their attempts (73 attempts so far).
This is the weekend for the Redskins to gain some traction and develop some momentum, self-confidence and more importantly, some respect. It all begins with the running game and if it can't be established against the Texans, brace yourself for a long season.
