What's With Flip?

0-3. Should we have expected this? Maybe. The first regular season game against the Nets, the Wizards exploded out the gate to a 21 point lead in the first half and then ended up losing. There's a dozen things you can blame for a performance like that. On one hand, you can blame the poor free throw shooting. At one point in the fourth quarter, the team was 18-30 from the line, missing some very important shots at the end of the game. No excuse for missing shots that are coined "free". Can't blame anyone else for that but the people taking the shots. Don't go throwing Flip under the bus for something that the players are solely responsible for.

However, how do you coach up a 21 point lead, and then lose the game by 6 points? The defense wasn't that bad, but there were a ton of missed opportunities on offense in the second half. Some of that can be pointed toward the players' efforts, but the majority of the blame goes to the coaching. One of his biggest challenges with the players is figuring out a guy who can't seem to figure out himself: Andray Blatche. A guy signed to a big, long term contract to show how much the organization believes in his talent, but can't seem to determine whether he is a "finesse" player or if he should get the ball "in the post." Personally, I think he IS more of a finesse player... and because of that, he has no business playing the power forward position... I don't care how big he is. Someone who doesn't take the pounding down in the paint is not really the person you want to help take the pressure off of JaVale McGee. And while we're on forwards, Rashard Lewis hasn't really been that effective either so it's not surprising to me why McGee hasn't been as effective as he could be... he doesn't have a lot of help up front until Ronny Turiaf and Trevor Booker come off the bench.

This is a very talented team. But it is a talented, skilled team that lacks discipline and chemistry that can only be remedied through time and coaching. For the most part, they've had the time. These guys were together most of last year. But the more I watch this squad, the more I'm beginning to think that they just don't have a connection with their leader that would cause them to fight for him to stay. There have been a number of teams in the past that argued or played in a fashion to get their coach fired because they refuse to play for them. Is that what's happening here in DC? I don't know. But with losses to the Nets, the Hawks and the Bucks last night (losses to Hawks and Bucks by 20 points), it sure looks familiar. This team hasn't won anything since Eddie Jordan was coaching. Jordan's problem was lack of talent when the team went back downhill. Despite it, he coached a group of mediocre talent to a much better record than Saunders has accomplished. He had the know-how to connect with the players to get more out of them than they thought they had.

When Flip was upset at the level of effort he saw from his young group of guys, he walked out of practice like an impatient parent. Then after a loss, he gets on the podium and rips each guy apart as if they don't belong on the team. Honestly, I'd have a hard time playing for someone who gave me the impression on a regular basis that they don't believe in me. Not saying I'd condone tanking the season until they change coaches, I want to see them win. But if that's what's going on, I can definitely understand.

Follow Me On Twitter: @NFLHustleBabe

Not Again.

The last two seasons he was an alternate. This year, we thought it would be different... leading the NFL in tackles for more than half the season. We thought that at last fans, players, and coaches would see past the popularity contest the Pro-Bowl has become to vote in the players who have played the hardest to deserve it. Now I'm not saying Brian Urlacher is not a all-pro player, but should he have been voted in before London Fletcher? Absolutely not.


Thank God that he already accomplished the ultimate goal in January 2000 in winning a Super Bowl with the Rams. The ageless wonder we in Washington have come to know and love has been snubbed yet again. From 2000-2009, no one over the span of those 10 seasons has racked up more tackles than this guy. On top of that, he's NFL's ironman, starting in more than 200 consecutive games at the age of 36, an age at which most players would be considered downhill or even extinct. He's still playing strong, hitting harder than his opponents, and even his teammates. He's still an outstanding example off the field. Even more amazing, after all the lack of success in Washington, he wants to come back because he believes there's something special here. Most guys at his age wouldn't even want to feel like their wasting their time with a 5-year plan in year number two. But not Fletch. Loyalty is more important.

A man who was undrafted in 1998 worked his way up to the respected figure he has become in the National Football League and a Super Bowl Champion. Multiple Defensive Player of the Week honors and multiple other awards later, this is not a guy who should have to wait to see if someone else that is going to play in the Super Bowl decides to opt out just to be honored as one of the league's best. Sav Rocca was undoubtedly the best punter in the NFC (probably the NFL). He didn't make it. Brian Orakpo and Ryan Kerrigan, at least one or the other, were deserving of a spot on the roster, but they didn't make it either. But even if no one else voted for these guys, if anyone on the Skins' roster deserved to be voted in, it's London Fletcher. He shouldn't to hope that he gets an alternate spot just to make it. He deserves better. He's a class act. And after fourteen years, he's more than earned at least that much respect.

London, Redskins Nation still loves you, even if everyone else doesn't. Thank you for EVERYTHING that you have done for this team. HTTR...

Follow Me On Twitter: @NFLHustlebabe

2012 Draft Top 9 Prediction

Everyone else has their own ideas/thoughts on what the top picks in the draft will be? Well so do I. Let me break it down by the current expected top nine teams based on polls and take it a step further by placing them where I think they will fall after the season:

First Pick - Indianapolis (0-13)
Last Three Games: Tennessee, Houston, Jacksonville
Predicted Finish: (1-15)... I think they prolly sneak out a win vs. Jacksonville, purely for pride.
Needs: The next Peyton Manning.
Predicted Pick: Andrew Luck. Yes, RG3 is turning heads, and Luck was the runner up for the Heisman for the second year in a row, but hey... Indy has already been casing this guy long enough... seems they have their mind made up.

Second Pick - St. Louis (2-11)
Last Three Games: Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, San Francisco
Predicted Finish: (2-14)... I just don't think they get it done with any of these last three games and they move up the list.
Needs: What don't they need. They don't need a QB. But this team is dead last in the league in sacks given up per game (46) and last in hits on the QB (96). Rams are also 26th in the league in rushing, just below 100 yds/game.  They are also 26th in the league in points given up per game (25.1) including being 24th in the league giving up 36 TDs. But they're 12th in sacks and forced fumbles.
Predicted Pick: Matt Kalil. If he really formally enters... lol. First he says he will, then changes his mind. He says he will formally enter. And if he does, if the Rams have any sense at all, they protect their QB.

Third Pick - Minnesota (2-11)
Last Three Games: New Orleans, Washington, Chicago
Predicted Finish: (3-13)... I think they beat Chicago. No chance vs. Breezy, Skins pull it out in their home finale.
Needs: This is a team that has the 16th ranked offense in the NFL... not terrible but they could use some help in the secondary. Team is tied with Indy for dead last in the league with only 6 interceptions and 27th in pass defense giving up nearly 270 yards per game in the air. Not to mention, the team is 30th in the league in points given up per game at 28.0, with more than 19 pts coming in the air.
Predicted Pick: Morris Claiborne. I think they've kinda decided they're set at QB, but they do have other needs.

Polls are saying Washington is in the 4th pick spot right now... but....

Fourth Pick - Carolina (4-9)
Last Three Games: Houston, Tampa Bay, New Orleans
Projected Finish: (4-12). Just don't see them beating any of these guys.
Needs: They have their QB... Offensive pieces. Need defense. I could even see them picking up Richardson. if he falls that low.
Predicted Pick: Trent Richardson or Dre' Kirkpatrick

Fifth Pick - Cleveland (4-9)
Last Three Games: Arizona, Baltimore, Pittsburgh
Projected Finish: (4-12). Just don't see em getting it done.
Needs: What don't they need... They could use a QB. Could use a RB (ranked 29th in rushing). They could use more offensive line help. They're 9th in total defense (including 2nd in passing defense). They just can't score points. Could be Washington's biggest threat at picking a QB if they choose to do so. But 33 sacks given up and 74 hits to the QB is a good voucher for other help on offense. They could even use a WR/TE.
Predicted Pick: Jonathan Martin or Matt Barkley... maybe even RG3

Sixth Pick - Washington (4-9)
Last Three Games: NY Giants, Minnesota, Philadelphia
Predicted Finish: (5-11)... They won't beat Eli this weekend as he is fighting for the playoff spot; They beat the Vikes in the home finale, and get blown up in the secondary vs Philly. This will drop them below Carolina and Cleveland, even though the Panthers beat them. If Carolina can find a way to beat Tampa Bay, then we get #5 for sure. We shall see.
Needs: QB. Just don't have a franchise guy. Won't REALLY win without one. I think they re-sign Rex, but Beck could be gone. Need OL depth. Too much shuffling going on. You can't have two right handed QBs and only one LT on the depth chart. That is a problem. Need CB/S. LaRon Landry was just put on the IR today to undergo Achillies surgery... Lord knows if he'll be back next year. I think they probably keep him, but he may not be as effective. Really could use a shut down CB more than another safety though. There just isn't one on this team as far as I'm concerned. Skins will continue to get burned downfield w/o a smothering corner.
Predicted Pick: Close call. Either Robert Griffin III, or Matt Barkley. I think Griffin is the more complete package once you factor in his instinctive athleticism, but a part of me tells me Kyle may not draft him. I think Mike would draft him, but we all know who's really running this offense: Kyle M. Shanahan.

Seventh Pick - Jacksonville (4-9)
Last Three Games: Atlanta, Tennessee, Indianapolis
Projected Finish: (5-11). I think they beat Tennessee, but give Indy their only win of the season.
Needs: Someone to protect Gabbert. Did anyone else see the game vs. Atlanta???  You have a top ten pick QB, and he's getting TRAMPLED.
Predicted Pick: Jonathan Martin (if available) or Riley Reiff

Eighth Pick - Miami (4-9)
Last Three Games: Buffalo, New England, NY Jets
Projected Finish: (5-11)... They beat buffalo but not the Pats or Jets.
Needs: With a new coach coming in... new regime, who knows. They may just choose the best athlete available at this pick. If Sporano was around, I think they'd go defense. But with the new guy coming in, everything could be different. We'll see.
Predicted Pick: Quinton Coples

Ninth Pick - Tampa Bay (4-9)
Last Three Games: Dallas, Carolina, Atlanta
Projected Finish (5-11)... I hope they win this Sunday and finish 6-10, but I dunno.
Needs: They have issues scoring (26th in league) but bigger issues giving up points (31st). The best defensive player available at #9 goes to Tampa. If not, If Landry Jones is still hanging around at number nine, they pick him. All that said, I think they find Josh Freeman some help and pick one of these high ranked WRs and stock pile defensive picks in the later rounds.
Predicted Pick: Justin Blackmon

I could be wrong, the next couple of weeks will tell. But that's just what I think at the moment.

Follow Me On Twitter: @NFLHustleBabe

#GTMAR Winners Circle

And now the 2011 Recipients of the Give That Man A Raise Awards!
*Update* - At the request of Mr. Anthony Armstrong, through the power of Microsoft Powerpoint, certificates are available for download for all of the winners by clicking on the category link. (Note: the online file viewer will not display the spiffy fonts; you will have to download the pdf to see it.)

And now the winners...
Drumroll please...

The People's Athlete
Phillip Daniels - @PhilDaniels93

When he's not in South Bend, IN cheering on his son's team or at Monster Garage Gym, he's commentating on all things sports and interacting with all of Redskins Nation. Of course, we'll never forget that four sack performance against the cowchicks (that was insane), but your communication with the fans lets us know that you haven't forgotten us either. Thanks, Phil! (Runner up: Brian Mitchell)

Best Post Game Commentary
Rick "Doc" Walker - @RickDocWalker

Whether on the sidelines or in the press box, good situation or bad, you can always rely on Doc to tell it like t-i-s. Thanks Doc, we can always count on you to keep it real! (Runner up: Fred Smoot/Brian Mitchell)

Die Hard Fan Award
Jimmy Beam - @JimmyBeamVA

If you don't know him by name, then you may know him by the tag he's created, "Redskins Disciples." Which also turned into a clothing line. I can recall a post game/practice interview where WR Anthony Armstrong was spotted on Fox 5 rocking the Redskins Disciples cap. Jimmy, you took fandom to a whole new enterprising level, and we like it! #Salute

Most Consistent Player
London Fletcher - @LFletcher59

A timeless talent. One of the hardest hitters on this team for years, not to mention one of the league's leading tacklers season after season. We all know that when he hangs up his cleats, it will be because he he said so. He works harder than anyone on the field, game after game after game and shows no signs of slowing down. Not to mention being an outstanding example off the field. Thanks Fletch, you're the gift that keeps on giving! (Runner up: Santana Moss)

Most Improved Player
Fred Davis - @FredDavis83

A guy who graduates a semester early from high school to enroll in college in the spring just to start training early is a guy who is pretty determined to be great. This year, forced to step even further out of the shadows of his teammate/mentor Captain Chaos, Freddy D went above and beyond the call of duty on the field. Besides his speed and athleticism to fly down the field mismatching any linebacker, he has also improved on his blocking skills as well. Here's to hoping this play making tight end can come back next year for all 16 games and continue to make a difference in this offense. Despite the obvious, outstanding job Fred! The REAL Redskins Nation is still behind you. (Runner up: Perry Riley)

Standout Rookie
Ryan Kerrigan - @RyanKerrigan91

I still want to see his birth certificate. I'm not convinced he's a 23 year old guy fresh out of college, lol. Everyone in DC can see that we got so much more than we expected out of this guy. He doesn't just get his own stats, he causes so much havoc up front that he makes everyone else around him better as well, just like he did at Purdue. Not to mention, Alex Smith and Eli Manning should be very, very afraid of him after this season, lol. We tip our hats to you, Ryan, the best is yet to come! (Runner up: None - Unanimous Decision)

Best Redskins Insider
We have a tie:

Chris Russell and Grant Paulsen  - @Russellmania980 and @GrantHPaulsen

We won't split hairs about them working for rival stations... these guys really bring it 7 days a week when it comes down to up to the minute updates. Even when you can't hear Coach Shanahan's live press conference, just follow their tweets for their personal transcripts, lol. Whether in the locker room, press conference, or on the sidelines, they both provide accurate and accountable news (and some funny photos) for everyone in Redskins Nation to appreciate and enjoy. You guys are killer... Two thumbs up!! (Runner up: Lake Lewis)

Best Blogsite
Hogs Haven - @HogsHaven

Nearly a unanimous vote, this blog site was voted on as the best this season for keeping fans informed. Just looking at the picture of those four guys about to line up brings back fond memories of the dominant era known as Joe 1.0. Great job, guys! (Runner up: The Hogs.net)

Most Underrated Player
Anthony Armstrong - @MrArmstrong13

Besides making more people aware of what triskaidekaphobia is or becoming known for blazing past defenders to make some of the most beautiful long catches the DMV has seen in a while, AAA has increased his value by stepping up big time on special teams. So next time Graham Gano or Sav Rocca steps in to kick, keep your eyes peeled for #13. Your bound to see Ant flying down the field to make a pretty sweet tackle or two. Kudos! (Runner up: Chris Cooley)

Rising Star
Perry Riley - @PR56

Last year, he was known as the guy who barely got his shot at playing and when he did, constantly got penalized on special teams for blocks in the back. This year, getting his chance to start has been nothing short of a terror on the field for opposing teams. Just try getting past him. I dare ya. Perry, we can't wait to see what else develops of your budding career. Absolutely fantastic job, sir! (Runner up: Leonard Hankerson)

Comeback Player of the Year
Donte' Stallworth - @DonteStallworth

Having been on a bit of a carousel ride around the league and suspended for a year, there weren't too many people who saw this much coming out of a one year contract with the Skins. Even after being cut for one week, his return showed just how much we appreciate having him in Burgandy and Gold. Sir, your veteran leadership and clutch performances have done more than just earn your roster spot in DC, you've made a new name for yourself and Redskins Nation is proud! [STANDING OVATION]
(Runner up: LaRon Landry)

Journalism Gold Star Award
Mike Wise, Holden Kushner and Matt Kazam - "7 & 9" - @MikeWiseguy, @HoldenRadio, @MattKazam

Simply hilarious. Kudos to you three. If you haven't heard the song, click the photo to the left to watch the YouTube video. I hope you've already relieved yourself first. LOL Thanks for the laughs, guys. (Runner up: Chad Dukes/LaVar Arrington for the Post Philly Rant - Part Deux)





Welp! That does it for this year's Give That Man A Raise Awards! Special thanks to everyone on the panel that participated: Chico (@Robataille), Micah (@MicahNile), Tiffany (@Tiffuhkneexoxo), Simone (@SimoneBett), Dianne (@DiLovesTheSkins), Jason (@DMVTeamCaptain), Manny (@Roccoskins), and Yatta (@DMV_Yatta) . Thanks again and make sure you give each one of them a follow while you're at it.


Till next year, hollerrrrr!!!

Follow Me On Twitter: @NFLHustleBabe

#Redskins Analysis: Roster Depth

One of the things that many people talk about that made Peyton Manning so successful in his career in Indy is the offensive line he has had. Mainly, the center, Jeff Saturday who has snapped the ball for him practically his entire time there. Having that sound, blocking signal caller in front of you definitely makes your job a lot more comfortable. And as important as Saturday is to Manning, there is another guy who has been out there Peyton's entire career there (at least up until the Super Bowl win) that is equally important: Tarik Glenn.

No, he doesn't get much credit publicly. Other than coaches, teammates and Indy fans who voted him to the probowl three times, no one probably really knows who he is. Yes, he's the guy taking calls from Saturday and Manning while they read defenses, but he's also the guy with one of the most important jobs on the offense: protecting Peyton's blind side. No one wants to take snaps wondering if they're gonna feel footsteps coming at them two seconds later. No quarterback should have to feel uncomfortable in the pocket. They should be able to have the confidence that the guy holding it down on their blind side is going to get the job done every. single. snap.

From 1998 to 2006, Glenn was the Colts' starting left tackle. He was drafted in 1997 and waited till the next year before he got his chance. Prior to him starting, it seemed to be a shuffle of guys filling in at that position while Jim Harbaugh (another right handed QB) took snaps. The thing I like here, is that even though Glenn didn't start in 1997, he was there. He was listed on the depth chart behind Adam Meadows, even though they had him playing guard that year. And when 1998 came and the Colts drafted Manning, Glenn continued to protect him for nearly the next decade. Sounds promising, right?

So knowing how important Glenn has been to that organization... the fact that he was waiting and ready to go when they asked him to protect rookie quarterback Peyton Manning, I have one question to ask Shanford and Son: Why on earth did you NOT have ANYONE on the depth chart behind Trent Williams this year? I'm not exaggerating... if  you can find their depth chart from August, it was blank behind Williams' name I mean, they put someone there after he got the high ankle sprain earlier this year. But if anyone can recall back to the beginning of the preseason, they had 90 some guys at camp and didn't keep ONE backup left tackle, but kept both of these right-handed quarterbacks?

Offensive linemen do NOT have an easy job. They have to stand up to some of the biggest, strongest front 3 or 4 guys in the NFL, plus pick off linebackers in defense of their quarterback and then some. In doing this, they tend to get dinged up a lot. Some of them may or may not express it while others stay down on the field in noticeable pain. So to have powerful depth at all five of these positions is extremely important. The two positions in particular, the center, and whoever is on the QB's blind side. I hope Mike and Kyle learn their lesson for the upcoming draft. If they haven't learned, they are about to for the next four games.

I'm just saying.

Follow Me On Twitter: @NFLHustleBabe

#GTMAR Awards Nominations

Here's the panel of our 7 Judges. If you're not following them on Twitter... you should be.


Chico - @Robataille 
Emmanual - @Roccoskins - http://www.roccoskins.com
Jason - @DMVTeamCaptain
Micah - @MicahNile

Simone - @SimoneBett
Tiffany - @Tiffuhkneexoxo
Dawn - @NFLHustleBabe

After careful consideration, the list of nominees are as follows:

The People's Athlete
Anthony Armstrong (@MrArmstrong13)
Phillip Daniels (@PhilDaniels93)
Brian Mitchell (@bmitchlive)

Best Post Game Commentary
Chick Hernandez (@CHICKatCSN)
Trevor Matich (@TMatich)
Brian Mitchell (@bmitchlive)
Fred Smoot (@FSmoot21SeanT)
Shawn Springs
Rick "Doc" Walker

Best Die Hard Fan
Jimmy Beam (@JimmyBeamVA)
Uncle Skins (@UncleSkins)
Tavon from 106.7 The Fan (@revredskin)

Consistency Award
Lorenzo Alexander (@onemangang97)
London Fletcher (@LFletcher59)
Ryan Kerrigan (@RyanKerrigan91)
Santana Moss (@EIGHTTODANINE)
Brian Orakpo (@rak98)

Most Improved
Adam Carriker (@AdamCarriker)
Fred Davis (@freddavis83)
Kory Lichtensteiger
Will Montgomery
Perry Riley (@PR56)
Darrel Young (@darrelyoung)

Standout Rookie
Leonard Hankerson (@HankTime85)
Roy Helu (@RoyHelu)
Maurice Hurt (@BiggMoHurt)
Ryan Kerrigan (@RyanKerrigan91)
Niles Paul (@Niles_Paul)

Best Redskins Insider
Mike Jones (@MikeJonesWaPo)
Lake Lewis (@LakeLewis)
Grant Paulsen (@GrantHPaulsen)
Chris Russell (@Russellmania980)
Rich Tandler (@Rich_Tandler)

Best Blogsite
The Hogs.Net (@thehogsdotnet)
Hogs Haven (@hogshaven)
Fat Pickled (@fatpickled)
Riggo's Rag (@riggosrag)

Most Underrated
Anthony Armstrong (@MrArmstrong13)
Chris Cooley (@thecooleyzone)
Logan Paulsen

Rising Star Award
Leonard Hankerson (@HankTime85)
Jarvis Jenkins (@Jarvis99Jenkins)
Perry Riley (@PR56)
Trent Williams (@TWill71)

Comeback Kid Award
LaRon Landry (@MrLandry30)
Donte Stallworth (@DonteStallworth)

Journalism Gold Star
"7 & 9" - Mike Wise, Holden Kushner and Matt Kazam (@MikeWiseguy, @Holdenradio, @MattKazam)
The Skins/Philly Post Game Rant, Part Deux (@ChadDukes and @LaVarArrington)

Inbox me your votes by 12/10!

--DH

#Redskins Coach Evaluations: Who's On The Hotseat?

The results thus far from this season cannot be completely measured up to the output of the players on the field, as much as people want to blame them. Yes, they are the ones out there and they must produce, but they are led by someone. That person gives them guidance based on their knowledge or study of the other team to make sure that the 11 guys on the field at that particular time complete their assignments successfully. It's their responsibility to ensure that in each play, each individual is put in a position where their strengths are used best in order to help their team win. At the end of the day, much like the quarterback, the coaches are given credit for the win, and also get the 21 questions and blame in the event of a loss.

Just thinking back at some of the things I've seen over the season, I thought I'd take a minute to give my own personal evaluation on the four guys that run the show in Washington (hey, Mike says he's been evaluating guys for the past two years straight... why can't I evaluate them??):

Head Coach: Mike Shanahan
Last season, he came in and was forced to play cards he was dealt. He had to figure out how to work with the people he had inherited, even though he felt some (if not most) of them did not fit his scheme. He did not come in to Washington telling Redskins Nation that it was going to be a 4-5 year rebuild process (even though that's what he told Dan Snyder: "If you don't have the patience for five years, then don't hire me."). He came in, trading for Donovan McNabb (which also prompted Jason Campbell to ask to leave after he heard about the news from a reporter -- not the team... many people report that he was put out, but wouldn't you ask to leave too???). He told us, "We're going to win NOW." It hasn't happened. I still would have felt more comfortable if he had told us the same thing he told Danny. All that being said, he has changed the culture of this team. He has an unorthodox way of working (somewhat dishonest at times in my opinion) but it got the locker room more disciplined, and got people to think and work together. Can't be mad at that. He's probably on the hot seat with half the fans, but he'll be around.

Offensive Coordinator: Kyle Shanahan
Kyle was part of the package deal. If I can remember correctly, Mike wanted to bring him in at Denver and they said no. Even though Mike said he told Kyle not to come here, you gotta believe in the back of your mind it was all a part of the master plan. Let's be serious. All that said, Kyle COULD be an outstanding coordinator if he learned to merge the abilities of his personnel with his playbook and took a course in clock management (I still think he needs a co-pilot). Last season, I still believe this team could have been 9-7. The games against Tampa, Detroit, and Houston were all lost on not managing the clock well. He even has made a comment earlier this season about not running the ball so much in the second half with a lead with saying that he wants to "play to win." Well, changing gears hasn't earned you anything yet, Kyle. As a matter of fact, if my own research serves me correctly, you haven't won a single game yet with that method (I'm not exaggerating). He's had some great games he's called, and then some really poor ones. And there's a whole bunch that start of great then he goes in reverse once the third quarter starts. I'd put him in the hotseat, but he's in the family business and dear old dad is the head of personnel. So, it's safe to say he's on "thin ice."

Haslett: DE at Indiana Univ. of Pennsylvania

Defensive Coordinator: Jim Haslett
This guy has probably done the best job out of all the top four guys. He worked through a rough transition to a 3-4 defense at the request of Mike Shanahan while everyone in the DMV was yelling at the top of their lungs to go back to the 4-3 that had made the organization such a tough squad to face on Sunday. The first year wasn't so hot, finishing in the basement of the NFL in total defense. This year was a complete 180 degree turnaround though. Adding strong draft picks to reinforce the front seven is the biggest reason why they have become what they are. However, he probably could have done a better job to convince Carlos Rogers to stay (even though it seems he was in a bit of a DeSean Jackson situation -- work hard for the pay raise and not getting it while watching other free agents come in and get broke off). I sure hope he drafts a guy to replace him. DeAngelo Hall's play last year thrived off of Rogers coverage skills. It allowed him to make huge plays and we just don't have that anymore. Still, the team is #6 in the league with fewest touchdowns allowed. All in all, Haslett has done a great job, in my opinion. He's furthest from the hotseat of them all.

Special Teams Coach: Danny Smith
If there's anybody who is on the bubble, it's this guy. Last season under the Shanahan Era, he did a pretty good job. Only a few mistakes. This year, it seems like that number has multiplied immensely. Half the people in DC are ready to crucify Brandon Banks for not getting in the end zone (I swear I see it every week on my Twitter feed) but it's Smith who calls the return plays and coordinates the blocking schemes. Banks is a super fast guy with a knack for finding the end zone. But he's 5'7", 160 lbs (maybe)... and he needs those other 10 guys to help him out. As far as kick coverages, they've done a good job. Especially with the additions of Anthony Armstrong and Niles Paul flying down the field making big plays along with the One Man Gang. Plus Sav Rocca is just a stud of a punter (who was formerly a placekicker as well when he played in Australia... I'll throw that in for free)... probably tackles as well as half the other guys on the team (by the way, did anyone see that tackle Graham Gano made last weekend?? THAT was marvelous). The thing that may nail him to the wall is the field goal unit. The blocked kicks, botched holds, snaps etc... it's too much. And Mike Shanahan has already deemed it "unacceptable" on more than one occasion. Everyone wants to crucify Graham Gano too. If everything else is right on the kick and he misses it, then okay. But you can't blame him when no one is blocking. It's Smith's job to put the right guys in there to get the job done. Then last weekend the purposeful short kick after gaining the lead in the third quarter was pointless and rendered 7 points for the visiting team. Really? Trying to hold on to a slim lead over the Jets by giving them 50 yard field position? That wasn't Gano's decision (which we found out later). It was Smith. His leadership this year in my opinion has landed him in the hotseat more than anyone else. I'd be very surprised to see him come back next year.

Follow Me On Twitter: @NFLHustleBabe

Dear Rex... A Letter To The #Redskins Starting QB

"Dear Rex,

What's up homie! I got your letters, I've just been too busy to respond. I apologize if I've caused any anguish to you waiting so long to hear back from me.

You seem to be doing a pretty darn good job coming off of the pneumonia! Yesterday, coulda been a little better as far as making decisions on which guy to pass to in your check-downs, but we'll work on that in practice. It does seem you've dropped the 5-6 lbs you talked about in the off season though. Good job! (sidebar: are we still on for beers later?)

I'm sorry about waiting so long to hear back from us in the offseason! I had no idea you felt that way. We never wanted you to think you weren't wanted or appreciated around here by waiting so long to get you a contract. But I don't think you will have to wait that long after this season. Now John, I'm not so sure. But it's nothing for you to worry about.

You seem really concerned with the lack of run plays in the game. I know I sorta let up yesterday on the run plays in the second half, but Roy already got his shine, I just wanted everyone else to get theirs too!!! I mean Fred, he had 99 yards... Santana made some good plays too... I guess losing sucks a whole lot worse than to continue doing what works to win. Oh well! Dad'll get over it.

On another note, Roy DID do a fantastic job, didn't he? They just didn't have an answer for the guy. Maybe I should have used him more and ate up the clock so the Jets wouldn't have an opportunity to score... Maybe I shoulda called a run play on that 3rd and 1 drive when Roy got the other 9 yards rushing..... naaaaaa! Why should I second guess myself?? I KNOW what I'm doing and I know you're on my side. Good ol' faithful Rex.

Boy, losing Fred and Trent for the rest of the year is really going to suck. I never thought Trent would be gone... which is why from the start of the season there was never anyone behind his name on the depth chart. When you have someone like Trent around, who needs a backup LT to cover your blind side?!! I guess Sean or Jammal will have to do for the next four games so make sure you build your wind up and be ready to run or Dad will try John again.

Well hey, I've gotta run. Time to find a ringer tight end till the end of the season and find new ways to dodge questions about clock management. SMH. If I hear that phrase one more time... I mean c'mon... play to win!!!

See you at practice,

--Kyle

P.S. - This game coming up will be a straight up shootout between you and Tom so get that arm warmed up too, I'm going to be getting our receivers ready to go deep all day!"

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Vince Young: The Anti-Rex?

If you are fortunate enough to have the NFL Network in your television programming package, then last night you got to see the theoretical end to the Eagles season. A couple of weeks ago, starting QB Michael Vick was taken out of commission with two broken ribs and head coach Andy Reid placed Vince Young in his position. For the first week against the Giants, it looked to be a pretty good move. Yeah, he made some mistakes, but in the end he put together a tough drive that essentially sealed the win for them, keeping the Giants out of being tied for the number one spot in the division. But last night was a lot different.

The Dream Team flew five hours out west to play a Seattle Seahawks team, who four days prior had just fell to the Washington Redskins. I'm sure everyone was thinking, "these guys are tired still, and they just lost to the Redskins for crying out loud... this game is Philly's to lose." And well, they lost. It wasn't a squeaker either, it almost was though. With enough time to make two scores in the game needed to stay alive, Young stared down his receiver for 3 seconds (I counted) while the opposing ILB watched him and attacked the ball and returned it for a touchdown to seal the game. And then we saw the facial expression above.

What it reminded me of, is Bad Rex. The guy who gets close and throws the game away at the worst possible moment. The same guy who went down to Dallas at the end of last year, helped put up 30+ points in Jerry's house, and with the game on the line, threw an interception. Young's staredown of his receivers reminds me of how Grossman stares down Gaffney from time to time, intensively waiting for him to get open. Usually when that happens, the result is what else, an interception. We haven't seen Bad Rex in a while in DC, and I hope to never see him again, frankly. Mean Rex has been hanging around since the whole pneumonia thing and we like him a lot better.

I just wonder if Redskins fans saw that game yesterday and became a little more thankful that Brucey didn't go after VY when he was released from Tennessee. There was certainly a lot of clamor for the guy. I never wanted to see him in a Skins uniform. The guy is a headcase in my opinion and would have been a distraction. Can you imagine how it would have been if he was here, got injured in a game, Mike/Kyle takes him out to keep him healthy and he throws another B.F. like he did in Tennessee? Tossing his shoulder pads up into the stands and flipping the bird to the fans??  Donovan McNabb was quiet about his and he was simply demoted to 3rd string. Young would have been given a one way Greyhound ticket after he got out of the shower from that game.

I'm glad we didn't go after him. I'd be curious to see if others have changed their minds after last night's debacle in the great northwest.That #9 guy in the Eagles jersey? He looked waaaaaay too familiar. Redskins Nation: COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS. Dealing with one Bad Rex periodically is a lot better than adding another one full time.

I'm just saying.

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Redskins vs. Seahawks: Which Rex Did We Get?

AP Photo | Ted S. Warren

Most of last week I had been waiting to see which Rex would show up at the Seattle game this past weekend. I think most of Redskins Nation was just hoping it wouldn't be Bad Rex. I would have settled for Good Rex, but I was really hoping for that Mean Rex character who showed up at the Dallas game a week ago brushing the dirt off his shoulder with an angry scowl on his face as if to say "Sexy Rexy's here and I mean business." That guy showed up and played like a man possessed. Ending the game with almost 300 yards in the air and a quarterback rating over 95. That guy had more than a big arm, he had better accuracy and played with attitude. Unfortunately they still lost. But I couldn't blame Rex. Well, at least not Mean Rex, anyway.

In Seattle, we saw a guy suit up in the burgandy and gold with a #8 jersey with Grossman stitched on the back and he came out and got over 300 yards in the air, completed 74% of his passes to get over a 95% passer rating again... Who was that guy? Was it Mean Rex? Or based on the two interceptions he threw was it merely Good Rex? He also had a fumble so it has to be Good Rex... right??

Or was it? We've also seen Good Rex carry the propensity to turn into Bad Rex once he loses his confidence or gets a little frustrated. We've seen Good Rex morph into the guy who throws four interceptions in three quarters. We've seen him 180 into the character affectionately known as Interceptasaurus Rex. That guy flat out frightens me. That was the guy who came to camp noticeably out of shape and had my colleagues and I referring to him as Hefty Rexy. Was this really the guy we got Sunday?  I don't think so.

I think what we got was Mean Rex with a couple of extra mistakes added in. We saw a guy make some mistakes (some more costly than others) but hang in there all sixty minutes of that football game. We saw a guy nail a pass 50 yards out in the rain before thousands of Seattle fans screaming so loud that even Trent Williams admitted that he had to read Grossman's lips in the huddle because he couldn't hear him. We saw a guy get pummeled by defensive guys all afternoon in the cold northwest while commentators made a stink about him fumbling the ball because of his small hands and he kept getting back up and fighting with his teammates. No doubt that was Mean Rex.

After the game, Mike Wise made a comment on twitter that the stadium had emptied out quickly and that the fans in Seattle had less faith in Tavaris Jackson than DC has in Rex. In one hand, it sounds pretty bad. Especially when you recall the same old Bad Rex guy who has shown up numerous times. Or even Good Rex for that matter. But Mean Rex was better than Jackson yesterday so I can understand the anguish of the Seattle fans.

Photo: @HomerMcFanboy

At the end of the day, he goes home Rex Daniel Grossman, III (yes, there's three of them and don't go calling him RG3 either)... but when he comes to FedEx or any other field to face a team, we hope (at least I hope) to see Mean Rex come out of tunnel. The balling, scowling, brushing the dirt off his shoulder, calculated gunslinger with enough Hefty Swag to fight for sixty minutes. He'll make a couple mistakes, but he won't give up. And I can live with that.

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Redskins vs Seattle: Which Rex Will Show Up?

That's the question to ask. Which one of these guys will show up this Sunday in Seattle? Clearly the guy who shows up in that burgandy and gold jersey with the number 8 on it makes or breaks this offense. An offense that has clearly proven to be suspect or non-existent. Let's hope the right guys makes comes to play this weekend.

Patrick Henry | Getty Images

Good Rex
Characteristics: Known for completing passes for a few hundred yards while typically throwing the ball away twice or fumbling in between good plays.

Other Aliases: Most commonly known in some circles as Sexy Rexy

Defining Moment(s): Most of the games he won.



 

Evan Vucci | The Associated Press

Bad Rex
Characteristics: The fumbling, bumbling, over-zealous gunslinger who doesn't think about passes before letting them fly deep down field;

Other Aliases: Interceptasaurus Rex, Hefty Rexy (due to offseason weight gain)

Defining Moment(s): Four interception in three quarter performance while hosting the Eagles in October 2011; Throwing a pick into double coverage to end the game vs Dallas last season.

Photo: @HomerMcFanboy

Mean Rex
Characteristics: The confident, swagged out quarterback who doesn't make many mistakes; fights hard till the end.

Other Aliases: Due to the scarce number of appearances, no other aliases have been determined but has been known to display a quality defined as "Hefty Swag"

Defining Moment(s): Most recent performance at home vs Dallas in November 2011; passing for nearly 300 yds including 2 touchdowns (one of which sent the game into OT) and running in a TD himself.

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Dear Kyle... Part Trois

"Dear Kyle,

(Sigh). I really tried out there today, buddy. I mean, I really, really, tried!! Only one pick! I wish I could have it back, but I felt like I really laid it all out there this afternoon. And it still wasn't enough. Man, this sucks! Our receivers stepped up big time today despite the injuries and all, and we still lost. I ran a touchdown in and we still lost. I passed for nearly 300 yards and we still LOST. Notice a trend here??

I felt our defense played well. At least the front seven. Boy it just seems like once people get past Ryan and Brian (hey, that rhymes), they can do whatever they want. Do you think Has will talk to Bruce about drafting a shut down guy (or two)? They just seem really lost out there and they give up a bunch of yards and they cause everyone else on defense to make other adjustments that seems detrimental to the team.

I know Graham choked today but boy, what's with DeAngelo? He had a really horrible game.  He couldn't cover up a lie! Then his comments were pretty scary after the game (a lot worse than mine after the four picks against Philly). The last guy that was here last year who said his play stunk and he should be cut was released the next morning. o_O

But I digress. There were some really great bright spots out there today. That Kerrigan kid is unbelievable! It's a really good thing he decided to stick with football and to leave swimming behind. I hear he has a really mean butterfly. He and Phelps should race in the offseason. Ha!!

Our receivers, boy they really stepped up. Donte and Jabar... wow. They made some real veteran receptions today. I do have one question on offense... remember last letter how I said we should use Roy a lot more on offense? Well, I'm kinda sorta suggesting it again because it would be easier for ATV to buy a vowel than a hole. He's really struggling right now and you said you'd put the guys out there who give us the best chance to win. Don't get me wrong, I'm not challenging your authority! And two thumbs up to the best offensive coordinator in the NFL for calling a great game today! You get a Grossman Gold Star!!!

Sooooo, what happens with Trent? Gonna need someone on my blind side. I don't like to work on the run! Although that draw play earlier was pretty sweet if I do say so myself... But back to Trent, man, I'm a little afraid now. Do you think you'll be drafting some more offensive line guys? Not saying that picking up these guys off the street is a bad idea, but maybe growing a group of guys together works a little better. Kinda like how Joe 1.0 built The Hogs. Again, not questioning your authority, just suggesting! (smile)

Well, I'm gonna get some rest. We've got long week ahead of us to build up a good game plan for Seattle. I am completely confident that me and you can get this done. Hail to the Rexskins Redskins!!!

Signed,

Rex (So what if I've got moobs, Sexy Rexy is back, baby!!!!)

P.S. - If DeAngelo is gone in the morning, can I have his locker? It's closer to the air conditioning vents... Thanks buddy!"

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Kyle Needs A Co-Pilot

A lot of people want to blame head coach Mike Shanahan for the blunders of this team the past two years. He IS the head man in charge, and he SHOULD take his fair share of the blame. The biggest problem this team is having right now is not returning and covering kicks on special teams, they do a good job at that. It's not even a monster problem with the #9 ranked defense. It's with the offense. And you can't put the majority of the blame on Mike when he allowed his son to fly solo with the offense. And even though he says he's involved with the offense and defense, with the Mike Shanahan we've come to know from season's past, we can tell he's not as involved as he should be (or at least as much as Redskins Nation would like him to be).

What about the pass plays called on 3rd and 2 and 4th and 2 versus the Eagles when Hightower was running all over them all day long? Can't blame Pop Shanford for that one. Kyle calls the plays. And you can ask the past few quarterbacks in Washington who have been under him that whatever Kyle calls, you run it. Exactly the way he says.

How bout the fact that there is no backup left tackle on this team? Mike gets some blame because he's the head of personnel. But Kyle has to ask for the personnel. As much as offensive linemen get banged up on a regular basis, and knowing that you have two right handed quarterbacks, why on earth would you not have someone to back up the guy protecting the QB's blind side?? This makes absolutely no sense at all. And if this drug suspension rumor is true, without a real left tackle in there, I am not convinced this offense will score another point this season.

And what about the games where they don't run the ball in the second half? In some research I did a while back, I found that basically if they don't run the ball as much in the second half as the first if they have the lead, they lose 67% of the time. That is not an exaggeration, folks. In games under the leadership of Shanford and Son, when this team has had the lead going into halftime and they refuse to run the ball as much in the second half, they have lost 67% of those games. Conversely, when they have the lead and the run the ball more, they have won EVERY SINGLE TIME. (Kinda makes you want to bang your head against the wall, doesn't it?) Again, you cannot blame Mike for this. These are Kyle's play calls.

I'm not saying Kyle sucks at his job, I'm just implying he hasn't learned everything yet. And he certainly shouldn't be allowed to run an entire offense by himself. He needs someone to pull his coat tail occasionally and say, "Hey buddy, we've got the lead and there's a crap load of time on the clock... let's get Helu some carries." Someone to lean over his shoulder and tell him, "You know since we need 10 yards on this play, feed it to Fred Davis. His size and speed is a mismatch for just about anybody covering him." A person to let him know, "You know, Rex isn't as mobile as John is. Maybe you should run more play action plays or something to get him away from the pressure." Someone to help him get over his phobia of the red zone. Some one to help him adjust those spectacular plays to the personnel he and his dad have chosen. Someone to be there to pat him on the back when he does well and still be there when he's not doing well and say, "Hey kid, this ain't Madden. Think about your plays before you speak into that headset."

In physics, potential energy is described as energy that is stored up in something. Like a piece of mass hanging in the air. The potential energy is a measure of the weight of the mass, the height off the ground and the acceleration of gravity. This is the amount of energy it COULD produce if it falls.

Just like Kyle, we see his potential. The plays he has stored up in that book he's put together. We have an idea of how much energy this offense could produce through him if used the right way. You can see he carries the ability to be great. He just needs a co-pilot.

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Give That Man A Raise Awards #GTMAR Nominee Voting

Howdy folks!

Last year I did a series of tweets online called the Give That Man A Raise Awards. No, there's no prizes for the winners, just recognizing folks publicly. Last year, it was just me and my thoughts and I felt like it would be more fun this year to get more people involved in the selection. Soooo here's what I've decided to do....

I'm selecting a panel of judges that will be announced once all the invites are accepted/denied. It will be an odd number of people to make it fair.

Each judge will need to nominate 5 people deserving of an award, whether it be a Redskin, Skins Reporter, Fan, whomever. There aren't any award categories, so make sure you say why you're nominating these people. You can inbox me with your nominations starting now, but I'll need them in by December 4. I'll post the list of nominees on the blog as well.

After all the nominees are in, the panel will need to cut the list down to the 12 winners and I'll announce them on Twitter and this blog.

A couple of last years winners were Chad Dukes - Best Rant and Anthony Armstrong - Outstanding Rookie Season (even though the NFL didn't recognize him as a rookie). There were plenty more winners, but I can't remember them because I never wrote them down. I'm trying to do better!!

I hope to announce these winners before Christmas if possible... So let me know what you think!

@NFLHustleBabe

Redskins Missing Person Report

The Redskins rushing attack has been absent the past couple of months and there's been a lot of shuffling of personnel because of it. Even to the point of signing a back from Dallas (did I just say that?). Even going into the fourth quarter of games with a lead, the Skins run game drops off from the first half, as if clock management won't win you a game or two. And in games where the pass attack doesn't exist, we have RBs struggling to find holes. Our most effective all around back went down a few games back against Philly with an ACL injury that ended his season. It was very unfortunate because he not only did a great job running the ball but also on pass protection. So then the rushing jobs have been shuffled back and forth between Roy Helu and Ryan Torain. I'm glad Torain is staying healthy as long as he has this year (knocking on wood). I'm also glad that Helu is having the early success he is having. He's getting better at pass blocking and has great vision on the field.

A couple of weeks ago, Redskins signed RB Tashard Choice and then didn't activate him. Which means, they only had two guys prepared to run the ball the last few Sundays: Torain and Helu. Nothing wrong with going with two backs... if you're anyone else's team. But this is a Mike Shanahan program. A team run by a man who believes the era of a one-back league is over. The same man who had at least 3 backs activated most of last year in every single game.

It's also been obvious that the run game has been struggling lately. This past game against the Dolphins, the team didn't have 70 yards on the ground... between two guys. I don't care who you are, that will NOT win games in the NFL. You have to find the holes. You have to be able to eat up the clock to give the other team less of an opportunity to score points because Lord knows, you're not scoring very many yourself. Plus it keeps your defense fresh. Teams that control the clock win football games.

We all know the history of running backs here the past couple of years and what devastating blows injuries to these guys were. So it's important to have more than just two guys activated to carry the load, just in case. Just in case someone gets injured. Just in case someone is having a bad day. You gotta be able to put in the guy who gives you the best chance to win... right Mike?

And there is a guy on our practice squad that deserves another shot. A guy who in four years at PSU racked up nearly 4,000 rushing yards on 600 some carries, 29 TDs, and the only back in school history to have three 1,000 rushing yard seasons. And he's not a bad blocker either. He's a guy who was doing pretty well during the pre-season before taking a blow to the head on 9/1 vs Tampa Bay (But apparently he's been cleared to practice so he should be okay). He's a guy who could come in and be a new unknown on a struggling offense in Washington. All this leads me to ask one question:


Where the hell is Evan Royster???


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Dear Kyle... Part Deux

"Dear Kyle,

Hope everything is well on your end -- well, besides the losing streak. First off, I just want to apologize for the four interceptions against Philly. Particularly how I handled the press conference. I wasn't feeling well, and I probably said some things I regret like throwing Fred under the bus or blowing off a couple of the picks like they weren't important. I acted immaturely and unprofessional.

Secondly, I'd like to thank you for allowing me to have a chance to redeem myself. I kinda felt like something was up around Wednesday or so when you gave me half the reps in practice with the first team guys... good to know you're still in my corner! I felt like I did okay yesterday. I'd like to have those two picks back... particularly the second one. A lot of reporters were saying the first one to Hank wasn't my fault because he was the one who fell, but I kinda felt like I may have let it go at the wrong time. He sorta started to trip up as I was about to throw, but I didn't think anything of it. It was a tough call. The second one, I was just really hoping Jabar would get open since that's the guy the play was meant for. I didn't even consider a second option, to be perfectly honest. Maybe he shoulda fought harder to get open, maybe I shoulda did better at checking down my other receivers, I dunno. I DO know that keeping the ball and running it in was out of the question. Do I look like John Beck? Ha!

I am feeling better now that I've gotten medical treatment though. That pneumonia was a killer! I felt horrible for the two weeks after that Philly game. On a positive note, I did shed those 5-6 lbs I mentioned that I gained during the lockout...

On another note, has anyone talked to John since your dad announced the benching?? I heard last week that your dad said he felt like he lost his swagger (I didn't know he knew what swagger meant!). It's really unfortunate. You know, I watched him a lot during the short training camp that we had and I noticed back then he couldn't complete anything accurately beyond 15 yards. Guess he doesn't have that Sexy Rexy Arm! I think Kellen Clemens kinda did, shame he couldn't stick around and get a chance to grasp the offense... oh well, more reps for you and me to work through! Just out of curiosity, why DID you guys decide to go with just two guys at QB anyway? I was kinda scared for John the past 3 weeks because I was sick and couldn't play. I heard your dad say that Terrance was the emergency QB... WHOA!! Said the same thing about Darrel. Nuts!!

I think Hank did a fantastic job out there today! He's a great target. I think he's really finding his way and I hope that hip injury is not a big deal. But what in the world happened with Ryan T?? I don't think he could have found a hole if he had a shovel. Maybe Helu should have played more... but I don't want to overstep my boundaries. You're the boss, Kyle!

I thought the D did a great job... well, minus some of those costly penalties and DeAngelo. I mean, it just seemed like he wasn't even there. Almost no tackles... nothing. And every time I look for him, I find Rak out in coverage and D blitzing. Don't know about that. But hey, I'll leave that to Jim to figure out.

Anyway, it's Dallas week now and I have to start getting some sleep. Going to be a big one this weekend! I promise I'll make you proud. Go Rexskins Redskins!!!

--Rex

P.S. - You never got back to me about that raise I asked about a month ago... I'd like to get a status update on that if you could. My wife is asking about extra money to do Christmas shopping on Black Friday next week. Thanks, buddy!"

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Oooo!! You Said The "R" Word! I'm Telling!!

Earlier this week in a press conference, Redskins Head Coach Mike Shanahan was asked if this team was rebuilding (just like he gets asked nearly every week). His response was, "Well, that depends. What do you consider a 'rebuild'?" I swear he runs from that word like it's profane language or something. Like he's afraid someone will come after him and try to wash his mouth out with soap.

Later on in the same press conference, he relives the time when his son Kyle Shanahan opted to come here versus staying in Houston, a team that had already become a proven system. Mike's words to Kyle, "I'm the one who told Kyle not to come... I said, 'This is going to be a work in progress, it's not gonna happen overnight. You're with an established team... you've got your ducks in order.' I said, 'We're going to have to rebuild this football team.'"

He goes on later in the same press conference to deny that they're rebuilding again. LOL. As if there's anything wrong with rebuilding. And then all I hear is "growing pains" and what-not. Last time I checked, "growing pains" are usually associated with change. But he still doesn't know what rebuild means, apparently.

Well, Mike, you wanted a definition? Here it is... straight from the dictionary:

re·build

1. to repair, especially to dismantle and reassemble with new parts: i.e. - to rebuild an old car.

2. to replace, restrengthen, or reinforce: i.e. - to rebuild an army.

3. to revise, reshape, or reorganize: i.e. - to rebuild a shattered career.

1. "To repair, especially to dismantle and reassemble with new parts..." Sounds a lot like what happened in all facets of this team. Dropped players who you felt didn't fit your scheme (which turned out to be quite a few) and picked up all new guys. Some guys fit your scheme and you felt they were too old for the "youth movement"... but I digress. Bottom line is, compared to last year's roster, there's only 29 guys who were here before out of the 53 man roster. That's a 55% change. In the construction industry, if you remodel a house more than 50%, you are required by law to make sure the house has a functioning fire suppression system (sprinklers) because at that point, you are essentially rebuilding the structure. 

2. "To replace, restrengthen, or reinforce"... Sounds like a rebuild to me. When you have holes you're trying to patch long term, you start fresh and draft them. When a street has so many holes that all patching does is make it unbearable to drive on, it's best to just start with fresh new asphalt. And they didn't do this?? Perfect example... the front three in the defensive line. It would have been all new had Jarvis Jenkins remained healthy. So the only guy who remained from last season was Adam Carriker (who is playing like an animal). Cofield, Bowen... Cofield's backup Chris Neild... all new. Replace, restrengthen, reinforce. Check.

3. "To revise, reshape, or reorganize"... When I think of this, I think of the wide receiving corps, which gets revised, reshaped, and reorganized every single week. Outside of Jabar Gaffney and Santana Moss who went down with a broken hand, there have been different pieces used just about every week. It began as The Moss/Gaffney Hour with special guest Anthony Armstrong. AAA goes down with a hamstring for a couple weeks, the frequent guests end up being Donte Stallworth and Terrance Austin. Now its the Gaffney Hour with co-host Hank Time and special guest T.A. in the slot... every week, it's something different. Before cuts in camp, there were 13 wideouts on the team. Out of those guys, 3 guys were from last year's roster who remained. Moss, Armstrong, and T.A. I'm not going to count Banks, he really just returns kicks (one of the few things that wasn't rebuilt). Now if that's not revision, reshaping and reorganization, I don' t know what is!

Mom always told me growing up that if you don't know what something means, to look it up. And It's wrong to say you're not rebuilding by shuffling in guys as needed, whether old or young. The bottom line is, it's a personnel issue. If more than half of your squad is different, then dog-gone-it, you are rebuilding. Just admit it. We won't be mad.

Besides, the dictionary says so. Don't believe me? Look it up for yourself. 

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2011 Midway Awards

I did this last year on my Facebook page but I will post it on my blog this year. Here we go....

2011 Washington Redskins Midway Awards

Offensive MVP: I actually had to put  my other winners down first and then come back to this. Then left it blank again to proof the rest of my post, now this is the third time I'm looking at this. I say that to say, I really can't find an MVP on offense, because there isn't any offense. So I'll have to go with the one player that if he went down it would be a gaping hole in the offense. I came up with two guys... Fred Davis and Will Montgomery. You can see my comments about Fred in a post below for the Most Improved. But we all saw what life without Will at center is like the past two weeks. We also saw what a difference he made last year when Rabach went down and he subbed in. He makes such a difference on the offensive line in terms of calling the right blocking schemes that if you move him to another position and put someone else in at center, you will know Will isn't there. Thanks, guys... keep doing what you're doing.

Defensive MVP: The Entire Defensive Line and OLBs. Even after rookie Jarvis Jenkins went down, Adam Carriker has stepped in and played like an animal. They've created so much havoc, these guys alone have brought the defensive ranking of this team from worst to top 10. Just work on stopping the run a little better to keep teams from stretching the field so much. Aside from that, outstanding job.

Special Teams MVP: Sav Rocca. This dude has an unbelievable combination of a big foot and precision that just makes other special teams angry. I have lost count of the amount of times he has pinned teams inside their own red zone (or 10 yard line, for that matter). Not to mention, he covers kicks well. A few times, we've seen his rugby skills come out and he dishes out some great tackles. Two thumbs up, homie!!

Most Improved: Fred Davis. This dude went from being as heavy as most tight ends to trimming down back to a wideout's size and it has helped him tremendously. Particularly with his speed. He has become a huge offensive threat because it's so hard for a LB to keep up with a guy that fast and big. It's a mismatch every time. Great job, Fred... keep it up!

Unsung Hero: Anthony Armstrong. I haven't paid attention much until lately, this dude plays special teams pretty well! If you pay attention, it's just not Lorenzo Alexander out there making crazy tackles on kick coverages, but Ant has made some key tackles (and blocks for that matter) that have made the difference in field position for the Skins and other teams they cover. The quiet, hard working guy from Carrollton, TX is still making a big impact, even when he's not going for a 64 yard catch. Fantastic job, sir.

Rookie Standout: Ryan Kerrigan. I swear this dude isn't really a rookie, he doesn't play like one. I demand a copy of his birth certificate. He's not a 23 year old kid fresh outta school. He's been here a while, I just know it. Great job, dude. Keep it up. You've already got my vote for the defensive rookie of the year (and the pro-bowl for that matter).

Best Coach: Haslett. (You didn't think I was gonna say Mike or Kyle, did you???) They could do a better job containing the run and tackling, but for the most part, they have kept this team in the game. It's a shame the offense can't buy a point majority of the time though. Thank you sir, keep making those guys better.

Dunce Hat Award: Kyle Shanahan. Dude has a great playbook, but just can't figure out how to morph his plays to the strengths of his personnel (or managing the clock with his play calls... 3rd and 2 you should run the ball, dummy... especially when Hightower was running all over the place on those guys). I kinda think that's done on purpose so his daddy will know who to cut. Seems like he's the real one running the team if you ask me. First runner up for this award was Rex Grossman for his comments about his interceptions after the Philly game. Particularly for having his "whatever" attitude/comments after throwing the picks (did he really expect to keep his job after that? I'd bench him too). Again, he would have been tied with Kyle for this award, but Kyle put him out there soooo... he got an extra vote for his decision making.


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