By Mark Bacon
The Washington Redskins fell to the New York Giants last evening before a nationally televised audience. Yet again. Their record on prime time games is abysmal. I can’t bring myself to look up the record, but honestly think they’ve won maybe 4 games out of 30+?
And beating the NYGiants? FDR was in the White House last time they accomplished that feat. They own us. If you thought otherwise, a blocked punt leading to a safety in the game’s opening moments likely convinced you otherwise. And it was all downhill from there.
Flush with the success against the Rams, “smash mouth” football was the new identity the Skins were claiming. But the physical reputation referenced — a simple, ground-and-pound game that made the start of this season enjoyable to watch — it was a trick that wasn’t fooling the Giants. And without superior toughness distorting action on the field? Washington, they looked like one of the worst teams in the NFL.
That bad; much worse than the 32-21 score indicated. The game was 25-6 late in the fourth quarter. The Skins weren’t able to simplify the game by establishing the run, controlling the clock and playing off their “Capitol Punishment” defense, their myriad flaws were revealed, a mess they had masked in the prior games by playing with incredible effort. But they don’t have the talent, the versatility or the composure to win — or even be competitive.
They can’t handle complicated. Play from behind? Nope. Kirk Cousins can’t throw them back into games. If there were any delusions about this team being better than advertised, last night served as a series of wake-up calls to the exaggerated optimism.
Washington’s new ground-and-pound approach, (MoJo, they call it, after RBs Morris and Jones) came with an asterisk. It’s not just a strategy. It’s a crutch. The team is rickety in several areas.
Fundamental, physical football serves as training wheels for this developing team. Take ‘em off, and Washington don’t know how to react. They’re bound to fall — and fall hard. Last night was a painful reminder.
If you like this story look for more great content from the Main Event Sports crew on our app! Just go to the Google Play Store or iPhone App Store and search keyword "Main Event Sports Radio" and you will have tons of blogs, videos, pics, and more!
For Android users simply click on the link below to download the Main Event Sports app today!
No comments:
Post a Comment