Video of the Day: DeAngelo Hall's Four Interception Performance Aganist Chicago

So Many Missed Opportunities (UPDATED)

Last Sunday night, the Washington Redskins let their golden opportunities slip away as they fall to the Indianapolis Colts 27-24. This was a tough game to lose since the Redskins had several opportunities to win the game, but their secondary struggled to catch an interception. Before I'll analyze on what could of been a season defining victory, let's look at the positives and negatives from this tough lost.

The Positives: The ground game finally became effective. Running back Ryan Torain had his best game of the season last Sunday. He had 20 carries for 100 yards and two touchdowns. Torain is the first Redskin running back to run for 100 yards or more since week 9 of last season. The defense and special teams find ways to kept the Redskins in the game. They continue to play physical, and committed 3 turnovers. Despite the defense giving up 469 total yards of offense, they found ways to keep the game relevant.

The Negatives: The offense was never consistent in critical situations, despite the defense helping them. Quarterback Donovan McNabb was still inaccurate in most of his pass attempts, and it was evident in the Redskins first offensive series. When the Redskins were inside Colts territory and about to take a early lead, McNabb under thrown a quick slant pass to Santana Moss and it was intercepted by Colts cornerback Jerraud Powers. That interception led to Peyton Manning's 57 yard touchdown pass to Pierre Garcon. The Colts had a 7-0 lead and never trailed the rest of the game despite their mishaps. The secondary could of easily give the Redskins the victory if they had good hands to catch the football. Cornerback Carlos Rodgers dropped two interceptions, and Kareem Moore drop one also. Rodgers has always been a great cover player, but he struggles to catch an interception. I think its a mental problem for Rodgers, and its so frustrating  to see him drop easy picks that can change the momentum of the game.

Overall: At least the Redskins made the game interesting, and they had plenty of chances to upset the Colts. They are good things to build upon from this game. The defense continues to create turnovers and gives the offense a chance to score with excellent field position. The Redskins might have found a decent running back, and the passing game should be effective as McNabb adjusts to the new play-calling schemes from offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan. However, the defense is struggling to stop the running and the passing game. It will be nice of Albert Haynesworth was active last week, but unfortunately, he was watching the game from the owner's box. So the Redskins are 3-2 in games that are decided by 6 points or less, and 3-3 overall. Not a bad start considering that the Redskins had a brutal stretch to begin the 2010 season.

Next Week's Game:  Week 7 @Chicago
Time & Network: 1p.m. on FOX
Commentators: Thom Brennaman and Troy Akiman

It is homecoming weekend for McNabb and Shanahan as they return to their hometown city of Chicago Illinois. Both of them played high school football in the Chicago metro area, and McNabb has a 4-1 record at Solider Field. It is also a matchup against one of Shanahan former starting quarterback from Denver, which is Jay Cutler. Cutler will be dealing with a bad offensive line, so look for the Redskins front seven to create even more havoc for Cutler. I also don't expect Torain is have a big game because the Bears are ranked thrid in the league in run defense. So Torain could have problems finding any holes in the ground game. This should be a close contest, but I think Redskins defense will win this game because of the Bears offensive line issues, and McNabb always find ways to win in the windy city.

Redskins: 20, Bears: 17

Week 6 Preview: Colts vs Redskins

The Washington Redskins host the Indianapolis Colts in a primetime matchup of division leaders tonight at FedEx Field. The Redskins are coming off a comeback victory over the Green Bay Packers, while the Colts are coming off a home victory over the previously undefeated Kansas City Chiefs. The Redskins are facing another top rated quarterback this week in Peyton Manning.

For the Redskins to have any chance of winning tonight, they will need to be consistent on offense. Quarterback Donovan McNabb needs to be more accurate on this pass attempts. I've seen him overthrow too many of his open targets. If McNabb corrects his accuary, then this offense can easily score a lot of points against a very weak Colts secondary. Also, the Redskins need to establish the ground attack, and the offensive line needs to perform better. The offensive line will not face a feared defense unlike last week's beating against the Packers, but the Colts defensive line is very solid led by Dwight Freeny and Robert Mathis. Tackles Trent Williams, and Jammal Brown, who were injured last week, should be ready to go tonight. Also, Ryan Torain needs to have a decent game on the ground in order for the Redskins to control the clock and keep Manning off the field.

Finally, the offense needs to score a touchdown FIRST in this game because the Colts are a hard team to come from behind. Once the Colts establish a early lead, they tend to control the clock, and the game essentially. Last week, the Colts opened the game with a 3-0 lead, and never trailed the entire game. They went on to defeat the Chiefs 19-9. The Colts had four field goals and a touchdown, and they still won by double digits. Therefore, it is extermely important for the Redskins to score as early as possible. I know that games aren't really decided in the 1st quarter, but they are playing against the Colts, and they rarely blow early leads against their opponents.

The defense has been playing very well this season, despite their only bad performance against Houston and St. Louis. The Redskins have held the Cowboys, Eagles, and Packers to under 20 points per game. They are ranked in the top-10 in fewest points allowed, even though the defense is ranked last statistically. However, the defense will have a tough challenge in containing Peyton Manning. Manning is one of the best quarterbacks to ever to play in the NFL. If he sees a flaw in coverage, or the defense isn't properly set, Manning will pick them apart and find a open target easily. Still, the Redskins will need to tackle better, do a solid job in pass coverage, and play physical for a full 60 minutes. If LaRon Landry has another superb performance, the Redskins may have a chance tonight.

Prediction: The major difference this week is the Colts. They rarely beat themselves, and Manning always find ways to win under any circumstance. The defense is their only weak spot because of their injuries in several key areas. Still, unless Manning throws for four interceptions, it is hard for me to pick against them. The Redskins are terrible in pass defense, and I think Manning will take advantage and have another huge performance tonight. However, a Redskins victory could put them in the driver seat as a early favorite to represent the NFC in the Super Bowl.

Colts: 21, Redskins: 16

Team Adverstiy Rules

For 45 minutes, it appeared that the Redskins will leave FedEx Field and endure another disappointing home loss to the Green Bay Packers. Despite their miss opportunities, the Packers were dominating the game on both sides and the Redskins offense wasn't in sync. But when the 4th quarter arrived and trailing by the score of 13-3, the Redskins were facing a test of character, coaching, and adversity. When the game ended in overtime, they all pass with flying colors.

Led by Donovan McNabb 48 yard touchdown pass to rookie Anthony Armstrong and key defensive plays by strong safety Laron Landry, the Redskins overcame a 10 point 4th quarter deficit to defeat the Packers 16-13.

There are so many factors on how the Redskins won. The Packers did beat themselves and had several of their key players injured during the game. Also, it is worth noting that the Clay Matthews did not play late in the 2nd half because he suffered a hamstring injury, and it changed how the Packers were attacking on defense. But the Redskins won this game because of two players; Donovan McNabb, and Laron Landry.

First, McNabb became the difference maker on offense despite his mediocre performance. The offensive line was abused by Clay Matthews and A.J. Hawk. Tackles Trent Williams and Jammal Brown suffered minor injuries during the game. This lead to McNabb being sacked five times in the game alone.  Coach Mike Shanahan was constantly switching players in different positions on the offensive line, but it didn't make a single difference. McNabb had barely enough time to convert a pass, so he did a lot of scrambling to avoid the pass rusher. This led to his throws being completely inaccurate at various times. McNabb could of easily avoid his own abuse if he had a running game, which was ineffective during the entire game.

Despite his issues, McNabb did made some big plays to spark the offense in critical moments, such as a 50 yard completion to Santana Moss on 3rd and long early in the 2nd quarter, a touchdown pass to Armstrong, and a 30 yard completion to Chris Cooley late in the 4th quarter to set up Graham Gano's game-tying 45 yard field goal. Nevertheless, McNabb found a way to get the Redskins back into the game. This team wouldn't win these types of games last year under Jason Campbell at quarterback.

Secondly, Laron Landry has really step his game in a big way. Landry had 13 tackles, a forced fumble, and a interception in overtime to set up Graham Gano's game-winning 33 yard field goal. Landry leads the NFL with 41 total tackles, and he was named NFC defensive player of the week. Last season, Landry was criticized for his poor play in pass coverage, and his personal ego on the field. Today, the switch to the 3-4 defense has transformed Landry to one of the best strong safeties in the NFL.  So far this season, Landry is playing his best football of his young career, and he could get a big contract extension by seasons end if he keeps playing at a high level.

Overall, the Redskins were involved in another close game for the fourth time in five games and each of them came down to the last possession. Three of those games were in the win column.  I know these close games helps the NFL in terms of TV ratings, but I would like to see Redskins win some games by double digits for once this season. I'm not sure of I can really go through another close one next week.

Also, whenever a team gets a good head coach and a decent quarterback, teams will overcome from adversity, whether its trailing by big margin or overcoming a key injury from a impact player. The Redskins showed it last Sunday, and it could lead to big things in a wide open NFC East this season. Eventually, the injury situation in the offensive line, the lack of running game, and giving up a ton of yards on defense will catch up to them. But if this team can find ways to win in close situations, then everything will work out at season's end.

Next Week's Game: Week 6 Vs. Indianapolis Colts
Time & Network: 8:20 P.M. On NBC
Commentators: Al Michaels and Chris Collinsworth

Colts quarterback Peyton Manning comes into town as a pair of division leaders meet up in a primetime showdown. Both teams are 3-2, and are looking to stay in first place in their respective divisions. A preview of this matchup will be coming up later this weekend.

Week 5 Preview: Packers vs Redskins

The Washington Redskins return to FedEx field this Sunday as they host the Green Bay Packers in a intraconference matchup. Both teams are coming off big divisional victories. The Redskins had a road victory last week at Philadelphia, and Green Bay escaped a close contest against the Detroit Lions.

The next two home games for the Redskins are against two of the best quarterbacks in the NFL; Aaron Rodgers and Peyton Manning. For the Redskins to win tomorrow's game, they will have to continue establishing the run game.

Running back Ryan Torain will get the start this Sunday, and he will need to have a big game on the ground to control the clock and keep Rodgers off the field. That could be possible because the Packers are ranked 24th in run defense, so I expect Torain to get the bulk of the carries. Also, the offense needs to be consistent and productive for a full 60 minutes. Last week, the Redskins had 17 points in the 1st half, but none in the 2nd half. That will not work against a explosive Packers team.

The Redskins need to have a balanced attack, and let Donovan McNabb create some plays down the field. So far, their passing game is the best I've seen in 11 years, and McNabb has proven that he can put up big numbers. Also, the offensive line could face a big challenge as they face the Packers front seven led by linebackers A.J. Hawk and Clay Matthews, who leads the league with seven sacks. The good news is that Trent Williams will back in the starting lineup, but the offensive line is very thin, and Matthews could create more problems for the run and pass protection.

Finally, this could be the game that rookie Brandon Banks has a breakout performance. The Packers have already given up a good amount of punt returns for touchdowns so far, and Banks could have enough firepower to change the momentum of the game. Sometimes in the NFL, games are won and lost on special teams. Hopefully, Banks can single-handily change the outcome of the game.

The defense will have another difficult task in defending Rodgers. The Redskins will have to create pressure on Rodgers, and make sure he isn't comfortable in the pocket. If Rodgers has enough protection, then he will no problem finding his receivers. The Redskins are last in the league in pass defense, so the secondary will face a major challenge in covering Greg Jennings and Donald Driver. But the Packers don't have a decent running back in the roster, so I expect the Packers to throw more often in this game, and defensive coordinator Jim Haslett to continue using the deep zone cover two formation.

Prediction: This game could be a shootout in the making. I think both quarterbacks will probably throw close to 350 yards in this game. However, the Redskins ground attack, and special teams, will be the major difference. Torain will run for over 100 yards and two touchdowns, and Banks will have a punt return for a touchdown. McNabb will continue to spread the ball around with his receivers, and more importantly, they will control the time of possession by running the football, and keep Rodgers in the sidelines. This will lead to a impressive victory for the Redskins against a perennial Super Bowl contender.

Packers: 28,  Redskins: 31

Note: Skins Take sends our condolences to Albert Haynesworth and his family, who lost his brother in a fatal motorcycle accident last Thursday. Haynesworth will not play on Sunday as he attends his brother's funeral in Nashville Tennessee.

Clinton Portis Could Be Done As A Redskin

Before the season started, there had been numerous reports on Clinton Portis in regards to having his best offseason of his NFL career. Portis was attending the offseason workout program instituted by Head Coach Mike Shanahan. After the Redskins brought in two veteran running backs, it appeared that Portis's starting job was in jeopardy. But Portis regain his starting running back job after intense competition during training camp.

After two forgettable years under former Coach Jim Zorn, Portis appeared to be rejuvenated when Shanahan arrived. Portis had a great relationship with Shanahan dating back to his first two seasons in Denver. With the offseason over, Portis entered the 2010 season in football shape and motivated to have a comeback season.

However, there were questions whether if Portis would stay healthy for the rest of season? Apparently, it didn't take long to answer that question.

This past week, the Redskins announced that Portis suffered a third-degree separation of his left groin and he will be out for 4-6 weeks. This means that third year running back Ryan Torain will get the starting job. So, does this mean that Clinton Portis just played his last game as a Redskin?

It could be the case for two reasons. First, Torain has proven he can carry the load and be an effective tailback along the way. He rushed for 70 yards and had one touchdown against Philadelphia last week. Torain has the potential to elevate his game this Sunday against Green Bay, and possibly solve the Redskins running game issues.

Secondly, and most importantly, Portis is getting old. He just turn 29 last month, and typically running backs tend to be at the tail end of their careers. Also, since he signed the contract extension in 2008, Portis has been gradually declining in term of production on the field. He fell short of 1500 yards two seasons ago, and he missed the rest of the 2009 season with a concussion. Portis hasn't really been a really productive back since 2007, the last time the Redskins made the playoffs. Therefore, this injury he just suffered is sadly not a surprise given his age.

So I expect the Redskins to sideline Portis for the rest of the year, even if he is technically ready to play late in the season. That is too bad, considering that Portis is one of the best run and pass blockers on the roster. But injuries will take its toll eventually on a older player. The good news for Portis is that he's getting $7.7 million in guaranteed money, but his contract for 2011 isn't guaranteed.

So, there is a good chance that Portis will not return to the Redskins next season, and it could be the first of a major overhaul for the entire 53 man roster. There is also a chance that Portis could have a successful rehab procedure and return in week 12, but I just don't see that happening because of his history of injuries and his declining performance on the field.

So bye bye CP #26!!! Thanks for seven memorable seasons!!!

McNabb's Homecoming = Success

Quarterback Donovan McNabb may not had his best game during his return trip to Philadelphia, but it was good enough to give the Redskins a 17-12 victory over the Eagles. Before kickoff, McNabb received a standing oviation from a sellout crowd at Lincoln Financial Field.  When he took the field, McNabb received boos, but it didn't stop McNabb from leading the Redskins into a productive drive.

During the first half, the Redskins were hitting on all cylinders. The offense scored a touchdown in their first two drives. Running backs Clinton Portis and Ryan Torian ran for a combined 169 yards rushing. Torain also scored his first NFL touchdown on the team's opening drive. Portis did left the game with a groin injury. Apparently, that injury is more serious then expected because yesterday the team announced that Portis could miss 4-6 weeks because of his third-degree separation of his left groin.(More on this injury in my next post!!)

McNabb had a mediocre performance. He went 8 for 19 with 125 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. He also had a 60.2% completion rate, but his eight completions was his the lowest in two years.

The defense played with intensity for a full 60 minutes. They basically played a cover two deep zone formation. That way, it will limit big plays from Desean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin, two of the Eagles best wide receivers. This formation work out well,  but it led to several open targets for Lesean McCoy and Owen Schmitt, who each led the team in receiving yards. However, the defense will remembered for the big hit on Eagles quarterback Michael Vick.

Vick was sandwiched by Kareem Moore and DeAngelo Hall while running towards the end zone. Vick will miss 1-2 weeks because of his rib injury. If Vick never suffered that big hit, this game could of easily had a different result.

Instead, the Eagles turned to Kevin Kolb, and the offense went completely inept for the rest of the game. The Eagles didn't score a touchdown until late in the 4th quarter. While Kolb made the game interesting late in the game, De-Angelo Hall ended the game with an interception in the end-zone when time expired.

Overall, the Redskins had to win this game and they did. My only concern is their lack of production on offense in the second half. The Redskins need to score some points to avoid another second half meltdown, and the win a complete game, something that this team hasn't accomplish this season. Otherwise, its good to be in first place and  have two divisional wins. Finally, since the NFC East is completely wide open this year, the Redskins could have a reasonable shot of winning the division. I guess parity is good for the Redskins so far.

Next Game: Week 5 vs. Green Bay Time & Network: 1PM on FOX Commentators: Joe Buck and Troy Akiman Another high powered offensive team comes to FedEx Field this Sunday. The Packers are led by Aaron Rodgers, who is putting some great numbers statistically. However, while their defense does a good job in takeaways, they are vulnerable on giving up big plays. Last week, they give up 26 points to the Detroit Lions. The Redskins will need to be turnover free and control the time of possession if they want to seal this game. There will be a preview on this matchup coming up later.