Redskins Preseason Game 1: first observations
The Redskins came out and routed the Buffalo Bills. Who the he'll cares after then third quarter. So what can we take from this game?
First, the thoughts of Donovan McNabb struggling encamp, well chalk it up to good quarterbacks simp,y being lazy in August. McNabb finished 5 for 8 for 58 yards and a nice 4 yard TD pass to Anthony Armatrong. McNabb was efficient and learned what many of us thought would happen, TE Chris Cooley will be his favorite target. McNabb showed poise on a gutsy 2 yard first down run and showed complete command of the offense.
Anthony Armstrong caught a TD pass, another critical short yard pass, and made a nice block. In other words, Malcolm Kelly is in huge trouble.
Trent Williams did a solid job tonight and played pretty deep into the second quarter. He put a display on with his mean sterol we mentioned here. He's going to be a good one.
Clinton Portis ran effectively. Ryan Torian ran better, showing burst and power, enough for one of our FORUM members to boldly declare he would be starter by week seven. Torian carried 15 times for 50 yards at this writing. He was impressive. Keiland Williams ran for a 2 yard touchdown, but the draft pick running back needs to hold on to the football.
Devon Thomas got a bit excited in the start, thinking he was playing basketball, going up for tip off on the opening kickoff instead of catching the ball. He recovered nicely later,breaking coverage for a 44 yard TD reception. At this writing, Thomas had 3 catches for 64 yards and a TD. More bad news for Malcolm Kelly.
Presumed starters Santana Moss and Joey Galloway had zero catches. Fred Davis had a TD catch in the second quarter.
For those out there, like me, that doubted Rex Grossman, he finished 11 for 18 for 142 yards and 2 touchdown passes.
Young 5'8" Brandon Banks took a huge step justifying a roster spot with a 77 yard punt return for a TD.
Defense, minus the opening drive, fit in nicely with the 3-4 defense, suffocating the Bills offense. DeAngelo Hall had a nice interception. DT Albert Haynesworth not only,led the Redskins out on to the field, but played with energy and all out effort. Four round pick Perry Riley had a nice game.
Overall, kudos to the starting and second strong offensive line that gave McNabb and Grossman plenty of time to execute the game plan and opened up running lanes. Best thing of all, Redskins came out healthy.
If I am Mike Shanahan, I am quite pleased.
More later.
