A week ago Jon Jansen said the worst thing the Washington Redskins could do Sunday was give the Detroit Lions hope, just a sliver that their fortunes would be turning around.
Well, early in the second quarter, the Redskins’ penalties equaled their points (three). The Lions possessed a 10-3 lead and, finally, momentum.
But just as Detroit could start thinking about winning a game, the Redskins awoke to score 19 consecutive points on their way to a 25-17 win over the Lions.
This win was more impressive than last week’s squeaker over the Cleveland Browns because Santana Moss provided two lightning-bolt plays - a 50-yard catch and an 80-yard punt return - for touchdowns.
Question: Even though the Redskins were down only 10-6, did this look like it was going to be a repeat of the St. Louis game?
Answer: A little bit. The Redskins were dominating the yardage statistics (250-95) only to have penalties and a turnover put them behind. But when Jason Campbell dodged a free blitzer and passed 50 yards to Moss for the go-ahead score, it looked like it would be tough for Detroit to rally.
Q: Again on Sunday the Redskins were unable to finish drives, scoring no touchdowns after three trips into the red zone. A cause for concern or just a rut?
A: Absolutely it should be a concern. Through eight games, the Redskins are averaging 364.3 yards but have yet to score 30 points in a game, and they needed a special teams touchdown against Detroit to break 20. When the schedule stiffens, mistakes like missed blocks, penalties and sacks will be tougher to get away with.
Q: Moss caught nine passes, including several on quick routes early in the game. Why is the passing game so hot and cold in regard to No. 89?
A: Maybe Jim Zorn realized getting Moss involved early helps everybody in the offense. It gets Campbell in a rhythm and makes defenses not put all their focus on Clinton Portis. Moss caught three passes on the game’s opening drive and finished with nine for 140 yards. As long as teams don’t play press coverage against him, there always should be an emphasis to go to him early.
Q: We finally got to see Moss on a punt return, and he cashed in with an 80-yard touchdown. (A) What took Moss so long to get out there, and (B) will this continue?
A: The Redskins’ trepidation in not using Moss on special teams is understandable: They could be cooked if their best receiver gets hurt. But his skill as a return man is so impressive that it’s a waste not to use him occasionally. Zorn reiterated that Antwaan Randle El is still the primary returner but said he will choose spots where Moss could make an impact.
Q: Four starters sat out with injuries, plus valuable reserve Ladell Betts. How did their replacements fare?
A: Mike Green made six tackles in place of Chris Horton, and Anthony Montgomery and Demetric Evans helped fill Cornelius Griffin’s big void. But the Redskins need Shawn Springs, Chris Samuels and Betts back as soon as possible. Stephon Heyer struggled at left tackle, cornerback Leigh Torrence committed a penalty to keep a Lions drive alive and Shaun Alexander (six carries, 11 yards) is still getting his legs. If Portis’ ankle injury keeps him out of the Pittsburgh game, the Redskins will be in big trouble.
Q: The Redskins are 6-2 for the first time since 2000. That season ended with a fired coach and no playoffs. What’s the level of optimism this time around?
A: It has lessened in the last three games. Sure, the Redskins are 2-1 during the stretch that followed road wins against Dallas and Philadelphia, but injuries are beginning to take their toll, and the Redskins’ usual problem of not having a lot of depth is rearing its ugly head. They have built themselves a cushion, but their remaining four home games are tough - against the Steelers, Cowboys, Giants and Eagles. But the four road games (Seattle, Baltimore, Cincinnati, San Francisco) should provide enough wins to secure a wild card spot.
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