Redskins Training Camp — Day Six
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by
John Pappas
Today was a treat for fans attending training camp as the team went full contact for the first time since camp began. The weather was nice and attendance was near the number that appeared for Day 1 of camp.
After the standard stretching and squad drills the team started the 11-on-11s. During the 11-on-11s the team surprisingly began full contact with all ball carriers eligible to be tackled except the quarterbacks. This was much better for gauging how both squads are performing.
The team started at mid-field and then moved to goal line offense. Both the offense and the defense were able to execute on plays.
Jason Taylor had his best day so far, tackling Marcus Mason for a five-yard loss, and getting two would be sacks. While yesterday Redskins 3rd round draft pick Chad Rinehart did an admirable job blocking Taylor, today Rinehart learned how a 6-time pro bowl defensive end rushes. Taylor was quick off the ball and able to use his superior speed against the rookie. In run defense Taylor was equally as impressive, using his quickness and burst to shed blocks and hit the runner.
Andre Carter had a good practice as well, also stopping Mason (who got the bulk of the carries) for a loss and getting in the backfield. H.B. Blades had another solid day, prompting conjecture among some reporters that he may see significant playing time initially.
On offense Jason Campbell had another good day. His vision and comfort level seem to be improving and he was able to hit on some intermediate crossing patterns and seam routes.
Todd Collins seems to be struggling a bit to be consistent with his accuracy. What is not known if it is a throwing problem or issue with the timing of understanding of the new offense.
The receivers looked good today with Santana Moss, Antwaan Randle El, Malcolm Kelly, Billy McMullen, Burl Toler, Maurice Mann all getting in the act.
Mike Sellers and Nehemiah Broughton caught touchdown passes during goal line 11-on-11s and Rock Cartwright ran in one.
Referees from the NFL were here today to explain rule changes for 2008.
* The league is adding instant replay on field goal and extra points. For field goals, anything that is above the crossbar and below the top of the uprights is reviewable. If the ball hits any part of the crossbar structure it is reviewable, obviously in response to Browns-Ravens game last November.
* There will be no more force out catches. A receiver must have possession and both feet in bounds for it to be ruled a catch
* The league is implementing receivers in the helmets of one defensive player. This is the same system quarterbacks already use.
* There will be a point of emphasis on mutual respect from players and coaches. Translation - more taunting and excessive celebration penalties.
Injury Report
* Kerry brown - shoulder injury
* Malcolm Kelly - right hamstring pull
* JT Mapu - left MCL sprain
* Anthony Mix - right hamstring pull
* Cornelius Griffin - Soreness in the left knee
The Redskins will hold an intra-squad scrimmage tomorrow at Redskins Park that is open to the public. Scrimmage starts at 2PM.
John S. Pappas
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