LET'S BREAK 'EM DOWN: Redskins at Giants (Week 1 NFL Thurs. Night)
- Thread starter Ego74
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Ego74
1
Re: LET'S BREAK 'EM DOWN: Redskins at Giants (Week 1 NFL Thurs. Night)
Injury info:
REDSKINS
Injuries
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"><tbody><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">DL</td><td align="left">Andre Carter</td><td align="left">Calf</td><td align="left">
</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">DE</td><td align="left">Phillip Daniels</td><td align="left"> </td><td align="left">IR</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">WR</td><td align="left">Malcolm Kelly</td><td align="left">Hamstring, Knee</td><td align="left">
</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">DB</td><td align="left">LaRon Landry</td><td align="left">Hamstring</td><td align="left">
</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">DB</td><td align="left">Kareem Moore</td><td align="left">Hamstring</td><td align="left">
</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">LB</td><td align="left">Matt Sinclair</td><td align="left"> </td><td align="left">IR</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">DL</td><td align="left">Jason Taylor</td><td align="left">Knee</td><td align="left">
</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">LB</td><td align="left">Rian Wallace</td><td align="left"> </td><td align="left">IR</td></tr></tbody></table>
Redskins DE Jason Taylor (knee) is not expected to be ready to face the Giants. Another key defensive player, S LaRon Landry, did not play at all in the preseason with a hamstring injury, but was able to practice yesterday.
Injury info:
REDSKINS
Injuries
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"><tbody><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">DL</td><td align="left">Andre Carter</td><td align="left">Calf</td><td align="left">
</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">DE</td><td align="left">Phillip Daniels</td><td align="left"> </td><td align="left">IR</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">WR</td><td align="left">Malcolm Kelly</td><td align="left">Hamstring, Knee</td><td align="left">
</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">DB</td><td align="left">LaRon Landry</td><td align="left">Hamstring</td><td align="left">
</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">DB</td><td align="left">Kareem Moore</td><td align="left">Hamstring</td><td align="left">
</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">LB</td><td align="left">Matt Sinclair</td><td align="left"> </td><td align="left">IR</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">DL</td><td align="left">Jason Taylor</td><td align="left">Knee</td><td align="left">
</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">LB</td><td align="left">Rian Wallace</td><td align="left"> </td><td align="left">IR</td></tr></tbody></table>
Redskins DE Jason Taylor (knee) is not expected to be ready to face the Giants. Another key defensive player, S LaRon Landry, did not play at all in the preseason with a hamstring injury, but was able to practice yesterday.
Ego74
1
Re: LET'S BREAK 'EM DOWN: Redskins at Giants (Week 1 NFL Thurs. Night)
Injury info:
NY GIANTS
Injuries
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"><tbody><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">WR</td><td align="left">Plaxico Burress</td><td align="left">Ankle</td><td align="left">
</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">LB</td><td align="left">Danny Clark</td><td align="left">Groin</td><td align="left">
</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">DB</td><td align="left">Craig Dahl</td><td align="left"> </td><td align="left">IR</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">LB</td><td align="left">Jonathan Goff</td><td align="left">Back</td><td align="left">
</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">RB</td><td align="left">Kay-Jay Harris</td><td align="left"> </td><td align="left">IR</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">DE</td><td align="left">Robert Henderson</td><td align="left"> </td><td align="left">IR</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">WR</td><td align="left">Domenik Hixon</td><td align="left">Back</td><td align="left">
</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">LB</td><td align="left">Antonio Pierce</td><td align="left">Back</td><td align="left">
</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">DL</td><td align="left">Dave Tollefson</td><td align="left">Shoulder</td><td align="left">
</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">K</td><td align="left">Lawrence Tynes</td><td align="left">Knee</td><td align="left">
</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">WR</td><td align="left">David Tyree</td><td align="left"> </td><td align="left">PUP</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">DE</td><td align="left">Osi Umenyiora</td><td align="left"> </td><td align="left">IR</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">QB</td><td align="left">Anthony Wright</td><td align="left">Neck</td><td align="left">IR</td></tr></tbody></table>
Injury info:
NY GIANTS
Injuries
<table border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="1" width="100%"><tbody><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">WR</td><td align="left">Plaxico Burress</td><td align="left">Ankle</td><td align="left">
</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">LB</td><td align="left">Danny Clark</td><td align="left">Groin</td><td align="left">
</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">DB</td><td align="left">Craig Dahl</td><td align="left"> </td><td align="left">IR</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">LB</td><td align="left">Jonathan Goff</td><td align="left">Back</td><td align="left">
</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">RB</td><td align="left">Kay-Jay Harris</td><td align="left"> </td><td align="left">IR</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">DE</td><td align="left">Robert Henderson</td><td align="left"> </td><td align="left">IR</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">WR</td><td align="left">Domenik Hixon</td><td align="left">Back</td><td align="left">
</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">LB</td><td align="left">Antonio Pierce</td><td align="left">Back</td><td align="left">
</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">DL</td><td align="left">Dave Tollefson</td><td align="left">Shoulder</td><td align="left">
</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">K</td><td align="left">Lawrence Tynes</td><td align="left">Knee</td><td align="left">
</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">WR</td><td align="left">David Tyree</td><td align="left"> </td><td align="left">PUP</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">DE</td><td align="left">Osi Umenyiora</td><td align="left"> </td><td align="left">IR</td></tr><tr class="bgnone" align="right" valign="middle" height="17"><td align="left">QB</td><td align="left">Anthony Wright</td><td align="left">Neck</td><td align="left">IR</td></tr></tbody></table>
Ego74
1
Re: LET'S BREAK 'EM DOWN: Redskins at Giants (Week 1 NFL Thurs. Night)
Giants attempt to shore up DE position; ink McDougle
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica] The New York Giants shored up their defensive end position by signing former Philadelphia Eagles first-round pick Jerome McDougle. [/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica] The Super Bowl champions lost seven-time Pro Bowl selection Michael Strahan to retirement in June and then had two-time Pro Bowl pass rusher Osi Umenyiora sidelined with a season-ending knee injury a little more than a week ago in a game against the Jets.
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[FONT=Arial, Helvetica] [/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica] New York moved Mathias Kiwanuka from linebacker back to defensive end days after Umenyiora was hurt.
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[FONT=Arial, Helvetica] [/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica] A first-round pick in 2003, McDougle was cut by Philadelphia on Saturday. He played in 33 games in five seasons and had three sacks. He missed all of last season with a triceps injury and was out for all of 2005 after being shot in the abdomen during a robbery during the offseason.
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[FONT=Arial, Helvetica] [/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica] "It is great. Defending Super Bowl champs I look good in blue," McDougle said. "I feel good to be here, staying in the division, so not really much of a difference as far as guys you are going against, and I just feel good to be here, to be wanted, and I am just looking forward to doing some good things on this defense."
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[FONT=Arial, Helvetica] [/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica] Coming to the Giants, McDougle will played under defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, who was a linebacker and defensive backs coach with the Eagles until being hired by New York.
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[FONT=Arial, Helvetica] [/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica] "Coach Spags has done a good job here," McDougle said. "He really gets after it and kind of put his own niche on kind of the defense that we were running there in Philly. It is good for me because there is a lot of movement, which allows for guys like me a chance to kind of move and get after the quarterback a little bit." [/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica] [/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica] To make room for McDougle on the 53-man roster, the Giants waived defensive tackle Rodney Leisle. [/FONT]
http://www.sportsline.com/nfl/story/10955377
Giants attempt to shore up DE position; ink McDougle
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica] The New York Giants shored up their defensive end position by signing former Philadelphia Eagles first-round pick Jerome McDougle. [/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica] The Super Bowl champions lost seven-time Pro Bowl selection Michael Strahan to retirement in June and then had two-time Pro Bowl pass rusher Osi Umenyiora sidelined with a season-ending knee injury a little more than a week ago in a game against the Jets.
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[FONT=Arial, Helvetica] [/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica] New York moved Mathias Kiwanuka from linebacker back to defensive end days after Umenyiora was hurt.
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[FONT=Arial, Helvetica] [/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica] A first-round pick in 2003, McDougle was cut by Philadelphia on Saturday. He played in 33 games in five seasons and had three sacks. He missed all of last season with a triceps injury and was out for all of 2005 after being shot in the abdomen during a robbery during the offseason.
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[FONT=Arial, Helvetica] [/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica] "It is great. Defending Super Bowl champs I look good in blue," McDougle said. "I feel good to be here, staying in the division, so not really much of a difference as far as guys you are going against, and I just feel good to be here, to be wanted, and I am just looking forward to doing some good things on this defense."
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[FONT=Arial, Helvetica] [/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica] Coming to the Giants, McDougle will played under defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, who was a linebacker and defensive backs coach with the Eagles until being hired by New York.
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[FONT=Arial, Helvetica] [/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica] "Coach Spags has done a good job here," McDougle said. "He really gets after it and kind of put his own niche on kind of the defense that we were running there in Philly. It is good for me because there is a lot of movement, which allows for guys like me a chance to kind of move and get after the quarterback a little bit." [/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica] [/FONT][FONT=Arial, Helvetica] To make room for McDougle on the 53-man roster, the Giants waived defensive tackle Rodney Leisle. [/FONT]
http://www.sportsline.com/nfl/story/10955377
Ego74
1
Re: LET'S BREAK 'EM DOWN: Redskins at Giants (Week 1 NFL Thurs. Night)
REDSKINS UNIT-BY-UNIT ANALYSIS
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]UNIT-BY-UNIT ANALYSIS[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]QUARTERBACKS
Starter - Jason Campbell. Backups - Todd Collins, Colt Brennan.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]The strong-armed Campbell has shown flashes of greatness in his 20 starts but has yet to develop consistency. Not naturally vocal, Campbell is still also developing as a leader. Still, Campbell is well ahead of where Matt Hasselbeck was when Zorn began working with Seattle's star quarterback in 2001 and had a solid camp. After hardly playing for a decade, Collins stepped in when Campbell dislocated a knee and was the NFC Offensive Player of The Month in December in leading Washington to a 4-0 record. Sixth-rounder Brennan, who put up huge numbers at Hawaii, had some big moments in preseason.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]RUNNING BACKS
Starters - HB Clinton Portis, FB Mike Sellers. Backups - Ladell Betts, Rock Cartwright, Marcus Mason.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]The shifty Portis, a three-time, 1,500-yard runner, rebounded from an injury-shortened 2006 and from missing the 2007 preseason with a sprained knee to finish third in the NFC in rushing and catch a career-high 47 passes. However, Portis, who's about to be 27, also slipped to a career-low 3.9 yards per carry with all that work and wasn't that effective this preseason. The more physical Betts was a revelation after Portis was hurt midway through 2006 but an afterthought in 2007. Sellers is athletic despite his 278 pounds and can be effective in short yardage. The squatty Cartwright is a special teams standout. Mason is also undersized, but his strong preseason earned the 2007 practice squad member a spot.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]TIGHT ENDS
Starter - Chris Cooley. Backups - Todd Yoder, Fred Davis.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Cooley, who turned 26 this month, led the Redskins with 66 catches, eight for touchdowns while being chosen for his first Pro Bowl last season. Davis was the nation's top tight end as a senior at USC but the West Coast offense isn't usually tight end-centric so it's hard to understand why the Redskins used a second-round pick on him instead of on a defensive lineman or a linebacker. Yoder is a reliable blocking tight end.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]WIDE RECEIVERS
Starters - Santana Moss, Antwaan Randle El. Backups - James Thrash, Devin Thomas, Malcolm Kelly, Billy McMullen.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]The speedy Moss, a Pro Bowl pick during his record-setting Redskins debut in 2005, has been nagged by muscle pulls since. The jitterbug-like Randle El set career highs in catches and yards last season but only scored one touchdown, had a knee scoped in June and had some nagging ailments this summer. Since Moss and Randle El are both just 5-foot-10, the Redskins drafted the 6-2 Thomas, who had a monster 2007 season at Michigan State, and fellow second-rounder Kelly (6-4). Thomas missed a couple of weeks of camp with a hamstring. Kelly missed almost the entire preseason with a hamstring and then a scope. In their absences, veteran Thrash solidified his No. 3 receiver spot. Former Eagle McMullen, Washington's leading receiver this summer, could stick until Kelly shows he's ready to contribute.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]OFFENSIVE LINE
Starters - LT Chris Samuels, LG Pete Kendall, C Casey Rabach, RG Randy Thomas, RT Jon Jansen. Backups - T Stephon Heyer, G/T Jason Fabini, G/T Chad Rinehart, C/G Justin Geisinger.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Samuels missed the 2006 preseason with a sprained knee but rebounded to make his fifth Pro Bowl in eight years. He was beaten badly by Carolina's Julius Peppers during preseason. Kendall filled the left guard void after being acquired from the Jets last August. He's 35 but didn't miss a practice this summer despite bad knees. Rabach remains the line's glue. Thomas, coming off a torn triceps, and Jansen, coming off a broken leg, hardly played in 2007 and are both 32. Thomas is back, but Jansen sprained his right foot against the Panthers. He should be back for the opener, but this is the fifth straight year he's been hurt. Veterans Fabini, who started most of 2007 in place of Thomas, 2007 rookie free agent surprise Heyer and third-rounder Rinehart provide depth. Former Titan Geisinger's shift to center from guard might sneak him onto the roster ahead of veteran tackle Todd Wade.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]DEFENSIVE LINE
Starters - LDE Jason Taylor, LDT Cornelius Griffin, RDT Kedric Golston, RDE Andre Carter. Backups - DT Anthony Montgomery, DE Demetric Evans, DE Erasmus James, DT Lorenzo Alexander, DE Chris Wilson.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]The Redskins traded for six-time Pro Bowl pick Taylor almost as soon as defensive end Phillip Daniels was lost for the season with a torn ACL on the first day of camp. Taylor gave his new team a scare with his own knee injury on Aug. 23 at Carolina but it was only a sprain and he should return by Week 2. Taylor (11 sacks in 2007) and Carter (10.5) could give the Redskins their top bookends since the Dexter Manley-Charles Mann partnership broke up in 1989. The negative is that neither Taylor or Carter is much of a run-stopper. That's where the veteran Griffin, who's the healthiest he's been since his career year of 2004, and Golston, who wrested back the job he had in 2006 from 2007 starter Montgomery, need to excel. Evans is reliable outside and will play inside on passing downs. Montgomery is more of a specimen than Golston and will play a lot. Former Vikings first-round pick James needs to prove he can stay healthy after major knee surgeries the past two years. Alexander, who played both sides of the ball in 2007, had a good camp. Wilson's four sacks in limited duty in 2007 might just be enough for him to remain ahead of seventh-round pick
Rob Jackson despite a nearly invisible summer.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]LINEBACKERS
Starters - SLB Marcus Washington, MLB London Fletcher, WLB Rocky McIntosh. Backups - Khary Campbell, H.B. Blades.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]The athletic Washington was the Redskins' best defensive player until his body began to betray him in December 2006. Injuries plagued him again throughout 2007 and his hip flexor briefly flared again this summer. Fletcher is just 5-10 and has turned 33, but he was an instant leader on and off the field in his first season in Washington. McIntosh has recovered from the torn ACL that ended his first year as a starter last December. If healthy, the starters are fine. Depth is a question mark with only top special teams tackler Campbell and vertically challenged 2007 rookie Blades, sure to make the team. The sixth linebacker might well not have been on Washington's roster yet.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]DEFENSIVE BACKS
Starters - LCB Shawn Springs, RCB Carlos Rogers, SS Reed Doughty, FS LaRon Landry. Backups - CB Fred Smoot, S Kareem Moore, CB Leigh Torrence, S Chris Horton, CB Justin Tryon.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]This group survived the murder of Pro Bowl FS Sean Taylor and the season-ending knee injury to Rogers to have a solid 2007. Landry, who moved from SS to replace Taylor as a rookie, missed almost all of camp and preseason with a hamstring but can cover a lot of ground and hit like a truck. Doughty, who became a starter after Taylor was lost, needs to rely on his smarts. Springs remains an elite corner at 33 and showed this summer that he can play safety if necessary. Rogers made a remarkable recovery and will start ahead of former starter Smoot, giving the Redskins three strong corners. Torrence is fast but needs to work on his technique. Moore flashed playmaking ability while starting for Landry in preseason. The hard-hitting Horton will be a presence on teams. The short but cocky Tryon likely won the battle for the final spot because he was a draft pick.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]SPECIAL TEAMS
K Shaun Suisham, P Durant Brooks, LS Ethan Albright, KR Cartwright, PR Randle El, KR Thomas, Betts, PR Moss.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]In his first full NFL season, Suisham gave the Redskins their most accurate kicking since Gibbs' first tenure ended in 1992. The punting battle between inconsistent incumbent Derrick Frost and sixth-rounder Brooks went to the wire, but the big-legged rookie entered as the favorite and is the one with the signing bonus. Albright went to his first Pro Bowl in 2007 while the coverage teams, led by Khary Campbell and Cartwright, remained top-notch. After setting team records in 2006, Cartwright upped his average 1.7 yards in 2007. Randle El has been a bust on punt returns after excelling in that area with Pittsburgh.
http://www.sportsline.com/nfl/teams/report/WAS/10950824
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REDSKINS UNIT-BY-UNIT ANALYSIS
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]UNIT-BY-UNIT ANALYSIS[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]QUARTERBACKS
Starter - Jason Campbell. Backups - Todd Collins, Colt Brennan.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]The strong-armed Campbell has shown flashes of greatness in his 20 starts but has yet to develop consistency. Not naturally vocal, Campbell is still also developing as a leader. Still, Campbell is well ahead of where Matt Hasselbeck was when Zorn began working with Seattle's star quarterback in 2001 and had a solid camp. After hardly playing for a decade, Collins stepped in when Campbell dislocated a knee and was the NFC Offensive Player of The Month in December in leading Washington to a 4-0 record. Sixth-rounder Brennan, who put up huge numbers at Hawaii, had some big moments in preseason.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]RUNNING BACKS
Starters - HB Clinton Portis, FB Mike Sellers. Backups - Ladell Betts, Rock Cartwright, Marcus Mason.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]The shifty Portis, a three-time, 1,500-yard runner, rebounded from an injury-shortened 2006 and from missing the 2007 preseason with a sprained knee to finish third in the NFC in rushing and catch a career-high 47 passes. However, Portis, who's about to be 27, also slipped to a career-low 3.9 yards per carry with all that work and wasn't that effective this preseason. The more physical Betts was a revelation after Portis was hurt midway through 2006 but an afterthought in 2007. Sellers is athletic despite his 278 pounds and can be effective in short yardage. The squatty Cartwright is a special teams standout. Mason is also undersized, but his strong preseason earned the 2007 practice squad member a spot.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]TIGHT ENDS
Starter - Chris Cooley. Backups - Todd Yoder, Fred Davis.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Cooley, who turned 26 this month, led the Redskins with 66 catches, eight for touchdowns while being chosen for his first Pro Bowl last season. Davis was the nation's top tight end as a senior at USC but the West Coast offense isn't usually tight end-centric so it's hard to understand why the Redskins used a second-round pick on him instead of on a defensive lineman or a linebacker. Yoder is a reliable blocking tight end.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]WIDE RECEIVERS
Starters - Santana Moss, Antwaan Randle El. Backups - James Thrash, Devin Thomas, Malcolm Kelly, Billy McMullen.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]The speedy Moss, a Pro Bowl pick during his record-setting Redskins debut in 2005, has been nagged by muscle pulls since. The jitterbug-like Randle El set career highs in catches and yards last season but only scored one touchdown, had a knee scoped in June and had some nagging ailments this summer. Since Moss and Randle El are both just 5-foot-10, the Redskins drafted the 6-2 Thomas, who had a monster 2007 season at Michigan State, and fellow second-rounder Kelly (6-4). Thomas missed a couple of weeks of camp with a hamstring. Kelly missed almost the entire preseason with a hamstring and then a scope. In their absences, veteran Thrash solidified his No. 3 receiver spot. Former Eagle McMullen, Washington's leading receiver this summer, could stick until Kelly shows he's ready to contribute.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]OFFENSIVE LINE
Starters - LT Chris Samuels, LG Pete Kendall, C Casey Rabach, RG Randy Thomas, RT Jon Jansen. Backups - T Stephon Heyer, G/T Jason Fabini, G/T Chad Rinehart, C/G Justin Geisinger.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Samuels missed the 2006 preseason with a sprained knee but rebounded to make his fifth Pro Bowl in eight years. He was beaten badly by Carolina's Julius Peppers during preseason. Kendall filled the left guard void after being acquired from the Jets last August. He's 35 but didn't miss a practice this summer despite bad knees. Rabach remains the line's glue. Thomas, coming off a torn triceps, and Jansen, coming off a broken leg, hardly played in 2007 and are both 32. Thomas is back, but Jansen sprained his right foot against the Panthers. He should be back for the opener, but this is the fifth straight year he's been hurt. Veterans Fabini, who started most of 2007 in place of Thomas, 2007 rookie free agent surprise Heyer and third-rounder Rinehart provide depth. Former Titan Geisinger's shift to center from guard might sneak him onto the roster ahead of veteran tackle Todd Wade.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]DEFENSIVE LINE
Starters - LDE Jason Taylor, LDT Cornelius Griffin, RDT Kedric Golston, RDE Andre Carter. Backups - DT Anthony Montgomery, DE Demetric Evans, DE Erasmus James, DT Lorenzo Alexander, DE Chris Wilson.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]The Redskins traded for six-time Pro Bowl pick Taylor almost as soon as defensive end Phillip Daniels was lost for the season with a torn ACL on the first day of camp. Taylor gave his new team a scare with his own knee injury on Aug. 23 at Carolina but it was only a sprain and he should return by Week 2. Taylor (11 sacks in 2007) and Carter (10.5) could give the Redskins their top bookends since the Dexter Manley-Charles Mann partnership broke up in 1989. The negative is that neither Taylor or Carter is much of a run-stopper. That's where the veteran Griffin, who's the healthiest he's been since his career year of 2004, and Golston, who wrested back the job he had in 2006 from 2007 starter Montgomery, need to excel. Evans is reliable outside and will play inside on passing downs. Montgomery is more of a specimen than Golston and will play a lot. Former Vikings first-round pick James needs to prove he can stay healthy after major knee surgeries the past two years. Alexander, who played both sides of the ball in 2007, had a good camp. Wilson's four sacks in limited duty in 2007 might just be enough for him to remain ahead of seventh-round pick
Rob Jackson despite a nearly invisible summer.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]LINEBACKERS
Starters - SLB Marcus Washington, MLB London Fletcher, WLB Rocky McIntosh. Backups - Khary Campbell, H.B. Blades.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]The athletic Washington was the Redskins' best defensive player until his body began to betray him in December 2006. Injuries plagued him again throughout 2007 and his hip flexor briefly flared again this summer. Fletcher is just 5-10 and has turned 33, but he was an instant leader on and off the field in his first season in Washington. McIntosh has recovered from the torn ACL that ended his first year as a starter last December. If healthy, the starters are fine. Depth is a question mark with only top special teams tackler Campbell and vertically challenged 2007 rookie Blades, sure to make the team. The sixth linebacker might well not have been on Washington's roster yet.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]DEFENSIVE BACKS
Starters - LCB Shawn Springs, RCB Carlos Rogers, SS Reed Doughty, FS LaRon Landry. Backups - CB Fred Smoot, S Kareem Moore, CB Leigh Torrence, S Chris Horton, CB Justin Tryon.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]This group survived the murder of Pro Bowl FS Sean Taylor and the season-ending knee injury to Rogers to have a solid 2007. Landry, who moved from SS to replace Taylor as a rookie, missed almost all of camp and preseason with a hamstring but can cover a lot of ground and hit like a truck. Doughty, who became a starter after Taylor was lost, needs to rely on his smarts. Springs remains an elite corner at 33 and showed this summer that he can play safety if necessary. Rogers made a remarkable recovery and will start ahead of former starter Smoot, giving the Redskins three strong corners. Torrence is fast but needs to work on his technique. Moore flashed playmaking ability while starting for Landry in preseason. The hard-hitting Horton will be a presence on teams. The short but cocky Tryon likely won the battle for the final spot because he was a draft pick.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]SPECIAL TEAMS
K Shaun Suisham, P Durant Brooks, LS Ethan Albright, KR Cartwright, PR Randle El, KR Thomas, Betts, PR Moss.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]In his first full NFL season, Suisham gave the Redskins their most accurate kicking since Gibbs' first tenure ended in 1992. The punting battle between inconsistent incumbent Derrick Frost and sixth-rounder Brooks went to the wire, but the big-legged rookie entered as the favorite and is the one with the signing bonus. Albright went to his first Pro Bowl in 2007 while the coverage teams, led by Khary Campbell and Cartwright, remained top-notch. After setting team records in 2006, Cartwright upped his average 1.7 yards in 2007. Randle El has been a bust on punt returns after excelling in that area with Pittsburgh.
http://www.sportsline.com/nfl/teams/report/WAS/10950824
[/FONT]
Ego74
1
Re: LET'S BREAK 'EM DOWN: Redskins at Giants (Week 1 NFL Thurs. Night)
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]NY GIANTS UNIT-BY-UNIT ANALYSIS[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]
[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]QUARTERBACKS
Starter -- Eli Manning; Backups -- David Carr, Anthony Wright, Andre Woodson.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Manning is the unquestioned starter and a star on the rise. He will lead the team to whatever offensive success it enjoys. He is a long and lanky athlete and as such needs more protection from his front line, but more on that later. Carr, like Manning a former first-overall draft pick (2002, Houston), appears to have beaten out Wright for the backup position, while the rookie Woodson has enough of a skills-set to perhaps earn the designated clipboard job ahead of the journeyman Wright. The Giants will keep only three and Wright appears to be the odd man out.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]RUNNING BACKS
Starters -- RB Brandon Jacobs, FB Madison Hedgecock. Backups -- RB Derrick Ward, RB Ahmad Bradshaw, RB Danny Ware, RB Reuben Droughns, FB Robert Douglas.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Jacobs, who gained 1,009 yards in slightly more than 10 games last year, will start every game in which he's healthy. But the other three - Ward, Bradshaw and Ware - will get lots of carries, and Jacobs doesn't seem pleased with that. His contract expires after this season and he is convinced he'll get a mega-contract in the UFA market. Maybe not. Ward is a power runner, Bradshaw adds slash and speed and Ware combines both. Hedgecock was a super bargain last year, acquired on waivers from St. Louis. He's 263 pounds, Jacobs is 260.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]WIDE RECEIVERS
Starters -- Plaxico Burress, Amani Toomer. Backups -- Steve Smith, Domenic Hixon, Brandon London, Mario Manningham, Sinorice Moss, Marcus Monk.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Burress caught 70 passes for 1,025 yards and 12 TDs last season and at 6-6 and 225 he's a formidable target with outstanding speed. He has an aversion to practicing, however, but the team has found a middle-ground with that. Toomer is the reliable veteran with great moves and sure hands. If his age (he's 34) doesn't catch up quickly he's got another good year. Smith was a rookie last year and when he got healthy he starred. Hixon was another waiver pickup (from Denver) and he can be explosive. London spent the season on the practice squad but has looked close to spectacular this summer. Moss is a disappointing second round pick (2006) but great skills but no consistency. Manningham was the third round pick this year and may be a year away. Monk, a rookie, was just acquired on waivers from Chicago and has some size to serve as a possession receiver; he was Chicago's seventh round pick.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]TIGHT ENDS
Starter -- Kevin Boss. Backups -- Michael Matthews, Darcy Johnson, Jerome Collins, Eric Butler.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Boss took over when Jeremy Shockey was injured with two games left in the regular season and became invaluable with his speed and size. He is working on his blocking. Matthews was a FA rookie and has blocking skills but not receiver's hands. Johnson missed the entire season with a training camp knee in 2007 and should hold on as the second or third at the position. Collins and Butler appeared to be training camp fodder.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]OFFENSIVE LINE
Starters -- LT David Diehl, LG Rich Seubert, C Shaun O'Hara, RG Chris Snee, RT Kareem McKenzie. Backups -- G/T Grey Ruegamer, T Guy Whimper, G Adam Koets, G Kevin Boothe, G Na'Shan Goddard, T Cliff Louis, G Digger Bujnoch.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]The line is intact from last season, when only one player (O'Hara) missed just one game. Snee is near-Pro Bowl quality and should get there this year. McKenzie is a road grader on the run. Seubert is the toughest of the linemen and never quits on a block. O'Hara is a smart, competent veteran who can be thought of as Pro Bowl quality. Diehl is the potential weak spot with feet not quick enough for the position but there are no LTs on the squad; he's the best available. Of the backups, Ruegamer has experience and ability. Whimper and Koets are two young guys with promise. Boothe was helpful near the end of last season. Goddard, Louis and Bujnoch might not make the final roster.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]DEFENSIVE LINE
Starters -- LE Justin Tuck, LT/NT Barry Cofield, RT Fred Robbins, RE Mathias Kiwanuka. Backups -- E/T Renaldo Wynn, DT Jay Alford, DE Dave Tollefson, NT Rodney Leisle, DE Ogemdi Nwagbuo, DT Jeremy Clark, DE Wallace Gilberry, DE Alex Morrow.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]This is where the disaster struck on Aug. 23 when Pro Bowl DE Osi Umenyiora suffered torn knee cartilage and after surgery was placed on IR for the season. That caused the team to move Kiwanuka back to the line from the SLB position where he had been moved in spring of 2007. Cofield is getting better each year and has added strength while taking off a few pounds to check in at 312. Robbins has had a rejuvenation of his career and seems particularly adept at penetrating from the middle. Wynn is useful as a two-position backup; he's a 12-year vet who was Tom Coughlin's first draft pick with Jacksonville in 1997. Alford was a rookie last year and can play well when motivated; he's also the long-snapper. Tollefson is a backup with some experience. Leisle has looked good in camp, as has Nwagbuo. Clark, Wallace and Morrow appear to be on their way to the waiver wire, at least two of the three.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]LINEBACKERS
Starters -- WLB Gerris Wilkinson, MLB Antonio Pierce, SLB Danny Clark. Backups -- MLB Chase Blackburn, SLB Tank Daniels, WLB
Bryan Kehl</player></player>, MLB Jonathan Goff, WLB James Terry.[/FONT]</p>[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Clark played for Coughlin in Jacksonville, understands the man and the plan and should be helpful, much as pickup Kawika Mitchell was last year. Pierce is a veteran with Pro Bowl talents who is sometimes injured, sometimes unhappy with his contract, but a player from sideline to sideline. Wilkinson is finally healthy and should be able to blossom; he's the guy who went stride for stride with Randy Moss last year for 45 yards downfield. Blackburn is crying out for a starting position but he can't move Pierce; he might go to SLB, however. Daniels is a useable reserve. Kehl was a highly-touted rookie who has lived up the billing. Goff, too, a rookie draft pick, was doing well until he suffered a fractured transverse process. He might find himself on IR. Terry was a late pickup with virtually no chance.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]DEFENSIVE BACKS
Starters -- LCB Aaron Ross, RCB Corey Webster, SS James Butler, FS Michael Johnson or Kenny Phillips. Reserves -- Johnson or Phillips, CB Sam Madison, CB-KR R.W. McQuarters, CB Terrell Thomas, SS Sammy Knight, SS Stuart Schweigert, CB Kevin Dockery, CB Geoffrey Pope.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Ross is a budding superstar and should hold the job for years. Webster was a second-round pick in 2005 who had a difficult time learning the job, then suddenly exploded near the end of last season. Butler is a plodder with speed who seems better than the other SS candidates, although Knight might push him. Phillips is the first round draft pick, Johnson was a rookie last year, and while both have played well it looks as though Phillips will get the call. Madison is in danger of not making the final cut; so, too, is McQuarters. Both are double-digit veterans. Dockery has been helpful in the past and so has Pope. Thomas was the second round draft pick and has looked good. Schweigert was claimed on waivers and may make it because of his four years experience.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]SPECIAL TEAMS
PK Lawrence Tynes/Josh Huston, P Jeff Feagles, LS Jay Alford, KR Domenic Hixon, Ahmad Bradshaw, Danny Ware, Derrick Ward; PR R.W. McQuarters, Domenic Hixon, Michael Johnson, Sinorice Moss, Ahmad Bradshaw.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Tynes had the job sealed until he suffered a knee injury. He is not likely to open the season, which caused the Giants to re-sign Huston, who waged a tight battle with Tynes in camp in 2007. Feagles is ageless and perhaps the best position punter in NFL history; he's 42 and entering his 21st season. Alford has won both long-snapping jobs (PC and KC) with Zak DeOssie a backup if needed. There is still competition for the return jobs, but it appears Hixon has the KR position and possibly the PR as well, especially if the veteran McQuarters is released.[/FONT]
http://www.sportsline.com/nfl/teams/report/NYG/10950791
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]NY GIANTS UNIT-BY-UNIT ANALYSIS[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]
[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]QUARTERBACKS
Starter -- Eli Manning; Backups -- David Carr, Anthony Wright, Andre Woodson.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Manning is the unquestioned starter and a star on the rise. He will lead the team to whatever offensive success it enjoys. He is a long and lanky athlete and as such needs more protection from his front line, but more on that later. Carr, like Manning a former first-overall draft pick (2002, Houston), appears to have beaten out Wright for the backup position, while the rookie Woodson has enough of a skills-set to perhaps earn the designated clipboard job ahead of the journeyman Wright. The Giants will keep only three and Wright appears to be the odd man out.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]RUNNING BACKS
Starters -- RB Brandon Jacobs, FB Madison Hedgecock. Backups -- RB Derrick Ward, RB Ahmad Bradshaw, RB Danny Ware, RB Reuben Droughns, FB Robert Douglas.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Jacobs, who gained 1,009 yards in slightly more than 10 games last year, will start every game in which he's healthy. But the other three - Ward, Bradshaw and Ware - will get lots of carries, and Jacobs doesn't seem pleased with that. His contract expires after this season and he is convinced he'll get a mega-contract in the UFA market. Maybe not. Ward is a power runner, Bradshaw adds slash and speed and Ware combines both. Hedgecock was a super bargain last year, acquired on waivers from St. Louis. He's 263 pounds, Jacobs is 260.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]WIDE RECEIVERS
Starters -- Plaxico Burress, Amani Toomer. Backups -- Steve Smith, Domenic Hixon, Brandon London, Mario Manningham, Sinorice Moss, Marcus Monk.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Burress caught 70 passes for 1,025 yards and 12 TDs last season and at 6-6 and 225 he's a formidable target with outstanding speed. He has an aversion to practicing, however, but the team has found a middle-ground with that. Toomer is the reliable veteran with great moves and sure hands. If his age (he's 34) doesn't catch up quickly he's got another good year. Smith was a rookie last year and when he got healthy he starred. Hixon was another waiver pickup (from Denver) and he can be explosive. London spent the season on the practice squad but has looked close to spectacular this summer. Moss is a disappointing second round pick (2006) but great skills but no consistency. Manningham was the third round pick this year and may be a year away. Monk, a rookie, was just acquired on waivers from Chicago and has some size to serve as a possession receiver; he was Chicago's seventh round pick.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]TIGHT ENDS
Starter -- Kevin Boss. Backups -- Michael Matthews, Darcy Johnson, Jerome Collins, Eric Butler.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Boss took over when Jeremy Shockey was injured with two games left in the regular season and became invaluable with his speed and size. He is working on his blocking. Matthews was a FA rookie and has blocking skills but not receiver's hands. Johnson missed the entire season with a training camp knee in 2007 and should hold on as the second or third at the position. Collins and Butler appeared to be training camp fodder.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]OFFENSIVE LINE
Starters -- LT David Diehl, LG Rich Seubert, C Shaun O'Hara, RG Chris Snee, RT Kareem McKenzie. Backups -- G/T Grey Ruegamer, T Guy Whimper, G Adam Koets, G Kevin Boothe, G Na'Shan Goddard, T Cliff Louis, G Digger Bujnoch.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]The line is intact from last season, when only one player (O'Hara) missed just one game. Snee is near-Pro Bowl quality and should get there this year. McKenzie is a road grader on the run. Seubert is the toughest of the linemen and never quits on a block. O'Hara is a smart, competent veteran who can be thought of as Pro Bowl quality. Diehl is the potential weak spot with feet not quick enough for the position but there are no LTs on the squad; he's the best available. Of the backups, Ruegamer has experience and ability. Whimper and Koets are two young guys with promise. Boothe was helpful near the end of last season. Goddard, Louis and Bujnoch might not make the final roster.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]DEFENSIVE LINE
Starters -- LE Justin Tuck, LT/NT Barry Cofield, RT Fred Robbins, RE Mathias Kiwanuka. Backups -- E/T Renaldo Wynn, DT Jay Alford, DE Dave Tollefson, NT Rodney Leisle, DE Ogemdi Nwagbuo, DT Jeremy Clark, DE Wallace Gilberry, DE Alex Morrow.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]This is where the disaster struck on Aug. 23 when Pro Bowl DE Osi Umenyiora suffered torn knee cartilage and after surgery was placed on IR for the season. That caused the team to move Kiwanuka back to the line from the SLB position where he had been moved in spring of 2007. Cofield is getting better each year and has added strength while taking off a few pounds to check in at 312. Robbins has had a rejuvenation of his career and seems particularly adept at penetrating from the middle. Wynn is useful as a two-position backup; he's a 12-year vet who was Tom Coughlin's first draft pick with Jacksonville in 1997. Alford was a rookie last year and can play well when motivated; he's also the long-snapper. Tollefson is a backup with some experience. Leisle has looked good in camp, as has Nwagbuo. Clark, Wallace and Morrow appear to be on their way to the waiver wire, at least two of the three.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]LINEBACKERS
Starters -- WLB Gerris Wilkinson, MLB Antonio Pierce, SLB Danny Clark. Backups -- MLB Chase Blackburn, SLB Tank Daniels, WLB
Bryan Kehl</player></player>, MLB Jonathan Goff, WLB James Terry.[/FONT]</p>[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Clark played for Coughlin in Jacksonville, understands the man and the plan and should be helpful, much as pickup Kawika Mitchell was last year. Pierce is a veteran with Pro Bowl talents who is sometimes injured, sometimes unhappy with his contract, but a player from sideline to sideline. Wilkinson is finally healthy and should be able to blossom; he's the guy who went stride for stride with Randy Moss last year for 45 yards downfield. Blackburn is crying out for a starting position but he can't move Pierce; he might go to SLB, however. Daniels is a useable reserve. Kehl was a highly-touted rookie who has lived up the billing. Goff, too, a rookie draft pick, was doing well until he suffered a fractured transverse process. He might find himself on IR. Terry was a late pickup with virtually no chance.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]DEFENSIVE BACKS
Starters -- LCB Aaron Ross, RCB Corey Webster, SS James Butler, FS Michael Johnson or Kenny Phillips. Reserves -- Johnson or Phillips, CB Sam Madison, CB-KR R.W. McQuarters, CB Terrell Thomas, SS Sammy Knight, SS Stuart Schweigert, CB Kevin Dockery, CB Geoffrey Pope.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Ross is a budding superstar and should hold the job for years. Webster was a second-round pick in 2005 who had a difficult time learning the job, then suddenly exploded near the end of last season. Butler is a plodder with speed who seems better than the other SS candidates, although Knight might push him. Phillips is the first round draft pick, Johnson was a rookie last year, and while both have played well it looks as though Phillips will get the call. Madison is in danger of not making the final cut; so, too, is McQuarters. Both are double-digit veterans. Dockery has been helpful in the past and so has Pope. Thomas was the second round draft pick and has looked good. Schweigert was claimed on waivers and may make it because of his four years experience.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]SPECIAL TEAMS
PK Lawrence Tynes/Josh Huston, P Jeff Feagles, LS Jay Alford, KR Domenic Hixon, Ahmad Bradshaw, Danny Ware, Derrick Ward; PR R.W. McQuarters, Domenic Hixon, Michael Johnson, Sinorice Moss, Ahmad Bradshaw.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Tynes had the job sealed until he suffered a knee injury. He is not likely to open the season, which caused the Giants to re-sign Huston, who waged a tight battle with Tynes in camp in 2007. Feagles is ageless and perhaps the best position punter in NFL history; he's 42 and entering his 21st season. Alford has won both long-snapping jobs (PC and KC) with Zak DeOssie a backup if needed. There is still competition for the return jobs, but it appears Hixon has the KR position and possibly the PR as well, especially if the veteran McQuarters is released.[/FONT]
http://www.sportsline.com/nfl/teams/report/NYG/10950791
Ego74
1
Re: LET'S BREAK 'EM DOWN: Redskins at Giants (Week 1 NFL Thurs. Night)
http://www.newsday.com/sports/football/ny-spgiants015825417sep01,0,2757235.story
Giants will meet new-look Redskins on Thursday
<dl class="byline">BY TOM ROCK |tom.rock@newsday.com<dd> September 1, 2008</dd></dl> The Giants open defense of their Super Bowl title against a division rival, a familiar foe. That would seem to make things a little easier for them in terms of knowing what to expect.
But these aren't Joe Gibbs' Redskins anymore. They now play for Jim Zorn. That means a whole new approach from Washington, complete with a West Coast tinge.
"You don't really know what they're going to come out in," safety James Butler said yesterday as the Giants went from preseason to regular-season mode. "We have a certain idea of what they're going to do, but we just have to wait and see."
There are some clues. No team ever shows its full array of philosophies in the preseason, but the Redskins have been working on different objectives leading up to Thursday's game. In five preseason games, they have thrown the ball 21 more times than they have run it; they threw the ball 27 more times than they ran it all of last season.
Plus, even though he has never been a head coach or coordinator, Zorn has left a few bread crumbs.
"You watch a lot of Seattle tape," linebacker Danny Clark said, tracing Zorn's footsteps back to the past seven seasons as the Seahawks' quarterbacks coach. "There's going to be some stuff that they haven't shown this preseason that'll be a new look for us. But football is football. We're going to react and respond to whatever they show us."
Defensively, the Giants aren't expecting many changes from the Redskins teams they've battled in recent years. New defensive coordinator Greg Blache was the team's defensive line coach for four seasons. Other than the addition of defensive end Jason Taylor from the Dolphins - he's working through a knee injury and could miss the opener - there won't be many surprises here.
But even the Redskins seem intrigued by their offensive changes. Running back Clinton Portis spoke about the flexibility that now exists, saying that the trademark of the system is to find and exploit mismatches.
"Before it was, 'This is what we're going to do no matter what they do. They have to stop us,'" he said. "And you know, fortunately for them, more than not, they had the opportunity to stop us."
The Redskins now have audibles, something Portis said did not exist under Gibbs and previous offensive coordinator Al Saunders. "Right now, if we are in a bad play, we can get out of that play," he said. "Jason [Campbell] has the opportunity to put up the audibles and change things around and get us points. So I think everybody is just excited."
And maybe a little bit curious.
Notes & quotes: Eli Manning said he remains focused on the Redskins even though Hurricane Gustav is bearing down on his hometown of New Orleans. He said his parents and brother Cooper have left the city. "You just have to hope for the best and hope they've rebuilt the levees stronger and better or the hurricane tails off a little west or something happens," he said. After Hurricane Katrina tore through the Gulf Coast three years ago, Manning was one of several NFL players who showed up to lend support. "It was as bad as it could be at the time, six days after," he said of that experience.
"Hopefully, we won't have to do that this year." ... WR Plaxico Burress practiced at full speed for what he said was the first time since last season. "I'm back out there doing some of the things that I wasn't able to do over the past year or so," he said ... New K John Carney practiced kicking in the stadium but made it clear he is a short-term Giant and will be out of town as soon as Lawrence Tynes is healthy enough to play ... QB Andre' Woodson, WR Marcus Monk, OL Na'Shan Goddard and Kurt Quarterman, DE Wallace Gilberry, DT Jeremy Clark and CB Geoffrey Pope were signed to the practice squad.
http://www.newsday.com/sports/football/ny-spgiants015825417sep01,0,2757235.story
Giants will meet new-look Redskins on Thursday
<dl class="byline">BY TOM ROCK |tom.rock@newsday.com<dd> September 1, 2008</dd></dl> The Giants open defense of their Super Bowl title against a division rival, a familiar foe. That would seem to make things a little easier for them in terms of knowing what to expect.
But these aren't Joe Gibbs' Redskins anymore. They now play for Jim Zorn. That means a whole new approach from Washington, complete with a West Coast tinge.
"You don't really know what they're going to come out in," safety James Butler said yesterday as the Giants went from preseason to regular-season mode. "We have a certain idea of what they're going to do, but we just have to wait and see."
There are some clues. No team ever shows its full array of philosophies in the preseason, but the Redskins have been working on different objectives leading up to Thursday's game. In five preseason games, they have thrown the ball 21 more times than they have run it; they threw the ball 27 more times than they ran it all of last season.
Plus, even though he has never been a head coach or coordinator, Zorn has left a few bread crumbs.
"You watch a lot of Seattle tape," linebacker Danny Clark said, tracing Zorn's footsteps back to the past seven seasons as the Seahawks' quarterbacks coach. "There's going to be some stuff that they haven't shown this preseason that'll be a new look for us. But football is football. We're going to react and respond to whatever they show us."
Defensively, the Giants aren't expecting many changes from the Redskins teams they've battled in recent years. New defensive coordinator Greg Blache was the team's defensive line coach for four seasons. Other than the addition of defensive end Jason Taylor from the Dolphins - he's working through a knee injury and could miss the opener - there won't be many surprises here.
But even the Redskins seem intrigued by their offensive changes. Running back Clinton Portis spoke about the flexibility that now exists, saying that the trademark of the system is to find and exploit mismatches.
"Before it was, 'This is what we're going to do no matter what they do. They have to stop us,'" he said. "And you know, fortunately for them, more than not, they had the opportunity to stop us."
The Redskins now have audibles, something Portis said did not exist under Gibbs and previous offensive coordinator Al Saunders. "Right now, if we are in a bad play, we can get out of that play," he said. "Jason [Campbell] has the opportunity to put up the audibles and change things around and get us points. So I think everybody is just excited."
And maybe a little bit curious.
Notes & quotes: Eli Manning said he remains focused on the Redskins even though Hurricane Gustav is bearing down on his hometown of New Orleans. He said his parents and brother Cooper have left the city. "You just have to hope for the best and hope they've rebuilt the levees stronger and better or the hurricane tails off a little west or something happens," he said. After Hurricane Katrina tore through the Gulf Coast three years ago, Manning was one of several NFL players who showed up to lend support. "It was as bad as it could be at the time, six days after," he said of that experience.
"Hopefully, we won't have to do that this year." ... WR Plaxico Burress practiced at full speed for what he said was the first time since last season. "I'm back out there doing some of the things that I wasn't able to do over the past year or so," he said ... New K John Carney practiced kicking in the stadium but made it clear he is a short-term Giant and will be out of town as soon as Lawrence Tynes is healthy enough to play ... QB Andre' Woodson, WR Marcus Monk, OL Na'Shan Goddard and Kurt Quarterman, DE Wallace Gilberry, DT Jeremy Clark and CB Geoffrey Pope were signed to the practice squad.
Ego74
1
Re: LET'S BREAK 'EM DOWN: Redskins at Giants (Week 1 NFL Thurs. Night)
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/09/01/AR2008090102043.html
With New Regime Comes a New Scheme
The Redskins underwent perhaps more restructuring off the field than any other franchise in the offseason. Gone is Hall of Fame coach Joe Gibbs, who led the Redskins to two playoff appearances in four years during his second stint with the team. Also gone are associate head coach-offense Al Saunders and defensive boss Gregg Williams.
New coach Jim Zorn is employing the West Coast offense, which he learned under Seahawks Coach Mike Holmgren when he was quarterbacks coach in Seattle from 2001 through last season. Zorn lured former teammate Sherman Smith from Tennessee to be the offensive coordinator; Greg Blache, a holdover from Gibbs's staff, is the new defensive coordinator.
The West Coast scheme means more timing throws from quarterback Jason Campbell, who looked sharp early in the preseason but struggled considerably in losses to Carolina and Jacksonville. The Redskins are counting on running back Clinton Portis and figure to use him as a receiver out of the backfield more than Gibbs's teams.
The defense got a jolt of star power with the addition of pass-rushing specialist Jason Taylor. Injuries in the secondary are a concern, but cornerback Carlos Rogers is healing faster than expected from right knee surgery in the offseason.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/09/01/AR2008090102043.html
With New Regime Comes a New Scheme
The Redskins underwent perhaps more restructuring off the field than any other franchise in the offseason. Gone is Hall of Fame coach Joe Gibbs, who led the Redskins to two playoff appearances in four years during his second stint with the team. Also gone are associate head coach-offense Al Saunders and defensive boss Gregg Williams.
New coach Jim Zorn is employing the West Coast offense, which he learned under Seahawks Coach Mike Holmgren when he was quarterbacks coach in Seattle from 2001 through last season. Zorn lured former teammate Sherman Smith from Tennessee to be the offensive coordinator; Greg Blache, a holdover from Gibbs's staff, is the new defensive coordinator.
The West Coast scheme means more timing throws from quarterback Jason Campbell, who looked sharp early in the preseason but struggled considerably in losses to Carolina and Jacksonville. The Redskins are counting on running back Clinton Portis and figure to use him as a receiver out of the backfield more than Gibbs's teams.
The defense got a jolt of star power with the addition of pass-rushing specialist Jason Taylor. Injuries in the secondary are a concern, but cornerback Carlos Rogers is healing faster than expected from right knee surgery in the offseason.
Ego74
1
Re: LET'S BREAK 'EM DOWN: Redskins at Giants (Week 1 NFL Thurs. Night)
New York Giants: 9/2 injury report
by Mike Garafolo/The Star-Ledger Tuesday September 02, 2008, 12:48 PM
Photo By Saed Hindash / the Star-LedgerLawrence Tynes
Giants K Lawrence Tynes (knee) was still riding the bike today when the Giants took the field for practice. Since his surgery, I never thought he'd be back for Week 1 and that appears to be the case. Looks like John Carney will be the kicker for at least one game.
Also, WR Domenik Hixon (back) is practicing and should be able to play.
LB Jonathan Goff (back) and CB Terrell Thomas (hamstring) have already been ruled out.
I was looking at the roster and trying to figure out who the eight inactives will be. We know Tynes, Goff and Thomas, so that leaves five more. Gotta figure one WR (Mario Manningham?) plus at least one OL (Adam Koets?) and one DL (Jerome McDougle or Dave Tollefson?). Then, perhaps S Sammy Knight and either of the two eldest CBs: Sam Madison or R.W. McQuarters? I was thinking an RB, but Danny Ware might be returning kicks (especially with Hixon dinged up). Would you leave Derrick Ward inactive? I mean, you need Reuben Droughns for specials. Could be interesting.
http://www.nj.com/sports/index.ssf/2008/09/new_york_giants_92_injury_repo.html
New York Giants: 9/2 injury report
by Mike Garafolo/The Star-Ledger Tuesday September 02, 2008, 12:48 PM
Photo By Saed Hindash / the Star-LedgerLawrence TynesGiants K Lawrence Tynes (knee) was still riding the bike today when the Giants took the field for practice. Since his surgery, I never thought he'd be back for Week 1 and that appears to be the case. Looks like John Carney will be the kicker for at least one game.
Also, WR Domenik Hixon (back) is practicing and should be able to play.
LB Jonathan Goff (back) and CB Terrell Thomas (hamstring) have already been ruled out.
I was looking at the roster and trying to figure out who the eight inactives will be. We know Tynes, Goff and Thomas, so that leaves five more. Gotta figure one WR (Mario Manningham?) plus at least one OL (Adam Koets?) and one DL (Jerome McDougle or Dave Tollefson?). Then, perhaps S Sammy Knight and either of the two eldest CBs: Sam Madison or R.W. McQuarters? I was thinking an RB, but Danny Ware might be returning kicks (especially with Hixon dinged up). Would you leave Derrick Ward inactive? I mean, you need Reuben Droughns for specials. Could be interesting.
http://www.nj.com/sports/index.ssf/2008/09/new_york_giants_92_injury_repo.html
Ego74
1
Re: LET'S BREAK 'EM DOWN: Redskins at Giants (Week 1 NFL Thurs. Night)
G Men up to 4 at most books now
G Men up to 4 at most books now
ballwonder
EOG Master
Re: LET'S BREAK 'EM DOWN: Redskins at Giants (Week 1 NFL Thurs. Night)
Like skins to take this one. JMO but I think the Giants will be last in the division this year.
Like skins to take this one. JMO but I think the Giants will be last in the division this year.
HotShotHarvey
EOG Veteran
Re: LET'S BREAK 'EM DOWN: Redskins at Giants (Week 1 NFL Thurs. Night)
Giants at home in front of all those fans prove too much for a Redskin team still trying to get used to the West Coast Offense. Healthy receivers for Giants a plus. Jason Taylor out for the 'Skins "D" a minus! Giants have the better QB and can control the ball with those big backs. I like Giants -3 1/2!GL to all! This is a small play! BENGALS on Sunday is Play of the Weekend!!!
Giants at home in front of all those fans prove too much for a Redskin team still trying to get used to the West Coast Offense. Healthy receivers for Giants a plus. Jason Taylor out for the 'Skins "D" a minus! Giants have the better QB and can control the ball with those big backs. I like Giants -3 1/2!GL to all! This is a small play! BENGALS on Sunday is Play of the Weekend!!!
Ego74
1
Re: LET'S BREAK 'EM DOWN: Redskins at Giants (Week 1 NFL Thurs. Night)
Gonna be a "work in progress" for sure imo. This team could be out of the NFC East by the time it starts to come together.
I'm thisclose to pulling the trigger on NYG, still looking over a couple items 12io4j2w90
Gonna be a "work in progress" for sure imo. This team could be out of the NFC East by the time it starts to come together.
I'm thisclose to pulling the trigger on NYG, still looking over a couple items 12io4j2w90
Ego74
1
Re: LET'S BREAK 'EM DOWN: Redskins at Giants (Week 1 NFL Thurs. Night)
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/scorecard/nflnews.asp?articleID=239345
Giants-Redskins issue final injury report for season opener
New York, NY (Sports Network) - The New York Giants will be without linebacker Jonathan Goff (back), cornerback Terrell Thomas (hamstring) and kicker Lawrence Tynes (left knee) as the team opens its 2008 regular season against the Redskins on Thursday night.
Washington will be without receiver Malcolm Kelly (knee) for the contest.
Questionable for the defending Super Bowl champions is receiver Domenik Hixon, who is bothered by a troublesome back. Running back Ahmad Bradshaw, who is having problems with his calf, is listed as probable for the duel.
Questionable for Washington is Jason Taylor, who was acquired from the Dolphins after the team lost a pair of defensive ends -- Phillip Daniels and Alex Buzbee -- to season-ending injuries on the first day of training camp. Taylor hurt his knee during a late August 47-3 preseason loss to the Carolina Panthers.
Doubtful for the 'Skins is safety Kareem Moore, who has been hampered by a bum hamstring. Linebacker Khary Campbell (thigh), safety LaRon Landry (hamstring), receiver Antwaan Randle El (hand) and cornerback Shawn Springs (calf) are all listed as probable.
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/scorecard/nflnews.asp?articleID=239345
Giants-Redskins issue final injury report for season opener
New York, NY (Sports Network) - The New York Giants will be without linebacker Jonathan Goff (back), cornerback Terrell Thomas (hamstring) and kicker Lawrence Tynes (left knee) as the team opens its 2008 regular season against the Redskins on Thursday night.
Washington will be without receiver Malcolm Kelly (knee) for the contest.
Questionable for the defending Super Bowl champions is receiver Domenik Hixon, who is bothered by a troublesome back. Running back Ahmad Bradshaw, who is having problems with his calf, is listed as probable for the duel.
Questionable for Washington is Jason Taylor, who was acquired from the Dolphins after the team lost a pair of defensive ends -- Phillip Daniels and Alex Buzbee -- to season-ending injuries on the first day of training camp. Taylor hurt his knee during a late August 47-3 preseason loss to the Carolina Panthers.
Doubtful for the 'Skins is safety Kareem Moore, who has been hampered by a bum hamstring. Linebacker Khary Campbell (thigh), safety LaRon Landry (hamstring), receiver Antwaan Randle El (hand) and cornerback Shawn Springs (calf) are all listed as probable.
Tesco Vee
EOG Veteran
Re: LET'S BREAK 'EM DOWN: Redskins at Giants (Week 1 NFL Thurs. Night)
im leaning towards the under
im leaning towards the under
Ego74
1
Re: LET'S BREAK 'EM DOWN: Redskins at Giants (Week 1 NFL Thurs. Night)
NFL Preview - Washington (0-0) at N.Y. Giants (0-0)
http://www.sportsnetwork.com/merge/...ork&page=nfl/scores/live/preview.aspx?id=2463
By Tony Moss, NFL Editor
(Sports Network) - The defending Super Bowl Champion New York Giants will begin their title defense with a division rivalry on Thursday night, when Eli Manning and company play host to the Washington Redskins in the NFL's formal opener.
Much has changed for the Giants since their shocking 17-14 upset of the previously unbeaten Patriots on Feb. 3rd, with most of the alterations coming on the defensive side of the ball. Five defensive starters who opened Super Bowl XLII will not wear a Giants uniform on Thursday - ends Michael Strahan (retired) and Osi Umenyiora (out for season, injured), linebackers Kawika Mitchell (free agent, Bills) and Reggie Torbor (free agent, Dolphins), and free safety Gibril Wilson (free agent, Raiders).
Another headline-grabbing offseason defection for the G-Men was tight end Jeremy Shockey, who was traded to the Saints on the eve of training camp. Shockey, who missed all of the 2007 playoffs due to a broken leg, had been embroiled in a public feud with team management during the offseason.
Things have also changed for the Redskins, who will begin the era of new head coach Jim Zorn on Thursday.
Zorn, the former Seattle Seahawks quarterbacks coach, was hired to succeed the re-retired Joe Gibbs on Feb. 9, just two weeks after Zorn was originally tabbed to be Washington's offensive coordinator.
The 55-year-old Zorn, who started 100 games as a member of the Seahawks from 1976 through 1983, inherits a Washington team that went 9-7 and made its second playoff appearance in three years last season.
The Redskins won their final four regular season games in 2007, with career backup quarterback Todd Collins exhibiting strong play in place of the injured Jason Campbell (knee).
Campbell will start for Washington on Thursday, with Collins returning to his backup role.
The Giants will be trying to maintain a positive streak by reigning Super Bowl champions, which have won the next year's regular season opener in each of the last eight seasons. The 1998 Denver Broncos, who followed up their Super Bowl XXXIII win over the Falcons with a 38-21 Week 1 loss to the Miami Dolphins in 1999, are the last defending champion to open their slate on a losing note.
SERIES HISTORY
The Giants have a 85-61-4 advantage in the all-time regular season series with Washington, including an unconventional split of last year's home-and-home. New York took a 24-17 come-from-behind win at FedEx Field in Week 3, and was dealt a 22-10 setback when the clubs met at Giants Stadium in Week 15. The last home win for the G-Men in the series came in 2006, when they won both ends of the season series.
The teams have also split two postseason matchups, with the Giants' 17-0 victory in the 1986 NFC Championship countering a 28-0 Washington win in a 1943 NFC Division Playoff.
New York's Tom Coughlin is 6-5 against the Redskins all-time, including 1-2 while with the Jacksonville Jaguars (1995-2002). Zorn will be meeting both Coughlin and the Giants for the first time as head coach.
WHEN THE REDSKINS HAVE THE BALL
The Redskins' fortunes in 2008 could rest heavily on whether Zorn's west- coast-style offensive scheme takes root quickly. For Campbell (2700 passing yards, 12 TD, 11 INT in 2007), it will be his seventh offensive system in eight seasons, dating back to his time as a collegian at Auburn. Top wideouts Santana Moss (61 receptions, 3 TD) and Antwaan Randle El (51 receptions, 1 TD) both return, as does tight end Chris Cooley (66 receptions, 8 TD), though Randle El has been nursing a hand injury of late. The former Indiana star is expected to play against the Giants. In the backfield, Clinton Portis (1,262 rushing yards, 11 TD, 47 receptions) will continue to carry the load, with Ladell Betts (335 rushing yards, 21 receptions, 2 TD) occasionally sprinkled in as well. Portis has gone over 1,200 yards in three of his four years with Washington.
The work of the Giants' front four, particularly their pass rush, was given much of the credit for the team's playoff success a year ago. But with Strahan and Umenyiora gone along with their 22 combined sacks from 2007, new starting ends Justin Tuck (65 tackles, 10 sacks) and Mathias Kiwanuka (46 tackles, 4.5 sacks) will have to prove they can deliver the goods. Kiwanuka, making the switch from outside linebacker back to his former end spot, returns after missing the final six games of 2007 with a broken leg. Ex-Redskin Antonio Pierce (103 tackles) is back at middle linebacker, and will be flanked by holdover Gerris Wilkinson (14 tackles) and journeyman Danny Clark (51 tackles with Houston). The new face in the starting secondary is free safety Michael Johnson (25 tackles), though the second-year pro could see first-round rookie Kenny Phillips (Miami-Florida) cut into his playing time.
WHEN THE GIANTS HAVE THE BALL
Manning (3336 passing yards, 23 TD, 20 INT in regular season) was nothing short of magnificent in the 2007 postseason, throwing six touchdown passes, just one interception, and compiling a 95.7 passer rating that was more than 20 points better than his regular season mark. His supporting cast remains largely intact, with Plaxico Burress (70 receptions, 12 TD) and Amani Toomer (59 receptions, 3 TD) heading up a deep receiving corps, bruising Brandon Jacobs (1009 rushing yards, 23 receptions, 6 TD) getting the first crack in the backfield, and tight end Kevin Boss (9 receptions, 2 TD) trying to build on a strong showing in the playoffs while replacing Shockey full-time. Derrick Ward (602 rushing yards, 26 receptions, 4 TD), who saw a promising 2007 season end prematurely due to an ankle injury, will be back on the field Thursday night and is listed as Jacobs' primary backup.
When Manning drops back to throw, his greatest worry could come from defensive end and six-time Pro Bowler Jason Taylor (56 tackles, 11 sacks with Miami). Taylor was dealt from the Dolphins to the Redskins earlier in training camp, and will make his formal debut with the team on Thursday unless a persistent knee injury keeps him on the shelf. Taylor, who last missed a game in 1999, was considered doubtful as of Monday. Other leaders for the Washington "D" include middle linebacker and leading 2007 tackler London Fletcher (128 tackles, 3 INT), veteran cornerback Shawn Springs (62 tackles, 4 INT), and second-year strong safety LaRon Landry (95 tackles). Landry was nursing a hamstring injury during the preseason, but should be available on Thursday. The Skins were No. 4 in the league against the run, and 16th against the pass, in 2007.
FANTASY FOCUS
Manning was an interesting topic of discussion among fantasy mavens from coast to coast this summer. His profile, fantasy stock, and numbers all rose during the 2007 postseason, but there is fear among some that the mistake-prone Manning of the previous four regular seasons will at some point return. Still, he's worth starting in Week 1, as are cohorts Burress, Jacobs, and the playmaking Giants defense. Boss is another potential fantasy starter, but don't forget that he only had nine catches last year and could take some more time to develop.
Other than Portis and the tight end Cooley, you might want to take a wait-and- see approach to the Redskins offense. Campbell was hot-and-cold running the Zorn system in the preseason, and their are whispers that Moss and Randle El are not ideally suited to the scheme. Don't expect big things from the defense either, since Taylor is a question mark and the unit is not known for its big- play ability.
OVERALL ANALYSIS
The Giants didn't look to be suffering from any type of Super Bowl hangover in the preseason, and they have to be well aware that defending the title won't be made easier with a division loss at home. Yes, the defense lacks a couple of the playmakers that helped bring home the hardware last year, but there is still plenty of talent and a Washington offense still trying to find its footing will give the Giants some help. Look for the streak of Super Bowl winners-turned-Week 1 winners to be extended to nine.
Sports Network Predicted Outcome: Giants 27, Redskins 17
NFL Preview - Washington (0-0) at N.Y. Giants (0-0)
http://www.sportsnetwork.com/merge/...ork&page=nfl/scores/live/preview.aspx?id=2463
By Tony Moss, NFL Editor
(Sports Network) - The defending Super Bowl Champion New York Giants will begin their title defense with a division rivalry on Thursday night, when Eli Manning and company play host to the Washington Redskins in the NFL's formal opener.
Much has changed for the Giants since their shocking 17-14 upset of the previously unbeaten Patriots on Feb. 3rd, with most of the alterations coming on the defensive side of the ball. Five defensive starters who opened Super Bowl XLII will not wear a Giants uniform on Thursday - ends Michael Strahan (retired) and Osi Umenyiora (out for season, injured), linebackers Kawika Mitchell (free agent, Bills) and Reggie Torbor (free agent, Dolphins), and free safety Gibril Wilson (free agent, Raiders).
Another headline-grabbing offseason defection for the G-Men was tight end Jeremy Shockey, who was traded to the Saints on the eve of training camp. Shockey, who missed all of the 2007 playoffs due to a broken leg, had been embroiled in a public feud with team management during the offseason.
Things have also changed for the Redskins, who will begin the era of new head coach Jim Zorn on Thursday.
Zorn, the former Seattle Seahawks quarterbacks coach, was hired to succeed the re-retired Joe Gibbs on Feb. 9, just two weeks after Zorn was originally tabbed to be Washington's offensive coordinator.
The 55-year-old Zorn, who started 100 games as a member of the Seahawks from 1976 through 1983, inherits a Washington team that went 9-7 and made its second playoff appearance in three years last season.
The Redskins won their final four regular season games in 2007, with career backup quarterback Todd Collins exhibiting strong play in place of the injured Jason Campbell (knee).
Campbell will start for Washington on Thursday, with Collins returning to his backup role.
The Giants will be trying to maintain a positive streak by reigning Super Bowl champions, which have won the next year's regular season opener in each of the last eight seasons. The 1998 Denver Broncos, who followed up their Super Bowl XXXIII win over the Falcons with a 38-21 Week 1 loss to the Miami Dolphins in 1999, are the last defending champion to open their slate on a losing note.
SERIES HISTORY
The Giants have a 85-61-4 advantage in the all-time regular season series with Washington, including an unconventional split of last year's home-and-home. New York took a 24-17 come-from-behind win at FedEx Field in Week 3, and was dealt a 22-10 setback when the clubs met at Giants Stadium in Week 15. The last home win for the G-Men in the series came in 2006, when they won both ends of the season series.
The teams have also split two postseason matchups, with the Giants' 17-0 victory in the 1986 NFC Championship countering a 28-0 Washington win in a 1943 NFC Division Playoff.
New York's Tom Coughlin is 6-5 against the Redskins all-time, including 1-2 while with the Jacksonville Jaguars (1995-2002). Zorn will be meeting both Coughlin and the Giants for the first time as head coach.
WHEN THE REDSKINS HAVE THE BALL
The Redskins' fortunes in 2008 could rest heavily on whether Zorn's west- coast-style offensive scheme takes root quickly. For Campbell (2700 passing yards, 12 TD, 11 INT in 2007), it will be his seventh offensive system in eight seasons, dating back to his time as a collegian at Auburn. Top wideouts Santana Moss (61 receptions, 3 TD) and Antwaan Randle El (51 receptions, 1 TD) both return, as does tight end Chris Cooley (66 receptions, 8 TD), though Randle El has been nursing a hand injury of late. The former Indiana star is expected to play against the Giants. In the backfield, Clinton Portis (1,262 rushing yards, 11 TD, 47 receptions) will continue to carry the load, with Ladell Betts (335 rushing yards, 21 receptions, 2 TD) occasionally sprinkled in as well. Portis has gone over 1,200 yards in three of his four years with Washington.
The work of the Giants' front four, particularly their pass rush, was given much of the credit for the team's playoff success a year ago. But with Strahan and Umenyiora gone along with their 22 combined sacks from 2007, new starting ends Justin Tuck (65 tackles, 10 sacks) and Mathias Kiwanuka (46 tackles, 4.5 sacks) will have to prove they can deliver the goods. Kiwanuka, making the switch from outside linebacker back to his former end spot, returns after missing the final six games of 2007 with a broken leg. Ex-Redskin Antonio Pierce (103 tackles) is back at middle linebacker, and will be flanked by holdover Gerris Wilkinson (14 tackles) and journeyman Danny Clark (51 tackles with Houston). The new face in the starting secondary is free safety Michael Johnson (25 tackles), though the second-year pro could see first-round rookie Kenny Phillips (Miami-Florida) cut into his playing time.
WHEN THE GIANTS HAVE THE BALL
Manning (3336 passing yards, 23 TD, 20 INT in regular season) was nothing short of magnificent in the 2007 postseason, throwing six touchdown passes, just one interception, and compiling a 95.7 passer rating that was more than 20 points better than his regular season mark. His supporting cast remains largely intact, with Plaxico Burress (70 receptions, 12 TD) and Amani Toomer (59 receptions, 3 TD) heading up a deep receiving corps, bruising Brandon Jacobs (1009 rushing yards, 23 receptions, 6 TD) getting the first crack in the backfield, and tight end Kevin Boss (9 receptions, 2 TD) trying to build on a strong showing in the playoffs while replacing Shockey full-time. Derrick Ward (602 rushing yards, 26 receptions, 4 TD), who saw a promising 2007 season end prematurely due to an ankle injury, will be back on the field Thursday night and is listed as Jacobs' primary backup.
When Manning drops back to throw, his greatest worry could come from defensive end and six-time Pro Bowler Jason Taylor (56 tackles, 11 sacks with Miami). Taylor was dealt from the Dolphins to the Redskins earlier in training camp, and will make his formal debut with the team on Thursday unless a persistent knee injury keeps him on the shelf. Taylor, who last missed a game in 1999, was considered doubtful as of Monday. Other leaders for the Washington "D" include middle linebacker and leading 2007 tackler London Fletcher (128 tackles, 3 INT), veteran cornerback Shawn Springs (62 tackles, 4 INT), and second-year strong safety LaRon Landry (95 tackles). Landry was nursing a hamstring injury during the preseason, but should be available on Thursday. The Skins were No. 4 in the league against the run, and 16th against the pass, in 2007.
FANTASY FOCUS
Manning was an interesting topic of discussion among fantasy mavens from coast to coast this summer. His profile, fantasy stock, and numbers all rose during the 2007 postseason, but there is fear among some that the mistake-prone Manning of the previous four regular seasons will at some point return. Still, he's worth starting in Week 1, as are cohorts Burress, Jacobs, and the playmaking Giants defense. Boss is another potential fantasy starter, but don't forget that he only had nine catches last year and could take some more time to develop.
Other than Portis and the tight end Cooley, you might want to take a wait-and- see approach to the Redskins offense. Campbell was hot-and-cold running the Zorn system in the preseason, and their are whispers that Moss and Randle El are not ideally suited to the scheme. Don't expect big things from the defense either, since Taylor is a question mark and the unit is not known for its big- play ability.
OVERALL ANALYSIS
The Giants didn't look to be suffering from any type of Super Bowl hangover in the preseason, and they have to be well aware that defending the title won't be made easier with a division loss at home. Yes, the defense lacks a couple of the playmakers that helped bring home the hardware last year, but there is still plenty of talent and a Washington offense still trying to find its footing will give the Giants some help. Look for the streak of Super Bowl winners-turned-Week 1 winners to be extended to nine.
Sports Network Predicted Outcome: Giants 27, Redskins 17