NFC East

Redskins' Offensive Futility Remains a Concern in 23-0 Loss to Ravens

2009-08-18T18:22:00.000-07:00

By Jack Anderson: It's only preseason, but things aren't looking good for the Washington Redskins offense.

I wasn't expecting to see the second coming of the '99 Rams or anything, but it would have been nice to see a little progression and familiarity with the system when the first-teamers were on the field during a 23-0 loss to the Baltimore Ravens.

Instead, we were treated to the same lifeless performance that we saw throughout the second half of the 2008 season.

I've seen this movie before, and let me tell you: If it isn't an Academy Award winner, I don't want to see any reruns.

This performance was anything but Oscar-worthy.

Jason Campbell went through the motions: one-two-three and kick. At least Hunter Smith can actually punt.

The sad thing is that on the opposite side of the field, the Ravens offense (yes, the Ravens offense) played as if they had something to prove. Joe Flacco looked crisp in the pocket and threw some strikes.

The running game wasn't special, but it pushed for the extra yards—something the 'Skins didn't do.

Overall, the offenses were polar opposites. The Ravens got open, beat the Redskins off the ball, and showed they wanted to play well.

Washington simply sleepwalked through a quarter and then retreated to the bench.

I don't know if it's a lack of focus, effort, confidence, or skill. This offense just can't move the ball.

Campbell's footwork isn't much better, his release is still too long, and his reads are too slow. He takes light years to make basic reads, and his slow release doesn't afford him the kind of time he takes in the pocket.

Neither does poor blocking. The offensive line could have been worse, as they gave up three sacks on the night, but they failed to control the line of scrimmage in the rushing game.

Early on, Campbell and Todd Collins faced some pressure, but things really got bad once Colt Brennan came in.

Brennan was chased around the entire second half and had virtually no chance to make an impact. He didn't play well, yet a lot of it was due to poor pass protection.

The Redskins really couldn't open up their playbook, as they failed to get many first downs (11). They had the ball for only 24 minutes (compared to the Ravens' 35 minutes), making it difficult to get into any rhythm.

The running game was useless, as the offensive line got no push. The ground attack averaged 2.9 yards per carry, and Rock Cartwright was the leading rusher with just 24 yards.

Fred Davis fumbled twice, and Devin Thomas went back to looking lost. Thomas looked impressive in camp, but he has yet to show much ability in games. He didn't look explosive enough to be much of a threat.

The lone bright spot on offense was Malcolm Kelly. Kelly looks the part lining up out wide. He's lanky and tall, the perfect possession receiver or red zone target. Add in a dazzling fingertip grab for a first down, and it might be time to get excited about his future.

I know it's sad I'm happy about one play by a receiver who has done nothing but sit out with injuries. Laugh all you want, but let me be excited about something.

Jim Zorn called the offensive struggles a "learning experience." I call them "failure to launch." That was a pretty crappy movie—just like this offense.

Five Longshots Who May Make the Washington Redskins Final Roster

2009-08-09T14:26:00.000-07:00

By Jack Anderson: Every year in training camp there will always be those unknown players who pop out at the coaching staff due to their strong work ethic and consistent performance.
That has held true at Redskins Park this year as several players have emerged to contend for roster spots.

1. Will Montgomery: He is competing for a utility position along the offensive line and has a great shot at making the roster. Washington needs young, up-and-coming blockers to freshen up the offensive line.

Montgomery is just what the doctor ordered.
Coaches have raved about his strong play and his versatility. Montgomery can play center and guard and has held his own against first teamers.

With Jeremy Bridges going down today with a sprained ankle, the odds are even higher that Montgomery sticks around for the long haul.

2. Marques Hagans: Hagans was QB/WR from UVA who was a major long shot coming into camp. However, his kick returning abilities help his case. Add to that the fact Hagans has grabbed nearly everything thrown his way, and he is making a serious run.

Hagans is buried beneath four WRs (Devin Thomas, Malcolm Kelly, Santana Moss, and Antwaan Randle El) who are all assured of spots on the roster. Marko Mitchell was taken in the seventh round and has speed. Being a draftee gives him the inside track, but Hagans has impressed.

It will most likely come down to which one will provide the best special teams performance. However, given the injuries that have plagued Moss, Thomas, and Kelly, the ‘Skins may need Hagans down the stretch.

3. Reed Doughty: So Doughty isn’t exactly a long shot as he was in position to backup Chris Horton at SS, but he was coming off a season-ending injury and there have been questions regarding his ability in coverage.

Those question are long gone as Doughty has put together a great camp. He has three picks already and Jim Zorn is liking what he sees. Enough to give him this vote of confidence:

“I see him being a real part of our special teams and I think he’s going to be in a supportive role [on defense], but he’s going to work his way onto the field. I have confidence in him when he’s out there, no question.”

There you have it. Barring an injury, Doughty will make the final roster.

4. Marcus Mason: Mason has been quiet this camp, but his real time to shine is during the preseason. Last year, he was the NFL preseason rushing leader, but still failed to make the team due to his inability to contribute on special teams.

Colt Brennan had nothing but praise for Mason who he played with last preseason. “He’s a natural football player,” he said, “I can’t tell you how many times in the preseason last year it was so nice to have him, because he would make good plays, make good runs.

"You only get so many chances when you’re young, and you’ve got a running back like that, gaining extra yards, picking up first downs for you, doing the little things.”

This year Mason has developed his kick coverage skills and should also get some reps at RB during the preseason. The main thing working against him is the presence of five other backs on the roster in Clinton Portis, Ladell Betts, Rock Cartwright, and Anthony Alridge, and Dominique Dorsey.

5. Edwin Williams: The undrafted center out of Maryland is third on the depth chart behind Casey Rabach and Will Montgomery, but Montgomery could very well be lining up at guard, leaving the number two center spot up for grabs.

Williams is a smart, hard worker who was all-ACC last year with the Terps. ”Over the summer he did a great job of weightlifting and…I’ll tell you what, he’s a smart kid. He comprehends a lot between what’s good and what’s bad. I think in the long range he’s going to be a good football player,” said offensive line coach Joe Bugel.

Williams didn’t miss a game his senior year and helped pave the way for an 1,100 yard rusher. With Casey Rabach aging, Williams might be the perfect player to groom for the starting center spot.

Breaking News: Plaxico Burress Indicted, Antonio Pierce Not

2009-08-08T20:01:00.000-07:00

By James Williamson: Talk about shooting yourself in the foot.

Oh wait, it was his thigh. (sigh)

Anyway, Plaxico Burress, former wide receiver to the New York Giants, was indicted on three criminal charges today, according to MSN.com.

His former teammate, Giants linebacker, Antonio Pierce was not.

Plaxico Burress said to the grand jury: "I was truthful, I was honest, and I'm truly remorseful for what I've done and for what happened."

Burress was indicted on two counts of criminal possession of a weapon and one count of reckless endangerment.

If convicted, he could spend up to three and a half years.

He entered a plea of not guilty to the weapons charges and was released earlier this year on a $100,000 bail.

The incident in question, was at a club where a gun that Plaxico Burress was carrying, went off in his pocket, and the blast hit his thigh.

The gun was apparently not licensed, and no one called the police, which is required by law in the state of New York, when the gunshot accident occurred.

Burress is 31 years old, and a sentence of three and a half years would effectively, end his career.

He was the receiver who caught the winning touchdown throw from Eli Manning in one of the greatest upsets ever over the New England Patriots.

He was released from the Giants this past April and currently does not have a spot on an NFL roster.

Dallas Cowboys Rookie, Robert Brewster, Likely Out For Season

2009-08-02T09:22:00.000-07:00

By James Williamson: If I have said it once, I’ve probably said it more times than I can count. Injuries is what ruined the Dallas Cowboys season in the long run as much as anything else.

Teams are supposed to get over injuries and still find a way to the postseason, but the sad fact is that the starters are your starters for a reason.

Because they are better and it is easier to win with your best than with your second-string best.

Well, the Cowboys have lost a member of the second-string in the form of our third round draft pick, offensive tackle Robert Brewster, out of Ball State.

The Giants Have a Decision to Make About Eli Manning's New Contract

2009-07-30T11:19:00.001-07:00

By Michael Schlossberg: I respect the opinion of those who think Eli Manning deserves every penny that he will be paid with his new contract. While he does have a title and a Super Bowl MVP, ultimately the Giants will be bidding against themselves. Around the NFL, he is viewed as a Quarterback who has been blessed with an excellent team around him and a clutch QB. While most people though only look at the latter, Manning at times in inconsistent and the Giants will win games inspite of him rather than because of him.

There aren't going to be many teams (if any) that will sign Manning if he hits the open market after the 2009 season. To pay a Quarterback the kind of money that Eli Manning will try to get, is a lot of money for someone who isn't asked to perform at an excellent level throughout the entire game.

For the Giants though, he fits in well within their system and is the type of leader that the organization has been coveting since Phil Simms retired. Manning is worth the money to the Giants, because he has won them a Super Bowl in addition to three other post-season appearances as well as a Pro Bowl. The Giants would be paying him for his past accomplishments.

The NFL is a business, whether anyone wants to admit it or not and if I were anyone making the decisions, I would open up negotiations at a very low number (maybe seven years, $80 Million) while obviously this is a lot of money, it is nowhere near the $120 Million that he is seeking, to make him the highest paid player in NFL history.

The bottom line is that Eli Manning needs to prove himself this year, that without Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer, he can be an effective QB. If he is able to have a successful season and make some type of playoff run, he will prove that the 2007 championship was not a fluke. If he does all of that, than pay him the money that he deserves. If the Giants are able to capture Super Bowl XLIV than the Giants should hand him a blank check. If not the Giants should try and sign him, but make sure they have enough money to bring in other players to help get them back to the promised land.

NFC East Rundown: Tough Division Does Washington Redskins No Favors

2009-07-29T08:32:00.000-07:00

By Jack Anderson: The NFC East has a long-standing history as the most competitive division in football. Its teams possess both tradition and championships.

After a brief hiatus in the first half of the 2000s, the NFC East has reasserted itself as the premier division in the NFL. All four teams can stake some claim to being legitimate postseason contenders, and at least two teams from the East should make it to the playoffs.

The Washington Redskins are hoping to be one of the teams in the mix come playoff time, but they must rebound from last years 8-8 record (last in the NFC East).

They made some significant upgrades especially along the defensive line, but they still lack a superstar offensive weapon that can help an anemic passing attack.

The Redskins are an average team. They play to their opponents level most Sundays and have never shaken the air of complacency that surrounds the franchise.

For the Redskins, mediocrity reigns supreme. In the rough-and-tumble NFC East, mediocrity will not suffice if Washington wants to advance to the postseason.

If the ‘Skins can get some offensive improvement in year two with Jim Zorn’s west coast offense, they might have enough to win the division. The defense should only improve on their number four ranking, leaving success up to the Jason Campbell and the offense.

As for the remaining three teams, here’s a look at the burning questions that surround them coming into the 2009 season.

Philadelphia Eagles

Philly overachieved last year, making the playoffs in miracle-like fashion. They went on a big run to the NFC Championship, and came up just short of making their third ever Super Bowl, losing to the Cardinals.

Weeks earlier, the Eagles appeared as if the Donovan McNabb-Andy Reid era was over. The Eagles had tied the woeful Bengals and had been decimated by Baltimore, but after McNabb came back from a mid-game benching in Baltimore, things changed.

The Eagles got several breaks and found themselves playing for a postseason berth in week 17 against Dallas. They responded well, winning 44-6. Then came the playoff run.

This year, Philly has pulled out all the stops. McNabb requested some offensive help, the Eagles brought in WR Jeremy Maclin and RB LeSean McCoy through the draft. Then they pulled off a trade to acquire highly touted LT Jason Peters from Buffalo. He joins free agent pickup Stacey Andrews on one of the better lines in football.

Pundits have given the Eagles an early edge over their NFC East counterparts. Considering Philly has a much improved offense and Jim Johnson at the controls on defense, no one can fault the experts.

What could derail the Eagles “Super” hopes?

1. Can the Eagles run between the tackles?

In the NFC East, teams have to be able to pound the ball. The battles in the trenches are so important.

Philadelphia ranked just 22nd in the NFL in rushing and that is partly due to the ineffectiveness of Brian Westbrook.

Westbrook has trouble staying healthy and isn’t built to run the ball between the tackles. He is small and struggles to break tackles in close quarters. He fits the west coast style the Eagles play, but there are times every team has to grind out some tough yards.

The addition of McCoy gives the Eagles an opportunity to change their running style. McCoy carried the ball 308 times in 2008, proving he can take a heavy workload. Add in his 4.8 yards per carry and they have a match made in heaven.

Westbrook will be able to cut down his carries while remaining a viable pass option as McCoy will give the Eagles a presence in the running game they have lacked in years past.

2. Will the Eagles overcome the loss of Brian Dawkins?

Dawkins was the Philadelphia Eagles to many people. His game hadn’t really declined as much as some believe either.

The leadership is very difficult to replace, but the Eagles do have several talented safeties. Sean Jones and Quentin Mikell both are quietly two of the better defensive backs in the game while at corner the Eagles are set with Sheldon Brown and Asante Samuel.

So while Dawkins’ presence won’t be filled, the Eagles do have the players to cover the void left by his departure.

Their blitz happy scheme is incredibly good at disguising holes and weaknesses. They have a deep defensive line that generates a bunch of pressure, and that will help the secondary in coverage.

Dallas Cowboys

The Cowboys get the hype, but last year the hoopla didn’t earn Dallas a playoff spot. They stumbled to a 9-7 record, missing the playoffs courtesy of 44-6 drubbing from the Eagles in week 17.

This year, they will be without the services of WR Terrell Owens who was released in the offseason. Safety Roy Williams left after a down year in which he only played three games, but the defense still has a fearsome front seven led by sackmaster DeMarcus Ware.

Tony Romo will lead an offense complete with RB Marion Barber and WR Roy Williams. The offensive line was somewhat underwhelming last year, surrendering 31 sacks.

This year, the hype has disappeared and with good reason. The Cowboys lack a strong second option behind Williams at WR and their secondary has some serious question marks. The Cowboys will need to answer these burning questions in order to right the ship and make the playoffs in 2009.

1. Can Tony Romo exorcise his December demons and make a deep run into the playoffs?

Romo’s struggles in December have been well-documented. Though he isn’t the only one to blame for Dallas’ late-season swoons, his big game performances leave plenty to be desired.

With one less weapon available (Owens), Romo will need to step his game up even more. Roy Williams didn’t adapt quickly in Dallas last year catching just 19 passes for 198 yards. Romo didn’t even throw a TD pass to Williams as his only TD reception was caught from Brad Johnson.

This year Romo will need to target Williams more often and lean on the one-two punch of Marion Barber and Felix Jones in the ground game. Security blanket, Jason Witten, is back at tight end.

The departure of Owens may very well allow Romo to make Dallas HIS team. TO made life difficult for Romo by demanding the ball in any and every situation, but now Romo will feel no pressure in who he chooses to throw to.

Romo’s decision-making might have been made easier by letting TO go, but he still will feel the pressure to deliver in the clutch. People forget he is only entering his third year as the Cowboys starting QB because of his quick success, but this is the year where Romo will need to break his big game drought.

2. What do the Cowboys most need to be a successful franchise this year?

Believe it or not, Jason Garrett could be the key to a successful 2009.

Garrett botched several games last year with poor playcalling. He abandoned the run game often, seemingly forgetting that Marion Barber can shoulder a huge load and wear down defenses.

Again, the TO effect forced the Cowboys to keep things focused on the passing game, but Garrett’s run-pass ratio was astounding at times last year. Romo can throw it around with the best of them, but he would be that much more effective with an established run game.

Expect Garrett to reign in his desire to sling it around and look to his Barber-Jones Combo. Barber improves as the game goes on with his bruising style while Jones proved last year that his speed makes him a threat to score on any play.

New York Giants

The Giants failed to defend their Super Bowl title in 2008, losing to the Eagles in the divisional round of the playoffs.

They burst out of the gate in 2008, but after losing Plaxico Burress to a gunshot wound, things ground to a halt. Eli Manning was unable to keep things rolling without his big target out wide and the Giants offense fizzled on the big stage in the postseason.

This year, New York is back with two-thirds of its ground game intact and the Giants added two big WRs in the draft. Osi Umenyiora returns from an injury, meaning the Giants will once again be a force in the trenches.

But what’s keeping the Giants from cruising to another NFC East title?

1. Will Hakeem Nicks fill in for Plaxico Burress quickly?

The Giants need Nicks to develop quickly. Nicks was a first round pick out of UNC and his size certainly fits the bill. Manning had very little to work with last year. Domenik Hixon, Steve Smith, and Amani Toomer couldn’t fill the number one receiver spot last year so it will be up to Nicks to play at a high level.

If Nicks can provide 60 or so catches the remainder of the receiving corps might have just enough in them to make the Giants a solid passing team.

2. Will the loss of Derrick Ward sink the Giants running game?

Ward was arguably the biggest facet of the Giants ground attack. He was the biggest threat catching passes out of the backfield.

Brandon Jacobs will handle the majority of the carries now, but his upright, pounding running style leaves him at a huge risk for injury. Ward kept him from accumulating too many carries, but Ahmad Bradshaw isn’t a strong option between the tackles.

Bradshaw is a speedster and should provide some pop catching the football, but he only took 67 carries so it is uncertain if he can carry the ball 10 times a game to spell Jacobs.

New York drafted NC State back Andre Brown in the fourth round, and they are hoping he will be able to take some carries away from Jacobs as well. Keeping him healthy is a must for the offense to be successful.

Cowboys Locked and Loaded for a Super Bowl Gallop

2008-07-23T12:33:00.000-07:00

By Steve Earnhardt: The Cowboys appear to be primed for another Super Bowl run in 2008-2009. Both sides of the ball are stacked with 13 returning Pro Bowlers from last year's squad. Tony Romo will have what is arguably the league's best all round offensive line to protect him, while he throws to prime targets that go by the names of Jason Witten and T.O. Moreover, the Cowboys aerial attack threat and offensive line should provide for a Marion Barber lead running game that will punish defenses around the league.

Some might say that offense is what traditionally powers the Cowboys, but this year they may have, what is shaping up to be, one of their best defenses in my short memory.

Let's start with the linebackers, where potential Defensive Player of the Year candidate, DeMarcus Ware, leads a corps that will make Ray Lewis envious. Greg Ellis, Anthony Spencer, Bradie James, and the new addition of former Dolphin, Zack Thomas, make for a hell of a supporting cast.

The defensive line does not boast the star power of its linebacker corps brethren. However, they are an above average unit that is led by Chris Canty, Jay Ratliff, Marcus Spears, and the gun wielding Tank Johnson.

The 6'7, 300 pound Canty will be playing for a contract this season, so I expect him to improve on his break-out season of last year. Similarly, Tank has shown tremendous progress this off season according to the Cowboys defensive coaches.

The defensive line and the linebackers will see their sack totals rise thanks to the drastic improvement of the secondary (pending Pacman's reinstatement). Last year the secondary was a glaring weakness for the defense, and it proved to be worse than expected due to the injuries of Henry and Newman. So, bolstering the depth in the secondary was Jerry Jones's primary concern going into 2008-2009.

Jerry answered the call by acquiring the infamous rainmaker, Adam Jones, plus drafting two gifted corners in Mike Jenkins and Orlando Scandrick. Also, maybe just as important as the acquisitions is the return of former Cowboys head coach, Dave Campo, who will be in charge of the secondary unit. Campo will be expected to make the most of his unit's talent, while finding a way to resurrect Roy Williams's play-making abilities.

Special Teams play looks to be improved upon from last season as well. The kicking tandem of Nick Folk and Matt McBriar is stellar. The additions of Adam Jones, Felix Jones, and Mike Jenkins will help bolster last season's lack luster return game.

If you have read this far, then you are probably expecting to see a win/loss prediction for the Cowboys. After peeking at the schedule, I predict an 11-5 regular season finish.

Cleveland will more than likely beat up on the Cowboys newly assembled secondary for a close win. Green Bay will get their revenge from last year when the Cowboys head to Lambeau in September.

The Giants are likely to take one of the two games played, and probably will be in Texas Stadium. Likewise, the Redskins and Cowboys always seem to split their series no matter how good or bad either team may be.

Finally, watch for the Cowboys to concede their final game to the Eagles, since that at this point the game will likely be meaningless for the Cowboys playoff credentials.

Jeremy Shockey: Will The Giants Miss Him?

2008-07-21T16:04:00.000-07:00

By Brad Berreman: According to various media outlets, the New York Giants have traded TE Jeremy Shockey to the New Orleans Saints for second and fifth round draft picks in 2009. The deal was rumored around draft time, but at that time never materialized.

The Giants will miss him, but not as much as some might think. He was a distraction to QB Eli Manning with his demands for the ball, often letting Manning know his displeasure on the sidelines. With the retirement of Michael Strahan, Eli now appears to be the unquestioned leader of the team. Super Bowl impact player Kevin Boss now looks to be the team's starting tight end.

Shockey steps into what looks like an ideal situation in New Orleans. Head Coach Sean Payton, who was the Giants' offensive coordinator during Shockey's rookie season, obviously has experience working with the former Miami (FL) All-American.

QB Drew Brees had shown an affinity for throwing to the tight end while playing in San Diego (see: Antonio Gates) and outside of Marques Colston the Saints don't have a lot of proven commodities in the receiving corp.

All that should add up to plenty of opportunities for Shockey to make a major impact, provided he can avoid the nagging injuries that have plagued him in previous seasons.

Redskins' Training Camp: Day One and Things Are Already Heating Up

2008-07-21T11:50:00.000-07:00

By Jack Anderson: Try as they might, Old Danny Boy and the 'Skins' front office couldn't make it through an NFL offseason without making a splash.

The Washington Redskins opened camp with a bang today, trading for high-profile defensive end Jason Taylor of the Miami Dolphins.

The move came in light of the season-ending injuries suffered by defensive ends Phillip Daniels, a projected starter on the line, and Alex Buzbee.

The 'Skins parted with a 2009 second-round draft choice and a 2010 sixth rounder. It was a small price to pay for one of the NFL's most feared pass rushers.

Taylor, as we all know, was on the outs in Miami, and the longer the Dolphins hung on to him the smaller his trade value became.

With Daniels' unfortunate injury, the 'Skins were in dire straits, as their defensive line was already subpar, but Taylor now gives them a phenomenal complement to Andre Carter.

Carter had 10.5 sacks last season, leading the team, while Taylor registered 11 sacks with Miami. In 2006, Taylor was named Defensive Player of the Year. For his career, he has been to six Pro Bowls and has 117 career sacks.

This acquisition should ease the pressure on the back seven while increasing the pressure on opposing teams' offensive lines. The Redskins have a somewhat questionable secondary due to the injury of Carlos Rogers and the age of Shawn Springs, but these concerns will be lessened because of Taylor's arrival.

Taylor will also be bringing his star-studded persona to DC, and that is actually something that might help the Redskins. The 'Skins have their characters, but Taylor is truly a superstar. Though he failed to remain happy in Miami, I fully expect him to enjoy himself in football-friendly DC.

The team is only a few pieces away from being a legitimate contender, and Taylor might actually put them into position to contend for a deep playoff run. He has always played hard, and he possesses a great work ethic. It's time to get excited about this guy!

In other news, the 'Skins will be looking to settle some position battles throughout training camp.

The punting duties are open, as incumbent Derrick Frost underperformed last year and is now being challenged by rookie Durant Brooks.

Brooks is a sixth-round pick from Georgia Tech that led the ACC last season in punting. He will most likely win the job from Frost, who struggled mightily last season. The winner of this battle will also handle the holding duties.

The fifth-receiver slot is open as well. There are a rash of candidates vying for the position, but the top performers are James Thrash and Anthony Mix.

Thrash is a blue-collar player, a do-everything kind of guy. He will make the big catch, make the special-teams tackle, down the punt, etc. He has long been involved with the organization. The only downside is his age and small size.

Mix made a name for himself last camp as he developed some chemistry with former Auburn teammate Jason Campbell. He's big, strong, and sure handed. He recovered a kickoff in last season's Wild Card game against Seattle and has continued to impress coaches this offseason.

The other players contending for the spot are Burl Toler, who had a solid preseason last year and spent the regular season on the practice squad, and Billy McMullen, a former Eagle and Viking.

The safety positions are in flux right now, as the team is unsure where to put star second-year player LaRon Landry.

Landry performed at a much higher level from the free-safety position, but newly acquired Stuart Schweigert is a natural FS. However, should Landry play at FS, then Reed Doughty would most likely play SS.

Personally, I thought Landry was far better at FS, where he had a huge impact. Doughty filled in well at SS and was a tackling machine by the end of the season. That would be the combination I would use, but we'll see what the coaching staff thinks at the end of camp.

Thus, Day One is in the books. Welcome back, NFL.

Plaxico Burress is Making a Smart Decision

2008-07-18T06:00:00.002-07:00

By Michael Schlossberg : This off season for Big Blue has led to much tribulation for some of their players, including Plaxico Burress. Plax has been seeking a new deal in the Randy Moss- Terrell Owens range of around seven or eight million dollars per year.

Plaxico has told various New York reporters that he will report to camp at SUNY Albany on time with the rest of his veteran teammates. This is setting the correct precedent to show up to camp instead of trying to negotiate a new deal through the media.

Shaun O'Hara, who is becoming more and more of a leader, has said that Burress should show up in camp on time and do everything that is asked of him. This really shows the Giants how committed Plaxico is to the team.

Plaxico is like any WR in the league in that he always wants the ball, but he really is not Prima Donna when it comes to his off the field actions. He is no TO or Randy Moss, who have both have caused controversy off the field. Plaxico though, played the entire year not only in pain, but injured.

Burress really showed off his poise in the Super Bowl--after being shut down after the opening drive, he was still able to score the winning touchdown. New Yorkers will always remember the call by Joe Buck: "Manning lobs it, Burress alone, TOUCHDOWN New York!"

In the NFC title game he roughed up Corner back Al Harris with his 11 catch game. That game, he seemed to be able to make cuts that a receiver should not be making on a bum ankle. Burress just wants the best for his team, which is for them to win Super Bowls.

Plax deserves a long term extension with the Giants, and he wants to be in NY provided that the Giants take care of him. This makes sense because the Giants gave him his only Super Bowl title. He is a threat both over the middle and also down the field for Eli to stretch the offense.

In effect, he is an offensive threat and a vital part of this offense. And if the Giants keep him happy, he will be here for years to come.

Five Reasons Why the Redskins will Compete for First in the NFC East

2008-07-17T12:20:00.000-07:00

By James Gray: Once again the Redskins are picked to finish last in the NFC East and I'm not surprised. Despite last seasons' appearance to the the playoffs, analysts still believe Washington is the weakest team in the division. Here is a breakdown of five reasons why the Redskins will be a better team and not end up in last place.

1. Coach Jim Zorn and the west coast offense he brings to D.C. is number one. The past few seasons the Redskins offense has been decent, but that is about it. Redskin fans know what I am talking about--remember the first time they played the Giants and lost the game on a 4th and goal? Times like that make Skins' fans sit back and wonder whether it is the play calling, the offensive line, or is the other team's defense really just that good?

Offensive consistency is what nation's capital has been yearning for. A young QB who seems to have all the tools to be more than a solid QB in the league seems not to be blossoming quickly under the current offense.

The reason why I have the west coast offense as number one is because this is the offense that Jason Campbell ran so effectively at Auburn. Can you say bringing back comfort to the QB who led his team to 13-0 in the SEC?

He already has made huge strides in preseason workouts with the new offense and should have it down by the end of training camp. With a fresh start from a new coach who made Matt Hasselbeck who he is today, this offense could thrive to be something serious to reckon with.

2. It is Clinton Portis' time to shine. There is no doubting his overall skills and body strength has made Portis one of the premier backs in the NFL, but his lack of focus might have been preventing him from being a top 3 back.

This offseason was different for Portis though. Instead of partying the summer away in Miami he spent his off season in D.C., where the Redskins met with Portis and asked him to be the face and leader of the Redskins franchise-- which carries far more responsibilities off and on the field.

He was in attendance for all the mini camps, voluntary workouts, and is a mentor to the rookies. I'm sure he can still kick it with the best in South Beach, but now he has his head right and has his eye on the prize. The west coast offense also allows Portis to get into the open field and make defenders miss, which is his greatest attribute. So watch for this Miami boy to put up career numbers and open the passing game for Campbell.

3. A solid defense is what kept this team together despite the inconsistencies on offense. After losing Sean Taylor, Carlos Rogers and Rocky McIntosh, many predicted a huge collapse. But that didn't happen because rookies Landry, Doughty, and Heyer proved they belonged in the NFL and held together to win the last four games of the season.

With a perfect mixture of veterans and rookies, this could be one of the better Redskin defenses in the last decade--deep is the best way to describe the squad. One other note, many overlook the newly signed defensive end Erasmus James, who had his best season his rookie year then was plagued by injuries. With a fresh start and being reunited with his college defensive coach this former first round pick in the '05 draft hopefully will find his swag again.

4. I don't think the Redskins could have had a better first two draft picks. If you are like me and wonder how a wide open Santana Moss or Randel El gets the ball thrown 5 feet over them on a 3rd down, you are just excited as me about Kelly and Thomas.

Not only did they get the best WR in the second round they were able to get the second best WR in the draft. With a 6'3 and a 6'2 receiver the Redskins now have a well balanced attack that could be scary. With Randle El in the slot, who knows what can happen? Look at Wes Welker.

These draft picks have the potential to change the outlook of the whole offense and can be the X factors in getting Santana open, not to mention their size being a threat in the end zone.

5. The last reason doesn't have to do with a new coach, a new offense, a star player, or some key draft picks—it has to do with being a tight unit. The death of Sean Taylor brought great sorrow to the organization but it also brought unity among players, fans, and a city. If you would have told me that they would win the last four games with a backup QB to limp into the playoffs I probably would've said, "Told you so," but it was highly unlikely.

Look at the opponents: the Bears, at Giants, at Vikings, then the Cowboys. It was an amazing run that not only had to do with their heart, determination and skill but something from above. From the day Sean passed was the same day that "I” passed too, as a family they moved on, knowing Sean is there with them in spirit.

There are too many coincidences that came up involving his number. In the must-win game against Dallas the Redskins won by 21, in their next game a playoff loss to the Seahawks the Redskins lost by 21, following that the Redskins 1st round draft pick was non other then 21.

At first it seemed “fitting,” but now there are too many 21's to ignore. This is a team that is a family and with leaders like Moss and Portis who know now that life isn't granted they are focused and ready to battle anyone who gets in their way.

This season, don't underestimate the word TEAM.

Giants Sign Tackle Shane Olivea

2008-07-16T06:43:00.000-07:00

By Michael Schlossberg : Recently, I called for the Giants to add depth on the Offensive Line. And they did, adding former Charger OT Shane Olivea.

Olivea played his high school football in Lawrence, NY (roughly 20 miles east or so outside of New York City), so he is familiar with the New York metropolitan area. He played his college ball at THE Ohio State University where he won a BCS title as a starting Tackle. Therefore, he has experience in a big time program.

Shane has already been a starter in this league for a playoff team as a member of the Chargers. His acquisition should add depth to a highly productive unit that helped New York win its third Super Bowl in twenty-one years. Olivea will back both Giants' starting tackles, David Diehl and Kareem McKenzie. The signing will allow the Giants takes pressure off of lone back-up Guy Wimper.

The only problem with the Olivea signing is his backgound of substance abuse. These difficulties led to his release by the Chargers in February. General Manager Jerry Reese believes that the Giants locker room, ripe with steady veteran leadership, will help Olivea stay out of trouble and focused on the football field.

Is this the Cowboys' Year?

2008-07-15T10:35:00.000-07:00

By Isaac Barrow: Is this the Cowboys' year for a Super Bowl? The team of the '90s has since struggled, and last year went 13-3 before choking in the playoffs because of Tony Romo and his fiancée, Jessica Simpson.

My advice to Romo: Have Jessica watch the games at home.

Last year, Romo, Terrell Owens, and Jason Witten led one of the most explosive offenses in the NFL and were heavy favorites to be the NFC representative at the Super Bowl.

The Cowboys had a first-round bye and lost to the Giants in the second round. New York ended up winning it all, of course.

That led to T.O.'s infamous press conference in which he said, "It's not fair. It's not fair. That's my quarterback."

The Cowboys were 12-1 through Week 14 and lost to only the Patriots, who didn't lose to anybody except the Giants, in Super Bowl XLII.

Last year, Owens caught 15 touchdown passes. Witten was one of the only tight ends with 1,000 or more yards, which is very uncommon for a tight end. Patrick Crayton was a very solid No. 2 wide receiver.

In the offseason, the Cowboys traded for troubled cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones. Jones has been jailed at least once every year in his NFL career since being drafted.

They 'Boys also lost Julius Jones to the Seahawks. To make up for the Jones loss, they drafted another Jones: Arkansas running back Felix Jones, who had 1,162 yards on just 133 carries last year. Felix Jones won't play much right away since Marion Barber has the job, unless some sort of injury occurs.

They acquired legendary former Dolphin linebacker Zach Thomas. Thomas had 52 tackles in five games last year and has been plagued with injuries the last three years. Thomas has 1,642 tackles over an 11-year career and could earn considerable playing time.

"America's Team" also resigned safety Ken Hamlin, who had 62 tackles and five interceptions, and linemen Flozell Adams and L.P. Ladouceur.

Who knows? This could be the America's Team's year!