A Spark For The Redskins?
As I watched Sunday’s contest against the Atlanta Falcons I was convinced that the Washington Redskins had in fact achieved a new low in a season saturated with terrible tackling, unfulfilled potential, decimating injuries, and various displays of offensive ineptitude.
Down 21-3 in the third quarter with Atlanta moving methodically down the field, Redskins safety LaRon Landry (nickname “Dirty Thirty”) saw an opportunity to lay a gigantic hit on Matt Ryan as Ryan was “sprinting” out of bounds. I cannot be certain what was going through Landry’s head during the play. Perhaps he just wanted to rid himself of the frustration of losing and being dominated by yet another opponent. Maybe a big hit would help us forget the bulldozing he received at the hands of Brandon Jacobs. Or maybe Matt Ryan was the only player on the field that he might be able to tackle. Regardless the reason, what ensued was a called “late hit” out of bounds which resulted in a sideline scuffle that somehow involved DeAngello Hall and about 20 Falcons players and coaches. Here we go, I was thinking. It had finally happened.
The Redskins had finally reached the boiling point where their frustration was now exploding over and would begin to overwhelm all rational thought. I was ready for the mob mentality to ensue, where otherwise normal and hard working folk become enticed to perform violent acts far from their typical character. Finally a worn down and defeated Redskins defense would take out their frustrations of inferiority through cheap shots, dirty play, and all that falls into the category of “unsportsmanlike conduct”.
The effect however developed into a welcome surprise. Now down 24-3 at halftime coach Jim Zorn delivered a spirited halftime speech. Zorn’s little pick me up was described as “he went off” according to some veteran players. Apparently Coach Zorn in atypical fashion reamed and ranted and ultimately got through. And as it goes when a normally mild mannered and soft spoken man decides to uncharacteristically stand up and give their verdict, people listen. Either from the surprise of witnessing something they are not used to experiencing, or by an understanding of the mere importance and value placed in his statements, ultimately something must have sunk in.
The welcome Spark soon ignited in a second half largely dominated by Washington. The offensive line performed admirably. LaDell Betts ran hard and consistently and the Redskins began to move the ball as they did during the first half of last season.
Suddenly it was just a 7 point game. Unfortunately, as valiant as our heroes in burgundy and gold were, it still was not enough. Old habits die hard as LaRon Landry and DeAngello Hall reverted back to displaying the tackling skills they must have learned at band camp. A Win for the Redskins just wasn’t meant to be. As a team however, the Redskins came out as a team of character, not giving into the jawing fans and a first half where they could do little if anything right. Jason Campbell stood tall and continued to compete despite being beaten down. Now the Redskins know that they can win when they play motivated and play smart. It is unfortunate that it took a “late hit” and an unfamiliar blowup to convince them.
Now with Chris Horton and Mike Williams injured and likely to miss the next home contest against Denver the Redskins must find a way to harness this spark and ride it for the rest of the season. I am convinced that it will at least provide them with one victory against an NFC East foe preferably the New York Giants. At least it will make due for some more entertaining games. I just hope Washington is able to keep the chip on their shoulder and have fun. Even amidst their two victories this season there was no sense of excitement or satisfaction in finishing out on top. Only a sigh of relief. I am looking forward to that one game this season resulting in a Redskins win and the pride and confidence that should accompany it.
| Find the newest Redskins tickets, gear, and memorabilia here. |
