The Redskins Blog

First Quarter Fakeouts

AP Image

The Redskins employed a bit of trickery in their pregame lineups, waiting until the last minute before announcing that Rex Grossman would start at quarterback in place of John Beck, and linebacker Perry Riley would start in place of Rocky McIntosh.

Both surprise starters had a shaky start on their respective first drives, with Grossman going three-and-out with a sack, and Riley getting flagged for a 15-yard horse collar tackle.

But after yielding a Dolphins touchdown, the Redskins responded with their Florida contingent.  Gator Grossman hit his former teammate Jabar Gaffney for a completion and Hurricane (Leonard) Hankerson for two catches.  Unfortunately, the drive stalled on the Dolphins 35, and Gano missed a 50-yard attempt into the swirling wind.

The Redskins finally got their spark on the ensuing defensive campaign, pushing the Dolphins back with two tackles for a loss, before Barry Cofield pressure forced a bad throw and a Kevin Barnes interception.  Barnes followed his blocks and returned the ball 30 yards to the Dolphins 6-yard line.

Right now, the Redskins defense is forcing the turnovers, and the offense is limiting turnovers.  But as a team, they need to capitalize on these opportunities, especially with turnovers in the red zone.  Penalties and swirling winds are no excuse–the Redskins need to capitalize in the second quarter of play and build some momentum.

‘Fins up over the ‘Skins early: Washington 3, Miami 7.