With most of the offseason changes made, we begin an eight-week look at how teams stack up fantasywise for the coming season, starting with the NFC East. Next week: The NFC North.
WASHINGTON REDSKINS
•What we learned in 2003: That offensive line play is tied directly to points scored. Steve Spurrier didn't believe in pass protection, but new coach Joe Gibbs does, and the Redskins have enough talent to make immediate improvement here.
•Key changes: Many, again. The Redskins have a new quarterback (Mark Brunell) and running back (Clinton Portis). Brunell won't make it through the season healthy, so Patrick Ramsey will get some time, but Portis is the unquestioned every-down back.
•Remaining questions: Who will be the second receiver and what will happen when Brunell gets hurt. The offense will produce a second good receiver (No. 3 fantasy) and Darnerien McCants could beat Rod Gardner and James Thrash. Ramsey must prove he can shake the pounding he took in 2003.
•2004 schedule: Nothing will be easy, although the Redskins should be competitive. The crucial span is four road games in six weeks ending in Week 16, which could wear them out in the fantasy playoffs.
I think it's the reality of the NFL. Brunell, IF he's the starter on opening day, will undoubtedly lose time due to injuries. That's going to be Ramseys chance to step up and shine. I'm sure Joe Gibbs is aware of the possibility that Brunell may get injured during the year and he's going to have Ramsey primed and ready.
Jeremy81 wrote:wow, they seem pretty confident that brunell's gunna get hurt. I guess you can't really blame them...
With the focus on pass protection in THIS offense!!!????? My money's on Brunell going the distance, and Ramsey getting some playing time once the "REDEEMEDSKINS"-led (Joe, Brunell, PRam -- all have bowed down and confessed) offense brings the pain on opposing defenses.
I would be worried if Brunnel goes down. I know Ramsey is capable of starting but he throws right handed. If the recievers are used to catching the left handed balls then I'm worried they will be dropping some of Patrick Ramsey's balls when he first takes over. I'm sure they will get used to it. But I'm worried it might cost us big before they do.
I don't know that you forget how to catch throws from righties - they have been doing it since pee wee football in most cases.
Also - if you think that PRam isn't gonna get his share of snaps because he is a backup in practice... well I personally would think again - Joe believes in being thorough and prepared
Rich in Roanoke
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Let others hail the rising sun:
I bow to that whose course is run
Well i like the optimism with Gibbs, but i like Ramsey to be the starter. He has a stronger arm and is a younger passer. I look for him to win the job out of camp. With some time, some easier reads, and a whole LOT LESS autibles Ramsey should be ready for a breakout year. And personally having 2 guys fighting for the #2 receiver slot, makes me feel good!!! Don't forget Jacobs, he could still make a splash now that the OBC is gone.
I still think Jacobs is the cindarella at WR this year... things we have heard from the mini camps just show me that he might actually be one of the few GOOD Florida WR in the league...
I know I was really impressed with him and Cloman at camp myself...
Rich in Roanoke
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Let others hail the rising sun:
I bow to that whose course is run
Redskins Rule wrote:I would be worried if Brunnel goes down. I know Ramsey is capable of starting but he throws right handed. If the recievers are used to catching the left handed balls then I'm worried they will be dropping some of Patrick Ramsey's balls when he first takes over. I'm sure they will get used to it. But I'm worried it might cost us big before they do.
There's some thruth to this. I remember hearing Coles saying he needed extra time with Brunell cause the ball "comes out differently". If Coles thinks it makes a difference, the other guys best be getting plenty reps with both QBs, even if it means putting in overtime.
skinsfaninroanoke wrote:I still think Jacobs is the cindarella at WR this year... things we have heard from the mini camps just show me that he might actually be one of the few GOOD Florida WR in the league...
I know I was really impressed with him and Cloman at camp myself...
I will never trust anyone from the university of Florida again in life.
I will never trust anyone from the university of Florida again in life.
words to live by
I on the other hand trust Wuerffel with his ministry work down in New Orleans , but football related, I'm hoping Jacobs can pick up after Spurrier and redeem the gators. Sunshine has to follow at least ONE of the Gators, no?
, but football related, I'm hoping Jacobs can pick up after Spurrier and redeem the gators. Sunshine has to follow at least ONE of the Gators, no? 
