The-Hogs.net - Washington Football Discussion, Redskins to Commanders Era

Mark Schlabach: Thanks everybody for joining us today. I'm sure you're all excited about the upcoming season. I'm ready to take your questions.

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Tuckahoe, NY: Just how good will the offensive line be and how much depth will it have?

Mark Schlabach: The offensive line was terrible last year in pass protection. It's the same offensive line, but Dockery and Friedman should be better with a year under their belts in the system. Samuels really needs to bounce back from a bad season. Luckily, Brunnel is left-handed so Jansen will be protecting his blindside. Raymer is a good backup center, and could very well start, but the rest of the reserves are primarily rookies.

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Herndon, Va.: Most have said that the offense in place will be run-oriented; run-first. However the Skins have a deep, rich set of wide recievers. Will these talented recievers be under-utilized in this offense?

Mark Schlabach: I think it will be a run-oriented offense, or they wouldn't have traded away a future Hall of Fame cornerback for Portis. But Gibbs is intelligent enough to know that Coles and Gardner (if he bounces back) are pretty good receivers. If Coles doesn't get enough balls thrown his way, I'm sure we'll all hear about it pretty quickly.

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Erie, Pa.: Mark, thanks for doing this chat. I'm a 25-year fan and am itching to know one thing: Can Clinton Portis pick up the blitz? We all saw how poorly our backs and tight ends picked up blitzers last year and I believe upgrading there could really help Ramsey/Brunell and the offense.

Mark Schlabach: While Portis isn't as physical as John Riggins or Earnest Byner, he's still a pretty tough guy. I don't think he's as good of a blocker as Mike Anderson, Terrell Davis or some of the other backs in Denver the last few seasons, but I think he can do the job. Now, if the offensive line doesn't block any better, General Sherman couldn't protect the quarterback from blitzes.

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Arlington, Va.: Isn't all of this power-running philosophy a little overblown? From what I can remember of Gibbs last tenure, he had some pretty impressive passing offenses. Given we have an 85 rated lifetime passer, one of the top 10 receivers in the league, and former-number-one-Thrash as our 3rd wideout, can this team resemble the Rypien to Posse days?

Mark Schlabach: I don't think it will be as prolific as the Rypien to Posse days, but they've got a couple of nice weapons in Coles and Gardner. I'm still not sold on Taylor Jacobs. I think a lot of those Florida receivers were products of the Fun N' Gun offense. What did Jacquez Green, Chris Doering and Riedel Anthony ever do in the NFL? I think Thrash will be a good third-down receiver out of the slot and will make some tough catches, but he's not going to beat anybody deep.

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Rockville, Md.: Sean Taylor has been playing a reserved role in training camp so far. Is it a "will" or "when" question we should be asking about him starting this season? --And can you brace us for a surprise cut?

Mark Schlabach: I think it's only a matter of days -- or hours -- before Taylor supplants Andre Lott as the No. 1 free safety. The guy is a fine physical specimen and brings a lot of size and speed to the position. I don't think his knee injury will hinder him too much. As far as a surprise cut, I think it's too early to predict. I think Jacobs needs to step it up or he could be in danger.

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Mililani, Hawaii: Hi Mark, I am a very concern long time Redskin Fan (since 1969) I would like your feelings about are defensive line. I really think that this is the weakest part of our team and that it will come back and bite us late in the season. Which could knock us out of the playoff race altogether. What do you think!!

Mark Schlabach: I think Cornelius Griffin will make a huge difference in the middle of the line. Phillip Daniels, when healthy, can be a great run stopper on the outside and also can rush the passer. That said, Renaldo Wynn doesn't get me too excited anymore; Regan Upshaw won't be confused with Jevon Kearse; and Brandon Noble is an overachiever. I think LaVar Arrington moving to the weak side and playing some as a standup defensive end will help the pass rush as much as anything.

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Washington, DC: The big question on my mind is:

What has happened to Steve Spurrier?

Mark Schlabach: Hitting the links in sunny Florida. Waiting for Mack Brown to get fired.

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Washington, DC: From the sounds of it, training camp has been much more spirited so far than years past. What's the biggest difference you've noticed? Also, it sounds like the players really respect and are willing to do whatever it takes for Gibbs and Co. What do you think?

Thanks for the chat!!

Mark Schlabach: Well, there certainly are a lot more people out there who are interested in watching. The players are saying all the right things about Gibbs and Co. But saying it and doing it are two different things. I think there's definitely a positive attitude at Redskins Park, but we'll have to see if there's enough talent to win nine or 10 games.

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Fairfax, Va.: Mark,

How serious is Sean Taylor's knee injury? And why won't he talk about it?

Also, no one has really mentioned my boy Marcus Washington, (led the Colts in tackles last year) how is playing in this new, aggressive defense?

Mark Schlabach: Taylor's knee isn't a big deal. He has practiced the past two days and has looked pretty good. Gregg Williams was complimenting Marcus Washington today. After watching the guy play at Auburn in college, and then watching him on TV with the Colts, I think he's as big of an addition as Clinton Portis. The guy is a big-time player. Plus, he allows Arrington to move to the weak side, which frees him up to make more big plays.

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Washington, DC: Tight ends and H-backs are pretty important in Gibbs' system. Who are the front-runners for these positions? How soon can rookie Chris ey make an impact? And how effective do you think the H-back tactic will be against today's defenses?

Mark Schlabach: Walter Rasby leading at tight end; Brian Kozlowski at H-back. ey could help at either spot and will play a big role once he learns the offense. Jack Burns used the system with Dan Reeves in Atlanta (that's why the Falcons traded away what turned out to be a future No. 1 pick so they could draft tight end Reggie Kelly). I think an H-back works really well in college football and can be effective in the NFL if you've got the right players. You can chip defensive ends, throw screens or short slants.

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Alexandria, Va.: I have a question about Sean Taylor. It strikes me that he's been a tad unsteady. First, he fires his agent and then doesn't hire a new one. Then he attends the rookie orientation but leaves early because he's about to be evicted(like he didn't know that was gonna happen ?); then he hires an agent and signs in two days; then he hurts his knee and a few days later is making spectacular plays in camp.

What's the story here ?


Mark Schlabach: What do you expect from a University of Miami player? It's a different life on South Beach. Taylor will be fine once he gets acclimated to D.C. Luckily for him, Portis is there to help show him the way. Wish he'd talk to the media, though ....

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Woodbridge, Va.: The 'skins talent level far exceeded their performance last year. Has't that "wily coyote" Joe Gibbs put himself in a no-lose situation given the talent on this team?

Mark Schlabach: We'll all find out how good Gibbs really is. On paper, the Skins aren't that talented beyond Portis, Arrington, Smoot, Coles and Taylor. Despite what everybody around here believes, last season wasn't completely Steve Spurrier's fault. I, for one, still think the guy is an offensive genius. Maybe he didn't run his practices the right way, and didn't command the respect of his players, but there was only one Pro Bowler on that team last year and he's playing in Denver now.

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Springfield, Va.: I was impressed with Tim Hasselbeck's play last year. I thought he was more effective than Patrick Ramsey because he was more mobile and had better "touch" on his short passes. I have not heard anything about Coach Gibbs' evaluation of Hasselbeck, and would like to know what he thinks. Also, would appreciate knowing your opinion. Thanks.

Mark Schlabach: Hasselbeck has looked O.K. in camp so far and has made a couple of nice throws. But he definitely lacks Ramsey's arm strength, and doesn't have the experience or mobility of Brunnel. I think he's safe as the No. 3 QB, though.

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Columbus, Ohio: What is your perspective on pre-season games and starters risking injury?

Mark Schlabach: Ask Mike Vick. Five games is way too many preseason games, but Gibbs and Gregg Williams think they'll help the team become more comfortable with the system. I doubt you'll see much of Coles, Portis, Arrington, etc.

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Columbus, Ohio: With so many tight ends and running backs what area are the Redskins thin at that worries you the most?

Mark Schlabach: There are a lot of tight ends, but I think there's more quantity than quality. Gibbs places such a premium on tight ends in his system that the Redskins might have been better off signing Kellen Winslow Jr. (his reluctance to sign a contract aside). I think the offensive and defensive lines are thin, and not sure they've got a really good quality runner behind Portis (although Betts will be fine if Portis stays healthy).

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Washington, D.C.: According to the local papers, the Quarterbacks have looked a bit rusty to start the camp. That being said, if Patrick Ramsey is designated the starter for the beginning of the year, and there is Hasselback doing a good job as backup, how much of Brunnel's contract is guranteed? Could he be a cut at the end of training camp if he is not performing?

Mark Schlabach: After three days of camp, I'm predicting that Brunnell will be the starter. He's obviously got more experience and mobility, and he seems to have a better grasp of the offense at this point. Remember, he's probably seen as much of Gregg Williams' defense as any one else in the NFL (having faced the Titans and Bills so often). Ramsey has a big arm, but he's got to make better decisions.

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Leesburg, Va.: Mark,

Regarding the access Sean Taylor has give the media, aren't there generally contract provisions for minimum exposure athletes must grant to you guys?

Thanks

Mark Schlabach: No. The NFL only requires that teams open locker rooms to give access to the media. Players aren't required to talk to reporters. That's why Denver's offensive linemen have gone so long without talking to reporters.

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Columbus, Ohio: In 1991 the Redskins demonstrated how to use three backs, Byner and Ervins splitting carries on 1st and 2nd downs, and a power unit called heavy jumbo and heavy heavy jumbo featuring Gerald Riggs for goal line and short yardage, is this something we will see again?

Mark Schlabach: Ledell Betts and Chad Morton aren't Ricky Ervins and Gerald Riggs.

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Orlando, Fla.: How is former Auburn All-SEC Center Ben Nowland doing and has his playing in NFLE this year helped him? He seems like a first class kid and a great young player that would suit the Redskins coaches well!?
Thanks very much!

Mark Schlabach: He's No 3 center behind Friedman and Raymer, but doing pretty well.

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Fairfax, VA: I believe the linebackers and secondary are much improved this year, (minus the loss of Champ,) is this enough to compensate for the lack of true pressuring, pass-rushing defensive ends?

Mark Schlabach: With Barrow, Arrington and Washington, they've got one of the best linebacker corps in the NFL. Taylor definitely upgrades the secondary, and Smoot has worked really hard on his technique to make people forget about Champ Bailey (which he won't do). Having Champ Bailey and Smoot would have helped disguise the lack of pass rush. Shawn Springs is still a pretty good corner, and Rashaud Bauman has played pretty well, too.

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Washington, D.C.: There has been a lot of speculation as to whether Clinton Portis is really a star back, or a system back such as Olandis Gary. Since Denver has produced so many 1000 yard backs, I think it could be possible, though I'm praying I'm wrong. Is he a back that can thrive in our system? I would hate to see us spend all that money on him if he can't produce. What do you think his chances are of matching, or even exceeding his success in Denver?

Mark Schlabach: He's extremely talented and has all the intangible needed to become a great back. That said, whoever lines up at running back for the Broncos will run for 1,000 yards. Portis isn't playing behind Denver's line anymore. The offensive line has to produce for him to match that success.

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Charlotte, N.C.: Are the Redskins still looking for a pass rusher or do they feel they can get the pressure with two fast linebackers (Arrington and Washington)?

Mark Schlabach: I think they'll stand pat with what they've got, unless another team makes a surprise cut.

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Baltimore, MD: Has there ever been a time when there has been such a major influx of quality top flight talent (i.e., Portis, Owens, Warner, George, etc. ) that came into one conference (NFC east)? Also, is it too much to think that the winner of the NFC East will win the Super Bowl ? Welcome to Skins land !!!

Mark Schlabach: With Owens, I would think Philly is the favorite but I'm not sure they'll ever win the big game. George is pretty much washed up, and Quincy Carter isn't taking the Cowboys to the Super Bowl. Have you watched Kurt Warner play lately? Skins could go 9-7 or 10-6 in this division. My Super Bowl champs? The Patriots with Corey Dillon.

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Washington, DC: It seems like Chad Morton was beginning to "find his groove" later in the season last year. Will special teams, led by Morton on return (and joined by Thrash presumably), and the emphasis placed on special teams by Gibbs finally be taken seriously in Washington? It appears that kicking is in good hands (or feet) with Hall and Tupa.

Mark Schlabach: If I have one knock on Spurrier it's that he despised special teams and never took them seriously. He was too busy trying to throw the ball into the end zone! Morton is as good as anyone on returns (unless K.C. is allowed six blocks in the back again this season). Tupa is a quality punter, and Jeff Hall isn't going to lose a game for you. The Redskins have spent a lot of time on special teams during the first few practices.

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Tampa, Fla.: Some time ago when the Arena Football league started talking about expanding I thought I heard that Snyder was going to put a team in Washington and was, I believe, going to be called the "Warriors." What ever happened to this?

Mark Schlabach: Daniel Snyder and Fred Drasner were awarded an expansion team for the DC area that was supposed to begin play in the 2003 season. That's the last I heard about it. Arthur Blank just bought the AFL team in Atlanta. There's obviously not a conflict in the eyes of the NFL.

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Centreville, VA: Based on what you know thus far, who is slated to become the third wide receiver for the Redskins? (McCants or Thrash)

And why is Clifford Russel still around? He hasn't contributed at all...ever since he's been drafted, it's been one injury after another.

Mark Schlabach: Coles No. 1; Gardner No. 2; McCants No. 3; Thrash No. 4
Thrash is more of a specialty receiver. He's great in the clutch and isn't afraid to go across the middle. He'll get you the tough yards. I think Russell and Jacobs probably make the roster as the last two receivers, although Gari Scott could be a factor since he has a lot of speed.

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Lori (DC): What is the schedule for roster cuts? Do you see any surprise cuts?

Mark Schlabach: The first mandatory roster cut will be on Tuesday, Aug. 31, when all NFL teams must reduce their rosters to 65 players. The final roster cuts will be on Sunday, Sept. 5, when each team must reduce to 53 active players. Until the mandatory roster cuts, the NFL roster limit for each team is 80 players under contract.

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Baltimore, Md.: How is Coles' foot doing? He looked so great at the start of last year, then slowed way down with that undisclosed toe injury. This year, do you think we'll see the Coles of early 2003, late 2003, or somewhere in between?

Mark Schlabach: Probably somewhere in between. I think he's healthy and he's looked good so far. He's as dedicated of a receiver as I've seen since Jerry Rice. That said, I think his role in the offense will be reduced at least somewhat. This isn't the Fun N' Gun anymore.

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Washington, DC: Do you think the Skins' offensive line last year was bad due to talent or coaching? What kinds of changes will Gibbs make this year to ensure we have the strong offensive line his game plan requires?

Mark Schlabach: They've gone to simpler blocking schemes and put more of a premium on protection. That said, Samuels needs to turn it up a notch. He has done little to justify his first-round selection.

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Landover, Md.: Has there been any buzz about the 'Skins trying to structure a deal to acquire Ogunyele from Miami? I'm okay going into the season with the current roster...what are your thoughts?

Mark Schlabach: There was some buzz earlier in the summer, but I think they'll wait and see what Daniels and Upshaw do once Daniels is healthy.

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Baltimore, MD: Were you able to see the QB's practice this morning? Is Brunell's arm strength a concern? Who's leading at this point? Who will start against the Broncos?

Mark Schlabach: I said earlier that I thought Brunnell was leading. His arm strength isn't a concern. Remember, he missed most of last season so he's pretty healthy and fresh. He looks good scrambling out of the pocket.

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Arnold, Md.: Are any rookie free agents of veteran players surprising the coaching during this early portion of training camp?

Mark Schlabach: It's still pretty early in camp, but I think WR Gari Scott and CB Ralph Brown have been suprises.

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Mark Schlabach: Thanks everybody. I'll be back tomorrow at 3 p.m.

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johnjack wrote:Is it me, or does this guy Mark Schlabach come across as not knowing what the heck he is talking about? He cites Andre Lott as the #1 Free Safety, and maintains that Spurrier is an offensive genius. Where do they get these guys from? You would think that they could at least hire someone who knows what the heck they are talking about!

Rumor out of camp has it that Fred Smoot is emerging as our top punter, potentially making a run to become the next great black punter (Reggie Roby being the first, of course)...what say you?

..on paper, the Skins aren't that talented beyond Portis, Arrington, Smoot, Coles and Taylor