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

Skins’ backfield could find spark from new source
By JIM DUCIBELLA, The Virginian-Pilot
© August 7, 2004

ASHBURN, Va. — Chad Morton may force Washington Redskins coach Joe Gibbs to break one of his cardinal rules. It’s the one that reads that when a player is great at two things, Gibbs uses him where he can most help the team.

Exhibit A is Darrell Green, undoubtedly one of the most dangerous kick- and punt-return men in football history. At least he could have been. But Green also excelled as a cornerback, and Gibbs rarely succumbed to the temptation to employ Green at both.

When he did, the results could be spectacular, which is the only way to describe Green’s 52-yard punt return against Chicago that won a road playoff game during the 1997 season. By the same token, Green injured his ribs on the play, making the team’s road to the Super Bowl that year more difficult than it might have been.

“I was always torn on that,” Gibbs said. Fast-forward to Morton. Two years ago with the New York Jets, he averaged a career-best 28 yards per kickoff and returned two for touchdowns to lead the AFC and set a team record.

Last season with the Redskins wasn’t nearly as good. Although Morton’s 23.4-yard kickoff-return average included a return for a touchdown, it was sixth in the NFC. However, Morton salvaged respect from scrimmage. He started two games for the first time since 2000 and averaged 4.5 yards per rush. He also caught 15 passes for a career-best 12.5-yard average.

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DEHog wrote:Chad is great, may have the best hands on the team, catches anything near him. I loved the times last year when he was used on 3rd down!

When he did, the results could be spectacular, which is the only way to describe Green’s 52-yard punt return against Chicago that won a road playoff game during the 1997 season. By the same token, Green injured his ribs on the play, making the team’s road to the Super Bowl that year more difficult than it might have been.