Predicting the outcome of the Redskins' 2008 season is a bit of a challenge. It would seem obvious that the team should have a record below .500, considering that three coaching changes were made.

Jim Zorn is the new head coach, Sherman Smith was hired from the Tennessee Titans to be Offensive Coordinator, and former Defensive Line Coach Greg Blache was promoted to Defensive Coordinator.

However, I'm not convinced 2008 will be a lost year for the Burgundy and Gold.  Let us break down why:

Last year, their defense was great. They ended the year fourth in the NFL in rushing defense and eighth in points allowed. This includes the outlier known as the 52-7 loss to the Patriots (I won't go into this, but I believe the blowout was due to coaching strategy, not talent). Not to mention that linebacker Rocky McIntosh and cornerback Carlos Rogers were put on IR early in the season.

Why the team's defense will be elite in 2008:

1. Greg Blache has a similar coaching style to Gregg Williams, and he already knows the players. This means continuity from last year.

2. McIntosh will be back for the start of the season, and Rogers will be back around mid-September.

3. Safety LaRon Landry will be more mature. Sorry to use this word, but PWNAGE!

4. Chris Wilson (DE) is a very fast pass-rusher, and he only saw limited playing time last year. He will be more prominent in pass-rushing situations.

On offense, more questions exist. Well, sort of. The offensive line terminology will be identical to last season. As will the running back terminology.  So, yes, there is even continuity on offense. 

Last year, offensive linemen Jon Jansen and Randy Thomas both were put on IR in the first two games. The whole right side of the line was filled by backups for the whole rest of the season. Therefore, the coaches kept Clinton Portis from running on the right side of the line. 

With Jansen and Thomas back in the lineup, I expect Portis' numbers to be similar to, if not better than, his 2005 numbers (<1,500 yards). In addition, quarterback Jason Campbell should have significantly more time in the pocket

The real question comes down to the passing offense. If the passing game does not run smoothly, I expect another frustrating and mediocre year for the Redskins.  Perhaps 8-8 at best. However, don't be so sure this will be the case. 

Jason Campbell had four different Offensive Coordinators at Auburn, and he has had three as a Redskin, so he is used to the constant change. Rookie receivers Malcolm Kelly and Devin Thomas will provide Campbell with larger targets.

Kelly should see significant action in 2008 in scoring situations because of his height (6'4"). Plus, tight end Fred Davis should be very in valuable for two-tight end sets. The Redskins have done good things for their future by picking up the top two WR's and the top TE in the draft. 

If the passing game turns out smoothly, and if Jim Zorn turns out to be a good coach, I see an 11-5 season. But, if neither of those things happen, I can see a 7-9 or possibly even a 6-10 season. Splitting the difference somewhat, my final prediction for the year is a 9-7 record.