Bleacher Report - Articles by Travis Evans

Redskins Free Agent Additions: Why Not Sign Edge or Warrick Dunn?

Travis Evans — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 12:36:05 -0400

Warrick Dunn and Edgerrin James are still free agents and many fans don't realize the Redskins need a third-down back and viable back up if they want Portis healthy in November and December.

Ladell "Bettis" sure doesn't play like a Bus and last year made Portis run every down every game. Portis's body started to wear down around week eight before then Portis was on track for 2,000 yards by rushing for an average of 125 yards per game.

One way to keep the offensive struggles down and keep the Redskins fresh all year is to pick up Dunn or Edge. Both are free agents but Dunn makes the most sense seeing as he has played in the West Coast offense before and can catch. Dunn also has big play ability and can run inside.

Last year's stats for Dunn are 786 yards rushing, averaging 4.2 yards per carry. Not flashy, but surely better then Betts who didn't even rush for 300 yards.

As for Edge his glory days are over Jason Campbell is not Peyton and Moss isn't Harrison.

But Edge is an ideal third-down back rushing for 514 yards, a 3.9 yard average. He can run over people and is bigger than most backs and that helps get vital short yards.

A huge problem the last couple of years has been the inability to score in the red zone—Devin Thomas and Malcom Kelly help and so would Edge.

We sign big names every year why not put the money where we need it for once on the offense what you think.

LeBron James, Clinton Portis in The Same Boat and Sinking

Travis Evans — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 11:03:49 -0400

When both LeBron James and Clinton Portis came into two of the most athletic sports leagues out there, they both had high expectations. After both of their rookie seasons, the Cavaliers and Broncos were thinking their time has come.

Little did CP26 know he would be shipped to the Washington Redskins in his third season. The Redskins have dropped off the deep playoff pushes because they really haven’t had a quarterback since the days of Williams, Ripen, and Theisman. Well, Clinton has pounded the ball for the Redskins and taken a few years off of his wild career. Now, as the best Redskin, he needs offensive help and hasn't got it in years.

LeBron was on the cover of Sports Illustrated when he was a junior in high school and since has been featured a lot in the sports world. Now that they Cavaliers didn't meet their potential, everyone wants to hate on them, bashing the Shaq trade and claiming they have gotten worse.

Sasha, Wallace and Wally combined only averaged 6.8 points per game, 1.3 assists per game, and 8.4 rebounds per game, and they have been replaced by Shaq, Moon, and Parker, who average 32.5 points, 5.4 assists, and 15.4 rebounds.

How can you possibly argue that they have gotten worse when obviously they have gotten better? The stats say twice as better as last year. But this is this not my article.

LeBron and CP26 are getting older and older with no rings. This is the "Jordan Year" when Michael Jordan won his first title. Clinton on the other hand thought the Super Bowl was in his reach for the first time ever, and then the world collapsed and the Redskins’ Cinderella story was over.

Two great players and their legacies rely on other players, because unfortunately, they aren't the whole team. Shaq is Clinton's Jason Campbell; both are criticized all the time now and many fans on other teams don't see the potential.

So in the 2009 season, I'm calling it the "teammates" year, because two players legacies hang in their balance.

Where Has Marcus Washington Gone After Redskins?

Travis Evans — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 13:27:34 -0400

When Marcus Washington was cut I bet he thought he would be picked up really fast, but that is not the case. He played well in D.C. barring injury. Here's a look at his stats for his career. 617 total tackles (448 solo, 169 ast, and 37.5 sacks), and three interceptions with one going for a TD.

These numbers started to drop after Sean Taylor (R.I.P.) came to Washington because, let's face it, it was Taylor's field for all four quarters. The additions of London Fletcher and Laron Landry didn't help one bit. These people helped the increasing decline every year, but the real fact was that he was an injury bug. If anything could happen, it happened to Marcus Washington.

Now that his stats had dropped, his salary cap hit had come into play, so in the 2009 off-season the Washington Redskins cut Marcus Washington.

I wouldn't care if we re-signed Mr. Washington, but let's be real. He doesn't deserve to be paid much until he is a proven starter again.

The Redskins should look to re-sign him to the veteran minimum, and add some depth to the roster. The only problem with this idea is that the Redskins have already moved on and may not have any interest in Marcus Washington. Also, Washington might not want to take a pay cut to play again.

With all do respect, Marcus Washington should be happy if any team offers him a contract. This also dropped his stock so no other teams are interested.

Anyway, this off-season has been one of the best in years. Let's hope it continues.

Career Stats more
Season	Team			Tackles					Interceptions						Fumbles
Season	Team	G	GS	Total	Solo	Ast	Sck	SFTY	PDef	Int	Yds	Avg	Lng	TDs	FUM	Lost
2008	Washington Redskins	10	9	44	25	19	0.0	--	1	--	--	0.0	--	--	--	--
2007	Washington Redskins	12	11	48	32	16	5.0	--	0	--	--	0.0	--	--	--	--
2006	Washington Redskins	14	14	86	57	29	2.5	--	10	--	--	0.0	--	--	--	--
2005	Washington Redskins	16	16	93	73	20	7.5	--	6	1	41	41.0	41	0	--	--
2004	Washington Redskins	16	16	107	87	20	4.5	--	2	--	--	0.0	--	--	--	--
2003	Indianapolis Colts	16	16	81	55	26	6.0	--	4	--	--	0.0	--	--	--	--
2002	Indianapolis Colts	15	15	65	46	19	2.0	0	2	1	40	40.0	40T	1	--	--
2001	Indianapolis Colts	16	16	93	73	20	8.0	--	2	--	--	0.0	--	--	--	--
2000	Indianapolis Colts	16	0	--	--	--	2.0	--	0	1	1	1.0	1	0	--	--
TOTAL				617	448	169	37.5	0	27	3	82	--	41	1	0	0

Michael Vick Eludes Media, Back to Old Ways

Travis Evans — Wed, 20 May 2009 11:18:39 -0400

"Vick rolls left pump fakes and wait he's running back across the field he sees daylight touchdown touchdown, Falcons have regained the lead thanks to the One Man Show."

Vick brought the Falcons hope and promise, as ticket sales sailed through the roof, and Vick became rich and famous he had a few bad run in's with the NFL whipping off fans and such. Here's a run down of his football career—we all know about the dog fighting.

Vick ran an unheard of speed of a 4.3 second 40-yard dash and recorded a amazing like vertical leap of 40.5". In his first spring practice game at Virginia Tech, he completed just three of 10 passes, but he impressed and was well known when Vick scored a touchdown on a diving somersault into the end zone.

The play was played on every sports station across the country. Vick would soon lead his team to the National Championship.

Florida State would win the Sugar Bowl 46-29, but the player who made the biggest impact on the game was Vick. Virginia Tech trailed at one point early in the game by three touchdowns until Vick took the game over and led his team to a 29-28 lead.

Vick told Sports Illustrated's Silver about his reaction to his team's falling flat in the biggest college football game of the year: "We went down 28-7 and I gathered everyone around and said, 'Yo, it ain't going down like this. Somebody's got to step up. I guess it's going to be me.'"

That showed that Vick would soon take the Falcons locker room by storm and have players willing to get cut for him. Although Vick's efforts weren't enough Florida state triumphed. In his first year as a starter, Vick threw for 1,840 yards and 12 touchdowns and set an NCAA record for passing efficiency by a freshman (180.37).

As a rusher he gained 585 yards and added eight touchdowns. Vick was named to The Sporting News All-America team and was named the Big East Offensive Player of the Year. He finished third in the Heisman Trophy voting and, as a 19-year-old, attended his first ESPY Award show to receive acclaim as the nation's top college football player.

Some other notable mentions Vick won.All-American, 1997; The Sporting News First Team All America, 1999; Big East Offensive Player of the Year, 1999; Archie Griffin Award, 1999; ESPY Award, top college football player, 1999; Gator Bowl MVP; 2000.

The Atlanta Falcons moved aggressively to trade up to the number one pick in the draft to ensure that they could take Vick. The organization followed through with their plan making Vick the first pick overall of the 2001 draft and signed him to a six-year deal worth up to $62 million, then an unheard of deal for a rookie QB.

Falcons coach Dan Reeves planned to bring Vick along slowly in his first season and use him in certain situations and with a limited amount of plays, but when starting quarterback Chris Chandler was injured, Vick was forced into the starting lineup.

He started against Dallas and St. Louis and played in five other games. Though the Falcons saw glimpses of greatness in his first year, Vick turned the ball over too often. Part of the problem was the rookie had trouble memorizing all the plays in Reeves' complicated offense.

In his next year in Atlanta, the Falcons made it clear that it was Vick's time to shine. The club released Chandler following that year. Reeves also simplified the playbook to ease the second-year player's time not only learning the offense, but learning the terms used in the offense.

Reeves basically tailored an NFL offense for one player and Vick had the green light to run whenever he felt like it. The Falcons improved their defense and Vick led the Falcons from a 6-10 team to a 9-7 team.

At one point in the season, Vick led his team to a seven-game winning streak and the Falcons and their quarterback were the hottest topic in the NFL.

Though the team hit a tough part of the schedule at the end of the season, the Falcons made the playoffs, but their reward for such a fine season was a trip to Green Bay, Wisconsin, to play the Packers—a team that had never lost a playoff game on their home field.

Vick led his team up north and did what many thought was impossible. Atlanta not only beat the Packers, they destroyed the heavily favored Green Bay team 27-7. Though the Falcons lost the following week to the Philadelphia Eagles, Vick had led his team to a playoff win and respectability.

Well, I don't want to bore you with this article about Vick. He was released sometime today and will soon be with his family. Vick had eluded the press and escaped to the highway on his trip to his home in Hampton, VA with his soon to be wife.

In the coming weeks Vick will begin throwing ball to volunteering WR's and working out with QB coaches and Strength coaches. Although Vick will have to wait 'til July to speak with Roger.

Many teams in all likely hood will work him out when he is released but he may only come to three or four teams. Owners won't want to tarnish their teams name because of the P.E.T.A backlash.

If Vick can retain all of his skills, he "WILL" become an NFL starting QB somewhere. For his sake, I say Vick should sign with Minnesota or Washington.

Washington will offer him a contract other teams won't and that will please him plus he has never had a WR core as deep as Washington's will be this year.

Also it is close to his home in VA. Dany Boy is not scared to pull the trigger. Plus one of his great great friends D Hall is there to lobby for him in D.C.

Minnesota has a sort of ol ATL offense with a fast RB in Peterson and some mediocre WR's except Berrian and Percy but they have a strong defense and Vick would mess good seeing as they have a bad "VICK" wana-be in Tarvaris Jackson.

Vick will be great but look for him to work in the pocket and rely on his huge arm. Not many offenses want to redo a whole playbook for one guy who just got out of jail.

Colt Brennan Birth Of an NFL Superstar In D.C.

Travis Evans — Wed, 06 May 2009 14:11:09 -0400

Last preseason Colt Brennan got to show why he had set and broke records during his time in Hawaii. Brennan came in and handled the Colts and won the Hall Of Fame Game by himself. Here's how he fared last preseason.

Rk	Player	Team	Pos	Comp	Att	Pct	Att/G	Yds	Avg	Yds/G	TD	Int	1st	1st%	Lng	20+	40+	Sack	Rate
1	Colt Brennan	WAS	QB	36	53	67.9	10.6	411	7.8	82.2	3	0	13	24.5	37	6	0	8	109.9

Brennan may have played against players who also are third and fourth stringers, but if this is the case then how come every year there aren't Brennan type players winning and throwing like he did?

There is one flaw with his numbers, (the sack column is at eight) but he was behind third and fourth string linemen so of course this was bound to happen. The completion percentage is great though. Colt had one of the best debuts ever according to John Madden.

Brennan got some breaks with some of the throws he was making, but he had bright spots when he would hit receivers in stride down the sideline (something Jason Campbell can't do). Also he had confidence telling players on the sideline before he led the game winning drive versus the Jets that he was going to win the game.

This preseason he will most likely take the second string role from Todd Collins due to age and salary cap room. Now with that said Brennan will need to amaze to take the starting role, but most likely will have to wait one more season to show all the other 31 teams why you don't pass on a 131 career TD QB.

Brennan has made great strides in his throwing motion and in his footwork. He also has impressed versus first string defenses in OTA's and in mini camp.

Brennan will not disappoint when he starts this preseason against second stringers and maybe some first string defenses. Look to hear alot about him this preseason, thus the QB controversy will begin again in D.C.

Lets hope that Brennan continues to impress and stays in D.C. until he is ready to take the starting job from Jason Campbell.

Whose Future is Brightest on the Redskins Roster?

Travis Evans — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 22:24:11 -0400

When the Redskins pick this Saturday at pick thirteen they have many holes to fill but this may not be in the Redskins best interest. It has been said on almost every sport site that the Redskins have Mark Sanchez pegged at the 13th pick or higher via trading up. Many ask why should the Redskins be interested in another young QB on the roster? Well no one knows what goes on in Danny Boy's head but lets try and see it through his eyes and debate on which QB's future is brighter on the Redskins roster. I won't be biased.

Begin Slideshow

Why Are the Washington Redskins Hated?

Travis Evans — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 09:54:00 -0400

Seems like everywhere a Redskins fan looks he sees trade rumors or so-called experts bashing the Redskins.

I have noticed today that on many occasions the Redskins have been hated on. For example, on SportsCenter they were going through the schedule and were like "We'll see how the Redskins fare on Monday night with their $100 million man Albert Haynesworth."

On NFL.com I found a survey asking which non-playoff team has the best chance of reaching the playoffs and bingo, you got it: The Redskins came in last with a measly seven percent.

This is the survey and my vote goes to the Redskins:

Which non-playoff team from last year has the best chance of making the playoffs in 2009?

Washington Redskins

The Results

14 percent: Dallas Cowboys

nine percent: New Orleans Saints

51 percent: New England Patriots

seven percent: Washington Redskins

18 percent: Chicago Bears

Total votes: 34778

So, why does everyone doubt the Redskins?

Please, who are the Cowboys going to blame this year now that baby T.O. has left the building? For that matter, who is going to replace him?

Now, the Bears will kiss the next two years of their future goodbye. Kyle Orton did an okay job at QB and they just needed a productive WR and to sure up the aging defense.

This pick actually has some potential: The Patriots are a juggernaut with Brady and no one can argue this. They actually have won before and can do so again because of the sole fact of Tom Brady.

This pick also has some weight to it the Saints have had an okay offseason mostly fixing up the defense and they should take a compliment RB for Reggie Bush in this years upcoming draft, and yet they still are behind Dallas and Chicago.

Now, experts last year said the Redskins couldn't even contend in their division and that the Cowboys were going to win the division and even the Super Bowl. Now who's laughing?

Then they said that Jason Campbell was the midseason MVP. Wow, way to jump on the Redskins Bandwagon.

Lastly, they said that all of our offseason moves would not produce.

We will see, geniuses.

Playing Wait and See Is Just a "Ticking Time Bomb"

Travis Evans — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 14:14:10 -0400

As of two days ago the Redskins must make amends with Jason Campbell after trying to trade him to the Denver Broncos.

The Chicago Bears offered two first round draft picks, No. 18 in this year's draft and unknown pick in 2010. They also traded a third rounder and in return got a fifth rounder for disgruntled QB Jay Cutler.

Now all Redskins fans have to wait and see how Jason Campbell will preform and also how he copes with all of the talk about "this being his last year and then Brennan era starts" or the trade winds blowing into D.C.

As of now, Jason Campbell seems confident in his set of skills and that he can lead this team. But how long till Brennan kills it in preseason or until the Redskins collapse again. Then you will here the Brennan shouts in unison at FedEx Field or talks about Jim Zorn not being able to take the pressure of being a head coach.

With taking this approach to this season—how long fans of Skin's nation, how long till we return to a winning playoff team that can reach the Superbowl?

With additions such as Haynesworth and whomever we draft this year we should be a playoff team, also the line has gotten Derrick Dockery back, which should keep the o-line talks down.

Our season rides on a second year coach in Jim Zorn and a good, but not great QB in Jason Campbell. It also leans on how they move the ball to the low production young WR's in Kelly and Thomas.

So lets see how long it takes fellas till we see the improvements or until the chants become screams.

Jay Cutler To D.C. Is It Destiny?

Travis Evans — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 15:32:13 -0400

Every year the Redskins are linked to a big trade. Last year, Chad Johnson good thing we didn't trade for him but we did trade for Jason Taylor looked how that worked out.

Now we are linked to Jay Cutler but for some reason it's seems inevitable that we will trade for him. This maybe the thing we need or another thing that could set us back for 10 years who will ever know until we try.

Albert Haynesworth is Worth It Guys

Travis Evans — Sat, 28 Feb 2009 13:25:04 -0500

Every where I turn on the Internet, it's he's not worth $100 million. Well Let's see is Big Ben or Mike Vick worth $100 million well no. But they both completed the puzzles in Atlanta and in Pittsburgh. Albert just completed are puzzle.

He will free up Jason Taylor and Andre Carter and will bring more pressure to force teams to run to the outside not the middle and not allowing QB's to step up.

With this said DeAngelo Hall will have a full year to show that he was worth it and he will look better with the acquisition of Haynesworth. When asked, the Redskins D-line was very pleased, so does this mean more chemistry between the lines and more communicating we will find out.

With this said the only move I disagree with is LETTING this Jason Campbell guy stay the starter. Now, if your going to support him, show the facts and don't say a new system every year or old line—find new excuse.

A Look at the Washington Redskins' Upcoming Offseason

Travis Evans — Sun, 21 Dec 2008 14:15:13 -0500

Entering Sunday, the Eagles felt the Super year coming back; the Redskins felt embarrassed following a lose to the Beagles (Bengals). Well, the outcome was a shock to both teams.

The defense, led by Casper (a.k.a Jason Taylor, because he hasn't shown up this year) and D Hall was impressive, holding the Eagles O to three points. While the offense still needs work they didn't shoot them selves in the foot.

When Jason Taylor forced the fumble I bet all of Redskin nation jumped up and cheered. Shouts of finally he has a impact; after he said that he wasn't worth the money he was being paid, how ironic.

We are out of the playoffs so what do we do. Do we give Brennan a shot, play second stringers, start rookies and see how they can control a game. We will see none of these.

We should rebuild both offense and defense this offseason.

Priority one: Do we stay with JC or go with Brennan. I say Brennan gets a shot this offseason.

Priority two: Evaluate aging defensive line and offensive line. We should let Jason Taylor pan out; he may be finally healthy. Cut Andre. Sign and draft a few new o-linemen.

Priority three: Finding a reliable backup for Portis. Well, in this scenario, there are several options. We can sign a free agent in Brandon Jacobs, trade for Edge in Arizona, or draft a rookie back. You decide. My opinion is get Jacobs.

Priority four: Evaluate Zorn and Company. Is Blache the future or do we need a mastermind to conquer this monster. I think we bring in a new D-coordinator and fire up some blitzes.

There are more priorities, but it is disputable. Now, we should sign Albert Haynesworth and Terrell Suggs in the offseason. It will help the defense to add two more pass rushers.

I think the 3-4 in DC will help a lot. Great defenses like the Ravens and Steelers run a 3-4. You don't have to have playmakers in all positions but reliable players. We have this. Maybe we need a new start to this defense.

The only downfall I saw was we let Philly drive all the way down the field on the last drive. If Landry isn't there, that's a TD.

I hope to see a new energetic team this time next year, with an already-clinched playoff berth.

Season's Over! Stop the Mayhem and Get the Redskins Future in, Jim Zorn! Please!

Travis Evans — Sun, 14 Dec 2008 11:32:02 -0500

Seems like every game we play, no matter the opposing record, we let them into the game. Now, it would take a lot of help to us into the playoffs.

The season is over.

We have to look to the future.

I think there is no problem putting Todd Collins or Colt Brennan in at this point. We need to stop the bleeding. Jason Campbell could not even beat the Bengals defense. I know people are going to say Campbell had a good game. I expect Craig to say it was promising. No disrespect to you guys, but be serious: It is over.

Start Brennan. Put Devin Thomas or Malcom Kelly in at second wide receiver, and Randle El in the slot. Fred Davis showed he has a future in the NFL—maybe start running two-tight end sets.

I would love to see the Redskins look to the future now.

I mean now.

Secondly, when Gregg Williams went to Jacksonville, the Jaguars probably thought Williams would make them better. But we realized that it is the Redskins defensive players, not the coach, which makes them good.

Greg Blache comes in and we didn't drop a beat...but we don't create turnovers now, and we haven't gotten sacks.

Maybe, just maybe, it's not Jason or Andre, but maybe it's the plays. I would love to see a genius come to Washington to cook up some exotic blitzes. Danny boy forks out money but, not to a good defensive coach.

So I think that we should fire Blache and find a genius that can give us what all other NFC East defenses have. Maybe a 3-4 defense would help.

What can go wrong, a loss? Wow, Jason and Zorn have seven of those already.

Look to the future and put the young guns in.

I could be wrong, but why not? Just start to think that we haven't gotten past 10-6 or 9-7 in a long time. We should start to rebuild this historic franchise, because this year and last year, we have seen the injuries mount because of our age. We are one of the oldest teams in the NFL right now.

I may just be a teenager looking for electrifying plays and a good team that needs to get back to winning.

Or just a fan who knows nothing.

Jason Campbell Vs. Colt Brennan: Vol. Three

Travis Evans — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 10:14:07 -0500

Jason Campbell has showed good plays, don't get me wrong; but every blind squirrel finds a nut once and a while. When he struggles, it is really bad, he may fumble in big time situations and looks slow and confused.

He doesn't have the leadership ability. When a player is on the wrong page, he need to grab them by the shirt and say, "You do this or you do that." When the players are not on the same page, he has to call a time out and or run the play and get a penalty.

Also, in the Florida-Alabama game, Tim Tebow, multiple times, ran to the defensive huddle and pumped them up. I gave never seen Jason with this intensity. Until he shows this, we won't see the team being taken seriously.

Jim Zorn was scared to penalize Clinton Portis. There for who will step up and command this team? Who will be the next Bill Parcels or Bill Cowher? Portis is the leader of the team and he showed that it isn't his fault it is Jason and Zorn's fault.

It is not Portis's job to command the troops; it's Zorn/Jason's job. So when will this happen I can't tell you but I hope it's this season.

Now, I can't say that a rookie can lead a team immediately, but he can bring that fire or the spark we need. He had emotion and energy in college. When Sean Taylor died; even though Colt was thousands of miles away, he showed respect for him and after a play, him and a few players had a sideline ceremony.

He also showed emotion and electric before home games doing the Hawaiian celebration with the team. He also has a competition with Todd Yoder and Chris Koolaid before games. Who can hit the crossbar the most.

I do think that Zorn can bring the heat, but he just is scared for his job. Will he turn this around? I don't think with Jason Campbell at the helm.

This is a excerpt from my last article.

Colt may have been in a pass happy offense; but June Jones (former head coach) left and went to SMU and they went an amazing 1-11. Four Hawaii QBs have seen action this year, none of which can get close to Brennan's success.

Then before all this, Brennan is considered widely THE best QB in the draft up to the "Sugar Bowl." Also suffered from a bad Senior Bowl, due to a ailing hip injury. The surgery also dropped his stock.

The Bulldogs claimed if they stop Brennan, they will win. Unfortunately, they were right. They brought heat every down and blitzed, blitzed, and blitzed. Colt took the beating of his life.

Now, many a Redskins fan have said it's the line's fault, Portis' fault, and the wideouts. The leading receiver in the game had a average game with 10 rec and 105 yards. Colt was sacked THE most of the season, eight times.

Hawaii also had a RB with only 26 yards to lead the team in rushing. So fellow 'Skins fans and sports casters, you support my argument Colt would be starting on a team, if it wasn't for the Bulldogs.

A quote from a ESPN writer after the game, "The Dawgs were able to get after Hawaii physically and relentlessly pressured Colt Brennan"- Jim Donnan.

The facts don't lie when he had no help he still won games. Now, I hope that people will be swayed by my articles, to give Colt a chance. If Jason can lead the team to three wins and a playoff push, I will be impressed.

For this to happen, he will have to throw for 750 yards plus and at least seven TDs. I doubt this will happen. If we continue to play at this level, we may be at the losing end of two of the games.

Colt Brennan equals a new start; we should have done this a long time ago. I look for a lot of change this offseason. We may see some good defenders go because of their injury prone bodies.

We may go into rebuilding the Redskins as we know them. If we go into this mode look for Brennan to bring change to DC. As we look forward to a new president, we should look to see Brennan starting this year, or next year.

I hope that the fans realize that when we don't have a quality QB in Washington we will never get past the first round. So put Brennan in and support me.

Who Is the NFL's Face of the Future?

Travis Evans — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 10:41:00 -0500

The future of the NFL does not look bright; the big players are slowly aging and only a few players have shined this year.

I will, in my opinion, give a defensive and a offensive player that will shape the NFL in the near future. Thus, I will not give accolades to older players, but new fresh players.

The first thing is that these players have to be game changers, and electrifying. I also want the future to be bright with no criminal future (knock on wood).

Offensive players.

The duo of the Panthers Williams and Stewart will shape the term one-two punch. They show the big plays and both are youthful and makes me want to watch them. If they both stay healthy, Carolina has a bright future ahead of them.
Runner up has to be Matt Ryan; he has the Falcons flying high over the Vick era. He has made the team look great again and are pushing for a playoff spot. He would be No. 1, but he has Mike Turner there; he has helped Matt a lot. If Turner wasn't there, then they could shut Matty Ice down.
Chris Johnson he has brought a new hope to the Titans. They thought that Vince could be a new start but he hasn't panned out YET. So why is Johnson so low; he has shined a lot but when it comes to winning on his back he hasn't shown up. Maybe when they play the Steelers in the coming week he will prove me wrong.

Defensive Players.

Patrick Willis. He has been compared to Ray Lewis by many. He has proved that he is a tackling machine by leading the league his rookie season. Many said that it was because they don't have a D in San Fran. I beg to differ; 291 tackles is no fluke. He hasn't finished the season, either.
Jon Beason. He also came in the league with Patrick but didn't have the numbers, that's why he is in second. He also has put up big tackles in the clutch. Ex. Tampa Bay 4th-and-1 on the goal line, he blasts the line and gets the tackle.
Chris Horton. I'm not just putting him here because I am a Redskins fan. When he was healthy, he was a leader on the Redskins' defense. He had three INTs; which came early and often. Then the injury bug bit him just like the rest of the Skins. He hasn't had a lot of time lately but yet when he plays he reminds me of Polamalu in many ways.

This is just by the way they have played this season. If they struggle next season...well, then, I guess I was wrong.

Colt Brennan and Redskins Fans May Not Have To Sit Down Much Longer

Travis Evans — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 08:08:07 -0500

The fans of the Redskins are getting bored. The only thing keeping me awake during the Ravens-Redskins game was Ravens safety, Ed Reed. I fell asleep in bed during the third quarter.

The talent the Redskins have is indisputable. Running back Clinton Portis is most likely going to make the Pro Bowl; and if wasn't injury plagued may have had a shot at 2,000 yard season. The defense also has been prone to injury, but is ranked in the top ten in the NFL.

So why does the headline say "Colts and Redskins Fans May Not Be Sitting Down Much Longer?"

Because, Colt's chance is coming and we all have this feeling of uncertainty. Not knowing if he will be great or a bust. I know I will jump right up when he takes the field. It will wake me right up.

YEAR	CMP	ATT	YDS	CMP%	YPA	LNG	TD	INT	SACK	RAT
2005	350	515	4301	68.0	8.35	87	35	13	34	155.49
2006	406	559	5549	72.6	9.93	79	58	12	26	185.96
2007	359	510	4343	70.4	8.52	67	38	17	28	159.85

These stats are Great, but wait, he played in the WAC. So did Devone Bess, the Miami wide out, he is doing pretty well this year.

The Bulldogs claimed if they stop Brennan they will win. Unfortunately, they were right. They brought heat every down and blitzed, blitzed, and blitzed. Colt took the beating of his life.

Now many a Redskins fan have said it's the line's fault, Portis' fault, and the wide outs. The leading receiver in the game had a average game with 10 rec and 105 yards. Colt was sacked THE most of the season, eight times. Hawaii also had a RB with only 26 yards to lead the team in rushing. So fellow 'Skins fans and sports casters, you support my argument Colt would be starting on a team, if it wasn't for the Bulldogs.

A quote from a ESPN writer after the game "The Dawgs were able to get after Hawaii physically and relentlessly pressured Colt Brennan"- Jim Donnan.

The Redskins' season needs some major surgery, we all can agree; will Brennan fix all the issues? No, he can't; he isn't a doctor, and can't heal players, but maybe he can help the offense start up. When the Redskins declare the season a bust; we may see Colt Brennan for the first time ever in the NFL.

Unless the Redskins get major help from other teams, we're out of the playoffs. Maybe with the Cowboys' schedule, it may help, but will it be enough? You tell me.

Washington Redskins Shouldn't Fear, Michael Vick Is Here (Hopefully)!

Travis Evans — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 04:34:33 -0500

I hate beating up on my own team week after week, but I can't help it.

Campbell, I'm not a fan at all, never was; I won't hate anymore (until you lose a game for us again). We may not be in the "Hunt for Vick," but we should consider him, I think.

He would make this offense click if he, as Adam Schefter said, "plays at 75 percent, there will be teams interested." He can out-run basically any one person on the field. Vick was one of my favorite players maybe this is why I'm jumping on the bandwagon; or maybe Danny should actually fork out money to a good player.

He did very well in Atlanta with that team who didn't have a RB or a WR. So, Redskins, do us a favor and take all the possible scenarios in and make a good decision. Oh, and he can avoid the ever growing blitz.

Also, this better be a good draft, or I don't even want to think what will happen. As you have seen are defense isn't as deep as we thought. Malcolm may come along but right now the rookies have no impact at all whatsoever.

I haven't seen Sellers run any 2nd-and-short or 3rd-and-short runs. Isn't that what they are used for short runs and lead blocking. I didn't see the Seattle game, but it didn't seem promising.

As a lot of Redskins fans said, Dallas beat San Fran, but yes, who did we beat? A team just as bad, but by not nearly as much. Matter of fact, who have we beat by a lot? I can't remember.

The 15 and 20-yard passes that we had in the beginning have disappeared. They are short, short, and what's that, short again. We are lousy at best and I'm not impressed at all. Portis, you are impressive but you seem to play well and then when a big defense comes around (a.k.a Steelers) you disappear.

I watched the game on NFL.com and I saw some really really lousy backs running all over us. Do I want to even watch the Giants game probably not. Jacobs is going to bulldoze for TDs and first downs.

Without Fletcher and maybe Montgomery, we are in big trouble. Our secondary with all starters and former starters should handle Eli and the pass. Horton, what happened to the interceptions you had. You haven't had a big impact in pass defense, but you have been dominating against the run.

My final thoughts will come out after the game, but I hope this shows the problems and how we could fix them.

Washington Redskins Could Lose Three Games in a Row

Travis Evans — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 09:56:16 -0500

This Sunday could very well be are third loss in a row. I have my doubts, seeing as the Rams, Browns, and Detroit had big games against us. The Redskins...I don't know what to say about them anymore.

So this is my article.

Psych, I'm just playing. The Redskins' offense is terrible, at best.

Brennan for starter!

I had a friend at the Dallas game and he told me when Campbell went three and out, three times the chants came. He called me, and I heard Brennan, Brennan, Brennan. Y'all can say all you want bout him and Campbell, but Brennan will be the starter in a year or so, maybe even this year if this continues.

I hope Portis can run us to victory again. If the run doesn't work, mark another one in the "L" column. I think that Campbell couldn't even win a college game. He can't match the intensity of any team. We need Favre junior—which is an overstatement—but Brennan is a gunslinger.

Smoot, get out 'til you can play like you did last year, when Taylor inspired you. If you get burned again, I swear I will delete you off all my Maddens and friends Maddens. D Hall needs to start, seeing as Springs can't finish a season anymore.

Landry isn't playing the same, either. He doesn't cover very well this season. Marcus Washington is garbage, too. He was good like two years ago.

Well, I'm saying don't be surprised if we lose.

BENCH CAMPBELL

Jason Campbell Vs. Colt Brennan V2

Travis Evans — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:10:15 -0500

This is my second article about Brennan and Campbell. Campbell has made me sway his way a little more, but Brennan holds the advantage 67 percent—33 percent over Campbell.

I will keep you updated on my percentage weekly. I will go into why this is so hold-your-horses, look at the record talk.

Brennan

Was the top or second QB in draft but then had a bad game vs. Georgia, who just publicly stated the objective was to GET BRENNAN.
I think Brennan will flourish under this offense because of his timing and release.
He is more mobile and isn't afraid to try and fit the ball into that tight spot. (All great QBs have had this attribute.)
The comparisons to the greats are what Brennan got but Campbell has got zip, zodda, zilch.
Broke record.
Preseason may just be practice but that spiral...ugh I was drooling.
Reminds me of a no dog fighting Mike Vick.
THE MOST ACCURATE QB IN THE COMBINE IN RECENT YEARS ONLY MISSED ONE PASS AND IT WAS A DROP.

Campbell

Had an OK year so far but just hasn't proven to me he is the future.
He can't throw the deep ball for anything. Moss had a sure TD but it was under thrown and he had to adjust or drop it.
Less mobile and slower thinker.
May have a stronger arm.
Has chemistry.
Zorn is the ingredient to success, not him.

Therefore I give the advantage to Brennan. Plus it may have been preseason, but in the near future you will hear Brennan to Moss for a TD/ Brennan to Thomas/Kelly for TD.

Recap Of Redskins Season To This Point/Cowgirl Recap

Travis Evans — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 07:59:38 -0500

The record doesn't tell the whole story. Any team can win on any given Sunday; but as my faith drifts farther and farther away from Campbell and Zorn. I have to give you my reasons for this and thus I will support with facts and my opinions.

Passing Statistics
Player	Att	Comp	Yds	Comp %	Yds/Att	TD	TD %	INT	INT %	Long	Sck	Sack/Lost	Rating
Jason Campbell	307	198	2122	64.5	6.9	9	2.9	3	1.0	67	26	182	90.3

These stats are good at best the thing that stands out is TD-int ratio. It would be good (3-1) ratio but the TDs come very rarely. With the weapons he has he should have between 13-20 easily. The second thing 26 sacks, I understand it's not all his fault but at least a third or at most half. He holds the ball way to long. I still am on the Brennan band wagon. Ever since he set records at Hawaii. I give Campbell a B- for his performance thus far.

Rushing Statistics
Player	Att	Yds	Yds/Att	Long	TD
Clinton Portis	215	1063	4.9	31	7
Ladell Betts	39	157	4.0	14	0
Jason Campbell	26	89	3.4	22	0
Shaun Alexander	11	24	2.2	8	0
Rock Cartwright	4	13	3.3	7	0
Santana Moss	1	27	27.0	27	0
Devin Thomas	1	16	16.0	16	0
Antwaan Randle El	1	5	5.0	5	0
Mike Sellers	1	3	3.0	3	0
Fred Davis	1	-3	-3.0	-3	0

The rushing yards this year are ridiculous. I give Zorn props on this. My grade A+. Portis will have to kill it the rest of the season but may lead the league. A stretch but maybe the 2000 yard mark.

Receiving Statistics
Player	Rec	Yds	Yds/Rec	Long	TD
Chris Cooley	55	576	10.5	28	1
Santana Moss	49	701	14.3	67	5
Antwaan Randle El	37	455	12.3	31	1
Clinton Portis	20	156	7.8	29	0
Devin Thomas	11	77	7.0	16	0
Ladell Betts	8	71	8.9	20	0
James Thrash	7	69	9.9	29	1
Todd Yoder	4	21	5.3	14	1
Mike Sellers	4	20	5.0	13	1
Shaun Alexander	1	9	9.0	9	0
Fred Davis	1	6	6.0	6	0
Malcolm Kelly	1	6	6.0	6	0
Rock Cartwright	1	-7	-7.0	-7	0
Pete Kendall	1	-9	-9.0	-9	0

The receivers I can't even watch the end of the games any more i cut the plasma off with eight minutes to go in the 4th; in the Dallas game. The only target I trust is Chris Koolaid. He seems to make the big plays when we need them he torched the Dallas D on his screen plays.

In my recent article I said what happened to the Brunell era. The bomb it and pray Moss grabs it. I have seen this on maybe 3-5 occasions this year. Zorn Zorn were in defcon two right now if we lose two more games we are pretty much out of the playoffs. The NFC is way to close this year take the deep shot for god sakes.

Field Goal Statistics
Player	1-19 A	1-19 M	20-29 A	20-29 M	30-39 A	30-39 M	40-49 A	40-49 M	50+ A	50+ M
Shaun Suisham	0	0	4	4	7	5	11	9	3	1
	0	0	4	4	7	5	11	9	3	1

The kicking game is okay but you can't have that kick blocked or what ever happened last night.

Punting Statistics
Player	Punts	Avg	Touchbacks/g	IN 20	Long	Blck
Durant Brooks	26	39.6	0	9	60	0
Ryan Plackemeier	20	41.5	3	4	55	1
TOTAL	46	39.6	3	13	60	1
OPPONENTS TOTAL	56	43.3	5	16	59	0

I love are special teams we cover very very well we hardly make mistakes.

Punt Return Statistics
Player	Returns	FC	Yds/Ret	Long	TD
Antwaan Randle El	29	12	6.3	21	0
Santana Moss	2	0	44.0	80	1
TOTAL	31	12	8.7	80	1
OPPONENTS TOTAL	24	11	12.5	68	2

Moss or Devin Thomas/Kelly(when healthy). They need to be back there returning punts. Moss returned one to pay dirt and hasn't touched it again.

Kick Return Statistics
Player	Returns	Yds	Yds/Ret	Long	TD
Rock Cartwright	29	715	24.7	58	0
Santana Moss	1	26	26.0	26	0
Mike Sellers	1	17	17.0	17	0
TOTAL	31	758	24.5	58	0
OPPONENTS TOTAL	39	769	19.7	43	0

I once again love the kr game.

Defense Statistics
Player	Tot	Solo	Assist	Sck	Fumb
London Fletcher	84	58	26	0	1
Chris Horton	51	40	11	1	0
Rocky McIntosh	59	39	20	1	2
Fred Smoot	45	35	10	0	0
Carlos Rogers	42	35	7	0	0
LaRon Landry	43	31	12	0	1
H.B. Blades	31	21	10	0	0
Marcus Washington	37	18	19	0	1
Kedric Golston	25	17	8	2	0
Andre Carter	25	15	10	2	0
Reed Doughty	19	15	4	0	0
Shawn Springs	16	12	4	1	0
Demetric Evans	19	11	8	4	0
Cornelius Griffin	17	10	7	1	0
Jason Taylor	12	8	4	1	0
Mike Sellers	10	8	2	0	0
Chris Wilson	11	7	4	1	0
Kareem Moore	8	7	1	0	0
Rock Cartwright	9	6	3	0	0
Anthony Montgomery	9	6	3	1	0
Khary Campbell	8	6	2	0	0
Michael Green	6	5	1	0	0
James Thrash	6	5	1	0	0
Devin Thomas	5	3	2	0	1
Lorenzo Alexander	5	2	3	0	0
Antwaan Randle El	2	2	0	0	0
Shaun Suisham	2	2	0	0	0
Alfred Fincher	3	1	2	0	0
DeAngelo Hall	2	1	1	0	0
Todd Yoder	2	1	1	0	0
Chris Cooley	1	1	0	0	0
Justin Tryon	1	1	0	0	0
Chris Samuels	1	1	0	0	0
Casey Rabach	1	1	0	0	0
Clinton Portis	1	1	0	0	1
Stephon Heyer	1	1	0	0	0
Rob Jackson	1	1	0	0	0
Santana Moss	1	1	0	0	0
Justin Hamilton	1	0	1	0	0
TOTAL	651	459	192	15	7
OPPONENTS TOTAL	740	541	199	26	8

Guys what happened last night "THE BARBARIAN" killed it. The secondary is the best in the NFL. Once Springs returns bye bye Smoot(hopefully).Smoot get the heck out of the game. What was Zorn and Blache thinking, he got burned multiple times.

Hall worked out like I said he would. Veterans what happened you're letting a ROOKIE steal all the spot light. Taylor and Carter wtf. A combined three sacks WOW.

Interception Statistics
Player	Int	Yds	Yds/Int	Long	TD
Chris Horton	3	13	4.3	10	0
Carlos Rogers	1	42	42.0	42	0
Rocky McIntosh	1	4	4.0	4	0
DeAngelo Hall	1	2	2.0	2	0
Cornelius Griffin	1	0	0.0	0	0
Fred Smoot	1	0	0.0	0	0
TOTAL	8	61	7.6	42	0
OPPONENTS TOTAL	3	16	5.3	14	0

We had a very good start with pass defense but since have dipped. Hands hands my coachs' taught me this in pee wee; why can't you catch the ball. A linebacker(Rocky) has better hands than you.

My take this year is um what happened to are glorious "WAR PATH" in the beginning of the year. We all saw Portis running hard and fast, Moss with big numbers, and a different Campbell. I hope this offense which is 27th in NFL in scoring and 20th in pass offense.

Defense are trade mark is tackling and moving to the ball. We did neither last night. When Hall picked it off and then Rocky's pick I was thinking DOMINATION. Then what happens no POINTS.

We have a easy schedule except for Baltimore or NYG but the rest is easy. We can still turn this car around and get back into the race but I quote Zorn "It's just frustrating".