Robert Griffin III: Keys for Redskins QB in 2nd Preseason Game

In his first preseason game, the much hyped Robert Griffin III performed well, completing 4-of-6 passes for 70 yards and a touchdown. That was a good start for the No. 2 pick and gave fans an indication of what is to come.

Based on his last performance, there are three keys to the game on Saturday against the Bears that the rookie QB must adhere to for the performance to be considered a success.

First, Griffin must continue to be impressive with his short passing game. Three out of his four completions came on short throws, including a 20-yard touchdown pass on a short screen to Pierre Garcon.

It is important for Griffin to be accurate with his short passing because it will allow him to build confidence in his game while setting up the team well for play-action. Furthermore, the short passing game will be where Griffin shows that he is a pass-first quarterback, instead of one who attempts to scramble at the first sight of pressure.

For instance, the screen play to Garcon was one in which Griffin could have taken off and run. When a Bills lineman jumped in between Griffin and Garcon, instead of scrambling or throwing the ball right into the lineman’s hands, RG3 made a great play by lofting the ball above him, showing both poise and control.

Secondly, Griffin should begin to show off the athleticism that has made him so popular. While the team shouldn’t pull all of their tricks, having a few designed runs thrown his way could go a long way in making him more comfortable running the offense.

While Griffin has done the right thing so far by staying within the offense and not trying to do too much with his feet, the coaching staff really should take advantage of his unique gifts. This coming game will be a success if RG3 is able to use his legs a little more, maybe in a few option-style plays.

Finally, the Redskins quarterback needs to show that he is able to succeed throwing the ball on longer plays. He had several good attempts, including one for about 15 yards on 3rd-and-8 which was called incomplete because Pierre Garcon couldn’t get both feet in.

The point is that Griffin needs to prove he can be accurate with the long ball. He has already given a good indication of how skilled he is as a short-yardage passer, but should be given one or two plays to bomb the ball down the field to one of his receivers.

RG3 has shown through his first preseason game that he will be able to adjust to the pros quickly. It is up to him to build on that success and show the critics what else he can do, which should include using his legs and throwing the long pass.