Building Blocks in Place for the Washington Redskins' Offense

The Washington Redskins finally got the ball rolling last week against the New England Patriots. Literally.

The Redskin offense exploded for 384 yards as they came out with a much more aggressive scheme. The first-teamers took several shots down the field, scored 17 points in the first half, and put on a much more convincing show in comparison to their previous preseason efforts.

Jason Campbell was given time in the pocket, and in turn he delivered a great two-plus quarters of work going 13-22 with 209 yards with three scoring drives.

Even more impressive was that he shook off three consecutive three-and-outs to lead the 'Skins to a quick 10 points before half.

Now that Washington has their foundations established on offense, it's time to build on the success. Last year, the 'Skins ran out of steam halfway through the season. This year, offensive production must be maintained for the entirety of the season.

Inconsistency has long been the bane of offenses in DC. Coaches come and go in rapid succession, and players learn new systems seemingly every year.

This time around, the 'Skins have kept things stable as Jim Zorn's west-coast offense enters year two. The experience definitely helps, but it will go right out the window if the offense can't stay consistent.

Blame last year's struggles on whatever you want, but the cold truth is that the offense failed to perform consistently at a competitive level.

However, the fire was there in the regular season dress rehearsal on Friday night. Gone was the complacent air along with poor play. Everything the 'Skins needed to prove, they did.

Now the trick is to get them to continue in similar fashion. Easier said than done, and to achieve this nothing is more vital than the cohesion along the offensive line.

The offensive line overachieved, giving Campbell sufficient time to throw and get into a rhythm. Considering the cautious nature of Zorn when the line struggles, it is imperative they play well so Zorn can open up his playbook.

If the line can't keep Campbell upright, Zorn won't even attempt to mix things up. Poor blocking in DC quickly leads to a season-long offensive hibernation so that's something that can't happen.

Should the line hold up, Campbell will find his groove. Santana Moss and Chris Cooley are effective weapons when Campbell can get them the ball and if the 'Skins can get one more receiver to pan out, the offense becomes very dangerous.

Finding a receiver to line up opposite Moss is key as it will allow Antwaan Randle El to move into the slot. Randle El in the slot is a matchup nightmare for any defensive coordinator, and will open up the line of scrimmage for the running game.

The Redskins have potential. We've seen flashes. But to become a championship caliber team, the 'Skins have to build around the foundations of last week's success in order to gain the confidence necessary to win a title.

This offense won't become dominant overnight. It will take the whole season for the offense to assure itself it can compete. After all, seeing is believing, and the Redskins and their fans need to see so that they can believe.