Schefter believes in Lewis, but there is more to it

Mark ButerbaughNov 20, 2009

Adam Schefter from ESPN is quickly becoming a Sherman Lewis disciple. In his 10 Spot article, Schefter believes the impact of Lewis on Redskins play calling is undeniable.

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Now that Lewis has had three games to call Washington’s plays, check out how the Redskins’ offensive production compares. In the first six games of the season, the Redskins averaged 12.4 points per game; in the past three games, they have averaged 20.3. In the first six games, the Redskins averaged 16 first downs per game; in the past three games, they have averaged 20. In the first six games, the Redskins averaged 294 yards per game; in the past three, they have averaged 336.
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Who are we to argue? The Redskins offense is moving the ball. Moving it well.

But is it all Lewis? No. Lewis has made an impact. The play calling is better, more efficient, particularly in the red zone. But, Lewis is also getting some things Zorn was not.

I attribute the offensive generation the past two weeks to a more effective run game, attributed of course to Ladell Betts and Rock Cartwright. I think this is underestimated. The Redskins are running the ball effectively. Betts has burst. Betts is not going down on initial hits. Betts is gaining 6 to 8 yards a pop at times. That causes changes in defensive game plans. In response, the passing game opens a bit.

Second, the patchwork, injury riddled, MASH unit of an offensive line is actually playing a bit better the past two weeks. The holes they opened against the Denver defense was impressive. Makes you wonder though, are they opening wider lanes, better holes now, or was Clinton Portis just missing them? The pass protection for QB Jason Campbell is not very good. BUT, it is better the last few weeks than it has been. It seems like when the ‘aging’ starters were in, the Line did not play as well.

In essence, it just seems like the offense has found a rhythm. How much of that rhythm can be attributed to more snaps for Betts and Cartwright? I don’t know. Lewis has had an impact. The play calling has been better. BUT, I don’t think the Lewis play calling is the end all, b-all of the sudden appearance of offense in Washington. A big factor? Yes. THE factor? I wouldn’t go that far.

Here is a look at the dramatic changes on the Redskins offense

QB: Nothing has changed outside a blip, like Kansas City. Jason Campbell is the QB. I think the biggest hurdle of Campbell having outright success here is his ability to have confidence in the offensive line. He hurries, gets antsy, and makes throws he maybe shouldn’t because of happy feet. But, behind this line and the abuse he has taken thus far, can you blame him?