Jon Gruden Banking on Washington Redskins QB John Beck

Last night was the final dress rehearsal for the Washington Redskins as they faced their greatest test yet in the preseason, the Baltimore Ravens. 

This game was supposed to be the one that could ultimately decide who the starter will be for the Redskins come September 11th when they play the New York Giants.

Rex Grossman was named the starter for last night's game just hours before it began, adding to the overall suspense of what the night would entail. 

Even though Rex was named the starter, Mike Shanahan stated that both Grossman and John Beck would get equal time with the first team.

Grossman started off shaky, going 2-for-6 in his first few series, but came on strong on his next drive, hitting Santana Moss for a 24-yard reception for a touchdown. 

Grossman showed flashes of brilliance on some players, while on others he looked like the old Rex. He finished the night off completing eight of his 15 passes for 112 yards and a touchdown.

Speaking of shaky starts, John Beck went 1-for-3 in the first half. Then, on his first possession of the second half, he threw a pick from his own end zone.

He quickly shook that off and marched 97 yards down the field, hitting Terrence Austin on three of his passes, including the 13-yard strike to Austin for a score. 

Beck finished the night 6-for-10 with one touchdown and one interception.

Both players knew they had to come in to tonight's game and make a big statement.

But, the biggest statement of the night came from ESPN analyst and former Super Bowl winning head coach Jon Gruden, when he said: "I've seen enough. I'm going on record tonight, that's the starting quarterback of the Washington Redskins...I'm going on record, I'm going on Beck." 

Coming from Jon Gruden, that is not a small statement and should be a big confidence boost for Beck, should he hear it.

However, let's keep in mind that Gruden had only two players to choose from, and he seemingly based his conclusion solely from the night's performance.

Coming into the preseason, we thought we knew what to expect from Grossman and didn't know what to expect from Beck. So far, both players have been impressive.

But, the question still remains: Who will be the guy for the season? 

Then, and only then, will one of these quarterbacks be able to leave a permanent statement on what they have done this season.

Here's something to think about: When interviews were conducted with Rex Grossman and John Beck during the fourth quarter of last night's game, each was asked what his gut feeling was about who would be starting this season.

Rex answered: "I don't know. I just try to play well, and whatever happens happens." He seems to be holding back from bold statements, for now.  

John Beck answered the same question, saying: "Well, I'm sure Rex gave the same answer I'm going to give. You know your gut feeling tells you it's you." 

Is Rex not confident enough, or is John overconfident? Your thoughts?

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