Washington Redskins: 5 Causes for Concern After Baltimore Ravens Defeat

While there was plenty to commend in the Redskins' performance against the Ravens last night, there were also some causes for concern.

As well as the defense performed, the unit often failed to make a play at crucial times.  Hindered by the uncertainty at quarterback and unconvincing line play, the offense lacked coherence and a clear identity.

Here are the five biggest negatives that were apparent during yesterday's game.

5. Injury to Jarvis Jenkins

Second-round draft choice Jarvis Jenkins was assisted off the field in the first quarter after a nasty looking knee injury.

The aggressive, hulking youngster showed great potential in limited action, and the Redskins' defensive line certainly lost some of its initial tenacity without him.

The most troubling aspect of Jenkins' absence for the Redskins was how it highlighted the porous depth at the position.

Both Darrion Scott and Doug Worthington failed to convince in relief duty.  ProFootballTalk.com reports that Jenkins could be out for a while.

Given Adam Carriker's history with injuries and inconsistency, the Redskins may be forced back into free agency for a suitable alternative.

4. Depth at Outside Linebacker Appears Weak

Lorenzo Alexander and Rob Jackson are significant downgrades on starting outside duo Brian Orakpo and Ryan Kerrigan.

The Redskins need more productivity from their reserve linebackers.  Jackson offers some promise as a pass rusher but is not consistent enough to generate the necessary pressure.

Alexander tries hard but simply does not make enough plays in any phase of defensive football to be a credible factor.

Injuries to either one of the starters will seriously undermine the defense unless the Redskins can find at least one quality backup.

3. 3rd Down Pass Protection

The Redskins struggled mightily protecting the passer on third down all night.  In particular, the blocking schemes failed to account for and repel the Ravens' overload pressures.

This problem requires urgent attention.  Too many times defensive backs came through untouched to take down the quarterback.

A lack of a credible pass protector at running back or tight end is a major problem in this area.  The Redskins must find some backfield support to supplement the efforts of their front five on third down.

2. Nickel Defense Needs a Lot of Work

The defense may have impressed when playing base fronts, but the nickel units were terrible last night.  The Ravens frequently managed to comfortably convert against the Redskins' four-man line and multiple defensive backs schemes.

The stunts and twists run by the four-man front lacked timing, and players were colliding and taking each other out of the play.

The overload pressures also suffered from poor execution.  This placed inordinate pressure on the outside coverage.

This issue threatens to derail the good progress made by the defense in other areas.  The Redskins cannot always rely on a sack or a turnover to stifle drives.

It is imperative that the defense finds more ways to get off the field on third down.

1. No Clear Winner Emerging in Quarterback Battle

Mike Shanahan is doing his best to put a positive spin on Washington's quarterback carousel.  But the fact that a clear starter has not been able to emerge heading into the final preseason game is a major cause for concern.

Both John Beck and Rex Grossman had positive moments last night.  Beck was crisp and efficient on occasion in the second half.  Grossman established a nice rhythm in the second quarter and connected with some confident throws.

But each quarterback also displayed enough negative attributes to keep the competition going a little while longer.

Grossman was frequently guilty of hesitating under pressure.  Beck on the other hand was far too frantic in the face of the Ravens' rush.

When he had to progress through his reads, panic seemed to set in.  Beck appears best when he is decisive, something that is not always possible once the primary receiver has been taken away.

At the moment, Grossman may hold the slightest advantage.  But his streaky play is not going to comfort any Redskins fan if he begins the season under center.

The Redskins fought hard and looked sharp for most of this game.  But their inability to close out the contest revealed just enough points of worry to remind Redskins fans not to get too carried away.