What can I say? The Washington Redskins played horribly in last night’s 27-10 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. Conventional wisdom used to be that defenses are ahead of offenses early in the season. Combine that with the new offensive scheme, I expected the Skins defense to have to carry the team, at least for a while. But injuries in the secondary have made the Skins defense incredibly weak. The lack of pressure of Cowboys quarterback Drew Bledsoe was glaring. Last week, Jacksonville kept Bledsoe rattled. This week, the Skins only managed one sack. For the most part, Bledsoe had all the time in the world to throw.
Of course, part of the problem with the defense is that they spent too much time on the field. The Redskin offense was unproductive. So many 3-and-out series that I lost count. Brunell was getting rushed repeatedly, and even when he wasn’t, he thought he was. He rushed throws. The line didn’t protect or open holes for the running game.
Once again, penalties cost the Skins as well. To me, the penalties show a lack of discipline on the team.
The only bright spot was the 100-yard kickoff return for a TD by Rock Cartwright. At least the special teams did a reasonable job.
Maybe the Skins can get it together and beat another 0-2 team next week – the Houston Texans.
VIVIAN J. PAIGE | All Politics is Local 
I say Brunell gets one more shot. If the Skins lose to the Texans because of inept play on offense, then it’s time to let Collins or Campbell step in.
Vivian, I agree with you on the defensive production as well. Still, that Taylor fumble late in the second half put the Skins in a position to win. Brunell turned the ball over costing the team points and momentum. Overall I’d give the defense a B; the offense an F; and special teams an A-.
I’m for Collins over Campbell at this point. He understands the new system better. But if we’re going to lose anyway, might as well have the kid (Campbell) get in some reps.
I was thinking the defense deserved a C+, at best.
I agree on the back-up QB choice and rationale.
As far as the defense goes I’m willing to cut them a little bit of slack. The Skins offense was really just THAT bad.
The defense by comparison forced 8 punts, held Dallas to under 230 yards passing, and kept the game close until the 4th quarter. I would have liked to have seen more pressure on Bledsoe–but think the defense did OK all things considered. It should help to have Shawn Springs back. I suspect Portis may be even more important from the defense’s perspective (e.g. Portis can sustain offensive drives and keep the defense off the field and rested).
OK, I was a little harsh on the defense. But I don’t want Portis back til he is healed. I’d rather him sit a game or two than come back in at less than fulll strength.