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Redskins 2011THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2011 SECTION D!

EXPANDED REDSKINS COVERAGE THROUGHOUT THE SEASON: WASHINGTONTIMES.COM/SPORTS/FOOTBALL

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! THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2011D2 | REDSKINS 2011

BY RICH CAMPBELLTHE WASHINGTON TIMES

Peggy Shanahan feared theworst because she knows herhusband and son as well asanybody. A pair of intense, de-tail-obsessed competitorsworking closely for 16 hours a

day or more? Oh yeah, that would end well.She could see the outcome clearly — theawkward silence at family dinners, the tu-multuous discussions on vacation. Whata joy it would be for Mike to captain theWashington Redskins’ building projectwith Kyle as one of his top lieutenants.

“I actually thought they were both crazywhen they wanted to do it,” Peggy said.“But it was obviously so different than that.It’s really a treat for both of them.”

On the eve of their second season asRedskins coach and offensive coordinator,Mike and Kyle Shanahan are reaping all ofthe personal rewards and many of theprofessional benefits they hoped for 20months ago when Kyle left his promisingcoordinator position with the HoustonTexans to work for his father.

Yet with questions at quarterback thatpersist after a bumpy 6-10 debut cam-paign, Mike and Kyle still have to provetheir union will produce in Washington thesame success on which they separatelybuilt their reputations in other cities.

“When you have any adversity and yourlast name is the same as the head coach’s,I know exactly what people are going tosay,” Kyle said. “I’ve known my whole life.But I’m very confident in myself becauseof what I’ve done without him, and I’m alsoconfident that you can ask any player thatI’ve coached, and I feel very good aboutthat.”

Not a lot of precedentWade Phillips has considered his father

something of a hero for as long as he canremember. Growing up on Texas’ GulfCoast, about 90 miles east of Houston, helearned football by hanging around thehigh school teams coached by his dad,Bum.

Wade played for Bum at Port Neches-Groves High School, and Bum was the de-fensive coordinator at the University ofHouston when Wade was a linebackerthere in the mid-1960s. Football alwayshas been their connection. Over the years,Bum’s philosophies, especially thoseabout the 3-4 defense, became Wade’s.

In 1981, Bum took his signature Stetsoncowboy hat to New Orleans and becamecoach of the Saints. Wade served as Bum’sdefensive coordinator until Bum resignedduring the 1985 season.

According to researchers at the ProFootball Hall of Fame, they were the onlyfather-son, head coach-coordinator tan-dem on record until Mike and Kyleteamed in Washington last year.

“You want your assistant coaches to beloyal,” said Wade, now the Texans’ defen-sive coordinator. “Nobody is going to bemore loyal than your son, so you can al-ways count on that.

“They’ll tell you the truth. Some othercoaches might hesitate about telling youwhat they think about things, but if youask your son, he’s going to tell you exactlywhat he thinks. You get a valuable opin-ion there.”

That was the case at Redskins Park lastyear as the first-year coaching staff eval-uated new quarterback Donovan McN-abb and determined which players fitinto its schemes and were worth keeping.

“Kyle has got a lot of football in his

background; what I mean by that is we’reon the same page,” Mike, 59, said. “We talka lot of football; the running game, thepassing game. It’s pretty easy to be con-nected because we spend so much timetogether talking ball.”

Coaches’ reviews were highly criticalat times last season, as the Redskins av-eraged 5.36 yards per play, 14th-best in the32-team NFL.

That is not good enough for Mike andKyle Shanahan.

Kyle’s offense during his two yearscalling plays in Houston ranked sixth(5.88 yards) and fourth (6.0 yards). Dur-ing Mike’s two Super Bowl seasons inDenver, the Broncos’ offense ranked thirdeach year.

They discussed the offense and ex-

changed ideas throughout the season, asall head coaches and coordinators do.However, their relationship allowed forgreater candor.

“Sometimes I’d maybe be a little morenervous to piss the head coach off,” Kyle,31, said. “It’s a little easier for me to askhim a tough question than maybe it hasbeen [with other coaches] in the past.That has been nice because I can alwaysask that question. And definitely being hisson, he probably gets morepissed off atme than he does with most people. So itgoes both ways.”

Earning respectKyle Shanahan expected to be the tar-

get of scrutiny and criticism after Mikedecided to demote McNabb in Week 15 oflast season. It’s part of the package thatcomes with his job and his last name.

But he was caught off guard when Mc-Nabb’s agent, Fletcher Smith, publiclyblamed him for McNabb’s falling out withthe team. Smith accused Kyle of ignoringsuggestions McNabb made to improvethe offense. When Kyle confronted Mc-Nabb and McNabb told him Smith’s alle-gations weren’t true, Kyle could onlypress forward.

McNabb, through a personal spokes-man, declined to comment for this story.

The situation would have been disas-trous if it somehow cost Kyle the respectand confidence of players, but that didn’thappen. In fact, it’s the opposite.

“I think they handled it as good as youcan,” quarterback Rex Grossman said.“To bench somebody for their perform-ance, anytime it’s a Donovan McNabb-caliber player, there’s no right way to doit. You’re going to catch heat no matterwhat because he’s a big name. They werein a lose-lose situation there.”

You can’t just take it from Grossman,though, because he directly benefitedfrom McNabb’s demotion and replacedhim as the starter.

“I don’t think anything with the Dono-van situation makes Kyle a target,” tightend Chris Cooley said. “What makes you

a target is losing football games. If we’rewinning games, I think that situationprobably still happens, maybe not to theextent it did. But winning overruleseverything.”

And toward that end, players are cer-tain the best man for the job is runningthe Redskins’ offense.

Not only did Kyle earn his reputationas a rising star offensive coach on his own,away from his father, Redskins playersalso have seen proof in meetings, thefilm room and on the field.

“This offense is so dynamic,” receiverSantana Moss said. “The things that wecan do offensively, individually and col-lectively, Kyle’s offense gives us an oppor-tunity to be great. All we have to do is goout there and handle our jobs. Last year,we left a lot on the field — I mean everygame.”

Cooley’s belief in Kyle is at unprece-dented levels.

“This is the first time in my career thatan offense has fit so much that I’ve beenwilling to study it,” he said. “I’ve beenwilling to know it as thoroughly as I do.It’s exciting. It’s fun. It makes sense.

“A lot of offenses have contradictions.Instead, this offense has answers. It’s neatto see the way we get everyone involved.It’s the first time I care what we’re doingon the line. I care what our quarterback’s

reads are. I care about other positions be-sides mine.”

The benefits of youthMike Shanahan didn’t know exactly

what to expect that day in March last year.He did all the required due diligence be-fore hiring his new offensive coordinator,but Shanahan had never actually seen thiscoach run a meeting with the entire of-fense present.

“I was shocked to see how relaxed hewas at his age,” Mike said. “Then I startedthinking about it. The first time I got infront of a team was coming out of college.I was about 30 years old. He’s in that timeframe, 30, 31, and he’s been doing it for sixyears. In high school, he was on the side-

line in the Super Bowl. He’s been throughit.”

Mike and Kyle’s professional growthtogether has continued from that firstmeeting. Their conversations are differ-ent now than they ever were.

When Kyle was growing up, topicscentered on his playing career and thepath he hoped would lead to the NFL.When Kyle broke into coaching, firstwith UCLA and then the Tampa Bay Buc-caneers, the father-son discussions aboutcoaching were limited because their ex-periences weren’t shared.

Now, because they work so closely to-gether, the depth of their interaction ismore beneficial to how they coach.

“Mike, I know, has learned a lot ofthings from Kyle, being so young buthaving the ear of players and just newthings and different ways to do things,”Peggy Shanahan said.

Kyle, for example, uses film analysis toanchor his meetings. The young genera-tion of NFL coaches entered the profes-sion with the technology to digitally breakdown game footage. Many youngcoaches, such as Kyle, have developedtheir methods accordingly

In meetings, Kyle will show footage that

COVER STORY

Two Shanahans make it work as team rebuilds

ROD LAMKEY JR./THE WASHINGTON TIMES

Redskins coach Mike Shanahan took a chance by hiring his son, Kyle, as offensive coordinator last year. The veteran coach admitted he had never seen hisnew assistant run a meeting with the entire offense present. “I was shocked to see how relaxed he was at his age,” the elder Shanahan said.

» see SHANAHANS | D3


“You want your assistant coaches to be loyal. Nobody is going to be more loyal than your son, so you can always count on that. They’ll tell you the truth.

Some other coaches might hesitate about telling you what they think about things,but if you ask your son, he’s going to tell you exactly what he thinks.

You get a valuable opinion there.” ---- Wade Phillips, who coached with his dad Bum in New Orleans

BLOODLINE ON THE SIDELINE

Sports editor: Mike HarrisSection editor: Marc Lancaster

Design: Matt Pallister, Greg GroeschCopy editing: Judd HansonCover photo: Rod Lamkey Jr.

Redskins 2011

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2011 ! REDSKINS 2011 | D3

PHOTOGRAPHS BY THE WASHINGTON TIMES

Jim Zorn (left) experienced a four-game dropoff in 2009, his second season asthe Redskins’ coach. Joe Gibbs (right), on the other hand, showed a four-gameimprovement in 2005 — his second season in his second stint as coach —andtook Washington to the playoffs. Mike Shanahan is entering Year 2 and comingoff a 6-10 record he has to improve upon.

‘There are no five-year plans in theNFL,” Joe Gibbs is

fond of saying. “I don’t carewho you are. You’d betterstart winning pretty quick.”

He’s right, of course. ByYear 2, a coach needs toshow real progress — orrather, his team does. Cer-tain allowances can bemade for Year 1, which isusually a time for taking in-ventory (and doing some

moderate-to-heavy housecleaning). The sec-ond year, though, is all about trajectory —preferably upward rather than downward.

This is the situation Mike Shanahan findshimself in with the Redskins. His bumpy 6-10first season is in the books, and it’s impera-tive that he improves on it. Otherwise, well,you know the deal. Folks might begin to won-der whether, at 59, the game has passed himby. They might even begin to wonderwhether he was ever as good as his two SuperBowl wins in Denver suggested.

Think about it: George Allen took the Red-skins to the Super Bowl in Year 2. Gibbs, inhis first term, won the Super Bowl in Year 2.In fact, let’s look at some recent Redskinscoaches and see how many passed the Year 2test:

● Norv Turner I (passed): 3-13 in Year 1(1994, under longtime owner Jack KentCooke), 6-10 in Year 2. Wound up coaching inWashington for almost seven seasons.

● Norv Turner II (failed): 10-6 and a divi-sion title in Year 1 (1999, under new ownerDan Snyder), 7-6 and out of the playoffs inYear 2. Snyder fired him with three games leftin the 2000 season — not that it accom-plished anything.

(Note: Because of the ownership change,Turner actually had to prove his worth twice.)

● Steve Spurrier (failed): 7-9 in Year 1(2002), 5-11 in Year 2. Resigned after the ’03season and, after taking a year off, returned tocollege coaching at South Carolina.

● Gibbs II (passed): 6-10 in Year 1 (2004),10-6 and a wild card berth in Year 2. Alsomade the playoffs in Year 4 before retiring fora second time.

● Jim Zorn (failed): 8-8 in Year 1 (2008), 4-12 in Year 2. Was canned as soon as hestepped off the plane from San Diego afterthe ’09 season finale.

The pattern is fairly well-established — inWashington, at least. If things are on the up-swing in your second year, you get to keepyour job. If not, you might want to put to-gether your resume. Which isn’t to say theboss will run out of patience with Shanahan ifthe Redskins aren’t in the playoff hunt thisyear. Snyder has invested many millions inShanny and might be inclined to give him an-other season or two. But how many of uswould bet the house on it, given Snyder’s im-pulsiveness?

In Shanahan’s second year in Denver, bythe way, the Broncos made major strides,going from a middle-of-the-pack 8-8 to anAFC-best 13-3. (The next season, they wonthe first of back-to-back Super Bowls.) But it’shard to imagine the Redskins winning fivemore games this year than they did in 2010.They’ve made some nice roster additions —Barry Cofield, O.J. Atogwe, Tim Hightower,Chris Chester — but an 11-5 record seems a

little out of reach, especially with so muchuncertainty at quarterback.

That said, their depth is undeniably better,almost across the board. And while they’restill very much a work in progress, they ap-pear headed in the right direction. The 350-pound weight of Albert Haynesworth hasbeen lifted from everyone’s shoulders — he’sNew England’s problem now — and the infu-sion of a large draft class and several otheryoung players has created a sense of renewal.This is no longer an old team, it’s one whosebest football is likely ahead of it. The ques-tion is: How far in the future are we talkingabout? December? Next year? The year afterthat?

The year after that, after all, would be Year 4, and four years are an eon by Dan Sny-der’s Rolex. They’re also pushing the limits ofGibbs’ dictum: “There are no five-year plansin the NFL.” But first things first: Shanahanneeds to find seven wins on the 2011 sched-ule, maybe eight, to keep hope alive in Red-skinsland. Otherwise, there’s no telling whatmight happen — as Turner, Spurrier and Zorncan attest.

Second (year) and goal to go

DAN DALY

splices how the Redskins ran a play incorrectlywith footage of how they or another team ran itproperly. That highlights the contrasts andteaching points.

“I know that’s something that’s not as big withthe older coaches because they didn’t have the filmcapabilities that we have,” Kyle said. “I was prettyconfident he would like how I did it. I had alwayswanted to show him.”

Kyle’s history as a receiver — he played theposition at the University of Texas — and an NFLreceivers coach also has helped Mike, a formerquarterback, in his understanding of that posi-tion.

Because Kyle had his heart set on being an NFLreceiver, he used to analyze his dad’s tapes of JerryRice, Rod Smith and others.

“When you study it to be a player, and you’reactually a wide receivers coach, you’ve got toknow that as good as anybody,” Mike said.

In turn, Kyle has thrived under Mike’s disci-plined, detail-oriented coaching style.

If the Redskins’ offense breaks down in a game,Mike follows up by asking Kyle whether he cov-ered that play or concept in practice. The answerbetter be yes.

“If you’re slipping, he will be your worst enemyand your biggest pain because he’ll be all over you,”Kyle said. “It makes you a better coach. You’ve gotto think everything out and be organized.”

Family time, football timeIt doesn’t matter whether your last name is

Shanahan or Smith, there’s never a bad time forice cream.

Friday mornings around 10:30 suit Mike Shana-han perfectly. That’s when he likes to drive the 10minutes or so across Leesburg, Va., to Kyle’s houseand take grandchildren Stella, 4, and Carter, 1, outfor a treat.

“He’s a real good grandpa,” Kyle said.Kyle and Mike said they don’t feel the need

to see each other often outside of RedskinsPark, but they do when Mike visits the grand-kids and Kyle sees his mom. The convenienceof those visits is just one of the perks of work-ing together.

The NFL lockout this summer allowed forsome additional time. Kyle’s family, his sister Krys-tal’s family, Peggy and Mike all went to the Ba-hamas.

Not that talk of football and the Redskinsstayed behind. That has a passport, too.

“We annoy the heck out of my wife, my sister

and my mom,” Kyle said. “There’s not many din-ner tables that go by without it leading to football.”

The conversation inevitably winds back to thejob at hand.

Father and son have moved on to a new quar-terback project now, as Mike’s vision for the teamstarts to take shape.

He wants players who value the work it takesto win. Those who don’t meet his standard, regard-less of their resume or the size of their contract,will be gone.

“We’re going to get people that are very pas-sionate about what they do,” Mike said. “They’rehere to win a Super Bowl, and I’m never going togo away from that mindset.”

Mike’s two Super Bowl rings don’t guaranteesuccess, though. Nor do the crooked numbers thatKyle’s offenses put up in Houston. These two arestarting over.

“That’s this business — it’s ‘What have youdone for me lately?’ “ Kyle said. “I feel very goodthat we can do it, but we’ve still got to go out anddo it.”

Winning the title this season seems improba-ble because of the massive scope of the Redskins’building project. It requires more than just twoyears.

But the Shanahans have the big picture inmind.

They expect to get to the top eventually and getthere together.

“It’d be special, and that’s why I’m here,”Kyle said. “I came here for one reason, and thatwas to help my dad turn something around. It’snot easy, but it’s something we are enjoying. Ifthat’s something that we can do, and I can bea part of it with him, that would mean a lot tome.”

SHANAHANSFrom page D2

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ROD LAMKEY JR./THE WASHINGTON TIMES


Win or lose, coach Mike Shanahan’s presence will loom large over FedEx Field and the WashingtonRedskins this season. The fortunes of his son, Kyle Shanahan, the offfensive coordinator (right), will go a long way toward determining the team’s success.


BY NATHAN FENNOTHE WASHINGTON TIMES

Santana Moss was surrounded.Music thumped in the locker room

at Redskins Park. But the lyrics couldn’tdrown Moss’ words. So the televisioncameras and microphones swarmed,something that seems to happen eachtime the veteran wide receiver opens hismouth.

The phalanx of media almost buriedthe face of the Washington Redskins’ of-fense.

Most of big names are gone — Dono-van McNabb dispatched to the Min-nesota Vikings, Clinton Portis lookingfor work — leaving Moss and fan-fa-vorite tight end Chris Cooley as leadersof a largely anonymous group. Withquestion marks at quarterback, an influxof young receivers and a reshuffled of-fensive line, Moss is the certainty in aunit buffeted by change.

“I’ve been here [six] years, and Inever had the chance to grasp the of-fense,” Moss said. “There’s always beena change here or something there. It’sone of those moments where we havethe advantage.”

Turnover has been Moss’ companionsince the Redskins acquired him fromthe New York Jets for Laveranues Colesin 2005.

Mike Shanahan is his third coach.Five men have called offensive plays. Sixquarterbacks — remember Patrick Ram-sey? — lobbed passes to him.

“I’ve played with so many quarter-backs, man,” Moss said. “Every year thatgoes by, it’s something new. But I neverreally think about it.”

The turnover hasn’t helped the Red-skins’ offense, ranked in the NFL’s bot-tom third in total offense over the pastthree seasons.

Last season’s total — 5,374 yards —ranked No. 18 in the league. It was the

best in Moss’ six seasons in Washing-ton. Each time, he’s led the team in re-ceiving.

But after Moss voided his contract inFebruary, the onetime University ofMiami walk-on re-signed with the Red-skins in July. Other teams called. Hedidn’t talk to them.

The past shuffling on the roster,among the coaching staff and in thefront office at Redskins Park couldn’tkeep him away.

“If I’m going to still play, why gosomewhere and start all over?” Mosssaid. “If we put the right people in theright places . . . we can really do somegood things.”

That starts with feeling more atease in his second year under offensivecoordinator Kyle Shanahan. Last sea-

son, Moss caught a career-best 93passes for 1,115 yards and six touch-downs. Kyle Shanahan used Mossmore in the slot than he ever playedthere before while AnthonyArmstrong ran deep patterns.

The relative familiarity ofthe offense, regardless of thequarterback, seems a luxury toMoss.

Mention Kyle Shanahan’s of-fense and Moss drops superla-tives like a late-night infomer-cial: “dynamic,” “wide-open,”“opportunity to be great,” “ableto prosper.” But some parts ofthe offense aren’t exactly as seen on tel-evision. A grab-bag of veterans such asArmstrong, Jabar Gaffney, Donte Stall-worth, Terrence Austin and two rookies,

Leonard Hankerson and Niles Paul, arebattling for playing time alongside Mossat receiver.

“We have a lot to work on still,” Stall-

worth said. “But we’re moving in theright direction. That’s the most impor-tant thing.”

Added Kyle Shanahan: “I think every-

one is more comfortable with whatwe’re doing, and I think it’s showing.”

Trent Williams, the hulking offensivetackle, echoed the sentiment. In his sec-

ond year in the league, Williamsfelt obligated to assume a lead-ership role on the offensive lineafter the turnover.

Moss is where he looks foran example. For stability. Evena mentor.

And as the music blasted inthe locker room and the cam-eras cloaked Moss, Williamsgrinned and revealed perhapsthe lone weakness of the of-

fense’s face.“There’s not much,” Williams said,

“he can tell me about blocking some-body.”

OFFENSE

MOSS IS STILL THE BOSS


ROD LAMKEY JR../THE WASHINGTON TIMES

Veteran wide receiver Santana Moss has had six offensive play-callers and five quarterbacks since the Redskins acquired him from the New York Jets in 2005. His 93 catches last season were the most in his 10-year career, and his 1,115 receiving yards were second best.

ANDREW HARNIK/THE WASHINGTON TIMESTHE WASHINGTON TIMES

OFFENSE2-Deep Depth Chart

QB: Rex Grossman, John BeckRB: Tim Hightower, Roy HeluFB: Darrel Young, Mike SellersTE: Chris Cooley, Fred DavisWR1: Santana Moss, AnthonyArmstrongWR2: Jabar Gaffney, Terrence AustinLT: Trent Williams, Sean LocklearLG: Kory Lichtensteiger, Erik CookC: Will Montgomery, Erik CookRG: Chris Chester, Erik CookRT: Jammal Brown, Willie Smith

Position of strengthTight ends Chris Cooley and FredDavis are above-average route-runners adept at gaining yards afterthe catch. Will offensive coordinatorKyle Shanahan exploit that tandemmore than he did last season?

Position of weaknessThe old NFL adage goes somethinglike: “If you have two quarterbacks,it means you don’t have one.” UntilBeck or Grossman prove they canlead the Redskins to the playoffs,they have questions at the mostimportant position on the field.

Despite turnover,veteran remains asteadying influence

“If I’m going to still play, why go somewhere and start

all over? If we put the right people in the right places . . . we can really

do some good things.”---- Santana Moss, Redskins receiver


PHOTOGRAPHS BY ROD LAMKEY JR./THE WASHINGTON TIMES

Redskins linebacker Brian Orakpo has 191/2 sacks in his first two seasons, coming under two defensive schemes. With Orakpo already comfortable in the 3-4 defense, big things are expected from him in 2011.

BY STEPHEN WHYNO

THE WASHINGTON TIMES

When Mike Shanahan was buildingwinning football teams with the Den-ver Broncos, it wasn’t hard to identifythe face of the franchise — first JohnElway and later on players such as Ter-rell Davis and Shannon Sharpe. TheRedskins don’t have an Elway or aDavis, but on defense they do have anemerging star.

Brian Orakpo might not have thename recognition of a future Hall ofFamer — at least yet — but the line-backer is growing into a vital role onan evolving defense as a playmaker andleader.

“If that [leadership label] is whaty’all want to give to me, or my team-mates want to, I’m going to embrace it,”he said. “I just want to win. That’s themost important thing to me right now.So if that role consists of me beingmore vocal, consists of me leading byexample on and off the field, I’ve gotto do what I’ve got to do.”

Orakpo is only in his third season,but his impact on the team and staturewithin the locker room has beensteadily increasing. There’s a lot left tolearn, though he’s now a role model foryounger players such as Ryan Kerriganbecause he’s quickly picked up JimHaslett’s defensive system.

“He’s a lot more comfortable, obvi-ously. He’s not thinking as much, he’sreacting,” Haslett said. “Obviously, hehas great pass-rush skills and he’s pow-erful and he knows what he’s doing onthe run. It’s night and day from lastyear.”

In the offseason, a list of the league’stop pass-rushers came out that dumpedOrakpo into the third grouping, wellbehind the likes of Pittsburgh’s JamesHarrison and Dallas’ DeMarcus Ware.The man the Redskins took with the13th pick in the 2009 draft is using thatas “fuel to the fire,” he said.

But it doesn’t seem like Orakpo —referred to as “Rak” by his teammates— needs external motivation. He has191/2 sacks in two seasons (in two dif-ferent defensive schemes) and his pro-ducing even more in 2011 is seen as nat-ural progression. The Redskins arecounting on him for that.

“You need somebody that can makethat quarterback get flustered, throwbad balls, not give him the time to sitback there and read and throw layups,”cornerback Josh Wilson said. “Rak is abig part of this defense because hebrings that pass-rushing ability to theteam.”

It’s already evident how muchOrakpo has developed a comfort zonein the 3-4 defense. The 25-year-oldcited an ability to play more looselyrather than hesitating and playing ten-tatively.

That has shown in Orakpo’s im-proved ability to get off blocks and

into the backfield.“He’s using his hands really well,”

Haslett said. “He would use his shoul-ders once in a while last year. But he’sdoing a good job with his hand place-ment. He’s powerful and can throwtight ends around.”

Selfishly — in a good way — fellowdefensive players approve of Orakpo’sincreased role.

“He’s got to be accounted for. I’msure if you ask any offense, they locateBrian on every play and they under-stand that he’s dangerous,” nose tackleBarry Cofield said. “Any attention that’sbeing paid on him is not being paid tome, so it helps.”

Orakpo is taking the fast track to be-coming not only the best player on de-fense for the Redskins but an elite NFLlinebacker. Still, he’s learning on the jobin a lot of ways.

Some teammates, including corner-back Kevin Barnes, see London

Fletcher as the backbone of the defensebecause of his spot at middle line-backer and the Pro Bowl appearanceson his resume. Orakpo hasn’t been shyto rely on Fletcher for help, either.

“I’ve learned from him what he’sbrought to the table, what he’s doneover the years and all the teams he’sbeen on — especially what he’s donefor this organization,” Orakpo said.“That’s the first guy that I leaned on,obviously, being a linebacker. He madethe transition a lot easier seeing whathe does.”

Fletcher taught — and still is teach-ing — Orakpo how to play “faster” andcount on his athleticism to produce. Inturn, Orakpo has used his brief NFL ex-perience to assist Kerrigan, the Red-skins’ first-round pick out of Purdue inApril who is making the same transi-tion from defensive end to linebacker.

“Rak talks to Ryan all the time aboutlittle things — about hand usage, cov-

erage — because Rak went through itlast year,” Haslett said. “Here’s anotherguy that didn’t drop a lot, more of arush guy and he had a lot to learn. It’skind of fun to have two young guys out-side that are big powerful guys that canrun and guys that can get to the quar-terback.”

Orakpo helping Kerrigan with theadjustment is no shock; the Redskinshope their 2011 first-rounder is as quicka study as his mentor. But on the fieldand off, Orakpo is becoming someonemany teammates turn to for adviceand leadership.

And that doesn’t surprise Fletcherin the least.

“Some guys, you can’t force leader-ship on someone — or they can’t try toforce it, either. He has natural leader-ship qualities — he’s had it since hecame here as a rookie,” Fletcher said.“He’s just out there really showing hispersonality.”

DEFENSE



DEFENSE2-Deep Depth Chart

LDE: Adam Carriker, Kedric GolstonNT: Barry Cofield, Chris NeildRDE: Stephen Bowen, Darrion ScottLOLB: Ryan Kerrigan, Lorenzo AlexanderMLB: London Fletcher, Keyaron FoxJLB: Rocky McIntosh, Perry RileyROLB: Brian Orakpo, Rob JacksonLCB: DeAngelo Hall, Kevin BarnesRCB: Josh Wilson, Byron WestbrookSS: LaRon Landry, Reed DoughtyFS: Oshiomogho Atogwe, DeJon Gomes

Position of strengthLinebackers London Fletcher and BrianOrakpo made the Pro Bowl last year for thesecond straight season. The 3-4 defenserequires linebackers to make plays, andthose two are among the best in the NFL.

Position of weaknessThe Redskins believe they upgraded thedefensive end spot by bringing in Bowenfrom Dallas, but he wasn’t nearly asimpressive as new nose tackle BarryCofield during the preseason. AdamCarriker didn’t generate a sufficient passrush last season, so he and Bowen havea lot to prove.

“I just want to win. That’s

the mostimportant thingto me right now.

So if that[leadership] roleconsists of me

being morevocal, consistsof me leading by example on

and off the field,I’ve got to dowhat I’ve got

to do.”

‘RAK’ ATTACK SETS TONEOrakpo keeps the pressure onopposing QBs

BY RICH CAMPBELLTHE WASHINGTON TIMES

The chaos of covering a kickoff re-turn is a beautiful thing to LorenzoAlexander. Maybe that’s because, tohim, it’s not chaos at all.

“The way he prepares and knowswhat’s coming, it’s like the play is al-ready made before it happens,” Red-skins fullback Darrel Young said.

“You listen to the way he talks andyou’re like, ‘Man, how did you seethat?’ He’ll say, ‘Well, they did this inWeek 3 on a certain return.’ You’relike, ‘How are you thinking about Week3? It’s Week 12!’ ”

Alexander, the two-time reigningRedskins special teams player of theyear, has built his career on one of themost nuanced portions of the sport.His physical prowess, leadership anddesire that extends to the film roomhave made him one of Washington’smost respected players.

“If there’s a better special teamsplayer in this league, I haven’t seen it,”said special teams coach Danny Smith,who’s in his 13th season coaching it atthe NFL level. “I’ll match him upagainst anybody.”

Alexander, 28, is a big reason whythe Redskins’ coverage team hasranked in the NFL’s top five in kickoffreturn-yard average in each of the pastfive seasons. He didn’t play specialteams during his collegiate career atCalifornia. But after unsuccessful stintswith Carolina and Baltimore, the un-drafted college free agent knew it wasthe only way to get a foothold in theNFL.

He was a defensive lineman at thetime and weighed almost 300 pounds.Smith gradually broke him in after hejoined the Redskins in 2007, startinghim off as a member of the wedge thatblocks for the kickoff returner.

“He couldn’t walk and chew gum,to be honest with you,” Smith said. “It’ssomething that he’d never done. He’san easy guy to coach because you don’tever have to tell him twice. He’s a tire-less worker, and he loves to play thegame. There are a few guys in theseprograms that say, ‘I’ll do anything toget on the field.’ He’s one of them.”

As Alexander’s position on defense— and offense — changed, so did hisrole on special teams.

Coach Joe Gibbs used him as a line-man on both sides of the ball in 2007.Under coach Jim Zorn, Alexanderplayed defensive end.

When coach Mike Shanahan in-stalled the 3-4 scheme last season,Alexander moved to outside line-backer.

The position changes have requiredweight loss, and the resulting speed in-crease has carried over to special

teams. He became a key member of thepunt coverage unit, and then kickoffcoverage. He’s now around 265 pounds,a missile that few players want to getin front of to block.

“Speed on special teams is a factor,but big speed, especially,” Smith said.“That’s why he’s special. He’s amatchup nightmare for a lot of peoplebecause of his size, speed, attention todetail and technique.”

And technique is such a big part ofit. There’s so much more to coveringkicks than just sprinting 50 yards andslamming into a blocker.

“Special teams happens so fast that

you’ve got to be able to close distancesand play with good pad level,” Alexan-der said. “When you’re a big guy youthink you can just run over anybody. Sobetween being smart and playing myleverage and understanding whereeverybody else f its, it has reallyhelped.”

That understanding comes fromwatching film. Where fans might see11 guys chasing the guy with the ball,Alexander sees a blocking scheme thatcan be conquered.

Want to get technical about kickoffcoverage? Alexander is more than will-ing.

“You’ve got to understand who’sblocking you,” he said. “If the guard isblocking you, it’s going to be a middlereturn. If the tackle comes across myface, I know the ball is going away, sothen I’ve got to squeeze a lot more. IfI know it’s a bloop kick, I’m squeezingright now to the ball.”

So it’s no coincidence that he ledthe Redskins last season with 20 spe-cial teams tackles, 13 of which weresolo.

“He’ll not only beat you with hisphysical skills, but he’ll outprepare youas well,” Smith said. “When you getthat combination, you’re special.”



Lorenzo Alexander’s blend of size, speed and technique make him a matchup nightmare on kickoff coverage for the Redskins.

SPECIAL TEAMS

CHOREOGRAPHED MAYHEM


SPECIAL TEAMSKey specialists

KR: Brandon BanksPR: Brandon BanksK: Graham GanoP: Sav RoccaLS: Nick Sundberg

Special strength: LorenzoAlexander leads a kickoff coverageunit that ranked in the NFL’s topfive in kickoff return-yard average in each of the past five seasons.Add Gano’s strong leg, and theRedskins have an advantage indetermining field position.

Special weakness: TheRedskins’ annual merry-go-round ofveteran punters stopped on Rocca,37, who Philadelphia opted not tore-sign. He averaged almost threeyards more than Redskins puntersdid last season, and he mustcontinue that form.

Alexander a forcewhen ball is kicked

“Special teams happens so fast that you’ve got to be able to close distancesand play with good pad level. When you’re a big guy you think you

can just run over anybody. So between being smart and playing my leverageand understanding where everybody else fits, it has really helped.”

---- Lorenzo Alexander, Redskins special-teamer


NEWCOMERSBest of the rest

RB Tim HightowerFS Oshiomogho AtogweRDE Stephen BowenWR Jabar GaffneyOLB Ryan KerriganRG Chris ChesterCB Josh Wilson

Notable departuresRB Clinton PortisQB Donovan McNabbCB Carlos RogersC Casey RabachDL Albert HaynesworthDE Phillip DanielsNT Ma’ake KemoeatuDE Vonnie HollidayOLB Andre CarterLG Derrick DockeryOLB Chris Wilson

Still in needThe Redskins won only 10 games inthe past two seasons because theyhad major roster deficiencies. Theyhave started fixing those holes, butdepth remains an issue, especiallyon the offensive line. Washingtonsimply can’t withstand injuries there.

Surprise rookieFirst-round pick Ryan Kerrigan couldsurprise — for the wrong reasons.He got a late start on transitioningto outside linebacker from defensiveend because of the lockout and abone bruise in his knee. He did notappear to be an explosive, dominantpass rusher during the preseason.

BY STEPHENWHYNO


To say 2010 was a lost season for theWashington Redskins’ defensive linewould be a huge understatement. AlbertHaynesworth again was supposed to bethe big man in the middle, but myriadproblems limited him to eight games ashis team limped to a 6-10 finish.

Haynesworth is gone, his mammothseven-year, $100 million contract from2009 jettisoned to make way for some-one — anyone — to fill his spot. But theRedskins consider themselves fortunatethat among a host of new faces theypicked up during roster roulette in thedays after the lockout, they didn’t just getanyone as a new nose tackle.

They got Barry Cofield — a playerwith leadership skills who not only fitscoordinator Jim Haslett’s scheme betterbut allows the Redskins to do muchmore on the defensive side of the ball.

“Coach Haslett has a great plan, andI think this year we have a lot of thepieces for him to work with,” Cofieldsaid. “The Skins did a great job of acquir-ing talent; now it’s our job to go out andexecute.”

On defense, Washington is expected

to have five new starters: Cofield atnose tackle, Stephen Bowen at defensiveend, first-round pick Ryan Kerrigan atoutside linebacker, Josh Wilson at cor-nerback and Oshiomogho Atogwe atfree safety. On offense, there will be anew starter at quarterback (Rex Gross-man) and running back (Tim High-tower).

But the addition of Cofield could bethe biggest splash the Redskins made —even though the six-year deal is worthjust over a third of Haynesworth’s at $36million and because the 27-year-old isn’thyped as the greatest defensive player

available. Instead, Cofield calls himselfan “undersized” nose tackle even at 6-foot-4 and 306 pounds.

Teammates prefer the term “ath-letic,” because Cofield can do a lot morefrom the middle than just clog it up.

“He’s not your typical 3-4 nose tacklewhere he’s just in there stopping therun,” middle linebacker London Fletchersaid. “He does a great job of that, but healso makes plays, he can rush the passer.I’ve been free to run to the football a lotmore.”

Last year, the Redskins finished tiedfor 25th in sacks with 29. Cofield’s addi-tion along a revamped line and an en-hanced 3-4 defense should only help.

“I feel like we’re going to get morepressure on the quarterback. I feel likewe’re going to be able to stop the run,which in turn makes teams throw theball,” cornerback DeAngelo Hall said.“Any time you’ve got a team that’s goingto throw the ball, me, myself, you feelgood about your chances of the gettingthe ball. It’s going to give us a chance toget more turnovers.”

It’s evident already in the preseasonhow big an impact the “undersized”Cofield can have on the Redskins’ suc-cess. They allowed a combined 10 pointsagainst Pittsburgh and Indianapoliswhile surrendering the fewest yards ofany team in the league. When Cofieldwas not playing well against Baltimore,the first-team defense gave up 14 points

and 200 yards.“We were sloppy. I know I was sloppy

— it starts with me, so I take a lot ofblame for it,” Cofield said. “I didn’t playmy best ball.”

Cofield is only 27 and a newcomeraround these parts, but his words seemto carry a certain amount of gravitas forthe Redskins. He said that preseason ex-perience was good to build adversity,and teammates seem to agree and followhis lead more often than not.

“I think he’s a natural leader morethan anything,” Haslett said. “And hedoes it more by his play on the field. Hedoesn’t say much. He’s really smart. Hepicks things up really fast.”

There’s a reason younger and olderteammates alike listen — becauseCofield’s presence provides more op-portunities for others.

“From a nose tackle standpoint, he’skeeping linemen out of my way. That’shis main job,” Fletcher said. “Don’t letthem get to me. It’s not going to bewhere he’s going to have a bunch of tack-les. He don’t need a bunch of tackles.Leave that to me!”

Cofield looks poised to help team-mates pile up sacks while also getting afew himself — in other words providingbig-time production in an “undersized”package.

“We’re coming along well. We’ve gota lot of talent,” Cofield said. “Put it all to-gether and it’s a recipe for success.”

NEWCOMERS

NOSE TACKLE TOES THE LINE

ANDREW HARNIK/THE WASHINGTON TIMES

Teammates say new nose tackle BarryCofield’s athleticism allows him to domore than just stop the run.

Cofield a changefrom Haynesworth


Sun, Sept. 11 vs. New York Giants

(4:15 p.m., Fox)A fitting matchup for the 10th anniversary of the9/11 terrorist attacks, this also is an opportunity forWashington to catch banged-up New York at lessthan full strength. The Redskins have lost nine oftheir past 10 against the Giants.

Sun, Sept. 18 vs. Arizona Cardinals

(1 p.m., Fox)RB Tim Hightower gets a shot at the team thattraded him in July for a late 2012 pick and a 35-year-old defensive end. This is QB Kevin Kolb’ssecond start for a Cardinals team he joined in lateJuly, so perhaps the Redskins can take advantageof his relative inexperience.

Mon, Sept. 26at Dallas Cowboys (8:30 p.m., ESPN)

The Redskins are 2-9 on Monday Night Footballover the past 10 seasons, but one of those winswas a heart-stopping comeback at Dallas in 2005,made possible by two long touchdown catches bySantana Moss in the final minutes. Washingtonsplit with its archrival last season.

Sun, Oct. 2 at St. Louis Rams

(1 p.m., Fox)Rams QB Sam Bradford took a major step forwardas a rookie by beating the Redskins 30-16 in Week3 last season. Atoning for that loss on short rest isessential for Washington to enter the bye week atleast at 2-2 and with any hopes of contending.

Sun, Oct. 16 vs. Philadelphia Eagles

(1 p.m., Fox)No more Donovan McNabb intrigue here. That’sfor Week 16. Instead, there are memories of lastyear’s nationally televised nightmare: Eagles QBMike Vick embarrassed Washington at FedEx Fieldon Monday night, accounting for six touchdowns ina 59-28 rout.

Sun, Oct. 23 at Carolina Panthers

(1 p.m., Fox)The schedule really opens up here. If the Redskinsare at least 3-2 at this point with some divisionalwins, they can build momentum entering a brutalhome stretch. Cam Newton is not as refined asBradford was last year; no way the Redskins canafford to let a rookie quarterback beat them again.

Sun, Oct. 30 vs. Buffalo Bills at Toronto

(4:05 p.m., Fox)The Redskins catch a bit of a break here. Although

Buffalo is only 90 minutes from Toronto, this is anattractive game for Redskins fans to travel to, andthus the Bills’ home-field advantage will beweakened. It’s a homecoming of sorts for FSOshiomogho Atogwe, who grew up in Windsor,Ontario.

Sun, Nov. 6 vs. San Francisco 49ers

(1 p.m., Fox)This is a must-win game if the Redskins are tocontend. New 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh canrelate to the Redskins’ quarterback conundrum.He juggled former No. 1 pick Alex Smith, veteranJosh McCown and rookie Colin Kaepernick in thepreseason.

Sun, Nov. 13 at Miami Dolphins

(1 p.m., Fox)You think QB John Beck might have this onecircled? The Dolphins drafted him 40th overall in2007, but he fell out of favor when the front officeand coaching staff were overhauled after a 1-15season. Beck would love to stick it to a team thatstill hasn’t solved its quarterback situation. Ofcourse, his revenge motive may be moot as longas Rex Grossman is the starter.

Sun, Nov. 20 vs. Dallas Cowboys

(1 p.m., Fox)Coming off four straight games in which theRedskins could be favored, they have to protecthome field against a division rival. DE StephenBowen gets a second crack at his former team,which never thought enough of him to make him aregular starter.

Sun, Nov. 27 at Seattle Seahawks

(4:05 p.m., Fox)You’d be hard-pressed to find a more difficultfinishing schedule than the Redskins’. Four of theirfinal six opponents made the playoffs last season,and the Giants went 10-6. The noise at Century-Link Field makes Seattle’s home-field advantageamong the best in the NFL.

Sun, Dec. 4 vs. New York Jets

(1 p.m., CBS)This is the Redskins’ first game against thequarterback they coveted in the 2009 draft. MarkSanchez might have worn burgundy and gold.Instead, he’s played in the AFC championshipgame in both of his NFL seasons.

Sun, Dec. 11 vs. New England Patriots

(1 p.m., CBS)This one is for those who love a good chess match. Mike Shanahan and Bill Belichick have fiveLombardi trophies between them. Shanahan andBelichick are friends, and Shanahan even visitedPatriots practices during his hiatus in 2009.

Sun, Dec. 18 at New York Giants

(1 p.m., Fox)The Redskins have beaten the Giants only once intheir past 10 meetings. New York typically runstheball well and pressures the quarterback againstWashington. NT Barry Cofield’s defection to theRedskins could help change that.

Sat, Dec. 24 vs. Minnesota Vikings

(1 p.m., Fox)If you don’t want to relive Donovan McNabb’sdisastrous season in Washington, you might wantto leave town early for your holiday vacation.Imagine if either team is in playoff contention. Thisone will be personal for McNabb, and he stuck it toPhilly in a similar situation last October.

Sun, Jan. 1 at Philadelphia Eagles

(1 p.m., Fox)Not exactly the easiest finishing matchup. TheEagles loaded up on high-profile free agents in theoffseason. Washington will have a say in how it’sremembered among free agent-heavy teams: The2000 Redskins, who flopped, or the 1994 49ers,who won it all.

Compiled by Rich Campbell


Arizona CardinalsSept. 11Carolina, 4:15 p.m.Sept. 18 atWashington, 1 p.m.

Sept. 25 at Seattle, 4:15 p.m.Oct. 2 N.Y. Giants, 4:05 p.m.Oct. 9 at Minnesota, 1 p.m.Oct. 16 BYEOct. 23 Pittsburgh, 4:05 p.m.Oct. 30 at Baltimore, 1 p.m.Nov. 6 St. Louis, 4:15 p.m.Nov. 13 at Philadelphia, 1 p.m.Nov. 20 at San Francisco,

4:05 p.m.Nov. 27 at St. Louis, 1 p.m.Dec. 4 Dallas, 4:15 p.m.Dec. 11 San Francisco, 4:05 p.m.Dec. 18 Cleveland, 4:15 p.m.Dec. 24 at Cincinnati, 1 p.m.Jan. 1 Seattle, 4:15 p.m.

Atlanta FalconsSept. 11 atChicago, 1 p.m.Sept. 18Philadelphia,8:20 p.m.Sept. 25 at

Tampa Bay, 4:15 p.m.Oct. 2 at Seattle, 4:05 p.m.Oct. 9 Green Bay, 8:20 p.m.Oct. 16 Carolina, 1 p.m.Oct. 23 at Detroit, 1 p.m.Oct. 30 BYENov. 6 at Indianapolis, 1 p.m.Nov. 13 New Orleans, 1 p.m.Nov. 20 Tennessee, 1 p.m.Nov. 27 Minnesota, 1 p.m.Dec. 4 at Houston, 1 p.m.Dec. 11 at Carolina, 1 p.m.Dec. 15 Jacksonville, 8:20 p.m.Dec. 26 at New Orleans, 8:30 p.m.Jan. 1 Tampa Bay, 1 p.m.

Buffalo BillsSept. 11 atKansas City, 1 p.m.Sept. 18Oakland, 1 p.m.Sept. 25 NewEngland, 1 p.m.

Oct. 2 at Cincinnati, 1 p.m.Oct. 9 Philadelphia, 1 p.m.Oct. 16 at N.Y. Giants, 1 p.m.Oct. 23 BYEOct. 30 Washington, 4:05 p.m.1

Nov. 6 N.Y. Jets, 1 p.m.Nov. 13 at Dallas, 1 p.m.Nov. 20 at Miami, 1 p.m.Nov. 27 at N.Y. Jets, 1 p.m.Dec. 4 Tennessee, 1 p.m.Dec. 11 at San Diego, 4:15 p.m.Dec. 18 Miami, 1 p.m.Dec. 24 Denver, 1 p.m.Jan. 1 at New England, 1 p.m.

Carolina PanthersSept. 11 at Arizona, 4:15 p.m.Sept. 18 GreenBay, 1 p.m.Sept. 25

Jacksonville, 1 p.m.Oct. 2 at Chicago, 1 p.m.Oct. 9 New Orleans, 1 p.m.Oct. 16 at Atlanta, 1 p.m.Oct. 23 Washington, 1 p.m.Oct. 30 Minnesota, 1 p.m.Nov. 6 BYENov. 13 Tennessee, 1 p.m.Nov. 20 at Detroit, 1 p.m.Nov. 27 at Indianapolis, 1 p.m.

Dec. 4 at Tampa Bay, 1 p.m.Dec. 11 Atlanta, 1 p.m.Dec. 18 at Houston, 1 p.m.Dec. 24 Tampa Bay, 1 p.m.Jan. 1 at New Orleans, 1 p.m.

Chicago BearsSept. 11Atlanta, 1 p.m.Sept. 18 at NewOrleans, 1 p.m.Sept. 25 GreenBay, 4:15 p.m.

Oct. 2 Carolina, 1 p.m.Oct. 10 at Detroit, 8:30 p.m.Oct. 16 Minnesota, 8:20 p.m.Oct. 23 Tampa Bay, 1 p.m.2

Oct. 30 BYENov. 7 at Philadelphia, 8:30 p.m.Nov. 13 Detroit, 1 p.m.Nov. 20 San Diego, 4:15 p.m.Nov. 27 at Oakland, 4:05 p.m.Dec. 4 Kansas City, 1 p.m.Dec. 11 at Denver, 4:05 p.m.Dec. 18 Seattle, 1 p.m.Dec. 25 at Green Bay, 8:20 p.m.Jan. 1 at Minnesota, 1 p.m.

Cincinnati BengalsSept. 11 atCleveland, 1 p.m.Sept. 18 at Denver, 4:15 p.m.Sept. 25 SanFrancisco, 1 p.m.

Oct. 2 Buffalo, 1 p.m.Oct. 9 at Jacksonville, 1 p.m.Oct. 16 Indianapolis, 1 p.m.Oct. 23 BYEOct. 30 at Seattle, 4:15 p.m.Nov. 6 at Tennessee, 4:05 p.m.Nov. 13 Pittsburgh, 1 p.m.Nov. 20 at Baltimore, 1 p.m.Nov. 27 Cleveland, 1 p.m.Dec. 4 at Pittsburgh, 1 p.m.Dec. 11 Houston, 1 p.m.Dec. 18 at St. Louis, 1 p.m.Dec. 24 Arizona, 1 p.m.Jan. 1 Baltimore, 1 p.m.

Cleveland BrownsSept. 11Cincinnati, 1 p.m.Sept. 18 atIndianapolis, 1 p.m.Sept. 25 Miami,1 p.m.

Oct. 2 Tennessee, 1 p.m.Oct. 9 BYEOct. 16 at Oakland, 4:05 p.m.Oct. 23 Seattle, 1 p.m.Oct. 30 at San Francisco, 4:15 p.m.Nov. 6 at Houston, 1 p.m.Nov. 13 St. Louis, 1 p.m.Nov. 20 Jacksonville, 1 p.m.Nov. 27 at Cincinnati, 1 p.m.Dec. 4 Baltimore, 1 p.m.Dec. 8 at Pittsburgh, 8:20 p.m.Dec. 18 at Arizona, 4:15 p.m.Dec. 24 at Baltimore, 1 p.m.Jan. 1 Pittsburgh, 1 p.m.

Dallas CowboysSept. 11 at N.Y.Jets, 8:20 p.m.Sept. 18 at San Francisco,4:05 p.m.Sept. 26

Washington, 8:30 p.m.Oct. 2 Detroit, 1 p.m.Oct. 9 BYEOct. 16 at New England, 4:15 p.m.Oct. 23 St. Louis, 4:15 p.m.Oct. 30 at Philadelphia, 8:20 p.m.

Nov. 6 Seattle, 1 p.m.Nov. 13 Buffalo, 1 p.m.Nov. 20 at Washington, 1 p.m.Nov. 24 Miami, 4:15 p.m.Dec. 4 at Arizona, 4:15 p.m.Dec. 11 N.Y. Giants, 8:20 p.m.3

Dec. 17 at Tampa Bay, 8:20 p.m.Dec. 24 Philadelphia, 4:15 p.m.Jan. 1 at N.Y. Giants, 1 p.m.

Denver BroncosSept. 12Oakland, 10:15 p.m.Sept. 18Cincinnati, 4:15 p.m.

Sept. 25 at Tennessee, 1 p.m.Oct. 2 at Green Bay, 4:15 p.m.Oct. 9 San Diego, 4:15 p.m.Oct. 16 BYEOct. 23 at Miami, 1 p.m.Oct. 30 Detroit, 4:05 p.m.Nov. 6 at Oakland, 4:05 p.m.Nov. 13 at Kansas City, 1 p.m.Nov. 17 N.Y. Jets, 8:20 p.m.Nov. 27 at San Diego, 4:15 p.m.Dec. 4 at Minnesota, 4:05 p.m.Dec. 11 Chicago, 4:05 p.m.Dec. 18 New England, 4:15 p.m.Dec. 24 at Buffalo, 1 p.m.Jan. 1 Kansas City, 4:15 p.m.

Detroit LionsSept. 11 atTampa Bay, 1 p.m.Sept. 18Kansas City, 1 p.m.

Sept. 25 at Minnesota, 1 p.m.Oct. 2 at Dallas, 1 p.m.Oct. 10 Chicago, 8:30 p.m.Oct. 16 San Francisco, 1 p.m.Oct. 23 Atlanta, 1 p.m.Oct. 30 at Denver, 4:05 p.m.Nov. 6 BYENov. 13 at Chicago, 1 p.m.Nov. 20 Carolina, 1 p.m.Nov. 24 Green Bay, 12:30 p.m.Dec. 4 at New Orleans, 1 p.m.Dec. 11 Minnesota, 1 p.m.Dec. 18 at Oakland, 4:05 p.m.Dec. 24 San Diego, 4:05 p.m.Jan. 1 at Green Bay, 1 p.m.

Green Bay PackersSept. 8 NewOrleans, 8:30 p.m.Sept. 18 atCarolina, 1 p.m.Sept. 25 at

Chicago, 4:15 p.m.Oct. 2 Denver, 4:15 p.m.Oct. 9 at Atlanta, 8:20 p.m.Oct. 16 St. Louis, 1 p.m.Oct. 23 at Minnesota, 4:15 p.m.Oct. 30 BYENov. 6 at San Diego, 4:15 p.m.Nov. 14 Minnesota, 8:30 p.m.Nov. 20 Tampa Bay, 1 p.m.Nov. 24 at Detroit, 12:30 p.m.Dec. 4 at N.Y. Giants, 4:15 p.m.Dec. 11 Oakland, 1 p.m.Dec. 18 at Kansas City, 1 p.m.Dec. 25 Chicago, 8:20 p.m.Jan. 1 Detroit, 1 p.m.

Houston TexansSept. 11Indianapolis, 1 p.m.Sept. 18 atMiami, 4:15 p.m.Sept. 25 at NewOrleans, 1 p.m.

Oct. 2 Pittsburgh, 1 p.m.Oct. 9 Oakland, 1 p.m.Oct. 16 at Baltimore, 4:05 p.m.Oct. 23 at Tennessee, 1 p.m.Oct. 30 Jacksonville, 1 p.m.Nov. 6 Cleveland, 1 p.m.Nov. 13 at Tampa Bay, 1 p.m.Nov. 20 BYENov. 27 at Jacksonville, 1 p.m.Dec. 4 Atlanta, 1 p.m.Dec. 11 at Cincinnati, 1 p.m.Dec. 18 Carolina, 1 p.m.Dec. 22 at Indianapolis, 8:20 p.m.Jan. 1 Tennessee, 1 p.m.

Indianapolis ColtsSept. 11 atHouston, 1 p.m.Sept. 18Cleveland, 1 p.m.Sept. 25Pittsburgh, 8:20 p.m.

Oct. 3 at Tampa Bay, 8:30 p.m.Oct. 9 Kansas City, 1 p.m.Oct. 16 at Cincinnati, 1 p.m.Oct. 23 at New Orleans, 8:20 p.m.Oct. 30 at Tennessee, 1 p.m.Nov. 6 Atlanta, 1 p.m.Nov. 13 Jacksonville, 1 p.m.Nov. 20 BYENov. 27 Carolina, 1 p.m.Dec. 4 at New England, 8:20 p.m.3Dec. 11 at Baltimore, 1 p.m.Dec. 18 Tennessee, 1 p.m.Dec. 22 Houston, 8:20 p.m.Jan. 1 at Jacksonville, 1 p.m.

Jacksonville JaguarsSept. 11Tennessee, 1 p.m.Sept. 18 at N.Y.Jets, 1 p.m.Sept. 25 atCarolina, 1 p.m.

Oct. 2 New Orleans, 1 p.m.Oct. 9 Cincinnati, 1 p.m.Oct. 16 at Pittsburgh, 1 p.m.Oct. 24 Baltimore, 8:30 p.m.Oct. 30 at Houston, 1 p.m.Nov. 6 BYENov. 13 at Indianapolis, 1 p.m.Nov. 20 at Cleveland, 1 p.m.Nov. 27 Houston, 1 p.m.Dec. 5 San Diego, 8:30 p.m.Dec. 11 Tampa Bay, 1 p.m.Dec. 15 at Atlanta, 8:20 p.m.Dec. 24 at Tennessee, 1 p.m.Jan. 1 Indianapolis, 1 p.m.

Kansas City ChiefsSept. 11Buffalo, 1 p.m.Sept. 18 atDetroit, 1 p.m.Sept. 25 at SanDiego, 4:05 p.m.

Oct. 2 Minnesota, 1 p.m.Oct. 9 at Indianapolis, 1 p.m.Oct. 16 BYEOct. 23 at Oakland, 4:05 p.m.Oct. 31 San Diego, 8:30 p.m.Nov. 6 Miami, 1 p.m.Nov. 13 Denver, 1 p.m.Nov. 21 at New England, 8:30 p.m.Nov. 27 Pittsburgh, 8:20 p.m.3Dec. 4 at Chicago, 1 p.m.Dec. 11 at N.Y. Jets, 1 p.m.Dec. 18 Green Bay, 1 p.m.Dec. 24 Oakland, 1 p.m.Jan. 1 at Denver, 4:15 p.m.

Miami DolphinsSept. 12 NewEngland, 7 p.m.Sept. 18Houston, 4:15 p.m.Sept. 25 at

Cleveland, 1 p.m.Oct. 2 at San Diego, 4:15 p.m.Oct. 9 BYEOct. 17 at N.Y. Jets, 8:30 p.m.Oct. 23 Denver, 1 p.m.Oct. 30 at N.Y. Giants, 1 p.m.Nov. 6 at Kansas City, 1 p.m.Nov. 13 Washington, 1 p.m.Nov. 20 Buffalo, 1 p.m.Nov. 24 at Dallas, 4:15 p.m.Dec. 4 Oakland, 1 p.m.Dec. 11 Philadelphia, 1 p.m.Dec. 18 at Buffalo, 1 p.m.Dec. 24 at New England, 1 p.m.Jan. 1 N.Y. Jets, 1 p.m.

Minnesota VikingsSept. 11 at SanDiego, 4:15 p.m.Sept. 18 TampaBay, 1 p.m.Sept. 25Detroit, 1 p.m.

Oct. 2 at Kansas City, 1 p.m.Oct. 9 Arizona, 1 p.m.Oct. 16 at Chicago, 8:20 p.m.Oct. 23 Green Bay, 4:15 p.m.Oct. 30 at Carolina, 1 p.m.Nov. 6 BYENov. 14 at Green Bay, 8:30 p.m.Nov. 20 Oakland, 1 p.m.Nov. 27 at Atlanta, 1 p.m.Dec. 4 Denver, 4:05 p.m.Dec. 11 at Detroit, 1 p.m.Dec. 18 New Orleans, 1 p.m.Dec. 24 at Washington, 1 p.m.Jan. 1 Chicago, 1 p.m.

New England PatriotsSept. 12 atMiami, 7 p.m.Sept. 18 SanDiego, 4:15 p.m.Sept. 25 atBuffalo, 1 p.m.

Oct. 2 at Oakland, 4:15 p.m.Oct. 9 N.Y. Jets, 4:15 p.m.Oct. 16 Dallas, 4:15 p.m.Oct. 23 BYEOct. 30 at Pittsburgh, 4:15 p.m.Nov. 6 N.Y. Giants, 4:15 p.m.Nov. 13 at N.Y. Jets, 8:20 p.m.3Nov. 21 Kansas City, 8:30 p.m.Nov. 27 at Philadelphia, 4:15 p.m.Dec. 4 Indianapolis, 8:20 p.m.3Dec. 11 at Washington, 1 p.m.Dec. 18 at Denver, 4:15 p.m.Dec. 24 Miami, 1 p.m.Jan. 1 Buffalo, 1 p.m.

New Orleans SaintsSept. 8 atGreen Bay, 8:30 p.m.Sept. 18Chicago, 1 p.m.Sept. 25Houston, 1 p.m.

Oct. 2 at Jacksonville, 1 p.m.Oct. 9 at Carolina, 1 p.m.Oct. 16 at Tampa Bay, 4:15 p.m.Oct. 23 Indianapolis, 8:20 p.m.Oct. 30 at St. Louis, 1 p.m.Nov. 6 Tampa Bay, 1 p.m.Nov. 13 at Atlanta, 1 p.m.Nov. 20 BYE

Nov. 28 N.Y. Giants, 8:30 p.m.Dec. 4 Detroit, 1 p.m.Dec. 11 at Tennessee, 1 p.m.Dec. 18 at Minnesota, 1 p.m.Dec. 26 Atlanta, 8:30 p.m.Jan. 1 Carolina, 1 p.m.

New York GiantsSept. 11 atWashington,4:15 p.m.Sept. 19 St.Louis, 8:30 p.m.Sept. 25 at

Philadelphia, 1 p.m.Oct. 2 at Arizona, 4:05 p.m.Oct. 9 Seattle, 1 p.m.Oct. 16 Buffalo, 1 p.m.Oct. 23 BYEOct. 30 Miami, 1 p.m.Nov. 6 at New England, 4:15 p.m.Nov. 13 at San Francisco, 4:15 p.m.Nov. 20 Philadelphia, 8:20 p.m.3

Nov. 28 at New Orleans, 8:30 p.m.Dec. 4 Green Bay, 4:15 p.m.Dec. 11 at Dallas, 8:20 p.m.3

Dec. 18 Washington, 1 p.m.Dec. 24 at N.Y. Jets, 1 p.m.Jan. 1 Dallas, 1 p.m.

New York JetsSept. 11 Dallas,8:20 p.m.Sept. 18Jacksonville, 1 p.m.Sept. 25 at

Oakland, 4:05 p.m.Oct. 2 at Baltimore, 8:20 p.m.Oct. 9 at New England, 4:15 p.m.Oct. 17 Miami, 8:30 p.m.Oct. 23 San Diego, 1 p.m.Oct. 30 BYENov. 6 at Buffalo, 1 p.m.Nov. 13 New England, 8:20 p.m.3

Nov. 17 at Denver, 8:20 p.m.Nov. 27 Buffalo, 1 p.m.Dec. 4 at Washington, 1 p.m.Dec. 11 Kansas City, 1 p.m.Dec. 18 at Philadelphia, 4:15 p.m.Dec. 24 Giants, 1 p.m.Jan. 1 at Miami, 1 p.m.

Oakland RaidersSept. 12 atDenver, 10:15p.m.Sept. 18 atBuffalo, 1 p.m.Sept. 25 N.Y.Jets, 4:05 p.m.

Oct. 2 New England, 4:15 p.m.Oct. 9 at Houston, 1 p.m.Oct. 16 Cleveland, 4:05 p.m.Oct. 23 Kansas City, 4:05 p.m.Oct. 30 BYENov. 6 Denver, 4:05 p.m.Nov. 10 at San Diego, 8:20 p.m.Nov. 20 at Minnesota, 1 p.m.Nov. 27 Chicago, 4:05 p.m.Dec. 4 at Miami, 1 p.m.Dec. 11 at Green Bay, 1 p.m.Dec. 18 Detroit, 4:05 p.m.Dec. 24 at Kansas City, 1 p.m.Jan. 1 San Diego, 4:15 p.m.

Philadelphia EaglesSept. 11 at St.Louis, 1 p.m.Sept. 18 atAtlanta, 8:20p.m.Sept. 25 N.Y.

Giants, 1 p.m.Oct. 2 San Francisco, 1 p.m.Oct. 9 at Buffalo, 1 p.m.Oct. 16 at Washington, 1 p.m.

Oct. 23 BYEOct. 30 Dallas, 8:20 p.m.Nov. 7 Chicago, 8:30 p.m.Nov. 13 Arizona, 1 p.m.Nov. 20 at N.Y. Giants, 8:20 p.m.3

Nov. 27 New England, 4:15 p.m.Dec. 1 at Seattle, 8:20 p.m.Dec. 11 at Miami, 1 p.m.Dec. 18 N.Y. Jets, 4:15 p.m.Dec. 24 at Dallas, 4:15 p.m.Jan. 1 Washington, 1 p.m.

Pittsburgh SteelersSept. 11 atBaltimore, 1 p.m.Sept. 18Seattle, 1 p.m.Sept. 25 atIndianapolis,8:20 p.m.

Oct. 2 at Houston, 1 p.m.Oct. 9 Tennessee, 1 p.m.Oct. 16 Jacksonville, 1 p.m.Oct. 23 at Arizona, 4:05 p.m.Oct. 30 New England, 4:15 p.m.Nov. 6 Baltimore, 8:20 p.m.Nov. 13 at Cincinnati, 1 p.m.Nov. 20 BYENov. 27 at Kansas City, 8:20 p.m.3

Dec. 4 Cincinnati, 1 p.m.Dec. 8 Cleveland, 8:20 p.m.Dec. 19 at San Fran., 8:30 p.m.Dec. 24 St. Louis, 1 p.m.Jan. 1 at Cleveland, 1 p.m.

San Diego ChargersSept. 11Minnesota, 4:15p.m.Sept. 18 atNew England,4:15 p.m.

Sept. 25 Kansas City, 4:05 p.m.Oct. 2 Miami, 4:15 p.m.Oct. 9 at Denver, 4:15 p.m.Oct. 16 BYEOct. 23 at N.Y. Jets, 1 p.m.Oct. 31 at Kansas City, 8:30 p.m.Nov. 6 Green Bay, 4:15 p.m.Nov. 10 Oakland, 8:20 p.m.Nov. 20 at Chicago, 4:15 p.m.Nov. 27 Denver, 4:15 p.m.Dec. 5 at Jacksonville, 8:30 p.m.Dec. 11 Buffalo, 4:15 p.m.Dec. 18 Baltimore, 8:20 p.m.3Dec. 24 at Detroit, 4:05 p.m.Jan. 1 at Oakland, 4:15 p.m.

San Francisco 49ersSept. 11 Seattle,4:15 p.m.Sept. 18 Dallas,4:05 p.m.Sept. 25 atCincinnati, 1 p.m.

Oct. 2 at Philadelphia, 1 p.m.Oct. 9 Tampa Bay, 4:05 p.m.Oct. 16 at Detroit, 1 p.m.Oct. 23 BYEOct. 30 Cleveland, 4:15 p.m.Nov. 6 at Washington, 1 p.m.Nov. 13 N.Y. Giants, 4:15 p.m.Nov. 20 Arizona, 4:05 p.m.Nov. 24 at Baltimore, 8:20 p.m.Dec. 4 St. Louis, 4:15 p.m.Dec. 11 at Arizona, 4:05 p.m.Dec. 19 Pittsburgh, 8:30 p.m.Dec. 24 at Seattle, 4:15 p.m.Jan. 1 at St. Louis, 1 p.m.

Seattle SeahawksSept. 11 at SanFrancisco, 4:15 p.m.Sept. 18 atPittsburgh, 1 p.m.

Sept. 25 Arizona, 4:15 p.m.

Oct. 2 Atlanta, 4:05 p.m.Oct. 9 at N.Y. Giants, 1 p.m.Oct. 16 BYEOct. 23 at Cleveland, 1 p.m.Oct. 30 Cincinnati, 4:15 p.m.Nov. 6 at Dallas, 1 p.m.Nov. 13 Baltimore, 4:05 p.m.Nov. 20 at St. Louis, 4:05 p.m.Nov. 27 Washington, 4:05 p.m.Dec. 1 Philadelphia, 8:20 p.m.Dec. 12 St. Louis, 8:30 p.m.Dec. 18 at Chicago, 1 p.m.Dec. 24 San Francisco, 4:15 p.m.Jan. 1 at Arizona, 4:15 p.m.

St. Louis RamsSept. 11Philadelphia, 1 p.m.Sept. 19 at N.Y.Giants, 8:30p.m.

Sept. 25 Baltimore, 4:05 p.m.Oct. 2 Washington, 1 p.m.Oct. 9 BYEOct. 16 at Green Bay, 1 p.m.Oct. 23 at Dallas, 4:15 p.m.Oct. 30 New Orleans, 1 p.m.Nov. 6 at Arizona, 4:15 p.m.Nov. 13 at Cleveland, 1 p.m.Nov. 20 Seattle, 4:05 p.m.Nov. 27 Arizona, 1 p.m.Dec. 4 at San Francisco, 4:15 p.m.Dec. 12 at Seattle, 8:30 p.m.Dec. 18 Cincinnati, 1 p.m.Dec. 24 at Pittsburgh, 1 p.m.Jan. 1 San Francisco, 1 p.m.

Tampa Bay BuccaneersSept. 11Detroit, 1 p.m.Sept. 18 atMinnesota, 1 p.m.Sept. 25

Atlanta, 4:15 p.m.Oct. 3 Indianapolis, 8:30 p.m.Oct. 9 at San Francisco, 4:05 p.m.Oct. 16 New Orleans, 4:15 p.m.Oct. 23 Chicago, 1 p.m.2

Oct. 30 BYENov. 6 at New Orleans, 1 p.m.Nov. 13 Houston, 1 p.m.Nov. 20 at Green Bay, 1 p.m.Nov. 27 at Tennessee, 1 p.m.Dec. 4 Carolina, 1 p.m.Dec. 11 at Jacksonville, 1 p.m.Dec. 17 Dallas, 8:20 p.m.Dec. 24 at Carolina, 1 p.m.Jan. 1 at Atlanta, 1 p.m.

Tennessee TitansSept. 11 atJacksonville, 1 p.m.Sept. 18Baltimore, 1 p.m.Sept. 25Denver, 1 p.m.

Oct. 2 at Cleveland, 1 p.m.Oct. 9 at Pittsburgh, 1 p.m.Oct. 16 BYEOct. 23 Houston, 1 p.m.Oct. 30 Indianapolis, 1 p.m.Nov. 6 Cincinnati, 4:05 p.m.Nov. 13 at Carolina, 1 p.m.Nov. 20 at Atlanta, 1 p.m.Nov. 27 Tampa Bay, 1 p.m.Dec. 4 at Buffalo, 1 p.m.Dec. 11 New Orleans, 1 p.m.Dec. 18 at Indianapolis, 1 p.m.Dec. 24 Jacksonville, 1 p.m.Jan. 1 at Houston, 1 p.m.1 Game to be played in Toronto2 Game to be played in London3 Time subject to changeAll Times Eastern

2011 SCHEDULES

REDSKINS GAME-BY-GAME SCHEDULE

ASSOCIATED PRESS

If the Redskins get off to a decent start, they entera key stretch Oct. 23 against No. 1 overall pickCam Newton and the Panthers in Charlotte.



● Santana Moss needs 58 receptions tobecome just the fourth wideout to catch500 passes as a Redskin. The other three:888 Art Monk*, 1980-93549 Gary Clark, 1985-92530 Charley Taylor*, 1966-77* Hall of FameNote: Taylor caught 119 passes as a run-ning back early in his career before switch-ing to receiver 10 games into 1966.

● Brian Orakpo, the Redskins’ Pro Bowl out-side linebacker, has 19.5 sacks in his firsttwo NFL seasons. That’s as many as theCowboys’ DeMarcus Ware had (2005-06)and more than Julius Peppers did (19 in2002-03). Since 2000, only seven passrushers have had more in their first twoyears. The top 10:27 Shawne Merriman, Chargers, 2005-0624 Dwight Freeney, Colts, 2002-0323.5 Clay Matthews, Packers, 2009-1022.5 Terrell Suggs, Ravens, 2003-0422 Kevin Williams, Vikings, 2003-0421 Elvis Dumervil, Broncos, 2006-0720 Jared Allen, Chiefs, 2004-0519.5 Brian Orakpo, Redskins, 2009-1019.5 Cameron Wake, Dolphins, 2009-1019.5 DeMarcus Ware, 2005-06

● Since 2004, the year Chris Cooley broke into the NFL, just eight tight endshave caught 300 or more passes. Cooley, a two-time Pro Bowler, is No. 4 on the list:601 Tony Gonzalez, Chiefs/Falcons

582 Jason Witten, Cowboys505 Antonio Gates, Chargers420 Chris Cooley, Redskins388 Jeremy Shockey, Giants/Saints364 Dallas Clark, Colts362 Kellen Winslow Jr., Browns/Bucs326 Todd Heap, Ravens

● Mike Shanahan had a great run withDenver from 1996 to ‘98, compiling a 46-10record (playoffs included) and winning twoSuper Bowls. In his other 14 years as acoach, though — with the Raiders, Broncosand Redskins — he’s a much more mortal114-103 (.525), including just one postsea-son victory (in the second round against thePatriots in 2005).

● In the past decade (2001-10), only sixteams have fewer wins than the Redskins(68) and only four have a worse division re-cord (21-41, .339).The clubs with fewer wins: Lions (39),Texans (55), Raiders (58), Browns (59), Bills(62), Cardinals (64). Note: The Raiders(2002) and the Cards (2008) have gone tothe Super Bowl in this time. Also, the Texansdidn’t come into existence until ‘02.The clubs with worse divisionrecords: Lions (12-50, .194), Texans (16-38, .296), Browns (19-45, .297), Bills (20-42, .323).

● The Redskins haven’t had a 1,000-yardrusher since 2008, when Clinton Portiswent for 1,487. Believe it or not, though,seven teams have gone even longer with-out one — the Lions (Kevin Jones, 1,133,2004), Seahawks (Shaun Alexander, 1,880,2005), Cowboys (Julius Jones, 1,084,2006), Saints (Deuce McAllister, 1,057,2006), Broncos (Tatum Bell, 1,025, 2006),Cardinals (Edgerrin James 1,222, 2007)and Colts (Joseph Addai, 1,072, 2007).

Compiled by Dan Daly

BY THE NUMBERS

BY MATT PALLISTERTHE WASHINGTON TIMES

The NFL season starts Thursday, whichspares me from the obligatory advicecolumn. And that’s a good thing because

fantasy football advice is much like relation-ship advice. No one really knows what they’retalking about, and success is more dumb luckthan anything.

I’ve never bought a significant other an ap-pliance for a special occasion, but I havedrafted a defense in the fourth round. I’ve wonmultiple league championships, but I inexpli-cably made a “Beep, Beep” noise one nightwhen my pregnant wife scooted backward onthe bed. Success and stupidity are intertwined.

With that in mind, and in honor of mywife’s favorite player, John Elway (hoping thisnegates the “Beep, Beep” mention), here areseven observations on the upcoming season.Let’s hope most of them do not turn out to bethe fantasy equivalent of an anniversary vac-uum cleaner.

● If you drafted Michael Vick, you betterhave a good backup. The quarterback’s reck-less style of play and the Eagles’ porous offen-sive line guarantee he will get hurt at somepoint. Not to mention defenders will be look-ing to make their bones by getting after theleague’s newest $100 million man. The leaderof the “Dream Team” will be in every defen-sive coordinator’s crosshairs. Also, if youdrafted Michael Vick, you’ll never meet ourpug.

● Ray Rice will not disappoint this year.With legendary touchdown vulture Willis Mc-Gahee now in Denver, the hard-running Ravenwill reach the end zone at least 10 times andlead the league in yards from scrimmage. If hestarts slow, don’t worry. If you passed on himin the draft, swing a trade. Trust me. Would aguy who once protected Stan Humphries in akeeper league steer you wrong?

● I don’t like Jamal Charles. Not personally;never met the man. I just think it’s going to betough for him to live up to the expectations.He’s ranked as the No. 2 running back byESPN. But he benefited greatly last year frombeing under the radar (Thomas Jones startedthe season as the primary back) and from MattCassel and Dwayne Bowe taking the pressure

off him with career years. The Chiefs lookedterrible during the preseason, and I don’t thinkthat’s a fluke. Then again, I once selected Mar-ion Butts and Ricky Ervins as my starting run-ning backs.

● Roddy White will end up being ThatGuy this year. The one fantasy ownerswill be kicking themselves for bypass-ing. It would not surprise me to seethe Falcons receiver lead the leaguein touchdowns. Matt Ryan threw theball 42 times in the first half of apreseason game two weeks ago,and Atlanta didn’t trade up forJulio Jones to give MichaelTurner the ball 400 times.White will be the prime bene-ficiary of a team that’s readyto take the next step — atleast offensively. In caseyou didn’t know, White isa big fan of MichaelVick, so he, too, is onthe list of people not

invited to our pug’s next birthday; he’ll be 6.● My big hunch is that Mark Ingram is

going to have a HUGE year. The Saints rookieis not particularly big, fast or elusive. But nei-ther was Walter Payton. Actually, he remindsme of Emmitt Smith, another intangibles guy.Comparisons aside, a tough runner on a pro-lific offense is bound to score his share oftouchdowns. This prediction is brought to youby a guy who was smart enough to take a flieron Kurt Warner in a 1999 fantasy draft, butdumb enough to trade him for Antonio Free-man six weeks into that MVP season.

● Don’t believe the Matt Stafford hype.Even if he can stay healthy, the offense is toounbalanced for him to be a consistent fantasyproducer. Yes, Calvin Johnson is great, andNate Burleson is sneaky good. But the Lionscan’t run the ball. That means Stafford is al-ways a target, and it’s why the odds of himmaking it through 16 games are roughly thesame as the chance that drafting Koren Robin-son in the third round would prove successful.Yes, I did that.

● Tim Hightower will have the first signifi-cant fantasy season from a Redskin in years,becoming the latest running back to benefitfrom Mike Shanahan’s system. He’s no TerrellDavis, but with the coach needing to take thepressure off flighty starter Rex Grossman, andthe offensive line performing much better than

expected, he could have the typeof season that Mike Ander-

son did in 2000: 1,487yards, 15 TDs. Fun fact:Hightower played col-lege ball in Richmond,

the birthplace ofour pug.

FANTASY FOOTBALL

Thin line separates genius, stupidity

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTOGRAPHS

Ravens RB Ray Rice (above) figures to be a workhorse around the goal line with Willis McGahee now in Denver. The Eagles’ Michael Vick (inset) is still a thrill-a-minute QB, but can his offensive line keep him upright? For yardage and TDs, you could do worse than hitching your wagon to Redskins RB Tim Hightower (below).

Tim Hightower is no Terrell Davis, but with coach Mike Shanahan needingto take the pressure off flighty starterRex Grossman, and the offensive lineperforming much better than expected, he could have the type of season that Mike Anderson did in 2000: 1,487yards, 15 TDs.



Since joining the NFL in 2003, ChrisCooley is fourth in the league amongtight ends with 420 receptions.

BY JASON BUTT

SPECIAL TO THE WASHINGTON TIMES

OWINGS MILLS, MD. | Cary Williamswas a little-known cornerback fight-ing for a roster spot when trainingcamp started.

But as the preseason wraps up,Williams has emerged as a starter inBaltimore’s defensive backf ield.Needless to say, Williams’ rise up thedepth chart wasn’t expected, espe-cially with Domonique Foxworthback from ACL surgery and theRavens re-signing Chris Carr.

“It’s been a lot of work obtainingthe dream,” Williams said. “It’s some-thing I’ve always wanted to do sinceI was a little kid.”

Compared tosome of his startingmates, his dreamhas been quite dif-ferent. The other 10defensive startersall attended BCScolleges. Theseschools didn’t re-cruit Williams,whose only major

visit was to Auburn. A native of Hol-lywood, Fla., Williams originallylanded at Fordham in New York City.After minimal playing time andbutting heads with a position coachhis freshman season, he transferred toDivision II Washburn in Topeka, Kan.

He excelled at Washburn as hewas named an All-American in 2007.He also is the only player in schoolhistory to score a touchdown on aninterception, kickoff return and re-ception in the same season. But itwasn’t until he secured a spot at theUniversity of Kansas pro day —where he ran a faster 40 time thanformer Jayhawks corner Aqib Talib —that he caught the attention of NFLscouts.

“People have always doubted me,”Williams said. “I’ve always been thesmall fry or the guy that didn’t get asmuch attention. But I never waveredon anything. I’ve always had my goals.My mindset was to be in the NFL andI wouldn’t let any negativity affect megetting to my goal and being whereI’m at right now.”

The Ravens had a draftable grade

on Williams but were wary since heplayed at a small school. Others wereinterested, though, as the Titans tookhim in the seventh round of the 2008draft.

Williams said he had plenty of upsand downs in Tennessee, being in-jured and spending the majority of histime on the practice squad. In No-

vember 2009, the Ravens were scour-ing practice squad talent in search ofa special teams player with upside tocontribute at any position. With pre-vious scouting work, Williams was onthe top of that list.

“The thing that was interestingabout him when he came out was hehad the measurables that intrigued

you,” said Vincent Newsome, theRavens director of pro personnel.“Essentially, what we ended up doingis saying let’s watch another teamdevelop him and see how he does.”

Williams has seen time in 18 gamesand started one over the past two sea-sons with Baltimore. Heading intocamp this year, he was seen as a spe-

cial teams asset. Now he’s looking atlocking down the opposition’s topreceiver. This preseason, he’s gonetoe-to-toe against Kansas City Chiefsreceiver Dwayne Bowe and Wash-ington Redskins wideout SantanaMoss.

Against Bowe, he displayed solidtechnique in his drop before breakingon a pass and ripping the ball out ofthe tall receiver’s hands. AgainstMoss, Williams was beat for whatcould have been a touchdown. ButWilliams used his length to catch upand do just enough to swipe the ballout of the veteran’s hands.

Williams looked like the best cor-ner on Baltimore’s roster this presea-son. He also saw extra time becauseof a hamstring injury to Carr and aslow rehab process for Foxworth. Butdoing it the old-fashioned way,Williams outworked his competitionto earn the inside track to a startingspot.

“We always tell them don’t countnumbers,” Ravens coach John Har-baugh said. “You never know what’sgoing to happen. What it’s based onis how you play. If you play well anddo the things you need to do to besuccessful, then things will work outwell for you.”

Williams has turned into an idealcorner in first-year defensive coordi-nator Chuck Pagano’s defensivescheme. At 6-foot-1, 190 pounds,Williams has the size and strength tojam bigger receivers. CombineWilliams with rookie cornerbackJimmy Smith, listed at 6-foot-2 and210 pounds, and you have a tandemthat can aid the pass rush by beingphysical at the line of scrimmage.

Baltimore’s opening game will bea huge test to see if Williams is readyfor the NFL. The Ravens open withPittsburgh, which has won seven ofthe past 10 meetings. Through hisjourney, Williams said he’s thankfulBaltimore took a chance on him whenhis time in Tennessee wasn’t workingout.

“The Ravens saw something Ten-nessee didn’t see in me,” Williamssaid. “But hey, that’s how the NFL is.It’s a business. But you know whatthey say, one man’s trash is anotherman’s treasure.”



The basics Offensive coordinator: CamCameronDefensive coordinator:Chuck PaganoLast season: 12-4 (secondin AFC North)

Key playersLT Bryant McKinnie: The Ravens gave up 40 sacks aseason ago. McKinnie’s addition was made to keep passrushers off of QB Joe Flacco.QB Joe Flacco: It’s Flacco’s team with WR DerrickMason, RB Willis McGahee, NT Kelly Gregg and TE ToddHeap gone. Flacco has taken more of a leadership rolewithin the team this preseason.DT Haloti Ngata: Ngata dropped 20 pounds during thelockout in an attempt to be in better shape at the end of theseason. He’s hoping to improve Baltimore’s pass rush,which only generated 27 sacks a year ago.FB Vonta Leach: Leach was brought in to help RB RayRice and the running game. Rice saw his yards per carryaverage drop by 1.3 yards from 2009 to 2010. Leach ishoping to lead the way to get Rice’s numbers get back towhere they were.OLB Terrell Suggs: Suggs has performed better in evenyears, being a Pro Bowler in 2004, 2006, 2008 and 2010.Odd years seem to be his off years. He’s hoping to breakthat trend in 2011.

Good things will happen if It all starts with the offensive line giving Flacco more time inthe pocket. If it can, and Flacco can make plays downfieldto receivers Anquan Boldin and Lee Evans, then that willhelp produce a more balanced offense with Ray Rice andRicky Williams in the backfield.

Bad things will happen ifBehind receivers Anquan Boldin and Lee Evans are rookiesTorrey Smith and Tandon Doss. Both possess potential butneed time to grow. If one of them goes down to injury thendefenses will turn their attention to loading eight men in thebox and stopping the Ravens’ rushing attack.

Fun factIn between meetings and practices, the Ravens haveanother game on their mind: Cornhole. Defensive end CoryRedding introduced the game to his teammates and it’scaught on. Punter Sam Koch is the best on the team at it,

while right tackle Michael Oher, defensive tackle HalotiNgata and safety Haruki Nakamura are frequent players.Cornhole tournaments are often scheduled in the team’slocker room.

Schedule9/11 vs. Steelers: Pittsburgh’s won seven of the last 10 and has the upper hand in this bitter rivalry.

9/18 at Titans: The Ravens’ biggest strength is their rundefense, which will look to slow down superstar runningback Chris Johnson.

9/25 at Rams: Baltimore was lucky to get the NFC West onits schedule. But traveling to St. Louis won’t be easy.

10/2 vs. Jets: The Jets will be looking to avenge a tough 10-9 loss in opening week last year.

10/16 vs. Texans: The Ravens are fortunate to have a weekoff to prepare for one of the NFL’s most dynamic offenseswhen healthy.

10/24 at Jaguars: Baltimore faces another tough rushingattack on its lone Monday night appearance.

10/30 vs. Cardinals: Is Kevin Kolb the answer for Arizona?Baltimore will find out midseason.

11/6 at Steelers: Baltimore’s hoping to at least split bothgames this year. Losing two would give Pittsburgh the insidetrack to the AFC North title.

11/13 at Seahawks: It’s never easy to travel to CenturyLinkField, arguably the loudest stadium in the NFL.

11/20 vs. Bengals: Of the rookie quarterbacks starting thisseason, Cincinnati has the biggest challenge with AndyDalton at the helm.

11/24 vs. 49ers: Call it the Harbaugh Bowl. Brothers Johnand Jim Harbaugh coach against each other for the firsttime on Thanksgiving.

12/4 at Browns: Quarterback Colt McCoy has looked goodthis preseason. His running game, led by Peyton Hillis,certainly helps.

12/11 vs. Colts: The first of two late-season challenges, theRavens’ secondary will certainly be tested by PeytonManning — if healthy.

12/18 at Chargers: A week after Indianapolis, the Ravenswill face Philip Rivers, who won’t be afraid to throw deepagainst Baltimore’s defensive backs.12/24 vs. Browns: To make a sure-fire run at the AFC Northtitle, the Ravens will need to sweep Cleveland andCincinnati. Here’s their chance against the Browns.1/1 at Bengals: Cincinnati will have had a whole season towork out its kinks by the season finale.

— Jason Butt

RAVENS PREVIEW

RAVENS 2011

Williams

WILLIAMS’ RISE NO SURPRISE TO HIM


BUFFALO BILLS (4-12)New faces: DL Marcell Dareus, LB NickBarnett, WR-KR Brad Smith, QB TylerThigpen, LB Shawne Merriman,acquired in November, but finishedseason on injured reserve.Key losses: WR Lee Evans, LB PaulPosluszny, DB Donte Whitner.Strengths: Dareus adds bulk todefensive front-three, providing run-stopping and pass-rushing presencealongside veteran DT Kyle Williams.Chan Gailey-led coaching staff alreadyastute at devising offensive plays,added defensive specialist DaveWannstedt as assistant head coach.Merriman, if healthy, adds potent pass-rushing dimension.Weaknesses: Patchwork offensive linespringing leaks and lacks experienceddepth. Receivers young and withoutleader Evans. Once strong specialteams undone by youth movement.Expectations: Defense should beimproved after finishing 32nd againstrun last year. Smith brings wildcat threatto offense, but QB Ryan Fitzpatrick mayhave tough time finding open receiversminus Evans, who drew doublecoverage. Too much to expect for Bills tomake anything but modest gainscompeting in AFC East and in midst ofanother rebuilding phase.

CINCINNATI BENGALS (4-12)New faces: QB Andy Dalton, QB BruceGradkowski, WR A.J. Green, CB NateClements, LB Manny Lawson, LBThomas Howard.Key losses: QB Carson Palmer, WRChad Ochocinco, WR Terrell Owens, CBJohnathan Joseph.Strengths: Young defensive lineemerged at end of last season. RBCedric Benson decided to stay,steadying running game.Weaknesses: Many. Bengals likely goingwith rookie QB Dalton, running newoffense that features rookie WR Green.Offensive line struggled last season,and didn’t get much of an upgrade.Defense lost key player when Josephdecided he’d rather play for team withbetter chance of winning and went toHouston.Expectations: Low, as usual. Bengalsgot rid of underperforming reality showreceivers, letting Owens leave as freeagent and trading Ochocinco to NewEngland. Not much experience inreceiving group, led by first-round pickGreen. Dalton couldn’t learn coordinatorJay Gruden’s new offense because ofNFL lockout and is expected to gothrough growing pains. Bengals tiedfranchise record by losing 10 in row lastyear, but gave coach Marvin Lewiscontract extension. Lewis stayed eventhough owner Mike Brown insisted therewill be no significant changes.

CLEVELAND BROWNS (5-11)New faces: Coach Pat Shurmur, RBBrandon Jackson, DB Dimitri Patterson,S Usama Young, OG John Greco, PRichmond McGee, DL Scott Paxson, DTPhil Taylor, WR Greg Little, DL JabaalSheard.Key losses: FB Lawrence Vickers, CBEric Wright, S Abram Elam, WR ChansiStuckey, CB Brandon McDonald, LBJason Trusnik, OL Floyd Womack.Strengths: An offensive line that mustprotect QB Colt McCoy and open holesfor RB Peyton Hillis. With Pro Bowl LTJoe Thomas and C Alex Mack, Brownshave nice blend of experience, size,athleticism up front. Thomas didn’t playup to his standards in 2010, but Mackemerged as one of league’s elite interiorblockers. Hillis rushed for 1,177 yardsand burst into stardom in 2010.Weaknesses: Browns still lack big-playreceiver who scares defenses. MohamedMassaquoi (2) and Brian Robiskie (3)combined for five TDs last season, andthey lack speed to make defenses worryabout deep ball. Rookie WR Greg Littlehas size, suspect hands and may still berusty after serving senior-seasonsuspension at North Carolina.Expectations: Shurmur is Browns’ fifthcoach since 1999, and Cleveland gig ishis first as head man. He’s installingsame West Coast offense he used withSam Bradford in St. Louis, a short-passing scheme Browns feel isperfectly suited for McCoy’s accuratearm. McCoy has intangibles forsuccess. Lack of depth leaves littlemargin for error and any major injurieswill make it hard to close gap on divisionbullies Pittsburgh and Baltimore.

DENVER BRONCOS (4-12)New faces: Coach John Fox, DE VonMiller, SS Rahim Moore, RT OrlandoFranklin, RB Willis McGahee, TE DanielFells, DT Brodrick Bunkley, TE JuliusThomas.Key losses: WR Jabar Gaffney, RT RyanHarris, OL Russ Hochstein, TE Daniel

Graham, DL Justin Bannan, DL JamalWilliams.Strengths: Pass rush is strong suit.Elvis Dumervil, 2009 NFL sackschampion, returns from torn chestmuscle that sidelined him last season.He’ll have pass-rushing partner in No. 2overall draft pick Miller. Fox brings somestability to organization and history ofwinning while in Carolina.Weaknesses: Draft was deep indefensive tackles and Broncos passedon all of them, choosing to plug gapinghole in middle through free agency.Lured Ty Warren to Denver, but he toretriceps in August and is out at leastuntil November.Expectations: Broncos would love tohave crack at Stanford QB Andrew Luckin 2012 draft, but don’t want kind ofseason that would help those chances.McGahee gives QB Kyle Orton, withBrady Quinn likely backup ahead of TimTebow, type of ground game he’s beenpining for. An end to their five-yeardrought might be much to ask, butanything over four wins shows they’reheading in right direction under chief offootball operations John Elway and Fox.

HOUSTON TEXANS (6-10)New faces: Defensive coordinator WadePhillips, CB Johnathan Joseph, SDanieal Manning, DE J.J. Watt, P BradMaynard, FB Lawrence Vickers.Key losses: FB Vonta Leach, S BernardPollard, P Matt Turk, QB Dan Orlovsky,LB Kevin Bentley, LB Zac Diles.Strengths: Only team to rank in top 10in both rushing (127.6 ypg) and passing(259 ypg) in 2010. Arian Foster led NFLin rushing (1,616 yards), and entireoffensive line returns. WR AndreJohnson had high ankle sprain most oflast season and still finished with 86catches for 1,216 yards. Matt Schaubthrew for 4,370 yards and 24touchdowns.Weaknesses: Pass defense, whereTexans ranked last in NFL (267.5 ypg)and 23rd in sacks (30) in 2010. CoachGary Kubiak hired Phillips to implement3-4 scheme, and Texans lured freeagents Joseph and Manning to shore upporous secondary. Mario Williamsmoves to OLB in new scheme, andPhillips envisions him morphing intoDeMarcus Ware type.Expectations: This better be year forKubiak and Texans to make postseasonfor first time. Owner Bob McNairresisted calls from frustrated fans to fireKubiak and clean house after Houstondropped eight of last 10 games. Kubiakrebuilt defensive staff and is countingon Phillips to make things work. Texansplay four of first six games againstplayoff teams, but then play seven oflast 10 against teams that finished.500 or worse.

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS (10-6)New faces: DL Jamaal Anderson, DETyler Brayton, OT Anthony Castonzo, DTTommie Harris, OT Ben Ijalana, DTDrake Nevis, LB Ernie Sims.Key losses: CB Kelvin Hayden, OTCharlie Johnson, DT Dan Muir, S BobSanders, LB Clint Session.Strengths: If healthy, a big if right now,Colts have only four-time MVP at QB andlikely deepest receiving corps in PeytonManning era. Colts also have one ofleague’s most feared pass-rushingtandems with Pro Bowlers DwightFreeney and Robert Mathis.Weaknesses: If Manning is out for anextended period of time, the talent gapunder center will be a mile wide, whichwill make the rebuilding of the offensiveline on the fly a distant second on theteam’s list of concerns. Colts still mustimprove ground game that hasn’taveraged 4 yards per carry since 2006Super Bowl-winning season, and mustget better defending run, too.Expectations: Depends on Manning. If healthy, Colts are Super Bowlcontenders. If not, record-tying run of nine straight playoffappearances likely will end.There’s little doubt Colts havea lot to prove after earlyplayoff exit, and have mostof their injured playersback. But Manning’sabsence would leave a void that teammatescannot fill.

JACKSONVILLEJAGUARS (8-8)New faces: LBPaulPosluszny, LB Clint

Session, S Dawan Landry, CB DrewColeman, DE Matt Roth, OL JasonSpitz, QB Blaine Gabbert, G WillRackley, WR Cecil Shorts, P Matt Turk.Key losses: QB David Garrard, WR MikeSims-Walker, LB Justin Durant, LB KirkMorrison, P Adam Podlesh.Strengths: Behind Maurice Jones-Drew,Jaguars have been one of league’s toprunning teams last five years. Jones-Drew had 1,324 yards rushing in 2010despite playing with torn meniscus inright knee. Insists he’s healthy andready for big year. Needs to be withGarrard’s surprise departure.Weaknesses: Defense ranked 28th lastseason and allowed franchise record419 points, so embarrassing that teamowner Wayne Weaver stripped coachJack Del Rio of defensive play-callingduties. Overhauled unit and replacedfour starters. Journeyman LukeMcCown now starter after Garrard cut days before opener.Expectations: Missed playoffs nine of last 11 years. Were in position forpostseason berths in 2009 and 2010,but faded. Another collapse could costDel Rio his job. Nonetheless, Jaguarsbelieve if they play better defense, getJones-Drew back to 100 percent andkeep whoever’s under center off hisback (Garrard was sacked 117 timespast three seasons) they can make runat AFC South title.

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (10-6)New faces: QB coach Jim Zorn, DT KellyGregg, OT Jared Gaither, FB Le’RonMcClain, WR Steve Breaston, LBBrandon Siler.Key losses: Offensive coordinatorCharlie Weis, OG Brian Waters, LB MikeVrabel, DT Ron Edwards, DT ShaunSmith, WR Chris Chambers.Strengths: NFL’s top running game lastseason returns. Jamaal Charles (1,467yards, five TDs) and Thomas Jones(896, six TDs) were excellent in 2010,and now have former All-Pro FB McClainpaving way. Dexter McCluster addsanother element with speed and pass-catching ability.Weaknesses: Defensive frontstruggled to stop rushlast season. Chiefsbrought in ex-Ravenstackle Kelly Greggto help out, butthat could bequestionablemove.Expectations:Chiefs went fromfour wins incoach ToddHaley’s firstseason to 10-6 last year,when theywon AFC Westbut wererouted 30-7 byRavens inplayoffs. May beimproved thisseason, even ifrecord doesn’treflect it.Chiefshave

perhaps toughest schedule in leaguewith road games against Indianapolis,New England and Jets, and homegames against Pittsburgh and SuperBowl champion Green Bay. If Chiefs stayhealthy — they were exceptionallyfortunate last season — playoffs are inreach.

MIAMI DOLPHINS (7-9)New faces: RB Reggie Bush, RB DanielThomas, C Mike Pouncey, LB KevinBurnett, T Marc Colombo, LB JasonTaylor, QB Matt Moore, TE-FB CharlesClay, WR Clyde Gates, RB LarryJohnson.Key losses: RB Ronnie Brown, RB RickyWilliams, LB Channing Crowder, LB TimDobbins, QB Chad Pennington, QB TylerThigpen.Strengths: Defense returns mostlyintact after ranking fourth in NFL inyards per play and sixth in yards pergame. Burnett represents upgrade overCrowder, and depth up front is bolsteredby return of 2010 first-round pick JaredOdrick and fourth-round choice A.J.Edds, who had rookie seasons curtailedby injury.Weaknesses: Mistake-prone QB ChadHenne benched briefly at midseasonand threw 19 interceptions. He also lostsupport of two-time Pro Bowl receiverBrandon Marshall, who caught onlythree TD passes. Offensive line remainsin flux, and it’s unclear whether fragileBush and unproven rookie Thomas willbe upgrade over unproductive combo ofBrown and Williams.Expectations: Dolphins flirted withreplacing Henne and coach TonySparano. Instead, both are back. Fanswill likely be quick to turn on Henne, andSparano is in danger of becoming firstDolphins coach to endure threeconsecutive losing seasons. Miami

hopes Hennewill benefit

from

addition of Bush, who provides long-sought quick-strike threat. If Bush stayshealthy and Henne shows even modestimprovement, Dolphins have chance tofinish above .500, but 10-defeat flop isalso possible.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (14-2)New faces: WR Chad Ochocinco, DLAndre Carter, DL Albert Haynesworth,DL Shaun Ellis, T Nate Solder.Key losses: G Stephen Neal, DE TyWarren, TE Alge Crumpler.Strengths: Offense that led NFL with32.4 ppg last year is outstanding. Asusual, Tom Brady is key after winninglast year’s NFL MVP award with 36 TDpasses and four interceptions. Additionof Ochocinco gives him three qualityWRs along with Wes Welker and DeionBranch. Veteran offensive line blocks forRB BenJarvus Green-Ellis, coming off1,000-yard rushing season, and DannyWoodhead, who made solid impactafter signing early in season. Defensiveline bolstered with Carter, Haynesworthand Ellis. At safety, third-year pro PatrickChung emerging. Return of CB LeighBodden, who spent all last season oninjured reserve, should help.Weaknesses: Not many. Despitemaking last two Pro Bowls, S BrandonMeriweather was cut. And third-downdefense was worst in league.Expectations: Very high. Brady appearsfully recovered from surgery on his rightfoot in late January, just after 28-21loss in first playoff game to Jets.Newcomers should help pass rush,coverage of receivers and third-downperformance. But, as Patriots showedlast year, having outstanding regularseason doesn’t always lead topostseason success.

NEW YORK JETS (11-5)New faces: WR Plaxico Burress, WR Derrick Mason, DE MuhammadWilkerson, DT Kenrick Ellis, WR-KRJeremy Kerley.Key losses: WR Braylon Edwards, WRJerricho Cotchery, WR-KR Brad Smith,DE Shaun Ellis, LB Jason Taylor, FB TonyRichardson, P Steve Weatherford, NTKris Jenkins, RT Damien Woody.Strengths: Solid secondary is backalmost intact. After flirting with andlosing out on CB Nnamdi Asomugha,Jets turned back to Antonio Cromartieand re-signed him to team with All-ProCB Darrelle Revis. S Jim Leonhard ishealthy after breaking right leg late lastseason, and Jets brought back EricSmith and Brodney Pool to stabilizesafety position. Linebackers solid withplaymaking David Harris and Bart Scott,along with Calvin Pace and BryanThomas.Weaknesses: Aside from re-signedSantonio Holmes, QB Mark Sanchezhas revamped group of wide receivers.

Challenge will be developing rapportwith Burress, who hasn’t played innearly three years and dealt withsprained ankle in training camp,and Mason, who spent last sixseasons with Baltimore. Offensiveline depth might be issue withWayne Hunter stepping in at RT

for retired Woody. Defensive linelacks experience, as rookiesWilkerson and Ellis will be calledon.Expectations: Goal remainssame for coach Rex Ryan andJets: Super Bowl win. New Yorkhas been in AFC championshipgame two straight years andRyan insists this is seasonJets make it over hump. Keywill be whether Sanchez cantake development to next levelin third season.

OAKLAND RAIDERS (8-8)New faces: Coach Hue

Jackson, TE Kevin Boss, WRDenarius Moore, DB

DeMarcus Van Dyke, OLStefen Wisniewski, OLJoe Barksdale, TEDavid Ausberry, CB

Chimdi Chekwa, QBTrent Edwards, QB Terrelle Pryor.Key losses: CB Nnamdi Asomugha,TE Zach Miller, OL Robert Gallery, OLLangston Walker, QB BruceGradkowski.Strengths: Jackson takes over aftersuccessful season as offensivecoordinator when Raiders more thandoubled scoring output to 410 pointsand finished sixth in scoring. Speed,led by RB Darren McFadden and big-play WR Jacoby Ford. Defensive lineled by Pro Bowler Richard Seymourand DT Tommy Kelly, and pass-rushing LB Kamerion Wimbley helpedOakland finish tied for second with 47sacks in 2010. P Shane Lechler andK Sebastian Janikowski among bestin NFL.

Weaknesses: Biggest questions areoffensive line, secondary. WithAsomugha gone, Raiders thin at CB withno proven players behind veteranstarters Stanford Routt and ChrisJohnson. With Raiders expected to playplenty of man-to-man coverage, thatputs heavy pressure on rookies VanDyke and Chekwa, and second-yearplayers Walter McFadden and JeremyWare. Offensive line must replaceGallery and Walker and improve on playfrom last year when QB Jason Campbelloften was under heavy pressure.Expectations: After snapping string ofseven straight seasons with at least 11losses, Raiders hoping for moreimprovement in Jackson’s first seasonas head coach at any level. To do sothey need Campbell to improve, reducebig plays allowed on defense and hopesome young players step in andcontribute immediately on offensive lineand in secondary.

PITTSBURGH STEELERS (12-4)New faces: WR Jerricho Cotchery, TEJohn Gilmore, DT Cameron Heyward, DBCurtis Brown.Key losses: TE Matt Spaeth, G MaxStarks, T Flozell Adams.Strengths: Steelers kept league’s topscoring defense intact by re-signing CBIke Taylor. Though easily oldest unit inNFL with nine starters at least 30 byend of season, defense remains one ofbest. Steelers failed to land PlaxicoBurress in free agency, did signCotchery, who is recovering from backsurgery and should fit in nicely withdynamic third-year man Mike Wallace,Hines Ward and up-and-coming AntonioBrown.Weaknesses: Offensive line, particularlyLT and RG, remain issues. Re-signedveteran Jonathan Scott to protect QBBen Roethlisberger’s blind side andthere could be additional trouble ifstarter Doug Legursky doesn’t play well. Pass protection spotty during early preseason games, thoughRoethlisberger’s mobility and habit formaking plays outside pocket helpsovercome some of that. Even with 2010Defensive Player of Year Troy Polamaluhealthy, secondary looked suspectwhen teams spread the field.Expectations: Anything less than Vince Lombardi Trophy No. 7 will beconsidered disappointment in Steel Cityafter Pittsburgh opted to keep coretogether rather than play aggressively infree agency.

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS (9-7)New faces: LB Takeo Spikes, SS BobSanders, DE Corey Liuget, LB TravisLaBoy.Key losses: RB Darren Sproles.Strengths: QB Philip Rivers and hisquick-strike offense, which canseemingly score at will. TE AntonioGates gamely tried to play throughpainful foot injury before shutting itdown late last season. He’s stillrecovering as opening day approaches.Chargers will have WR Vincent Jacksonavailable from start. Last year, hemissed first 10 games during bittercontract dispute.Weaknesses: Chargers must reboundfrom perhaps worst special teamsperformance in NFL history. Plus, justone playoff victory in last three seasonshas fans doubting whether Norv Turneris capable of taking them to Super Bowltitle.Expectations: Playing amid speculationthey’ll bolt to Los Angeles after thisseason, Chargers think they’re goodenough to win Super Bowl. To do so,they have to reverse postseason slidethat’s seen them go from reaching AFCtitle game following 2007 season to notmaking playoffs last season.

TENNESSEE TITANS (6-10)New faces: Coach Mike Munchak, QBMatt Hasselbeck, QB Jake Locker, DTShaun Smith, LB Akeem Ayers, LBBarrett Ruud, S Jordan Babineaux.Key losses: Coach Jeff Fisher, DEJason Babin, DL coach Jim Washburn,QB Vince Young, LB Stephen Tulloch.Strengths: RB Chris Johnson, offensiveline back intact, WR Kenny Britt.Hasselbeck brings needed experienceat QB and can tutor rookie Locker. Ruudis playmaker, as are CB CortlandFinnegan and S Michael Griffin.Weaknesses: Britt’s off-field issues arethe primary concern now that Johnsonand team reached four-year, $52million deal after protracted holdout.Expectations: Munchak has done hisbest to eliminate distractions in andout of locker room. Team’s first playoffberth since 2008 is goal, but doingthat in AFC South could rest onwhether Johnson is around for all ofregular season.

Compiled by Associated Press

AFCCAPSULES

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Troy Polamalu leadsthe usual suspects ona Steelers defense thathopes to rebound fromthe team’s loss in theSuper Bowl.

ASSOCIATED PRESS

The Colts have been able to count on Peyton Manningbeing the quarterback eversince the opening week of his rookie season in 1998. But the four-time MVP hasbeen ruled out of Sunday’sopener against the Texans,breaking his streak of 227consecutive starts.


ARIZONA CARDINALS (5-11)New faces: QB Kevin Kolb, TE ToddHeap, CB Patrick Peterson, OG DarynColledge, TE Jeff King, ILB StewartBradley, DE Vonnie Holliday, NT DavidCarter, OG Floyd Womack.Key losses: CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, WR Steve Breaston, OGAlan Faneca.Strengths: Passing offense, with Kolband Larry Fitzgerald showing animmediate chemistry. Heap givesteam an option it hasn’t hadpreviously. New coordinator RayHorton considers front line of DarnellDockett, Calais Campbell and DanWilliams strength of defense.Weaknesses: Offensive line,particularly tackles, uncertain asCardinals try to bolster running gamewith Beanie Wells still looking forbreakout season. Pass rush suspectwith aging outside LBs Joey Porterand Clark Haggans. Cardinals hopesecond-year pro O’Brien Schofield androokie Sam Acho provide relief for old-timers. Secondary short-handed withsafety Adrian Wilson sidelined by tornright biceps tendon.Expectations: Arrival of Kolb, and hisquick acceptance as leader ofoffense, has led some to believeArizona could go from last to first inweak NFC West. Kolb says that’s hisexpectation, too, and with he andFitzgerald locked up to long-termcontracts, they plan an extendedpartnership as long as young QB, withjust seven starts, meets his own highstandards.

ATLANTA FALCONS (13-3)New faces: WR Julio Jones, DE RayEdwards.Key losses: OG Harvey Dahl, WRMichael Jenkins.Strengths: Loaded with offensivestars QB Matt Ryan, WR Roddy White,RB Michael Turner and TE TonyGonzalez, all Pro Bowlers. Adding first-round pick Jones gives them deepthreat they lacked last season.Falcons ranked next-to-last in passingplays covering at least 20 yards, andJones has speed and size to fixproblem.Weaknesses: Packers QB AaronRodgers carved up Falcons in 48-21postseason rout, exposing defensethat didn’t bring much pressureoutside of DE John Abraham. Thatshould change with signing ofEdwards — 16 1/2 sacks past twoyears with Vikings. Atlanta ranked20th in league with 31 sacks in 2010,and Abraham had 13.Expectations: Super Bowl or bust.Falcons didn’t mortgage much offuture acquiring Jones withoutexpecting him to pay immediatedividends. Early schedule brutal: fourof first five games against NFC playoffteams, and other against Tampa Bay,which nearly got in. Falcons likelyplayoff bound for third time in fouryears if they come out of tough stretchat least 3-2.

CAROLINA PANTHERS (2-14)New faces: Coach Ron Rivera, QBCam Newton, TE Greg Olsen, WRLegedu Naanee, PK Olindo Mare.Key losses: PK John Kasay.Strengths: New coach, but Panthershave core players back from lastseason, including WR Steve Smith,RB DeAngelo Williams and LBsThomas Davis and James Anderson.Addition of Olsen in trade with Bears,could be plus. No. 1 overall pickNewton expected to battle for startingjob with Jimmy Clausen.Weaknesses: Team had worst record inleague in 2010, and new coachingstaff didn’t have minicamps and OTAsto install new schemes because oflockout. Panthers last in league inscoring and total offense in 2010. DTRon Edwards, acquired from theChiefs, out for season with torn triceps.Expectations: Should improve off two-win season, and might surprise a fewteams if they get some consistentplay Newton or Clausen.

CHICAGO BEARS (11-5)New faces: WR Roy Williams, RBMarion Barber, DL Vernon Gholston,WR Sam Hurd, DT Amobi Okoye, PAdam Podlesh, OL Chris Spencer,TE Matt Spaeth, OL Gabe Carimi.Key losses: C Olin Kreutz, TEGreg Olsen, P Brad Maynard,DT Tommie Harris, S DaniealManning.Strengths: Defense. With Julius

Peppers, Brian Urlacher and LanceBriggs, Bears have solid core. Returngame still figures to be strength evenwith kickoffs moved to 35. DevinHester remains threat any time hetouches ball. Manning is gone, butBears still deep on returns withJohnny Knox helping out.Weaknesses: Offensive line. Even ifsix-time Pro Bowler Kreutz had re-signed, line would still be questionmark. Bears allowed league-high 56sacks, with Jay Cutler taking all butfour. For now, Roberto Garza movesfrom RG to C, with newcomer Spencera backup.Expectations: For all OL problems linelast year, Bears still reached NFC titlegame. The way Cutler was gettingknocked around early made deepplayoff run unlikely. Now? If line comestogether, Bears will likely be in goodshape. Help could come if Roy Williamsrediscovers form that made him ProBowl receiver when Mike Martz was hisoffensive coordinator in Detroit.

DALLAS COWBOYS (6-10)New faces: Defensive coordinator RobRyan, S Abram Elam, RT Tyron Smith,DE Kenyon Coleman, RB DeMarcoMurray.Key losses: RB Marion Barber, WRRoy Williams, RG Leonard Davis, RTMarc Colombo.Strengths: Passing game (WRs MilesAustin and Dez Bryant, TE JasonWitten, healthy QB Tony Romo) and LBDeMarcus Ware (NFL sacks leader in2010, 2008).Weaknesses: Defense returns mostof players from unit that allowed mostpoints in franchise history. Offensiveline in flux, with no more than twostarters returning to same spots.Expectations: After seeing SuperBowl hopes fizzle with 1-7 start lastseason, nobody is even talkingplayoffs. But they did go 5-3 oversecond half, when Jason Garrett tookover as coach. He heads into first fullseason in charge intent on layingfoundation for doing things his way.Big question mark is defense, andwhether Ryan’s aggressive,unpredictable scheme can reviveclub’s 2009 form.

DETROIT LIONS (6-10)New faces: LB Stephen Tulloch, LBJustin Durant, CB Eric Wright, DT NickFairley, WR Titus Young.Key losses: LB Julian Peterson, DETurk McBride, RB Kevin Smith.Strengths: Defensive line. All-ProNdamukong Suh (2010 DefensiveRookie of the Year), Corey Williams,Kyle Vanden Bosch and Cliff Avrilpowerful enough last season tohide some of the team’s lacklusterback seven. Solid at wide receiverwith Calvin Johnson and NateBurleson.Weaknesses: Secondary. Wrightadded, though he gave up many bigplays in Cleveland and was slowed intraining camp by groin injury. Sameailment, potentially nagging one,slowed other starting CB ChrisHouston in August. S LouisDelmas makes big hits, but can’tseem to stay healthy. S AmariSpievey might’ve been replacedif team could’ve addressed allneeds in shortened offseason.Expectations: Respectability.Detroit hasn’t had winningrecord since 2000 and hasn’tmade playoffs since 1999. If a lotgoes well — particularly health atQB and CB — droughts could end.Lions had impressive end of 2010season, beating Green Bay, Chicagoand Tampa Bay while each wascompeting for playoff positioning,and Minnesota despite QBMatthew Stafford beinginjured (right shoulder).Stafford is back,seemingly healthy,after playing threegames lastseason.

GREEN BAY PACKERS (10-6)New faces: OL Derek Sherrod,WR/RS Randall Cobb, RB/RS AlexGreen.Key losses: DE Cullen Jenkins, LGDaryn Colledge, LB Nick Barnett, LBBrandon Chillar, LB Brady Poppinga,RT Mark Tauscher.Strengths: Super Bowl champs bringback majority of team. Offense, led byQB Aaron Rodgers, could be evenmore dangerous with TE JermichaelFinley and RB Ryan Grant returningfrom injuries. Defense fullycomfortable with Dom Capers’scheme.Weaknesses: Packers have had sometrouble with pass protection early inpreseason as they look forreplacement for Colledge at LG.Sherrod got first crack but veteran T.J.Lang could win job.Expectations: Packers know it’sdifficult for Super Bowl champions torepeat but believe they can. Ifcomplacency creeps in, Packers canremind themselves they barely madeplayoffs before dominant run to SuperBowl.

MINNESOTA VIKINGS (6-10)New faces: Coach Leslie Frazier, QBDonovan McNabb, QB ChristianPonder, WR Michael Jenkins, DT RemiAyodele, TE Kyle Rudolph, LT CharlieJohnson.Key losses: QB Brett Favre, DE Ray

Edwards, LB Ben Leber, DT PatWilliams, WR Sidney Rice, LT BryantMcKinnie.Strengths: Dynamic playmakers. WithRB Adrian Peterson, WR Percy Harvin,DE Jared Allen and LB ChadGreenway, Vikings have talented groupat skill positions. Kicking game solidwith Ryan Longwell and punter ChrisKluwe.Weaknesses: Age. CB AntoineWinfield, DT Kevin Williams, LG SteveHutchinson and McNabb are in twilightof careers. OL is significant concernwith departure of mainstay McKinnie,who showed up to training campoverweight, and uncertainty of RGAnthony Herrera, coming offreconstructive knee surgery. Johnsonhas had rough preseason inMcKinnie’s place. McNabb has played16 games only once in last sevenyears. Can line protect him and openholes for Peterson? Secondary alsouncertain with CB Cedric Griffincoming off second torn ACL, one oneach knee, in last two years.Unproven safeties Husain Abdullah,Jamarca Sanford, Tyrell Johnson,Mistral Raymond competing for twostarting spots.Expectations: Frazier and Vikingshave fresh start without Favre andfired coach Brad Childress. Divisionshould be tough, and winning recordwill be difficult.

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (11-5)New faces: RB Darren Sproles, RBMark Ingram, C Olin Kreutz, DTShaun Rogers, DT Aubrayo Franklin,DE Cameron Jordan.Key losses: RB Reggie Bush, CJonathan Goodwin, S Darren Sharper,DT Remi Ayodele.Strengths: Running game deep with

speedy, versatile Sproles andyoung, powerful Ingram joiningPierre Thomas. QB Drew Breeshas main receivers returningto proven passing game.Saints also strong in passcoverage last season andshould be again with allstarting DBs back: JabariGreer, Tracy Porter, RomanHarper and MalcolmJenkins.Weaknesses: Saints hopedthey addressed rundefense and pass rushwith drafting of Jordanand free-agent signings

of Rogers andFranklin. Kick andpunt coverage otherareas to improve.Expectations:Saints riddled with

injuries at keypositions last season

yet won 11 games and madeplayoffs. Only 18 months since theirSuper Bowl triumph, with most keyplayers back and healthy, and withnew additions meant to improvedepth, Saints expect to be amongNFC’s elite.

NEW YORK GIANTS (10-6)New faces: C David Baas, P SteveWeatherford, DT Marvin Austin.Key losses: WR Steve Smith, TEKevin Boss, C Shaun O’Hara, G RichSeubert, DT Barry Cofield, LB ChaseBlackburn, CB Terrell Thomas(season-ending knee injury inpreseason game).Strengths: Defensive line has chanceto be as good as 2007 with rushfrom DEs Justin Tuck, second-yearpro Jason Pierre-Paul and OsiUmenyiora when he comes back fromknee surgery. Despite losing Bossand Smith, Hakeem Nicks and MarioManningham — combined 20 TDcatches in 2010 — provide big-timetargets for Eli Manning.Weaknesses: Without Boss, no tightend who can block and catch.Offensive line questionable withdecisions to save money and cutO’Hara and Seubert. Baas need timeto jell with line anchored by G ChrisSnee. Special teams shaky past twoyears, although Weatherford mightstabilize punting if he beats out Matt

Dodge. Loss of leading tacklerThomas (torn ACL) big blow to BigBlue.Expectations: Return to playoffs aftertwo-year absence. Giants haveenough talent to do it and save coachTom Coughlin’s job, but only ifcoordinator Perry Fewell’s defenseplays well, offensive line comestogether and team cuts down onturnovers.

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES (10-6)New faces: CB Nnamdi Asomugha,CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie,DE Jason Babin, QB Vince Young, DTCullen Jenkins, WR Steve Smith, RBRonnie Brown, WR Johnnie LeeHiggins, TE Donald Lee, OL RyanHarris, DT Anthony Hargrove, OL EvanMathis, DT Derek Landri, DE ChrisWilson, S Jarrad Page.Key losses: K David Akers, QB KevinKolb, LB Stewart Bradley, S QuintinMikell, P Sav Rocca.Strengths: Eagles have solid core ofskill players, including Michael Vick,DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin,LeSean McCoy and Brent Celek. Theyhave star-studded secondary thatfeatures three Pro Bowl cornerbacks:Asomugha, Rodgers-Cromartie andAsante Samuel. Defensive line hasimproved with addition of Babin andJenkins to go with Trent Cole andMike Patterson.Weaknesses: Linebacking corpsinexperienced, especially startingMLB Casey Matthews. Safeties alsoyoung and unproven. Eagles haverookies at kicker and punter.Patterson had convulsions duringcamp, but expected back for season.So is Maclin, who also was ill duringpreseason.Expectations: Super Bowl. Afterspending freely in free agency andloading up on big-name acquisitions,management made goals clear.Eagles have nine playoffappearances, six division titles andreached five NFC championshipgames in past 12 years. Still lookingfor first championship since 1960.

ST. LOUIS RAMS (7-9)New faces: Offensive coordinatorJosh McDaniels, WR Mike Sims-Walker, G Harvey Dahl, RB CadillacWilliams, RB Jerious Norwood, SQuintin Mikell, LB Ben Leber, LBBrady Poppinga, LB Zac Diles, DTJustin Bannan, CB Al Harris.Key losses: Offensive coordinator PatShurmur, S Oshiomogho Atogwe, LBLarry Grant, LB David Vobora, WRMark Clayton, TE Daniel Fells, FBMike Karney, DT Clifton Ryan.Strengths: Backfield. QB SamBradford was NFL Offensive Rookie ofYear and emerged as leaderorganizing informal offseasonworkouts. RB Steven Jackson comesoff sixth consecutive 1,000-yardseason and still on top of his game.Williams and Norwood provide qualitybackups for first time. MLB JamesLaurinaitis has led team in tacklesboth of his seasons and Leber andPoppinga beef up talent pool onoutside. PK Josh Brown, who hit 60-yard field goal in preseason, and PDonnie Jones are among best atpositions.Weaknesses: Despite upgrades atwide receiver, Rams still lack true No.1. Secondary might be bit thin. Tightend unproven, although second-roundpick Lance Kendricks has beenimpressive.Expectations: Six-win improvementlast year had Rams in contentionuntil final week in weak NFC West. Itwas huge leap coming off dismalthree-year stretch in which theytotaled six wins. They appear poisedto post franchise’s first winningseason since 2003, last of big yearsunder coach Mike Martz andGreatest Show on Turf.

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS (6-10)New faces: Coach Jim Harbaugh andstaff, PK David Akers, WR BraylonEdwards, C Jonathan Goodwin, QBColin Kaepernick, S Donte Whitner, SMadieu Williams.Key losses: NT Aubrayo Franklin, CBNate Clements, LB Takeo Spikes, CDavid Baas, K Joe Nedney.Strengths: Stopping run, and newcoordinator Vic Fangio is calling onAll-Pro linebacker Patrick Willis to bemore blitzing presence. Harbaughhas deep secondary, with plenty ofoptions at safety. Two-time Pro BowlRB Frank Gore is back after missing

final five games of 2010 withfractured hip.Weaknesses: Experienced OL hasyet to perform with consistencycoaches hoping for. Last year’s twofirst-round picks, Anthony Davis andMike Iupati, started every game andmust continue to grow in West Coastoffense.Expectations: Counting on QB AlexSmith to finally produce underdirection of former NFL QB Harbaugh.But 2005 No. 1 overall pick has beenbooed by local fans and even heard itat team’s recent FanFest atCandlestick Park. If Gore stayshealthy, he believes he can carry theload at age 28. How Isaac Sopoagaresponds to greater responsibility asNT will factor into defense’s success,too. Niners believed a year ago theywould win NFC West, then went 0-5.Fast start is paramount,

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS (7-9)New faces: QB Tarvaris Jackson, WRSidney Rice, OL Robert Gallery, OLJames Carpenter, OL John Moffitt, TEZach Miller, DL Alan Branch, DLJimmy Wilkerson.Key losses: QB Matt Hasselbeck, OLSean Locklear, OL Chris Spencer, LBLofa Tatupu, SS Lawyer Milloy, FSJordan Babineaux.Strengths: Receivers, defensive line,linebackers. Run defense should bebetter thanks to additions ofWilkerson and Branch. Enough talentaround Jackson in Williams, Rice andMiller, so if the QB can avoidmistakes that occurred when he waswith Vikings, offense could be strong.Weaknesses: Quarterback if Jacksonstruggles, offensive line inexperience,defensive leadership. Risk wasasking defensive captain Lofa Tatuputo take pay cut. He didn’t and LB wasreleased, although David Hawthorneis younger and healthier. Secondaryis major question with startingsafeties Earl Thomas and KamChancellor in their second seasons.Expectations: Coach Pete Carrolland GM John Schneider took majorgamble by cutting Hasselbeck afterdecade in Seattle and going withJackson, who is familiar withoffensive coordinator Darrell Bevellfrom their time in Minnesota. Fixinglast year’s woeful run game isresponsibility of new assistant headcoach Tom Cable. Having RBMarshawn Lynch for entire seasonshould help. Seahawks became firstdivision champs with losing recordlast season. Even with upgrades,there are enough questions and atougher schedule where seven winsmight be best in Carroll’s secondseason.

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS (10-6)New faces: DE Adrian Clayborn, DEDa’Quan Bowers, LB Mason Foster, PMichael Koenen.Key losses: LB Barrett Ruud, RBCadillac Williams, DE Stylez G. White.Strengths: Third-year QB JoshFreeman’s development in first yearas full-time starter was key to Bucsgoing from three wins in 2009 to 10last season. He completed 61.4percent for 3,451 yards, 25touchdowns and six interceptions.Bucs have done nice job surrounding23-year-old QB with skill players,including WRs Mike Williams andArrelious Benn, RB LeGarrette Blountand TE Kellen Winslow. Re-signingfree agents Davin Joseph and JeremyTrueblood preserved continuity onimproving offensive line.Weaknesses: Inconsistent pass rushproduced just 26 sacks, not good inNFC South, where you’re chasingteams led by Matt Ryan and DrewBrees. Used top two picks in pasttwo drafts to rebuild defensive linetackles Gerald McCoy and Brian Pricein 2010 and ends Adrian Claybornand Da’Quan Bowers and needs unitto grow up fast.Expectations: Coach Raheem Morrisraised eyebrows when he declared atbeginning of last season that NFL’sleast experienced team wasembarking on “race to 10” wins.Turns out he was right, although itwasn’t enough to earn first playoffberth since 2007. League’s youngestcoach is aiming higher in 2011.

Compiled by Associated Press

NFCCAPSULES

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Recovered from the shoulder injury thatended his 2010 season, Tony Romo will geta chance to keep the Cowboys’ momentumgoing under Jason Garrett.

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Already a solid Super Bowlcontender, the Eagles retooledtheir roster and have beendeclared the champion of freeagency, for what that’s worth. TheEagles added cornerback NnamdiAsomugha (left), and defensivelinemen Cullen Jenkins and JasonBabin to their defense, and widereceiver Steve Smith, running backRonnie Brown and quarterbackVince Young to their offense.

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R edskins 2011 - The Washington Timestwt-media.washtimes.com/media/misc/2011/09/07/redskins2011spe… · D 2 | R E D S K IN S 2 0 11! TH U R S D AY, S EPTEM B ER 8 , 2 0 11 BY R ICH