So why write a "keys to the game" for something which won't mean anything with regards to the playoffs by the time 4 p.m. rolls around? This, of course, assumes Tampa Bay will beat San Diego and since Norv Turner coaches San Diego, it's a forgone conclusion. The only answer I have is that there should be some pride in the fact that it's a classic NFC East Division showdown. That and it will help keep my mind off my first championship game in the fantasy football league I run along with The Sports Freak.
Play with Passion
I don't know what it is, but it just seems like this team thinks more highly of itself than they should and it translates to a complacency on the field. It's why this team has lost to two of the worst in the league this year in the Rams and the Bungles. Their comebacks earlier this season against the Saints and the Eagles may have laid the foundation for this belief and it's come back to bite them. The 'Skins need to start with passion from the first drive and not let the other team build up a sizable lead. They aren't as good as they think.
Don't Expect Home Field Advantage
This team will have to play with the mindset that this will be a road game for them. I'm expecting a lot of green in the stands tomorrow. I was asked no fewer then 3 times this week, "Why are you still going to that game?" I suspect many "fans" will not be as loyal as me and brave the bad weather in light of the disappointing season to watch their home team. But that's alright to me because those are probably the same fans who shout 'O' during the national anthem... but that's another article.
Do Something New
The league has figured out Zorn's tendencies. Heck, I watch the games and can tell about 90% of the time what play they're going to run. If Zorn really thinks the players are executing about as well as they can, then you have to coach around that and call plays that will allow them to be successful. Surprise the other side and pull out some new tricks. It seems rare that Zorn actually calls plays to setup other plays later in the game. Gibbs did that all the time. Zorn should start learning that concept.
Don't be Stupid
If you're on the 1 yard line, give the ball to your star running back at least once.
Portis Needs a Huge Game
I'm thinking he needs to run for 127 yards and 3 TDs and that will ensure a victory for the Redskins and for my fantasy football team as well.
So, while the Redskins won't make the playoffs this season, it'd be awfully nice to have the last home game of the season be a win over those Eagles. That's all I want for Christmas and I'm sure Santa would agree.
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127 yards? I believe he really needs 128. On my flight back from Vegas, there was a couple on board who are going to the game and rooting for the Eagles. Her father, a Redskins fan, has season tickets and is taking them on his tickets.
But let's hope the Skins can just spoil the Eagles chances at the playoffs as well.
This game will really be about the Eagles and Reid. It will also be interesting to see how much fight the team (Skins) has for themselves and Zorn.
In the pre-game last week, Portis made a fine speech but the team still looked a little flat.
If Reid exploits the Westbrook matchup and is able to roll McNabb out successfully, it could become an ugly game very quickly.
This game could change the perception of Campbell if he's forced to win the game for the Skins with his arm which is something that he hasn't been asked to do.