Washington Redskins fans were left with mixed reviews following the team’s preseason debut loss against the Baltimore Ravens.
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Some Washington Redskins fans wanted to see more of starting quarterback Kirk Cousins in the opening game of their NFL Preseason. Others wanted to see an overpowering defense. What fans got was a sneak peak at every able body that could play. They’ll probably see more of the same in Saturday’s game vs the Green Bay Packers.
Reports are already surfacing that wide receiver Josh Doctson might be ready. According to Mike Jones of the Washington Post, they’ll probably give him a few more tests before clearing him. Other reports suggest linebacker Zach Brown may be on first-team defense.
I think we’re going to see more first-team offense and defense after last week. Chatting with Twitter user @DCProSportsRep, there’s concern the offense didn’t perform well, but it’s still too early to evaluate everything.
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@DCProSportsRep feels somewhat the way I do about a lot of the fallout from last week’s loss to Baltimore: It’s the first preseason game. Were they rusty? Yes. However, I do think they got a lot of the jitters out of their system. Saturday’s game should consist of solid play.
The following Q and A recaps our conversation about the team’s overall performance Thursday night.
Q. Overall, how did you score the preseason game and why?
A. Redskins were boring, undisciplined and completely lacked intensity.
Q. Did you want to see more of Kirk Cousins?
A. No. It’s too early to see a lot if Cousins. Ask Trent Murphy. We know what Cousins can do. He will get a half of play in third preseason game. That’s enough.
Q. Which squad did better?
A. Defense played a bit better. Offense couldn’t catch, run or block. Defense has some sacks and good play from guys like Nico Marley, Zach Brown and Phil Taylor.
Q. After seeing Samaje Perine in action, is he overhyped when people say he can be the lead back?
A. Perine is a rookie. Those that expected him to leap over Robert Kelley his rookie season were a bit too optimistic. Perine will be a good back, but needs to learn and grow.
Q. Who needs to breakout in the preseason and why?
A. Preston Smith. He’s been far too inconsistent. Shawn Lauvao needs to prove he deserves to start over Arie Kouandjio. Kyle Fuller has to shake off some rough play last year and makes strides to hold down the slot corner.
Q. What players are you following closely?
A. The rookies to see who can contribute immediately this season.
Q. Do you think speculation after the first preseason is warranted?
A. Absolutely not.
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Q. What are you expecting to see next week when the Redskins play the Packers?
A. Higher intensity and fine tuning basic skill sets in tackling and blocking. The Redskins also have to eliminate penalties. Finally, they have to show they can run the ball.