Week 2 Game Plan: St. Louis Rams

Obviously a loss would be catastrophic, and on any given Sunday, etc., but seriously, the Redskins will win this football game. If the running game collapses (Samuels sits out, Portis tweaks a hammy, and Rams D-Line comes strong), and the passing game deflates (Moss flips out again, Otogwe snags two INTs and forces a fumble, and Randle El throws a pick), and special teams gives up a runback and fumbles a punt return, the defense could still win this game for the Skins.

I think that the chance of the first three fails all happening is very low, so I'll be watching this game primarily to learn more about the Redskins' persona in 2009. When a substantially weaker foe enables Zorn to dictate the style and pace of the game, what does he call? Air Coryell plus slant routes and 40 passing plays? 48 carries right into the Rams' teeth? Go for it on 4th and 1 from the Rams' 45 in the second quarter or punt? Watching the Skins play a game where they should have options will be enlightening, and I really hope I don't come away thinking that Zorn is coaching not-to-lose rather than to win. I have to say that in my memory of the 2008 victories, I don't recall having the sense that the Redskins were firmly in control of any of those games - often ahead but not really forcing the other side to play their game.

It's important that whatever the game plan, the Skins develop an offensive rhythm. I'd like to see 3 or 4 consecutive pass plays in the first half, and a smashmouth run series. Let's see what happens when the Skins stretch their legs...

My aspirational image for Week 2