What to expect of the offense in '09?

Vinny Cerrato doesn't mix words defending the Thomas selection:



I saw two Redskins games yesterday, including Cowboys-Skins on NFLN, and I've got to say, Thomas actually looks good as a blocker. Can't run routes, can't line up in the right spot, but he can absolutely block any DB who covers him.

I saw the Boys Skins, and was surprised to see 11 around the play as much as i did. Tripp are you so down on him, that you don't think he can grow and learn as he has more time in the NFL? Just wondering.

I saw the Boys Skins, and was surprised to see 11 around the play as much as i did. Tripp are you so down on him, that you don't think he can grow and learn as he has more time in the NFL? Just wondering.Anything can happen. He's just so far behind everyone else that something very, very unexpected would have to happen for him to be even league average as a starter.

And if that happens, I can safely say that I never saw it coming.

All I really am saying is that the probability that DT catches up and learns the intricacies of a game he never really appeared to understand are somewhere near the chances that the Redskins find an undrafted free agent gem who storms the NFL and bumps Randle El to third receiver rotation with Kelly, all while racking up 8 TDs this season. Could happen, but when I'm doing my projections for the season, it's not something I'm counting on.

But what I was trying to point out is that: since Thomas is a more than adequate blocker, there's a reason to get him out on the field next year when there wouldn't otherwise be a reason. So if he's on the field, at least he's going to get a fair shake at development.

It remains to be seen what kind of blocker Malcolm Kelly will be in the NFL, but Davis and Thomas have already made a big impact in that aspect.

It will improve if the line holds up. The re-addition of Doc is huge.

One of the rookie WRs will break out. Campbell will make the Pro Bowl. Yes, I said it.

You can't expect to have Zorn running this openned up, complicated offense with deep routes when the O-line gave JC about 1.1 seconds to look downfield. That is what had the O hamstrung. Not Jim Zorn's imagination. when the Line gets fixed/healthy, the offense will magically open up. When the recievers prove they are a threat, the offense will magically open up. It's not Zorn.

What is "Offense"? I have never heard of that term before. Does it predate the 2nd Joe Gibbs era?

Draft either Andre Smith or Michael Oher for the RT job, and our O-line should finally be able to protect Campbell in the passing game. Assuming that the young receivers drafted last year will contribute this year, and I like the prospects of our offense taking a big step forward.

You can't expect to have Zorn running this openned up, complicated offense with deep routes when the O-line gave JC about 1.1 seconds to look downfield. That is what had the O hamstrung. Not Jim Zorn's imagination. when the Line gets fixed/healthy, the offense will magically open up. When the recievers prove they are a threat, the offense will magically open up. It's not Zorn.

You are never going to see the pass protection you're dreaming of in today's NFL. You need a QB and receivers that can make plays in spite of pressure, because pressure is now a fact of life against nearly all the good teams.

Here's what I expect... another garbage year from the offense. JC is out next year and so is Zorn. Then say hello to a big name signing at HC. Someone like Shanahan or Cowher. Depending on the development of last year's draft picks I could see Vinny getting the boot and Danny handing over total control to whichever big name coach he brings in.

Our offense will continue to struggle under Jason Campbell. He will have another 3-6 games of seeming like he's the real deal at some point. And the rest will fall apart when Clinton gets sidelined with an injury for a few games. Coincidentally Ladell will be banged up a little from a hamstring or something at roughly the same time.

Our offensive line will suffer one significant injury that will push one of our draft picks into the lineup a bit early. Which will pay dividends next year and subsequent years.

WideOut: Santana catches 50 balls for 5 tds with an abnormally high drop count. Thomas takes a step forward this year and begins to show some of his natural talent. Malcolm Kelly might dress for 8 games, and will be off the team next year.

Tight End: Chris will lead the team in catches, and his TD count will be significantly higher than last year. (that shouldn't be tough)

Another 8-8 year, all laid at the feet of Zorn and JC. Goodbye boys, bring on Shanahan.