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Originally Posted by djnemo65
I think what is really changing is the sequence of playcalling, if not the actual plays themselves. Before we were way to predictable, running on first and second and giving ourselves only one chance to pass for a first on third down. Now we are mixing it up, and even peppering a little trickeration in there for good measure. I think Gibbs is learning that its impossible to dominate this NFL on the ground the way it was in the 80's - that you need to do things like pass on first down. They are giving our offense opportunities to make big plays without deviating from their conservative principles, and I think its working.
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We still ran the ball on first down, and that is going to be our strength if we are to make the playoffs or at least win out this season. When we're running the ball effectively on first and second down, that opens the passing up that much more, so then mixing it up later and throwing a couple passes on first and second down is easier to do than to just do it for the sake of not being able to run the ball effectively on those downs. I believe it comes down to execution. When players execute the plays well, the coach finds it easier to mix up his playcalling - that is what happened against the Cowboys. If our players come out and once again execute well, it is very tough to defend against Joe Gibbs' playcalling. The Dallas game was a prime example. Of course, it also helps when the defense is being as dominate as what they were. It's going to be tougher against the Giants this week though. They have a great running game, and we have to slow it down. If we can get on top early like we did against Dallas, then it is going to force the Giants to throw more, and I think that puts us at an advantage even though our secondary is still beat up.