Playoff hopes ride with RG3

Washington will have a tough time making the postseason if RG3 misses time

Originally Published: December 9, 2012
By Matt Williamson | ESPN.com

The Washington Redskins defeated the Baltimore Ravens 31-28 in overtime Sunday, but the big story is of course Robert Griffin III's knee injury. While the injury appears to be only a sprain, Griffin's quarterbacking style and the Redskins' offensive scheme make him more susceptible to injuries. After four wins in a row, what are Washington's playoff chances with and without RG3, and what scheme changes will Mike Shanahan have to make if Kirk Cousins is his quarterback for the short term?

Everything with Washington's offense is centered around its excellent zone-blocking run game, led by rookie Alfred Morris, who is simply an outstanding find and fit in this scheme. The Redskins have added a wrinkle, though, often running from the pistol formation with the quarterback not quite as deep as in the shotgun formation and with the running back directly behind him.


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Matt Williamson

ESPN.com
  • Hosts "Football Today" podcast
  • Joined ESPN in 2005
  • Was an NFL and college scout for the Cleveland Browns

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