Earlier this week I started what was supposed to be a series of posts documenting the issues of the Redskins front office. I realize now that I was starting to become part of the problem, not the solution. Oh, believe me, I’ve got major issues with Dan and Vinny…and the next post I had planned was to focus on bad draft picks, free agent moves, etc. I mean I’m still pissed we are going to go into this game against KC with an offensive line that features a bunch of non-drafted guys and a guy who was out of football for three years. Everyone knew the O-line was an issue, it lacked depth and was getting old…but the front office ignored this. But, I’m not a journalist and it’s not my job to break down information that most of you Skins fans already know. What I am is a huge Redskin fan who happens to blog about them. It’s time to be a fan.
As fans, we can’t change the state of the Redskins. Wearing black to the game and not buying hotdogs is not going to change the product on the field. You paid your hard earned money for those tickets and I agree that your voice should be heard. But, when you attend a game at FedEx, you are going to that game because you want to see your team win! You want to sing “httr,” after they score. The players play hard, they may not have been put in the best position to win…but they want to win. CHEER them, don’t boo them. A win against KC followed by a win against the Eagles and the Skins are back in this thing. Is that what you want as fan? Or do you want to continue to bitch, moan and overall be miserable?
The Redskins season and the Redskins franchise are not dead…so don’t wear black to the game Sunday. I suggest something more attractive, like burgundy and gold. Treat yourself to $10 beer and cheer for the Skins. Be a part of the solution, not a part of the problem.
Dan and Vinny were like a “monkey f’ing a football” during the entire process of hiring a head coach after Gibbs left. What should have been a swift and efficient process turned into a month long soap opera that ended in a…WTF? Here’s a look back at the decisions that brought Jim Zorn to the Redskins.
Ignoring Gibbs
After Gibbs decided to retire after the season, it was said that he (as well as many players) endorsed Gregg Williams for the head coaching position in a meeting with Dan. Of course Dan let that endorsement from the most influential figure in Redskins history go in 1 ear and out the other. But why would Dan listen to the old man? Well, one good reason would be that Dan was still paying Gibbs his 6 million a year as a “consultant.” Another great reason was the fact that Gibbs just led the Skins to the playoffs 2 out of the last 3 seasons…and knew the team better than anyone. Or maybe because Gibbs won 3 Super Bowls and has forgotten more about football than Dan will ever know. Of course Dan strung Williams along for 10 days or so before not only not hiring him, but giving him his walking papers as the D coordinator as well (although Williams would have never stayed, Dan still has to maintain the power.) Dan was wrong not to hire Gregg Williams as the head coach. Not because he was the right man for the job (I’m not sure that he was and not sure he would have been successful either,) but by not listening to a great football mind like Gibbs…something Dan refuses to do. FAIL #1
Promoting Vinny
The next step to finding a head coach was to take a moment and…promote Vinny to Executive VP/Football Operations. The Redskin’s official press release announced that Vinny “will assume responsibility for all aspects of the team's football organization - including personnel, the team roster, scouting and salary cap management.” This is a great way to lure the “cream of the crop” of head coaches…let them know they’ve got to report to Vinny and defer to him on all personnel decisions. Now that’s got to sound attractive to a Cowher-type doesn’t it. FAIL#2
Meet your staff Coach
Next came the revealing of the “mystery candidate,” Jim Fassell. This would end up being the 2nd time that Dan left Fassell at the altar. Dan and Vinny strung him along while they were supposedly trying to assemble his coaching staff, which would feature Rex Ryan as D coordinator and Jim Zorn as the O coordinator. Ryan never had an interest in joining the Redskins in this capacity, but Zorn was hired as the O coordinator, based upon the fact that Dan and Vinny were “blown away” by his interview. Dan and Vinny then inked up Greg Blache as the D coordinator and now basically have an entire staff for their still unknown head coach. Just a quick recap, the incoming head coach now basically has his entire coaching staff already decided, and must defer all football decisions to Vinny. FAIL#3
Suit it up, Jim
Zorn was not a “hot commodity” for O coordinator positions around the NFL; he had never advanced past QB coach at any level in the NFL. He wasn’t the “young, sexy pick” to be a head coach in the NFL…that would have been Josh McDaniels, whom I believe the Skins never interviewed. Zorn was 54 years old and basically was only know for his “quirky” training methods. He had never called plays; he had never devised a game plan. He was never in charge of more than 3 players. But Dan and Vinny were blown away. And as the candidates began to dwindle…the job was now the equivalent of going out on a first date with a girl who’s 6 months pregnant…Dan and Vinny invited Zorn to interview for the head job. “Suit it up, Jim.” FAIL#4
The rest is now history. Zorn was named HC, OC and QB coach. Severely over his head…and he hasn’t been able to get his head back above water. I’m afraid that he’s close to no longer being able to tread water…and that’s where the Skins are at this point.
The sites been quiet the past several days, quite honestly I’ve been pretty numb about the Redskins. For the first time in forever, I don’t have a positive spin to put on the situation. I’ve been an eternal optimist in regards to the Skins, but I no longer see a light at the end of the tunnel. After some hard thinking and long analysis (otherwise known as drinking heavily) I have come to one conclusion…it’s the front office’s fault. I hate to write negatively about the Redskins, but sometimes you have to sit down and have a talk to those that you love, give them a little "tough love."
A couple weeks ago on ESPN Countdown, Tom Jackson said it best (I’m quoting from memory, may not be word for word) “Dan Snyder wants to win, he just doesn’t know how to win.” “He’s like a guy who’s got a leaky roof…but he ignores it and keeps on fixing up his basement.”
Of course everybody has an opinion on whose fault it is (i.e. Riggo YouTube,) it’s Zorn, It’s Campbell, it’s Snyder or it’s Cerrato. It’s clear to me that it’s the front office. The decisions being made out of Ashburn are clearly made by the tandem of Dan & Vinny…and quite frankly, it’s not working. These 2 peas in a pod can continue family movie night and their racquetball dates, but Vinny has to go for this organization to succeed. And when Vinny does go, Snyder must give full control to a great football mind and let them re-build this once proud franchise. A franchise that now gets booed at home at home regularly, and whose 2 wins have come against teams that lost last week by nearly 50 points.
This is the environment that Dan and Vinny have built. A team that struggles against the worst teams in the NFL, which means the Redskins, must be one of the worst teams? A team that cant’s score 20 points a game and hasn’t beaten a team by double digits since Gibbs left town nearly 2 years ago. As fans, we know the players on the field are playing hard and to the best of their abilities…unfortunately the front office is not putting those players in a position to succeed.
My next post will focus on the decisions that Dan & Vinny have made that have gotten the Redskins to where they are today.
Happy birthday Nolan Reimold. Nolan just finished his rookie season for the Orioles. It was an impressive campaign that saw him win AL Rookie of the Month honors in June and garner some media attention for AL ROY. Alas, his season was cut short by an achilles injury. Overall Nolan batted .279 with 15 HR’s and 45 RBI’s. He also showed some surprising speed on his way to stealing 8 out of 10 bases. Nolan also spurred Fatpickle to create these T-shirts that are soon to be classic collector’s items. I look forward to watching Nolan excel for the Orioles in the years to come. Happy 26th Mr. Reimold.
Happy birthday Gregg Olson. Gregg played 6 seasons for the Orioles from 88-93’. He won the 89’ ROY award (beating out Ken Griffey Jr.,) when he went 5-2 with a 1.69 ERA and saved 27 games for the “Why Not” Orioles. Blessed with a devastating, knee-buckling curveball, Gregg saved 160 games and had a 2.26 ERA during his Oriole tenure. His 160 saves are #1 all-time in Orioles history. Gregg was inducted into the Orioles HOF in 2008. Happy 43rd Mr. Olson.
Happy birthday Skip Hicks. Skip played 3 seasons for the Redskins from 98-00’. His best season was 98’ when he started 5 games and rushed for 433 yards and 8 TD’s. Skip was drafted in the 3rd round out of UCLA where he still holds the record for TD’s in a season (26) and a career (56.) Happy 35th Mr. Hicks.
Happy birthday Sam Huff. Sam played 5 seasons for the Redskins from 1964-69’. He is one of the greatest linebackers in the history of the NFL and a member of the HOF. Sam is a true southern gentleman from a small coal-mining town in West Virginia, but on the football field he’d knock the snot out of you. Here are a few details about Sam’s career:
Tom Landry (the Giant’s D-coordinator in 1956) changed the Giants defense to a new innovative scheme called the 4-3, in order to play to Sam’s strengths. This defense is still used by most teams today.
In 1959 Sam became the first NFL player to appear on the cover of Time magazine.
The late Walter Cronkite aired a CBS news special entitled “The Violent World of Sam Huff.” Sam was wired for sound in games long before NFL films came along.
Vince Lombardi talked Sam out of retirement in order to return to the Skins in 69’ as a player-coach.
What I’m trying to say is if the biggest magazine in the U.S., the greatest newscaster ever and the greatest coach in the history of football all want a piece of you…you were one bas ass football player.
Sam is well known too today’s Redskins fans for his broadcasting role on Redskin’s radio…a post he has held since 1973. He’s entertained Skins fans for over 45 years and will be remembered forever…and he’s still entertaining us today! Happy 75th Mr. Huff.div>
Happy birthday Brian Kozlowski. Brian appeared in 32 games for the Redskins over 4 seasons from 2004-2007. Mostly a blocking H-back and TE in Gibbs offense he also served as a mentor to a young rookie named Chris Cooley. Brian is partly responsible for the “Captain Chaos” nickname given to Chris…he bet him $100 he wouldn’t introduce himself to the Rams as “Captain Chaos’ before a game in 2005, this was after a bacon eating contest. Despite being undrafted, Brian went on to play 14 seasons in the NFL. Happy 39th Mr. Kozlowski.
Happy birthday Mark Mclemore. Mark played 3 seasons for the Orioles from 1992-94. He revived what was a stalling career in Baltimore by becoming an everyday player who could play multiple positions. During his tenure for the Orioles Mark played 6 different positions. His best season came in 93’ when he drove in 72 and had 21 stolen bases. Overall Mark played 19 seasons in the bigs, he retired after the 2004 season…as the oldest player in the majors that season. Happy 45th Mr. Mclemore.
Happy birthday Mark Rypien. Mark played 8 seasons with the Redskins from 1986-1993. After sitting out the 86-87 seasons on the injured list, Mark finally got his chance to play in 88’ and played well…throwing 18 TD’s in 9 games (only 6 starts.) Mark had a Pro Bowl season in 89’ when he threw for 3,768 yards and 22 TD’s as well, but things really came together for Mark and the Redskins during the 91’ season. The 91’ Skins were one of the greatest teams in the history of the NFL and Mark was the MVP of the team. He passed for 28 TD’s and 3,564 yards on the way to his Super Bowl MVP performance. Mark’s 91’ stats would have been even more impressive had the Redskins not won 12 games by more than 13 points. Mark ranks among the top 5 all time in most of the Redskins passing records. Mark also had an impressive 45-27 record as a starter in DC.
Mark went thru something I could never imagine as a parent of a young child, he lost his son Andrew to cancer at the age of three. Since retiring from the NFL in 2001 (when Mark spent the season backing up Peyton Manning) Mark has devoted his life to the Rypien foundation. His foundation is devoted to help families who have children fighting cancer. I recall watching a game later in Mark’s career when he played for the Rams. He happened to be playing the Redskins that day, and he played the game with a shaved head…as a sign of support for his son Andrew. Mark played well, throwing for 347 yards in a losing cause. I remember feeling inspired by him that day…even more so than that wonderful 91’ season.
My 4-year-old son was sick with a flu like virus last week and it broke my heart as he vomited and felt terrible for 48 hours. He’d ask if the ginger ale would make his tummy all better…like immediately better, and I felt helpless to try and help him. He’s all better now, but many children are not. My son has a little friend in his class named Stevie who has attended pre-school with my son for the past 2 years. Stevie went to the hospital a couple weeks ago with pain in his shoulder. The doctors originally thought he had an infection, but the test came back that Stevie has cancer. Stevie is now in the hospital receiving chemo and fighting this horrible disease. We need to find a cure for this disease, please donate your time or hard earned money to get us closer.
As a fan of the Redskins, Mark will always have a place in my heart. I appreciate his effort on the field and will never forget playing catch with him one beautiful day long ago at old Redskin’s Park. Happy 47th Mr. Rypien.
Happy birthday Alvin Garrett. Alvin played 4 season from 1981-84’. Alvin’s stats from that time are not too impressive; he only caught 27 balls for 343 yards and 1 TD in 31 games. But, Alvin had an amazing run in the 82’ playoffs filling in for an injured Art Monk. In 4 playoff games that year Alvin had 15 catches for 242 yards and 5 TD’s plus 3 carries for another 46 yards. Alvin was also well known for Howard Cosell’s famous call on Monday night football. Happy 53rd Mr. Garrett.
Happy birthday Charley Taylor. Charley played 13 seasons for the Redskins from 1964-77 and is one of the greatest Redskins to ever wear the uniform. At the time he ended his hall of fame career, he was the NFL’s all time leading receiver. He was an 8 time pro bowler who scored 90 career TD’s, which still ranks 28th all time. He is a member of the Redskins Ring of Honor, the 70 Greatest Redskins roster and the NFL 1960’s All Decade Team. He coached the WR’s for the Redskins from 1981-94’, when Norv Turner let him go. I met Charley several times and my dad sold him a truck, but this is the best Charley story I have. My cousin was at the Reno (a bar on the water where you can play Keno and off track betting) in Colonial Beach, VA. Charley pulled up on his boat and came to the bar to drink; he was wearing a Redskins hat. My cousin talked with some and mentioned to Charley how he wished he was still coaching and was angry Norv let him go. To this Charley responded…I wear this hat for me, not for those assholes. He then got one for the road…I heart Charley Taylor. Charley lives in Reston with his wife of 44 years. Happy 68th Mr. Taylor.
Happy birthday Terry Orr. Terry played the HB/TE role for 7 seasons for the Redskins from 1986-1993. He always seemed to come up with a big TD in those old NFC East battles. In fact 10 of his 52 career receptions went for touchdowns. Terry appeared in 105 games and won 2 Super Bowl titles during his tenure. Unfortunately in retirement Terry ran into trouble with the law and did some time in jail a few years back. He was convicted of defrauding a group of investors out of $200,000. The group of investors included 3 former teammates…Art Monk was one of them. So I also have an awesome Terry Orr story. I’m at a bar watching the 99 Redskins/Bucs playoff game when Terry Orr arrives with 3 other large black men. Terry sat at a booth and I immediately recognized him, so after a few beers I sauntered over. The conversation went like this. (Obviously, it’s been 10 years, so the quotes are not word for word nut close)
Fatpickle “hey Terry, how you been.”
Terry “good, thanks.”
Fatpickle “I was a big fan, you made some big plays, didn’t you go to Texas A&M”
At this point one of the other guys at the table decides to give me a little shit, see Terry went to Texas.
Random 3rd guy “Texas A&M, shoot you don’t know about my boy, he went to Texas, you don’t know my boy, like I do.”
Fatpickle “I know quite a bit, I was close with the Texas A&M.”
Random 3rd guy “you don’t know my boy, you don’t know where he lives or how many kids he has.”
At this point I say something that could turn this thing from friendly banter to a table of 4 large angry black men getting ready to inflict pain on the little 25 yr old white kid. But, I had a few beers in me…so I let the following rip.
Fatpickle “I bet Terry doesn’t know how many kids he has.”
An awkward second or two of silence (spent by me plotting my exit strategy) turned into raucous laughter and the random 3rd guy telling me that I got him there. We laughed a little more and enjoyed a little further banter until the game ended on the bad snap FG attempt to end the game. Good times. Happy 48th Mr. Orr.
Yeah, yeah, yeah, the Redskins lost to the Giants…I know it sucks, I feel your pain. But, it was the 1st game of the season, it was the Giants and it was in New York. Sure it would be nice to get a win there, but 1 game does not make a season. As a fan that can remember games back to the 81’ season, I’ve suffered thru 213 losses…that’s a lifetime of heartbreak. However, the key is learning how to deal with the loss and recognizing certain symptoms that come from the losing. You may be suffering from some of the conditions that I’m going to discuss in this post…the first step is admitting you have the problem. Ladies and gentleman, the stages of a Redskin’s loss.
DAY 1 (Game day)
Disbelief – During this stage you take a few moments to review your thoughts. You say things like “we didn’t just lose, did we?” “WTF happened on that WR option play with Randle El?” “Are we really the only team in the division without a win?”
Anger – Oh yeah, your pissed now. You text, email or call everyone in your cell phone that will listen to you, even the ones who won’t listen to you! You say things you really don’t mean, things like “Portis is over the hill, put in Mason” or “F Campbell, sign Garcia or Jeff George” and “We’ll never win under Zorn, I want Shanahan.” Your wife/girlfriend asks you “what do you care it’s only a football game” you reply something really stupid like “I’ve loved them longer than I’ve loved you.” This will haunt you a lot longer than the loss to the Giants!
Numbness – After you’ve gone thru your Rolodex and contacted everyone you can, you sit in your Lazy-boy and drink and eat everything in the house. You barely speak, in fact you're only forms of communications at this point are mumbling and grunting (maybe an occasional fart, your wife/girlfriend is really happy with you at this point.) The day ends with you passing out in your lucky jersey (which is no longer lucky) and your wife’s diary looks like this.
Day 2 (The day after)
Game Hangover – You wake up, groggy and trying to collect your bearings…and hoping the day before never happened. You get on the Internet and confirm that yes, the Skins lost! At this point it’s time to take your thoughts to the mainstream media, I mean all your friends have already heard your BS…let’s post it on the internet message boards and call sports talk radio shows! At the Cooley Zone you say something like “Chris, here’s my email address, tell Zorn to call me…his play calling sucks!” or you call Lavar and Dukes to say “the Skins will go 6-10, it’s time to start planning for 2010.”
Day 3
Rest – On day 3, you rest. You re-watch the game…but you’re not angry. You cuddle with your wife, you watch some Housewives show on A&E.
Day 4
Coming out of the fog - The Dallas fan at work greets you in the morning with a jab about the Skins, without thinking you tell him to go F himself. You start rambling on about how we were a couple plays away from beating the Giants in New York and how we’re gonna sweep the Cowgirls. You sit at your desk and you feel…peace.
Drinking the Kool-Aid – You look at the remaining schedule and all of the sudden…the Skins are going to go 15-1. You start texting, calling and emailing your friends and say things like “I think Portis is going to to rush for 150 this week” and “JC’s going to have a Pro Bowl year, just wait and see!” It’s time to go mainstream again so you head back to the Cooley’s message board “Zorn’s going to be the Coach of the Year” you call L&D “the Skins will win the Super Bowl this year with a last second option pass…Randle El to Cooley.”
Day 5
On day 5 you go back to your normal self, and I guess what I’m trying to say to everyone is…just pretend like it’s day 5. Don’t get too high when we rip off 4-5 wins in a row and don’t bash the team after this loss. The Skins played hard and it was a tough situation that they went into. I’m a diehard and I’m sure you are too, let’s support the team and move forward. I mean…I looked at the schedule, I don’t think we’re going to have to deal with another loss this season.
Things got a little ugly in the Redskins game Sunday…and I’m not referring to the play on the field. The Redskins were booed off the field at halftime, and to my amazement booed off the field at the end of the game. The internet message boards, blogs and Twitter pages are on fire with everyone’s two cents on the issue…it’s like that old saying “opinions are like assholes, everybody’s got one…and they all stink.” So here’s my stinky ass opinion.
First off, do you have the right as a fan to boo the Redskins at FedEx? Your damn straight you do. It’s your right as an American. And I don’t care if you’re in the 500 level and you work at McDonalds, or you have club seats and you make 6 figures. You paid for your ticket, if you want to boo the team go right ahead and do it.
Do I think it’s right to boo the Redskins at FedEx…hell no! I think you’re a complete ass to do so. If you’re a fan then you should be there to support your team, not to drag them down. I think it’s a disgrace that our fans did that to the Skins…they won the freakin game (I know it was an ugly and painful win.) Does anyone remember that the Ravens won a Super Bowl not too long ago winning ugly every week? A win is a win. The Redskins already have an opponent on the field, they don’t need another in the stands.
It’s my personal opinion that the Redskin’s fan support has been in a steady decline for years now. Who’s to blame? I’m not sure, but I don’t want to hear it’s the owner or ticket brokers, that’s a crock of shit. We have empty seats at FedEx and fans are routinely late to their seats at the start of the games and after halftime. We let fans from New York, Philly and Pittsburgh take over our house! We are now (allegedly) throwing and spitting on our players…are you f’ing kidding me? If you are that disgruntled and have season tickets sell them to a true fan.
I know frustration plays a part in this and I’m as frustrated as anybody. The play calling is suspect and we haven’t beaten anyone handily since I can remember. But, the players are playing hard and I see good things happening on the field…like the Skins winning! I would ask you this question, would you want someone coming into your office tomorrow and constantly telling you how much you suck at your job? Do you want Haynesworth hovering over your desk and giving you a ration of shit because you were late delivering a report? No…we have bosses to do that, and so do the players, they have coaches. And the coaches have someone that tells them they aren’t doing their job; it’s the GM and the owner.
So if your sitting in FedEx field in 2 weeks when the Redskins are playing the Bucs and you feel compelled to boo, just look down at the shirt your wearing. It’s probably burgundy and gold and has a number 47, 28, 81, 21 or 92 on it. You bought it because you’re a fan! I close each and every blog I write with the words “Cheers and Hail.” Redskins fans…spread the word.
A couple weeks ago I ran a picture that a disturbed Cowboy's fan emailed me. Luckily, some awesome Redskin's fans (thanks to all) stepped up to the plate and sent me some Skin's pix to cleanse my soul. Here's a few of the ones that I received. I'm always looking for cool Skins pictures so please email me (link on the right) or send them to me via Twitter ( @fatpickled, follow me while you're there.) Thanks to those who sent me the pix...I'm so looking forward to spanking the Giants this weekend!
Happy birthday Joe Theismann. Joe played all 12 of his NFL seasons with the Redskins from 1974-1985. The best way I can describe the way Joe played QB is that he was a cross between Doug Flutie and Brett Favre. He could hurt you with arm and his legs (but not his foot, i.e. 1 yrd punt.) He was a fiery leader who played all-out and with as much heart as anyone who ever played the game. He was TOUGH, he was old school...the last of the single bar facemask QB's! We’re all well aware of the horrific injury that cut short his career and forced him to walk away early from the game that he loved (please watch the Sports Machine YouTube at the bottom of the post about his drive to get back on the field after the injury.)
After a record breaking All-American career at Notre Dame (he was elected to the College HOF in 2003) Joe opted to play in the CFL rather than play for the Miami Dolphins or Minnesota Twins (he was drafted in baseball as well!) He joined the Redskins in 74’ because his thinking was the Skins had ageing QB’s (both Kilmer and Jurgensen were 10+ years older) and he'd have the opportunity to become a full time starter soon. That opportunity did not come until 1978, in the meantime Joe volunteered to return punts…how’s that for a team player?
Once Joe became the starter he held onto it for the rest of his career…8 years and 113 consecutive games. He became a 2 time Pro Bowler, NFC Offensive POY and the 1983 NFL MVP. Despite being retired for nearly 25 years, Joe still holds many all-time passing records for the Redskins including yards, completions and wins. We all know where Joe has been in retirement, talking a lot on your local and national football broadcasts…how can he not be on Twitter? He’s my favorite QB (I wish I could fill RFK for a serenade of Happy Bday for him ...make up for the Dallas game) and it’s a landmark birthday, Happy 60th Mr. Theismann!
Happy birthday Ron Mcdole. Ron played 8 seasons for the Redskins from 1971-78. “The Dancing Bear” holds the NFL record for interceptions by a defensive lineman with 12! George Allen traded 2 draft picks to the Bills to bring Ron to DC and become both a defensive anchor and member of the “Over the Hill Gang.” Ron was selected to be one of the 70 Greatest Redskins. For his career he appeared in 240 games over 18 seasons! Ron is retired and lives in Front Royal, this is a great article about him. Happy 70th Mr. Mcdole!
2 things about the Theismann video. 1. It's a little slow to download but completely worth it. 2. Is it me, or does the young Joe T. remind you of a young Joe Pesci, circa Easy Money? His NJ accent was more prevelant back in the day.
I am a very superstitious person…it goes back to my baseball and gambling days. One thing that I am very superstitious about is making predictions, and especially writing those predictions down into a blog post. Well…I’m fixin to break my own rules and give you my fearless predictions for the Redskins 2009 season. Some of these are a bit outlandish, but like I said…I’m a gambler.
1) The Redskins will go 10-6 and make the playoffs. This will require a NFC East road win and a west coast road win to do so.
2) Brian Orakpo will be the NFL Defensive ROY.
3) Andre Woodson will be released from the practice squad by the end of week 4.
4) Jeff Garcia will be signed to the active roster.
5) After a couple of big TD’s early in the season, Malcolm Kelly will get injured and miss the last 8-10 games.
6) Devin Thomas will have little impact in the passing game (maybe some on special teams.)
7) Marko Mitchell will catch 30+ balls.
8) London Fletcher will make his first Pro Bowl.
9) Carlos Rogers will match or exceed his career total of 5 INT’s this season. He will leave after the season via free agency.
10) Fred Davis will have 1 game this season where he goes off…he’ll then disappear and probably catch fewer passes than Yoder.
11) Marcus Mason will see more and more playing time as the year goes on… and he’ll finish with over 250 yards rushing.
12) Clinton Portis will rush for 1000-1200 yards in his last season for the Redskins.
13) Also the last season with the Redskins for Smoot, Wynn, Griffin, Collins, Betts, Albright, Thomas and Randle El.
14) Zorn will survive this season and be back for 2010.
15) I will drink many beers, jump up and down, yell and scream, throw things and possibly shed tears this season (happy ones.)
Happy birthday Billy Kilmer. Billy played 8 seasons for the Redskins from 1971-78’ and he’s one of the 70 Greatest Redskins. He was a fixture of the “Over-The-Hill-Gang” in the 70’s and is well known for his QB controversies with Sonny Jurgensen. You either had an “I Love Billy” or “I Love Sonny” bumper sticker on your car (can you imagine how insane the media coverage would have been today?) He didn’t have a big arm and many of his passes were referred to as “wounded ducks,” but all Billy did was win. Billy played in 82 games with the Redskins and had an amazing 50W-23L-1T record as the starting QB. Billy still ranks among the Skins top five all time in nearly every passing category. He may have been slightly overweight and not fleet of foot in his Redskin’s days, but Billy actually spent his first few years in the league as a running back. He was involved in a bad car accident early in his career that threatened his playing career and was so bad that amputation was a possibility. After the accident he switched to QB. He was also an All-American basketball player in high school. Billy retired after the 1978 season, his 16th, and 170 games. Billy retired to Coral Gables, Florida and a lifetime of sun and golf. He remains one of the all-time favorite Redskins. Happy 70th Mr. Kilmer.
Happy birthday Tom Carter. Tom appeared in 62 games for the Redskins over 4 years from 1993-1996. He was a 1st round draft pick out of Notre Dame and be became a starter in his rookie season. He picked off 6 passes in his rookie year, despite only playing 14 games (11 starts.) Overall, Tom intercepted 18 passes and had 230 tackles in his very solid Redskins career. Tom left the Skins for Chicago before the 97’ season and finished his career in Cincinnati after his 10th season. Happy 37th Mr. Carter.
Clarence Vaughn played 5 seasons with the Washington Redskins appearing in 48 games from 1987-1991. He is a 2-time Super Bowl Champion. Clarence played strong safety and was a “core player” as Joe Gibbs likes to say. During his rookie season of 87' he came up with a couple of HUGE plays in the playoffs and Super Bowl. Clarence is currently working towards his goal of becoming a NFL or college head coach by participating in the 2009NFLPA/NCAA coaching internship program at Bluffton University. Clarence also started the Redskins Alumni website, a site where fans and players can connect...a must visit for any Redskin's fan. Clarence took some time out from his coaching internship to discuss his playing career with the Redskins...I thank him for his time and hope to see him on a NFL sideline soon.
FP: Your rookie season in 87’ was quite eventful. You endured a player’s strike, and then won a Super Bowl championship. What were those experiences like for you as a rookie?
CV: They were confusing. But the Redskins unity and them looking out for me, helped me make it through and stand strong…no one crossed the picket line.
FP: You were one of the “core Redskins” that Gibbs liked to have on his team. How would you describe the way you played and what you brought to the table?
CV: Great athletic ability, belief and faith in the coaches, and in the players, my teammates, and the desire to be the best that I can be.
FP: What are your fondest memories of your playing time with the Skins?
CV: Pulling up to the stadium in San Diego for the Super Bowl, being a rookie that year and picking off Elway in that game was an ultimate high for me that I still cherish today.
FP: Which coach, player, or person had the biggest impact on your NFL career?
CV: There were a lot of players, like Vernon Dean showing me how to back pedal and learn DB techniques from the transition from linebacker. Darrell Green, Art Monk and Monte Coleman were all good examples of establishing work ethics. Todd Bowles and Alvin Walton...my whole secondary group...this is hard to narrow down, as together they made the biggest impact. Coaching wise, Richie Pettibone and Emmitt Thomas because they challenged me to meet my full potential and push me to the max.
FP: What was your favorite moment on a football field?
CV: Sacking Wade Wilson as a rookie in the NFC Championship game (video above at approx. 1:30.)
FP: Do you follow/root for the Skins today, if so who are your favorite players currently playing for the Skins?
CV: Yes. Chris Cooley, Clinton Portis, and Jason Campbell.
FP: What is your relationship like with the Redskin’s organization today?
CV: Good as can be, I have created a Redskins Alumni site called redskinsalumni.com which allows me to work closely with the organization.
FP: Tell my readers about the Redskins Alumni site you started (I’ve checked it out, it’s awesome!) What kind of future events can Redskins fans look forward to?
CV: Thank you. It's called Redskinsalumni.com...not only does it connect the former players and teammates with each other, as we have lost touch with each other over the years but still share a bond, it also connects the fans, and even offers business opportunities for the players. Events such as autograph signings, parties like the Welcome Home Luncheon and Player of the Year award dinner. Also, cruises and golf tournaments are all posted to invite fans and also inform players who may have lost touch.
Rick Walker and Clarence reconnect theBLING!
FP: You’ve done some coaching at the high school level. Is coaching something you knew you wanted to do after the NFL and is it something you’d like to continue? Which former Skins coach do you think your coaching style is most like?
CV: I am currently pursuing a career in coaching at the NCAA level; while it is not what I desired immediately once I retired, it is something I am truly passionate about and hope to make another career in football, maybe even coach at the NFL level and win one more Super Bowl (as a head coach of course!) I would say that I would like to model and coach like a combination of all coaches that I have played under. I embraced their different styles, from college to pro. Each coach has had a unique and certainly positive influence. I would definitely say that Gibbs, and Bill Mallory are two that I admire along with Richie Pettibone as well. Also, Emmitt Thomas...he helped and inspired me a lot. This is another hard question to narrow down. However, all these particular coaches have either won championships and/or are in the hall of fame…which I too hope to achieve at the coaching level. (Super Bowl or NCAA championships.)
FP: On your blog found at your website, you have a list of you and your buddies all time greatest QB’s and RB’s. Do you get together with them and play fantasy football? When can we expect your list of WR’s?
CV: I do not play Fantasy Football. I'm working on the WR's, since you've mentioned it and hopefully you'll see the list soon!
FP: You played at a time when the money was certainly good, but by no means near today’s standards. There are many players from your era that suffer from permanent injuries suffered on the field, and I feel the NFL has not done enough to give back to the players who got the League to where it is today. Organizations like Gridiron Greats have had to step up to help. What’s your take on this issue?
CV: I feel the same way…something needs to done. There are a lot of athletes out there that need medical attention, and there are also athletes out there that team owners won't even let go to a game without purchasing a ticket. A lot of teams are forgetting their tradition, like what got the team’s image that they have now, is from the older players.
Happy birthday Clinton Portis. How can you not love Clinton Portis? Have you watched the way the guy plays the game? He put on 20 lbs to run between the tackles for Gibbs. He blows up any and all blitzing defenders…linebackers and d-linemen included. He plays hurt. Clinton is the key to the Redskins offense, as noted by the Skins 21-4 record when he rushes for 100+ yards. He was obtained from the Broncos on March 4, 2004 (my 30th birthday.) The first time he touched the ball in a Redskins uniform he took it 64 yards to the house. It was Gibbs first game back in DC and I jumped up and down and just knew we were going to the Super Bowl. 5 years later…Clinton is entering the age where the naysayers claim that a running back’s best days are behind them. I’m not buying it with C.P. Last year he rushed for 1,487 yards and had 5 straight games of 120+ rushing yards. Entering the 2009 season, he’s about 800 yards away from breaking 10,000 for his career and 1,300 from becoming the Redskins all-time leading rusher. Clinton has 7,331 total yards and 45 TD’s in his 5 seasons with the Redskins (really 4.5 due to injury in 2006.) The bottom line is Clinton is a few more productive years away from being a Hall of Famer and the Redskins greatest running back ever. Happy 28th (a young 28) Mr. Portis.
You can't stop the little man...you can only hope to contain him!
Happy birthday Frank Robinson. Frank was traded to the Orioles prior to the 1966 season in exchange for Milt Pappas, a trade recognized as the most lopsided in baseball history (queue opening credits to Bull Durham.) Frank paid immediate dividends as he hit for the Triple Crown (.316-49-122) and won the MVP as the Orioles swept the Dodgers in the World Series. Frank’s Hall of Fame career included 2 MVP’s, one in both the AL and NL; he is the only player to win it in each league. Frank still ranks in top 10 all-time in many offensive categories and there is no question that he did it without the aid performance enhancers. He became the first black manager in MLB history in 1975 with the Indians. He later won AL Manager of the year with the Orioles in 1989…the year the “why not” Orioles played for the AL East title into the seasons final weekend. Frank has won over 1,000 games as a manager league manager. Frank now works in MLB’s front office. Happy 74th Mr. Robinson!
Happy birthday Brian Davis. Brian played for the Redskins from 1987-1990, appearing in 38 games. Brian was a 2nd round pick out of Nebraska and played mostly on special teams and nickel situations. His best year came in 1989 when he intercepted 4 passes and had 59 tackles. Brian has a Super Bowl ring from the 87’ season. Happy 46th Mr. Davis.
Happy birthday Tre’ Johnson. Tre’ played 8 seasons for the Skins from 1994-2002. A 2nd round pick out of Temple, Tre’ appeared in 90 games for DC. Tre’ was not only the Redskins most reliable O-lineman in the 90’s…but also the largest at 6’2” 330 lbs. Despite his size Tre’ was very quick and agile and excelled on pulling plays. Tre’ also was the master of the “pancake” block, in which his opponent ended up on his backside. Tre’ made the Pro Bowl in 99’ as the Redskins won the NFC East and made the playoffs. In retirement Tre’ became a teacher at the Landon School in Maryland. Happy 38th Mr. Johnson.
Happy birthday Doug Decinces. Doug played 9 seasons with the Orioles from 1973-1981. He took over 3rd base for Brooks Robinson in 1976 and manned the position until a young kid named Cal Ripken Jr. relieved him in 1982. Doug was one of Cal’s idols growing up. A walk off homerun Doug hit in 1979 led to the slogan “orioles magic.” During his tenure as a starting 3rd baseman for the O’s, Doug averaged 17 HR’s and 66RBI’s. Doug was traded to the Angels before the 1982 season for “Disco” Dan Ford. Doug was inducted into the Orioles Hall of Fame in 2006. Doug retired after the 1987 season (his 15th) with 1,505 hits, 237 HR’s and 879 RBI’s. In retirement Doug started Decinces Properties, a real estate property firm in his native California. Happy 59th Mr. Decinces!
Nick Novak has kicked for 2 of my favorite teams of all-time, the Terps and Skins. While at Maryland he won many games with his trusty right toe and graduated as the all-time leading scorer in ACC history. He also won the Jim Tatum award, given annually to the ACC's top student athlete. While he only played 13 games over 2 seasons in DC, he kicked 3 game winning field goals. His game winner against Dallas is one of the most memorable moments I have witnessed in my 30 years of rooting for the Skins. Nick was nice enough to grant me this interview in between tryouts for the Bengals and Lions. He has an awesome website you can visit here. Thanks again for the interview Nick.
FP: You were an All-State soccer player at Albemarle High School in Charlottesville, VA. What made you want to try out for the football team as a kicker?
NN: My earth science teacher Rick Vrhovac, he must of spent a semester convincing me that I could kick for the team. Coach V is now the assistant principle at Albemarle High School. Their starting kicker I believe was moving somewhere, so they needed a replacement for the next season. I promised Coach V that I would come out my sophomore year and give it a try. The rest is history. The summer before my first season, my family took a three week vacation to San Diego. During that time I spent the entire time learning my first kicking technique, which has since evolved into a much more efficient swing. Coach V and I have stayed in touch and I have always reminded him of how thankful I am for having his influence in my life. He is a great teacher and leader for young men.
FP: You graduated from Maryland as the all time leading scorer in ACC history, quite an accomplishment. What are your fondest memories of your time at College Park?
NN: Besides all the great riots we had after beating and sometimes losing to Duke...Thursday night on prime time, down in Georgia, I was faced with my first game tying and game winning field goal opportunity and was successful on both. That entire season was a great memory and having the chance to play in the orange bowl my first year playing college football was the ultimate reward for an almost perfect season. Ill never forget the fans after that 2001 season. Before we headed down to Florida for the bowl game the University held a pep-rally to send us off. Cole Field house was packed and the team was gathered on the basketball court getting acknowledged for our bowl bid. As they were chanting and screaming they started saying "We Want Novak." I was pretty shy back then so I was trying to hide in the middle of the pack, that didn't work for long...before I knew it my teammates pushed me out on center court. I was out there listening to this chant and taking it all in, I was overwhelmed the fans were amazing. I'll never forget that moment and all the support they gave me during my time at Maryland. Other memories the NC State kick down at their place and the NC State kick at our place...preventing Phillip Rivers from ever winning a game against Maryland during his 4 years! I was blessed to have a great snapper John Condo and holders Brooks Branard and Adam Podlesh . The teams we had were tough blue collar guys, many of which are still playing in the league.
FP: You had 2 memorable game winning kicks during your tenure with the Skins. The first came against the Seahawks and was dedicated to your friend Annie. Tell us about the kick and your friend.
NN: My first NFL game and I get to kick a game winner in overtime and at the same time my neighbor Annie was fighting to defeat an entirely different opponent...breast and ovarian cancer. She was fighting for her life and I knew she was listening to the game at the hospital. I felt her all around me and wanted to make that kick for her and my teammates at the time. I was very emotional when I spoke of her after the game cause I wanted to tell the world what a strong, courageous woman she was and what she was forced to fight her entire adult life. It was very important for me to use the platform that was given to me that day. To bring more attention to a terrible disease and to dedicate the kick to Annie after the game on the middle of the field and in the press conference in the locker room. I was thinking about all this before the kick. I knew I was going to make it...I didn't have a doubt in my mind. However I didn't think I was going to have to make it twice!
FP: Your 2nd game winner came against the rival Cowboys in one of the craziest finishes in the history of football. In the span of 35 seconds you missed a 49 yarder that would have won it, and then hit the game winner from 47 yards away with no time left on the clock. Sandwiched in between was a blocked Cowboy field goal and an amazing return by the late Sean Taylor. Tell us about those last 35 seconds from your perspective.
NN: That was a crazy game! Cooley’s great catch in the endzone to tie the game and Troy Vincent blocking Mike’s kick. Sean was amazing, he picked that ball up ran it back and thank the Lord for that guy who committed the face mask penalty on Sean preventing the game from ending at regulation and getting us into field goal range as a result. There wasn't anyone in the world that day that wanted to make that kick more then me...I remember praying for a second chance. I was praying while Mike was getting ready to line up for his kick. I couldn't watch, I heard the second thump and and the fans going crazy, I looked up and ran to the kicking net. I remember the fans near my net, talking to me giving their support. I didn’t have time to think just react, so I ran out there and kicked it. One of the greatest wins I have ever been apart of especially doing it against the cowboys as a Redskin.
FP: A kickers next gig is always a phone call away, are you prepared to return to the NFL if that call comes?
NN: I had a workout in Cincy last Thursday and one today in Detroit. I went 22 for 22in Field Goals. I'm ready to play. I've made many changes to my swing and feel like an entirely new kicker. This entire offseason I dedicated to kicking like a pro, which means having a smooth consistent technique, it has to look effortless. I have always been optimistic no matter what happens, attitude is everything in the game of football and in the game of life. I stick to a schedule even when I'm not on a team. Usually what happens during the season is teams will call on Monday and fly you in for a Tuesday workout. I have to make sure I'm ready to compete every Tuesday. I workout, kick and do all the physical prep from Wednesday to Saturday. I have always been intrinsically motivated, I love the grind of it all. In my spare time I work part time at Athletic Republic in Annapolis as an athletic performance and kicking coach. I believe God has a plan for me, as long as I keep fulfilling my end of the deal, I think great things are yet to come. I have been tremendously blessed thus far on and off the field.
Happy birthday Ladell Betts. Hard to believe but Ladell is entering his 8th season in the NFL and his 8th season with the Skins. He was drafted in the 2nd round of the 2002 draft and has appeared in 93 games in DC. His best season came in 2006 when he rushed for 1,154 yards and added another 445 receiving while subbing for an injured Clinton Portis. For his career Ladell has 6,325 yards from scrimmage and 15 TD’s. His role will be expanding this year as he takes the 3rd down role from a healthy Portis. He’s an integral part of our team year in and year out and always steps up and plays whatever role he is called upon. Happy 30th Mr. Betts.
Happy birthday Sonny Jurgensen. Sonny is a Hall of Famer and an icon for all Skins fans. His legendary arm (which could launch a football 80 yards) won 3 NFL passing titles and threw for over 32,000 yards in his career. Vince Lombardi has been quoted as saying Sonny was the best QB he ever saw…what more is there to say than that? An all-around athlete, he played basketball, baseball and football in high school and played both ways (defensive back) in college. Starting in 1981, Sonny began calling games with Sam Huff and Frank Herzog (later Larry Michael.) How many of you would/do turn down your TV’s to listen to the radio show? Their voices take us back to the good old days…and Sonny just turned 75 years young. Happy birthday Mr. Jurgensen, I just may light up a stogie for you!
Happy birthday Mike Boddicker. Mike played 9 seasons for the Orioles from 1980-88. Mike went 16-8 with a 2.77 ERA in the 83’ season. He then went 2-0 with 2 complete games and 0.00 ERA in the postseason as the O’s went on to win the 83’ World Series. Mike followed that up with 20 wins and an ERA title (2.79) in 84’. In the 88’ season Mike was traded to the Red Sox for Brady Anderson and Curt Schilling. Mike retired after the 93’ season and now lives in his native Iowa. Happy 52nd Mr. Boddicker.
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