Robert Griffin III vs Eagles
courtesy of Matthew Straubmuller
For the last five weeks the Redskins have played must win games and won them. It has been because of the play of RGIII, Pierre Garcon, Kirk Cousins, and a revitalized defense that has allowed an average of 20.4 points with ten total turnovers created. In the previous nine games the Redskins defense allowed an average of 27.6 points or almost a touchdown more per game. As much credit as should go to the quarterback play for the winning streak the much maligned defense deserves credit for making mid-season adjustments.
This entire winning streak started after the Redskins bye week against the Eagles. The rematch takes place this weekend, but there is debate over how much of a match it will be. Andy Reid is unlikely to return as the Eagles head coach, Nick Foles is an uninspiring quarterback, and the Eagles defense has allowed the seventh most points in the NFL. This all points to a game the red hot Redskins should win, but sports have that way of surprising. This might be that one late season game where the Eagles show up inspired and ready to play. Tired of being overlooked and wanting to spoil the Redskins late playoff push to build confidence towards next season.
All of that could happen, but the most likely thing is that RGIII doesn’t suffer any setbacks, steps on the field, and takes over like he did back in week eleven when he threw for four touchdowns against this Eagles squad. What Robert Griffin has done as a rookie is nothing short of amazing. He is seventh in the NFL in completion percentage, tied for first with Tom Brady for interception percentage, number one in yards per pass attempt, and tenth in touchdown percentage. Everything a quarterback is supposed to do RGIII does, but then there is the other thing. Not only is he up there with some of the best in the game in raw passing skills he is also averaging 6.7 yards per rushing attempt, the best in the NFL.
RGIII has a chance to do what has been promised of some many others and that is to revolutionize the quarterback position. Some evidence exists that it has already started to happen with Colin Kaepernick and the San Francisco 49ers instituting a similar zone read style offense to take advantage of Kaepernick’s passing and running skills. Where all of this ties in with the Eagles is they have a quarterback. A quarterback that isn’t starting this week and most likely isn’t even going to dress for the game. When Michael Vick came into the league he had all the talent and ability to forever change the quarterback position, but as physically talented as he was he made mental mistakes on and off the football field.
RGIII now has the chance to do what Michael Vick couldn’t. This amazing run started against the Eagles, and if the Redskins happen to win while the Cowboys and Giants lose the Redskins win the NFC East for the first time since 1999. Winning a division and leading a moribund franchise into the playoffs will be just another accolade to pile onto RGIII in a career that is already off to a fantastic start.
