Zac Boyer will be entering his third season covering the Washington Redskins for The Free Lance-Star this fall. Make sure to follow Zac on Twitter (@ZacBoyer) for the latest updates or e-mail him with any questions at zboyer@freelancestar.com.
What To Watch For: Three Redskins Storylines
By ZAC BOYER
1. The Time Is Now: All eyes will be on Robert Griffin III, who played in three of four preseason games and was only on the field for approximately three total quarters. He showed little in that time, but the Redskins will certainly hit New Orleans with everything they’ve got. That means designed runs, including the possibility of running the option, and quite a few deep throws. This is Griffin’s team now.
2. Big Gains On Short Gains: Outside linebackers Brian Orakpo and Ryan Kerrigan have each steadily improved in pass coverage. Kerrigan, in particular, assessed it as the weakest part of his game as a rookie. The Saints will take advantage of 6-foot-7 tight end Jimmy Graham and shifty running back Darren Spoles on under routes, putting plenty of pressure on the two to maintain responsibilities.
3. ‘The Hot Hand’: Which running back starts the game is not guaranteed to be the one that has the greatest impact. Roy Helu, the leading rusher a year ago, and Evan Royster each surpassed 100 rushing yards in a game last season, and rookie Alfred Morris did so as well in the preseason. All signs point to Morris getting the nod, but which of the three will be most productive will depend on both their yards per carry and how well they can protect Griffin.
