By Ryan O’Halloran
Yes, that was the Redskins running a flea-flicker on the opening play last week against the Giants.
No, a double check isn’t needed, that was the Redskins running a reverse on their fourth offensive snap.
And, a rubbing of the eyes isn’t required, that was the Redskins opening their fourth series possession with an end around.
The first play was a Rex Grossman interception, but the two rushes were positive plays – Anthony Armstrong gained 14 yards on second-and-6 (leading to a field goal) and Niles Paul gained 7 yards (plus 15 when blocker Darrel Young was face-masked by Kenny Phillips, leading to a touchdown).
I asked offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan about those play calls on Wednesday. The gist – besides gaining yards, what was the thinking behind Armstrong’s second rush and Paul’s first of the year?
“We knew they had a really good pass rush and their front four and back-ups are as good as anyone you face throughout the year,” Kyle said. “You’ve got to get them moving in all different directions. We wanted them to try and see everything when they’re covering the field sideline to sideline playing the pass and playing the run.
“If you can get them looking around and seeing a little too much, you can get them not teeing off. If they just tee off and rush the quarterback, there aren’t too many people in the league who can block them.”
Translation: Kyle has talked a lot this year about running things to “set up” other things and when the Redskins built a lead, it allowed him to call plays to take advantage of the Giants’ defense being wary of misdirection plays.
Contact O’Halloran at rohalloran@comcastsportsnet.com
Comments