For a second consecutive game, the Washington Redskins get a chance to show the nation what they’re about. We’ll find out by 11:30 p.m. Monday if that’s a good thing. Here are three areas of interest heading into the matchup with Seattle:
I’ll have more on this later, but this is a huge game for a variety of reasons. It’s not just because the Redskins can’t fall to 1-4 heading into a road game at Arizona. It’s because another ugly showing will create a lot of doubt in the direction of this program. That’s not on Jay Gruden as much as it is the organization. I like what Gruden offers as a coach; there’s still so much more to learn about him. But if this season turns into a mess, it’s because that’s what he inherited and what this organization has built. The Redskins need to prove themselves and they must start by playing well.
I’ll have my game-day notes and analysis up later Monday morning (and will be on "SportsCenter" in the 12 p.m. hour from FedEx Field). I’ll also have a look at some of the growing pains encountered by some of the young players defensively, notably Bashaud Breeland and even Keenan Robinson and David Amerson. Also, some other pains that are more troubling. At least with young players there’s the hope that they’ll learn and improve.
Jordan Reed’s status. I really don’t expect him to play because of the hamstring issue. That’s a loss for Washington and not just because he’s better than Niles Paul – in some areas, especially down the field and in terms of athleticism. But Paul has shown he can play and produce, so when Reed returns, it gives the Redskins’ offense more versatility – they can use more two tight ends in the pass game. That can’t happen until Reed returns and my guess is that will be in Arizona and not Monday.