After the Redskins' season-opening no-show performance against the Giants, I wrote that Jim Zorn's West Coast offense might not be the best use of quarterback Jason Campbell's talents. That was probably a tad reactionary -- it was the first game of the year in a new scheme, after all -- and Campbell would go on to play well enough for ESPN's Ron Jaworski to call him his midseason MVP.
Campbell has struggled in recent weeks, which, perhaps predictably, has prompted some people -- fans and media -- to call for backup Todd Collins. The same guy, you may remember, who played extremely well in Campbell's absence late last year, but looked absolutely lost in Zorn's fancy-pants offense this preseason.
That's probably why, after the Week 1 loss in New York, fans were clamoring for rookie Colt Brennan to replace Campbell. (Hey, they may be irrational, but at least they pay attention.)
Thankfully, Zorn is sticking with Campbell for what should be obvious reasons: he's the team's best quarterback.
From the Washington Post's Jason La Canfora:
I know it's difficult for some people to get beyond the December Todd Collins had last year, but times have changed. Zorn is trying to develop Campbell into a franchise quarterback and the kid is doing a fine job, all things considered. Zorn is demanding more of him and holds him, admittedly, to the highest standard possible ("I want him to play mistake-free," Zorn said), but he is taking a less myopic look at the scope of the offensive woes than a lot of fans and media types.
La Canfora also points out that just because the offense is sputtering doesn't automatically mean it's on the quarterback. Could Campbell play better? Sure. But the 'Skins currently have three reliable receivers: Santana Moss, Chris Cooley and Antwaan Randle El.
Not only that, but the pass blocking can kindly be described as suspect, and the team's best player, Clinton Portis, has battled injuries for most of the season. I'm not sure how 37-year-old Todd Collins solves any of those problems.
Like Sands Through an Hourglass, Frustrated Skins Fans Want Jason Campbell Benched originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Tue, 02 Dec 2008 12:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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