Washington in Driver's Seat of NFC East Clown Car

Perry Riley (56) returns an interception in the first quarter

Responding well to an embarrassing loss to Carolina. That's how coach Jay Gruden framed Sunday's divisional matchup with the New York Giants for his squad. Any talk about the ramifications of the matchup, first place in the abysmal NFC East, was left to the analysts. Gruden was out to see character, and Washington delivered in spades. Time after time Sunday evening Washington responded to a New York team whom they hadn't beaten since 2012. Whether it was Quinton Dunbar's interception in the end zone, halting an impressive Giant's drive, or Jordan Reed's 20 yard reception on a 3rd Down and 5 late in the 4th quarter, Washington played with character and passion, seemingly absent from their most recent losses to undefeated Carolina and New England. With the win, Washington controls their destiny in pursuit of their first division title since 2012. 

Washington 

Remaining Schedule - Dallas Cowboys (3-8), @ Chicago Bears (5-6), Buffalo Bills (5-6), @ Philadelphia Eagles (4-7), @ Dallas Cowboys (3-8)

Washington has the second easiest remaining schedule in the league. Twice they face a Dallas team that will be without Tony Romo (and is 0-7 in games he hasn't started this season), along with games against a Philadelphia team that has all but quit on their head coach. A meeting at Soldier Field with a Chicago team that is suddenly playing well should prove a tough matchup. 8-8 is an attainable record, though it will likely take a 4-1 finish to take the NFC East crown.

New York

Remaining Schedule - New York Jets (6-5), @ Miami Dolphins (4-7), Carolina Panthers (11-0), @ Minnesota Vikings (8-3), Philadelphia Eagles (4-7)

The race for the NFC East crown is likely a two horse race at this point with New York posing the biggest threat to Washington. Their remaining schedule is no cake walk with four grueling games before a home finale against division rival Philadelphia. If New York can solve the protection problems of an injury depleted line, they are in for long days in their next four games, all against teams that can get after the passer.

Philadelphia

Remaining Schedule - @ New England Patriots (10-0), Buffalo Bills (5-6), Arizona Cardinals (9-2), Washington Redskins (5-6), @ New York Giants (5-6)

Philadelphia is all but finished after a Thanksgiving dismantling at the hands of an underwhelming Detroit squad. Questions abound over a fractured locker room, the offense is anemic, and they face two of the best teams in the league in Arizona and New England. Sputtering to a 4-12 finish is not out of the question for a team that will likely be looking for a new head coach come January.

Dallas

Remaining Schedule - @ Washington Redskins (5-6), @ Green Bay (7-4), New York Jets (6-5), @ Buffalo Bills (5-6), Washington Redskins (5-6)

January can't come soon enough for a Dallas squad that has been hampered by injuries all season long. Last year's 12-4 campaign seems a far cry from a season in which the Cowboy's have yet to win without Tony Romo in the starting lineup. The schedule sets up well for the Cowboys to win a few games, but a division title and return to the playoffs seems out of the realm of possibility at this point.

College Hoops is Back - UConn Season Primer

The start of the College Basketball season couldn't come soon enough for fans of the Connecticut Huskies. Just two years ago, UConn completed an improbable run (well not improbable for yours truly)  to the school's fourth men's National Championship. Last year the Huskies stumbled to a 20-15 mark, and first round exit from the NIT, leaving fans pining for what appears to be a promising 2016 campaign. The Huskies open the season ranked 20th, and have the pieces to make a Sweet Sixteen run a reasonable expectation. 

UConn will look to replace the production
of last years leading scorer, Ryan Boatright

In order to reach their potential, UConn must replace the veteran leadership and production on the court from departed senior guard Ryan Boatright who led the Huskies in minutes, points, assists, and steals per game as well as free throw percentage in 2014-2015. Kevin Ollie's squad appears more than capable of doing so with the addition of fifth-year senior transfers Shonn Miller (formerly of Cornell) and Sterling Gibbs (formerly of Texas and most recently Seton Hall). The fifth-year transfer has worked well for Ollie in the past. Lasan Kromah, a then fifth-year transfer from George Washington, was a key contributor to the 2014 Championship team. Both Miller and Gibbs help address deficiencies from last year's squad. Miller should offer help down low on both the offensive and defensive side of the ball, while also offering the versatility to play the five in a stretch-4 line-up. Gibbs on the other hand will do well to replace Boatright's offensive production, offering an ability to cut to the rim and a more dynamic threat from long range than Boatright did. 

Jalen Adams looks to be a star in the making for the Huskies

The Huskies have also added two dynamic freshman to a squad that looks to have a 10-deep quality rotation. This rotation will be compressed to 8 by the time March rolls around, but offers Kevin Ollie flexibility to experiment and work through injuries during the grind of the season. Freshman additions Jalen Adams and Steven Enoch, though both ready to play now, should only be aided by the depth on the UConn roster. Coach Kevin Ollie has said he hopes to allow Adams and Enoch to adjust to the college game with the help of his budding upperclassmen. Adams should play more minutes off the bat than Enoch, but look for both to be key contributors come playoff season.

Daniel Hamilton's (5) maturation is key to Huskies' success

Beyond their new additions, the Huskies will be led by a bevy of young returning players. Versatile swingman Daniel Hamilton looks to be a first team all-AAC candidate, with the ability to run the point, stretch the floor, and play above the rim. Junior 7 footer Amida Brimah is one of the few remaining holdovers from the 2014 Championship squad, but his continued maturation on the offensive side of the ball offers exciting possibilities to a UConn offensive that has the athleticism and play-making ability to spread the floor. Last year's leading shot blocker in the nation also brings an imposing presence to the defensive side of the ball for a squad that has added length from forwards Shonn Miller and Steven Enoch. Guard Rodney Purvis rounds out the top returners for the Huskies who will also be helped by key contributors Omar Calhoun and Sam Cassell Jr and role players Kentan Facey and Phillip Nolan.

Athleticism and length will be one of the Huskies calling cards, as they should be able to overplay many of the teams they face, particularly in conference play. Their versatility will allow Coach Kevin Ollie to go small or big, and should allow a team that has uncharacteristically underperformed return to being one of the nation's leading rebounding and shot blocking teams. Their December 8th matchup with 3rd ranked Maryland will be a great measuring stick of where the team is, though they should be able to coast to an AAC championship. I expect the Huskies to make the Sweet Sixteen, though they have the pieces to make a deeper Championship run. This team is better than the 2014 squad that won it all as a collective, but doesn't look to have a star as bright as Shabazz Napier. With plenty of underclassmen contributors, UConn looks poised to compete both this year and next. The Huskies kick off their 2015-2016 campaign tonight against Maine at the Gampel Pavilion. 

Overrated? Harper is NL MVP, and It's Not Even Close

41 Percent. That's the number of players that believed Bryce Harper was the most overrated player in Major League Baseball in ESPN the Magazine's player poll released this past Spring. The poll would mark the second consecutive year that Harper would carry the distinction of leagues most overrated player. Early returns are, he won't be winning a third consecutive title. Despite the Washington National's struggles, Harper, just 22, produced one of the most impressive offensive performances in recent memory. 

Harper ranked in the top five of nearly every offensive category in 2015

The biggest criticism of Harper's 2015 season? The performance of his team. Being unable to navigate a National's team marred by injury and inconsistent pitching to a playoff berth would certainly cost Harper's MVP bid in any other season, but who should win this year's award isn't even up for discussion. 2015 saw Harper dominate almost every offensive statistical category. Harper ranked first in the Majors in on base percentage and slugging, while ranking third in batting average (second in the NL), posting an impressive .330/.460/.649. His 9.9 wins above replacement were also best in the majors, while he trailed only Joey Votto with 124 walks. Harper's 99 RBIs were good enough for 5th in the NL, while his 118 runs were good for the top spot. Harper's 146.1 runs created also topped the majors, while his 81 extra base hits put him in the top 5 of all of baseball.

Beyond the gaudy offensive numbers, the most discernible impact of Bryce Harper's game came with his newfound patience at the plate. In 2015, Bryce saw an average of 4.1 pitches per plate appearance, up from 3.9 in 2014. Even more indicative of Harper's maturation at the plate is his strikeout to walk ratio of nearly 1:1 (124 BBs and 131 Ks) as compared to nearly 5:2 in 2014 (38 BBs and 104 Ks). Harper took the next step in 2015, turning into the offensive juggernaut he was touted to be out of high school. His offensive game has evolved. In 2014, Harper could capitalize on mistakes. 2015 Harper's patient approach allowed him to capitalize on perfect pitches. Harper's 1.1090 OPS marked the first time a player posted a OPS above 1.100 since Albert Pujols in 2008. Harper, at 22, is the youngest player ever to post a OPS greater than 1.100, tied with hall of famers Ted Williams and Joe Kelley.

Bryce Harper started 2015 as the most overrated player according to MLB players. He'll end the year as the NL's most valuable, and it's not even close. 

NFC East Now Up For Grabs?

Before a report surfaced from Bleacher Report early today, it seemed, for once, the Washington Redskins were the only NFC East team not embroiled in any kind of controversy. Poor play calling and time management at the end of games leading to two 10 point leads being squandered in New York? Franchise cornerstones Dez Bryant and Tony Romo injured in Dallas? Offensive, scratch that, complete ineptitude in Philly? Even with reports that embattled former second overall pick Robert Griffin and current starter Kirk Cousins have an, at the least, untenable relationship, things are looking wide open for Washington to compete for the NFC East crown.

Matt Jones' (31) bruising running style has helped
Washington set the tone on offense

After a 24-10 dismantling of the St. Louis Rams on Sunday, Washington is a 69 yard punt return removed from a 2-0 start to the season. How have they done it? With the physical attitude new General Manager Scot McCloughan had hoped to bring back to the Nation's Capitol. It's undeniable that the attitude with which Washington has played the first two weeks is one of a smash-mouth team that you'll remember playing. The teams success has started up front, with offseason additions Stephen Paea, Terrance Knighton, and Ricky Jean-Francois paying early dividends on defense, while fifth overall pick Brandon Scherff has fueled a resurgent offensive line. Look no further than the stat line for evidence that McCloughan's plan is, so far, working. The Redskins lead the league in rushing yards per game; toting the ball for 171 yards per contest, thanks largely to the 1-2 punch of Alfred Morris and Matt Jones, who rank 6th and 8th overall, respectively, in rush yards. But why is this important? Beyond allowing Kirk Cousins to play "game manager" (Cousins has completed 75.9% of his passes, despite only throwing for 379 yards), the dominant rushing attack has kept opposing team's offenses on the sideline. Washington trails only Dallas in time of possession, averaging a whopping 37:49 of possession through two contests, up from a pedestrian 30:26 in 2014.

Newly added NT Terrance Knighton (98)
has anchored a stout front seven on defense

The ability to control the clock has only aided a defense that, granted against subpar competition, has looked dominant. Washington ranks 1st in the NFL in total yards allowed per game at a mere 234.5 yards per game. To give some perspective, Washington's top two running backs have gained 180 and 151 yards respectively through two games. Washington has been stout up front, allowing just 70.5 yards per game on the ground, good for 4th in the NFL, and has allowed just 164 yards per game through the air, despite playing with leads in both weeks. All this has allowed Washington to trail only Carolina and the New York Jets in points per game given up at 13.5 per game, a number that drops to 10 if you discount points given up by special teams.

Given Washington's new defensive and run-oriented personality, a team that many picked to finish 7-9 at best, has a legitimate shot to win the NFC East. If Kirk Cousins can continue to limit mistakes, manage the game, and convert key third downs, Washington has a shot, thanks in large part to everyone else's short comings. The NFC East however will be decided as it always is, by divisional record. Washington can begin to put it's best foot forward this Thursday night as they visit the New York Giants for their first primetime game of the year. The last time they visited New York on a Thursday night? Last years debacle of a performance, where four Kirk Cousins interceptions led to an embarrassing 45-14 defeat. If the team can keep winning in the trenches, the outcome should be different this time around.

DC Rising - Best Week in DC Sports History?

Now before I start, let's go ahead and throw out all the championships in DC sports history. Most people would argue a championship trumps overall good play in the postseason, regardless of how many teams were playing well. Yet for a city without a championship in one of the four major sports in 24 years, all four of DC's major franchises seem to be trending upwards. This past week could very possibly have been the best week in DC Sports History. It's definitely been the best in recent memory.

Washington Redskins

Let's start with the DC franchise most recently mired in mediocrity, and that's putting it nicely. This weekend saw new general manager Scot McCloughan stick to his draft board, draft players with toughness and an edge, and pick up extra selections. It'll take a few years to see how this draft turns out, but it has the chance to be a real "meat and potatoes" draft for a team that really needed it. In the upper half of the draft, McCloughan took players who can help immediately set the tone in the trenches. In the latter half, players who should immediately help on special teams. Fixing a deficient offensive line was a top priority, one that McCloughan did early and often. With a proven track record in evaluating talent, McCloughan has Washington on the right track. 

Washington Nationals

Max Scherzer, acquired this offseason, looked excellent Friday night

After losing four straight games on a ten game road trip, the Washington Nationals started the week with a 13-12, come from behind win over division rival Atlanta, after trailing 9-1 in the second inning. The following two nights produced a 13-4 clobbering of the Braves, and 8-2 win over the New York Mets. Despite a 4-0 loss on Friday night, Max Scherzer pitched like the ace the Nationals shelled out $210 million to acquire. Washington would cap off the week with back-to-back 1-0 wins, on the backs of two sensational pitching performances. Despite early troubles, the Nats are on the right track after taking two consecutive series from division rivals on the road. 

Washington Capitals

Capitals celebrate Joel Ward's buzzer-beater goal

The Capitals started the week with a game 7 and series win over the New York Islanders. Washington, who has struggled in game 7's recently, is making a strong bid in this year's Stanley Cup Playoffs. Thursday night saw an improbable Game 1 win over the Eastern Conference's top-seeded New York Rangers. Joel Ward's goal with 1.2 seconds to go is one of the greatest moments in franchise history in the past several years. Despite a loss Saturday night, the Capitals have still stolen home ice. 

Otto Porter Jr (22) has played huge for
the Wizards in the 2015 postseason

Washington Wizards

Sunday night saw the Wizards dismantle a Toronto Raptors squad whose confidence had been destroyed, leading to Washington's first sweep of a seven game postseason series in franchise history. Game four saw a broken Raptors squad that appeared shell-shocked after a game three shellacking. After a full week of rest, the Wizards took on, and defeated the East's top seeded Atlanta Hawks. The Wiz are the hottest team in the East. They contained the Hawk's transition game, and forced them to play a half-court game in which they shot 37.8% from the floor. The playoff format should allow ample rest for banged-up, star guards Bradley Beal and John Wall after game 2. If the Wizards continue their excellent play in the postseason, they could find themselves in the Conference Finals, and even the NBA Finals. 

6 Targets for Washington at 38

With the first round of the NFL Draft in the books, Washington's first pick, Brandon Scherff from Iowa, is starting to look a lot better. The reason being? Not only does Scherff fill a need and bring a level of toughness Scot McCloughan has been looking for, but the available talent in the second round should allow Washington to come away with two very good players. Washington picks 6th in the 2nd round, 38th overall. Here's a look at six prospects that they could target, at least one of which will be available by the time they pick.

Jaelen Stong, WR - Arizona State

A big bodied receiver standing at 6 feet 2.5 inches and weighing in at 217 pounds, Strong possesses the 4.4 speed that teams covet in a wide receiver. Projected as a first round pick, Strong fell out of the first round, most likely due to injury concerns about his wrist. Regardless, Strong is a big play receiver who would help complement Desean Jackson on the outside and give Washington some extra size at the wide receiver position. With Pierre Garcon's future in Washington in doubt after this year, adding to the wide receiving corps would be prudent, particularly if a prospect like Strong is available. 

T.J Clemmings, OT - Pittsburgh

Clemmings is seen by some as one of the better left tackle prospects in this draft. Though he would probably start at the right tackle spot, Clemmings would offer great competition for the starting spot and allow Brandon Scherff to be played at left guard. Clemmings would potentially be a reach, depending on the other players still on the board, but if Washington has him rated highly enough, don't be surprised if they pick offensive lineman with their first two picks.

Jalen Collins, DB - LSU

Collins has the size and speed NFL teams covet at the cornerback position standing at 6 foot 1 and weighing 203 pounds with a 4.48 40 time. McCloughan is known to like defensive backs who stand taller than 6 feet. Collins fell primarily due to injury concerns, but he would add depth and talent to a secondary that was one of the worst in football last season.

Randy Gregory, OLB - Nebraska

Randy Gregory (44) offers incredible value in the 2nd round

The off the field issues for Gregory have been well publicized, and his fall has not been unexpected, expect perhaps in degree. Gregory is one of the premier pass-rushers in this year's draft, and was projected as a top-10 pick early in the draft process. If Gregory slides to 38, Washington could find themselves with perhaps the best pure pass-rusher, while having already acquired a great offensive line talent in the first round. Despite his off-field issues, Gregory offers incredible value at 38.

Eli Harold, OLB - Virginia

Harold is one of the top prospects as an outside linebacker in this years draft. He doesn't offer the same punch as a pass-rusher as Randy Gregory, but is further along in terms of being able to drop back into coverage. Regardless, Washington should be able to allow him to develop even more in that regard with Trent Murphy filling the OLB role on first and second down. Harold's all around game may even put him above Gregory on Washington's board, especially given the latter's off the field concerns.

Landon Collins, S - Alabama

Landon Collins (26) wears the number of his idol,
the late Washington star safety Sean Taylor

Collins was seen by many to be a middle-first round pick, albeit in a very weak safety class. Damarious Randall, from Arizona State leap-frogged him last night, probably due to concerns over Collins' ability in coverage. Regardless, Collins possesses excellent speed, running a 4.53 40, and has size to boot. He plays best in the box, which may preclude him from being selected by Washington, who prefer their safeties to be able to play either role. It's hard to see where he fits with the additions of Dashon Goldson and Jeron Johnson, but with Johnson's ability to play the free safety position, if they have him rated high enough he could be their guy at 38. How great would it be to see a player who idolized the late Sean Taylor play for the Burgundy and Gold on Sundays?

New Scherff in Town - Washington Selects Top Offensive Lineman at Five

With the fifth overall pick in this year's NFL Draft, Washington selected Brandon Scherff, an offensive tackle from Iowa. The top offensive line prospect according to ESPN's Mel Kiper, Scherff stands at 6 foot 4.5 inches and weighs in at 319 pounds. A tough-nosed, mauler, Scherff will help immediately in the run game, and in pass protection for RG3. He possesses great strength and athleticism having run a 5.05 in the 40 yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine. Check out some highlights.

Brandon Scherff fits the profile of a run-mauler

How He Fits

The fit for Scherff is obvious. The team has a need at Right Tackle, and head coach Jon Gruden made it clear that Scherff will begin his career on the right side. This will only benefit the team's offensive unit, particularly in the run game. Washington ranked 19th in running offense last season, and both Scot McCloughan and Jay Gruden have made it clear that improving in this area is a top priority. Improving the running game will only help Robert Griffin III, and given that the team picked up his fifth-year option recently, that is a top priority. Scherff will also improve the pass protection, whether he plays outside or inside. Washington ranked second to last with 58 sacks allowed in 2014. 

What It Means

Scot McCloughan demonstrated he is sticking to his draft board. Washington passed on potentially the best player in the draft in Leonard Williams, and given injury concerns, and the additions Washington made in the off-season, defensive line was not a top priority. McCloughan also demonstrated he meant it when he said "we want big, tough, nasty, strong guys." It also may indicate that the number player on their board was Dante Fowler Jr., who went third overall to Jacksonville. For the time being, RG3 seems to be the man in Washington, and McCloughan plans to put the pieces around him to be successful. Generally speaking, you don't take a guard with the fifth overall pick. Could Washington have potentially traded down? Yes. But McCloughan clearly has a plan. Look for them to improve the pass rush, or defensive backfield with their first pick in the second round, depending on the players still available.