NFL Futures: The Washington Redskins have just gone through a year of hell after rookie QB sensation Robert Griffin III led them on an improbable run to the NFC playoffs in 2012. Griffin was hurt in the playoff game and was not at the same level last year while the rest of the team imploded around him, sparking the dismissal of head coach Mike Shanahan. As the Redskins had to deal with that setback season of 2013 they have since had to defend their name itself, which has some liberal groups demanding change in the name of “insensitivity.” The Redskins opened as a 50/1 choice to win the Super Bowl, a 28/1 choice to win the NFC championship, and with an over under win total of 7.5 -130 over and even money under.
Can Chucky’s Brother End Nightmare
Jay Gruden arrives to take over as head coach and will be charged with building a strong relationship with RGIII, whose relationship with Shanahan imploded at the end. Pro Bowl WR DeSean Jackson arrives from the Philadelphia Eagles to give Griffin an immediate tops shelf weapon to throw to. Gruden will run a more traditional offense than Shanahan’s read option that proved bad for Griffin’s health.
Handicapper’s Notes
The Redskins have covered the spread in just eight out of their last 20 home games with just six out of their last 16 home games going over the total. The Redskins have paid out in just two out of their last eight away games with eleven out of their last 19 games on the road going over the total. The Redskins have paid out in just three out of their last 12 games as a dog with just eight out of their last 19 games as a dog going over the total. Washington has covered the spread in just eight out of their last 20 games as a favorite with ten out of their last 17 games as a chalk going over the total.
Our Prognosis
Much like the Dallas Cowboys, a big problem for the Redskins is their owner. Dan Snyder continues to obstruct progress and his team has won more than six games just once in the last five seasons. Snyder is what makes it imperative to handle this team with care
