NFL Predictions 2009: Jim Zorn enters his second season as head coach of the Redskins, but he probably does not feel a great deal of job security after Washington finished 8-8 last year. Team owner Daniel Synder is known to have a quick trigger with his coaches, and the big spender will want to reach the post-season regardless of the quality of the 'Skins divisional competition. Bodog.com has Washington's regular season win total set at 8 with the under a -125 favorite in their Washington Redskins NFL Predictions 2009.
The Redskins began the Zorn era with a bang, starting out 4-1, but ended the year by winning just one of their last five games. The poor finish assured Washington of last place in the tough NFC East as well as a seat on the couch for the playoffs.
Despite Zorn's offensive background, it was the Redskins' offense that let the team down. The unit averaged just 16.6 points (28th in the league) and 189.1 passing yards per game. Quarterback Jason Campbell, who will be back under center for the club this season, threw for 3245 yards and 13 touchdowns (six interceptions). Efficient, but not spectacular. Zorn will look for more out of the Auburn product in 2009 now that he has had a year in the system.
The Washington ground game was solid last year, averaging 130.9 yards per game. It should be a strength this season too. Clinton Portis ran for 1487 yards and nine touchdowns, demonstrating that he still has something left in the tank.
The Redskins' defense ranked fourth in yards allowed (288.8) and sixth in points allowed (18.5) last season. The group was solid in all aspects, with the exception of the pass rush. Washington produced just 24 sacks, as off-season acquisition Jason Taylor (3.5) was limited by a leg injury most of the year.
Taylor returned to the Dolphins during free agency, but Synder more than made up for the loss by inking former Titan Albert Haynesworth to a big deal. Haynesworth, despite playing defensive tackle, should make a big difference in the team's ability to get after the quarterback. He always commands a double team and he can crush a pocket as well as any lineman in the league. Rookie defensive end/linebacker Brian Orakpo will benefit from Haynesworth's presence, as will defensive end Andre Carter (led the team in sacks last year with four).
The Redskins open the season in New York for the second straight year as the Giants host them at the Meadowlands on September 13th.
Bodog.com Washington Redskins NFL Predictions 2009 – Super Bowl Odds 2010
Washington Redskins Regular Season Wins:
Over 8 (-105)
Under 8 (-125)
Washington Redskins Odds to Win the NFC East:
23/4
Washington Redskins Odds to Win the 2010 NFC Championship:
16/1
Washington Redskins Super Bowl Odds 2010:
24/1
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