Preseason Preview II: IND vs WAS

The NFL preseason kicks off Sunday night, and we’re beyond excited. Each day this week we’ll run a look at the scouting points for the Hall of Fame Game featuring the Indianapolis Colts and Washington Redskins.

Redskins Defense

DE: Much has been made of the trade to acquire Jason Taylor, and we expect to see #55 lined up early at right defensive end. Opposite Taylor will be Andre Carter, who quietly had a good year in 2007. It is notable that the Redskins have three defensive ends on IR; Philip Daniels, Alex Buzbee and Erasmus James.

The big story will be Taylor and his debut in a Redskins jersey.

DT: One of the more unheralded players in the NFC East is Cornelius Griffin, and we can’t wait to see him face off with Colts rookies Mike Pollak and Steve Justice. Anthony Montgomery and Kedric Gholston will also test the Colts interior offensive line. The Redskins will need a good year from their starters at DT to keep up with the East.

OLB: There is talent here with Rocky McIntosh at WILL and Marcus Washington lining up at SAM. Depth, however, is an issue. The preseason will be important for backups like Rian Wallace and Khary Cambell, two players fighting for roster spots.

MLB: London Fletcher is the starter as of week one, but H.B. Blades will push him hard in camp. Blades is a clone of Fletcher, but maybe a bit more athletic. We like him as the MIKE of the future in the Redskins defense.

CB: Shawn Springs will start at left cornerback, but Carlos Rogers may not play after off-season surgery. If Rogers is unable to go, Fred Smoot will step in on the right side. Justin Tryon and Leigh Torrance are two players who we like to make plays in the preseason and earn valuable experience.

S: One thing is certain, LaRon Landry is the real deal. The hard-hitting playmaker left his mark on the East in ‘07. Reed Doughty returns next to him, and do not expect much of a competition behind him. We do, however, love the depth at free safety behind Landry. Chris Horton and Stuart Schweigert will both help on special teams and in dime situations.