Redskins vs. Titans, NFL preseason: Backup QB controversy brewing in Washington

The Redskins are missing Robert Griffin III, but quarterback play wasn’t a problem as they picked up a 22-21 victory over the Tennessee Titans to open the preseason.

by Scott Schroeder

Aug 9, 2013, 2:57 PM UTC

Frederick Breedon

The Washington Redskins picked up one of the more exciting possible versions of a preseason victory on Thursday night, downing the Tennessee Titans with a late converted two-point conversion. It wasn't indicative of how the Redskins will look this year considering Robert Griffin III was still on the bench, but the team's backup quarterbacks all made cases for themselves getting reps this upcoming season.

Kirk Cousins completed six of his seven pass attempts en route to 52 yards and a touchdown, Rex Grossman completed 10 of his 21 passes for 119 yards and a score and Pat White threw for 31 yards on eight attempts. White's ability showed through more so with his legs, however, as the former West Virginia back carried the ball for 33 yards and a rushing touchdown.

The latter’s performance gained the respect of Jeff Rhodes from Hogs Haven, too, considering White has been considered more training-camp fodder than potential playmaker for the Redskins.

His completion percentage wasn't great because he had a couple of drops. But everything he threw was on the money and thrown with authority. He had a couple of long runs, followed by a beautiful scrambling touchdown throw that was negated when Lance Lewis fumbled right at the goal line. Fortunately, there was roughing on the play and when Pat got another chance, he scored on an 8-yard scramble.

Then, rather than kick the extra point and go to overtime, they let Pat go for two and he converted after, again, scrambling away from the blitz. I've been arguing all offseason that Pat is more than camp fodder and that he's a better passer than people give him credit for. He made me look brilliant tonight.

It’ll be interesting to see what the Redskins decide to do with their four quarterbacks, considering teams typically keep two or three at the max, but White has obviously gained some fans with his play early in the preseason.