Portis battling injuries as Redskins run game stalls

One of the most surprising aspects of Washington's loss to Detroit was Redskins coach Jim Zorn's gameplan. 

Zorn decided to attack Detroit aggressively through the air, almost ignoring the running game early.  In the first half, the Redskins had zero rushing yards on only five attempts.

The entire Washington offense improved in the second half, and Clinton Portis finished with 42 yards on 12 attempts.  But Zorn's lack of attempts early could be a telling sign that he's not confident in his offensive line and running back, who put together a top-ten rushing attack last year.

Washington's line appears to be getting old all at once, and has failed to push the pile in key short-yardage situations.

Portis may also be starting to show his age after a heavy workload in the first half of last season.  (He had a steep decline late last season.)  Portis was questionable on the injury report for Detroit with an ankle injury, and was unavailable for two drives in the fourth quarter because he got kicked in the calf. 

Portis refrained from speaking to the media after the loss, but it's clear the Washington running game is showing signs of attrition. 

After averaging 105 yards from scrimmage per game during 2007-2008, Portis is averaging 69 yards per game this season.

The Redskins have the time and talent to improve -- the next three games are not difficult -- but there are many reasons to believe the best days for their running game are in the past.



(profootballtalk.com)