Reports from Washington DC Media that they have been receiving e-mail from numerous fans calling for the Redskins to bench starting quarterback Donovan McNabb and start backup quarterback Rex Grossman. Apparently the thinking is that Grossman has a better understanding of Mike Shanahan's offense because he worked under Kyle Shanahan when he was with the Houston Texans. McNabb is struggling with the offense as he has played in the West Coast-style his entire pro career.
Reid rightly points out that EVEN GROSSMAN probably wouldn't promote himself over McNabb. Grossman may have a better feeling for the offense but he does not have McNabb's physical tools or playmaking ability. In his 12th year McNabb is still more talented than most of the current quarterbacks in the NFL. Many quarterbacks know where balls should go on each play. Getting it there while being pursued by large, violent men is the hard part. McNabb has made plays (anyone remember some of his throws late in the overtime victory against Green Bay?) to help Washington win that Grossman simply is not capable of making.
Grossman helped the Chicago Bears reach the Super Bowl in his best season as a starter in 2006 (3,193 yards passing, 23 touchdowns, 20 interceptions), but he failed to keep the job and no longer is considered a starting-caliber NFL quarterback. That is not intended as a criticism, only a stated fact.
The Shanahans have modified some things in the offense in an effort to help make McNabb more comfortable, according to people familiar with the situation, and they're also working with his mechanics. Obviously, Mike Shanahan wants more from McNabb, who is still working with a one-year deal. The jury is out on whether McNabb will get a mult-year deal to stay in Washington but he is the team's best bet for 2010.
I had to post this story just for the sheer humor it brings.
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