Sure it was only the first preseason game of the year, but the Redskins running game looked strong in a 23-6 win over the Patriots that saw a collection of Washington backs gallop through the New England defense. The team compiled 177 yards on the ground with an average of four yards-per-carry, solid numbers for a team transitioning from the Mike Shanahan zone-read run game to a more smash-mouth system with new coach Jay Gruden.
"From first guys to fourth quarter, it was pretty impressive," running back Roy Helu said. "I think our running game and the way we got off the line, I really liked that."
Alfred Morris and Helu ran well for the starting offense, though the opening drive stalled in the red zone. But the depth at the running back position looked strong, especially in the second half when rookies Silas Redd and Lache Seastrunk impressed. Evan Royster and Chris Thompson got some reps for Washington at running back as well, and while both did fine, they did not impress like Redd and Seastrunk. That's worth noting because Royster could be on the roster bubble and Thompson has a chance to beat out Helu for the third down job, according to beat writers.
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