RG3 Gets Vote of Confidence

Photo Credit: Patrick McDermott/Getty Images North America

It has been a rough start for Washington quarterback Robert Griffin III as he makes his comeback from knee surgery.  RG3 vowed to fans that he would be back for Week 1 this season, and while he kept his promise, he has been less than sensational like he was last year.  Griffin is slowly improving, but still looks like a guy coming off knee surgery who did not play one down of preseason (which is exactly what he is).  Many have called for head coach Mike Shanahan to bench Griffin and put in Kirk Cousins until RG3 is back to playing like he did last year.

Someone who knows what it is like to be doubted and come back better than expected: Adrian Peterson.  Peterson tore his ACL and MCL ligaments during Week 16 two years ago and also vowed to be ready by the next season’s Week 1.  Peterson had a very special year last year coming within nine yards of breaking Eric Dickerson’s single season record.  He admits that he takes time and is in Griffin’s corner as he gets stronger every week. “With (Griffin), it’s going to be week by week. The quarterback position is different. He’s not just running the ball — he’s back there going through progressions and trying to find guys and really being on alert. He’ll be OK,” Peterson stated.

While Griffin is getting stronger, his team has dug itself a big hole losing both game so far this season.  Luckily, they play in the NFC East where nobody has gotten off to a good start thus far.  The Redskins play the Detriot Lions this Sunday where Griffin can expect to take some big hits if his offensive line does not protect him. Griffin said he is all in this week and will do what is needed to win the game. “I’ll do whatever we have to do to win the game,” Griffin said. “That’s always been my mindset. I’m the quarterback. If I have to create that energy, if I have to spit a rap line in the huddle, I’ll do it. Whatever it takes to get that energy.”

The mobile quarterback has become less popular this year with defensive coordinators having a full offseason to find ways to keep quarterbacks in the pocket.  Griffin has been just as effective as a pocket passer as a runner which will work in his favor.  His arm will continue to get stronger and his receivers have not lost confidence in him. Week 3 could be when we finally see the sensation that is Robert Griffin III.