Washington Redskins’ Robert Griffin says he needs to run more to help offense
By Bryan Rose
The Washington Redskins are scuffling, as is starting quarterback Robert Griffin.
Looking for an answer to their woes, RGIII thinks he’s found it in his legs.
Griffin recently told ESPN that he feels his legs will be the reason the Redskins find success, and given his prior results, it’s hard to blame him.
Per ESPN:
"“I can run more,” Griffin said.After running nine times in the first two games, none on designed runs or off the zone read-option, Griffin is ready for more.Circumstances can explain why he has fewer runs (he averaged 7.5 carries per game last season). The Redskins (0-2) have been behind by a combined 50-7 in the first half of both games. The defense has allowed a combined 1,023 yards. The offense turned over the ball three times in the season opener and has converted just 5-of-21 third downs.But Griffin’s legs provided an extra dimension last season, something that has been missing. Teams were reluctant to send extra rushers while also playing man coverage, fearing what would happen if the rookie quarterback broke outside the pocket.Through two games, that hasn’t been the case.Griffin said the offense needs energy. His running provides that lift.“I’ll do whatever we have to do to win the game,” he 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.”"
Like so many other multi-dimentional quarterbacks in the league, running has made them who they are. Without that asset in his arrsenal, Griffin has been more or less regulated to a pocket passer, which is not his strength, especially when opposing teams aren’t fearing a run.
It’s a big step for Griffin, coming off his devastating injury, but one he must take.