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| Robert Griffin III |
by Jenna Brown (Contributing Editor)
Washington football and its fans have been on a roller coaster over the last few seasons. In 2012, fans had a reason to be optimistic about their team for the first time in years. Washington mortgaged their future, when they traded a host of draft picks and young talent, for the number 2 pick in the 2012 NFL draft.
That pick turned into Robert Griffin III, and a promising season for Washington which saw RGIII win the offensive rookie of the year award and the team making a run to the playoffs. Unfortunately, that is the best that things have been since the drafting of Griffin. He suffered an injury in his first playoff game, and hasn’t been the same since returning to action.
Since then, turmoil has surrounded the franchise. Questions about Griffin’s ability as a leader, to get along with coaches and teammates, and the constant state of mediocrity have cast a shadow over the Washington football franchise. However, Griffin clearly possesses the skill set to be a successful quarterback, and the team has made moves to shore up problem areas, giving fans hope that they may have a successful team to watch again in the near future. With increased ways to watch, even fans from out of town are excited about the upcoming season.
Season Outlook:
Much of Washington’s success this season, rides on the performance of quarterback Robert Griffin III. After a sterling rookie year, an injury riddled second season, and a lackluster third season, fans are looking at this year as the year he makes good on his potential. Washington used their first round pick to bolster their offensive line, with Brandon Scherff from Iowa, which should help Griffin deliver the ball more confidently.
Adding to this hope, is the existence of explosive receivers DeSean Jackson and Pierre Garcon. Also, running back Alfred Morris has emerged as a true feature back. With another year of progress for Griffin, and the ability to settle into Jay Gruden's offense, Washington should be much improved on the offensive side of the ball.
Washington should also be much improved on defense as well. While they have hired a new defensive coordinator in Joe Barry, they have also added some much needed help to assist in a seamless transition. Free safety Dashon Goldson and Cornerback Chris Culliver come to one of the worst secondaries in the league last season. Their presence should help them keep the ball out of the end zone, and get the ball back to Griffin faster and more often.
How You Can Watch:
If you are lucky enough to live in the D.C. area, you have access to both local telecasts of the games, and the ability to attend the games in person. Fans are hoping that this season has a lot of exciting matchups to offer.
First, any game against an NFC East opponent is usually well worth the price of admission. While the Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles are expected to be the front runners, this is one of the most unpredictable divisions in football. If Washington’s moves pay off, they could very well find themselves atop the division and in position for the playoffs. In addition, Washington will play host to non-divisional opponents New Orleans and Tampa Bay; giving fans the opportunity to watch an elite quarterback in Drew Brees or Jameis Winston, who many believe is the future of the NFL.
Although, with the allegiance that fans feel to certain teams, Washington fans don’t just reside in the D.C. area. For fans that fall outside of the viewing area, they have to get creative. It can be difficult both to find the games on TV and to afford the service necessary to see them. Fortunately, fans can save with DirecTV and allow themselves the opportunity to watch any out of town game they want.
In addition, this allows fans multiple ways to watch their team. Not only can you watch any game from the comfort of your home, but also from anywhere using a laptop, tablet, or smartphone. Washington fans won’t want to miss any of the action, especially if the offseason moves and patience with RGIII end up paying off. DirecTV is making it easier than ever to follow your favorite team, even from all the way across the country.
