“It’s no coincidence that his best work in the red zone came as a rookie when he threw 10 touchdown passes and no interceptions. His legs were a more dangerous weapon as teams didn’t know if he would run or not — and they knew if he did it could burn them. Griffin’s legs must be more of a factor in the red zone — whether its his decision or the coaches. Griffin’s ability to run as a rookie forced defenses to play different coverages in the red zone — 14 of his 21 red-zone runs occurred in the first eight weeks that season, but six of his touchdown passes came in his final seven games. Griffin scored a touchdown, via the draw or zone-read or off a scramble, on five of his first 13 carries — that sort of stat concerns a defense.
“Another stat: Griffin has run the ball a combined 16 times the past two years in the red zone, with one touchdown (coming in the season finale last month). Is that a change in philosophy? Desire by Griffin? Brought on by injuries? Maybe all of the above?
“But it’s not just running, it’s also about developing as a passer and throwing with confidence in this area. That has been too absent for Griffin.
“Kirk Cousins’ numbers were better here this past season: 13-of-22 for 87 yards and six touchdowns for a 107.4 rating. However, there were times when he settled for dumping off rather than extending a play against a three-man rush. But his decisiveness worked well in this area.”
~ John Keim, ESPN.com, RGIII in the red zone.
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