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Redskins: Five takeaways from Washington’s season-ending shutout

By Ian Cummings

LANDOVER, MD - DECEMBER 30: Josh Johnson #8 of the Washington Redskins walks off the field after losing to the Philadelphia Eagles at FedExField on December 30, 2018 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images)
LANDOVER, MD - DECEMBER 30: Josh Johnson #8 of the Washington Redskins walks off the field after losing to the Philadelphia Eagles at FedExField on December 30, 2018 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images) /
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LANDOVER, MD – DECEMBER 30: Head coach Jay Gruden of the Washington Redskins looks on during the first half against the Philadelphia Eagles at FedExField on December 30, 2018 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images)
LANDOVER, MD – DECEMBER 30: Head coach Jay Gruden of the Washington Redskins looks on during the first half against the Philadelphia Eagles at FedExField on December 30, 2018 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images) /

No. 2 – In a vacuum, Redskins head coach Jay Gruden’s resume doesn’t stack up

Jay Gruden has never been perfect, but there were times this season when it seemed like the franchise might have a future with him leading the charge. Now, after the team’s late-season collapse, it’s becoming apparent that a change could be for the better.

It’s important to acknowledge that Jay Gruden has had many factors working against him in D.C. For two years in a row, his team has been one of the most injured teams in the league. Working with Dan Snyder and Bruce Allen can’t be easy, and since 2015, Gruden has at least kept the Redskins in the playoff conversation. His players openly respect his leadership style. That much can be admired.

Past that, however, the redeeming qualities fade. Gruden’s play calling grew increasingly predictable and outdated this season. His practices have frequently been criticized as “laid back” and too relaxed. The results reflect this, to a degree, as the full-team collapses and embarrassing performances under Gruden come far too often for anyone’s comfort. Such a game came yesterday, when Gruden’s team was shut out 24-0 at home against the Eagles.

In a vacuum, Jay Gruden’s resume doesn’t stack up. He was good enough to lift the Redskins from 4-12, but is he the kind of coach who can elevate an average team to the playoffs? He’s given us enough evidence, so that we can comfortably say “no”.

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