Redskins studs and duds from Week 15 loss to Philadelphia
By Ian Cummings
Stud No. 4 – Redskins OC Kevin O’Connell
It felt like the offense leveled up on Sunday. In previous weeks, the unit was young, unaccomplished, and devoid of achievements and established success. But against the Eagles, more and more players began to produce, and as a result, they were with Doug Pederson’s squad to the final whistle.
Credit has to be given to the entire offensive coaching staff, including Bill Callahan, but it was offensive coordinator Kevin O’Connell who called a truly impressive game from the sideline. The passing concepts used got receivers open, and allowed Haskins to get into a rhythm and get rid of the ball on time, and O’Connell also implemented some creative option looks, as evidenced below.
Nice play design by KOC and #Redskins staff on 3rd and 1. Pitch option from under center. Haskins does an excellent job reading the unblocked defender and faking the pitch before keeping it and taking it up the field for a first down. pic.twitter.com/BvYkhomyTd
— Mark Bullock (@MarkBullockNFL) December 15, 2019
The Redskins might not be ready to grant Kevin O’Connell the increased role of a head coach, but they need to do their due diligence and analyze his traits, as they close in on the time to make a decision. O’Connell has been likened to Sean McVay by some who’ve interacted with both, and he could be a sneakily attractive in-house coaching candidate for 2020 and beyond. His pre-existing relationship with Haskins gives him a boon, and if he can keep the offense running hot in Weeks 16 and 17, then he can bolster his resume even more.