Redskins at. Bills, preseason opener: Tuesday, 7 p.m. TV: CSN; Radio: 980 AM, 94.3 FM, 92.7 FM
1. Will Robert Griffin III throw accurately and on time? Griffin in his first 11 days of NFL training camp was inconsistent with his accuracy, and too often he held the ball too long in the pocket. Good timing and sound decision-making would indicate he is ascending the rookie learning curve.
2. How will the reserve offensive linemen perform? A lack of quality line depth handcuffed the Redskins last season, and some of those same reserves have struggled with technique in camp. LG Maurice Hurt and RT Tyler Polumbus could assuage concerns by playing well.
3. Will Evan Royster or Roy Helu Jr. distinguish himself in the running back competition? Royster and Helu made positive contributions as rookies, and they could be asked to carry a greater load this year because of Tim Hightower’s ongoing recovery from knee surgery. Pass protection has been a concern for both of them in camp.
4. Does Chris Cooley really look like his old self? Coaches and Cooley himself say he is running much better than he did before a left knee injury cost him most of 2011. That bodes well for his push to earn a roster spot, but let’s see how he holds up against full contact.
5. Can the Redskins’ new safeties tackle? Tackling is such an important responsibility for a safety, but we haven’t seen new safeties Brandon Meriweather or Madieu Williams hit. If they take good angles and wrap up well, expectations for the secondary will improve.
• Rich Campbell can be reached at rcampbell@washingtontimes.com.
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