Derick E. Hingle-US PRESSWIRE
Washington Redskins’ receiver Pierre Garcon saw limited practice time Thursday due to his ailing right foot. Garcon injured his foot in the second quarter of the Redskins’ 40-32 Week One victory over the New Orleans Saints. He did not return.
Garcon maintains that he will be ready for the September 16th game against the St. Louis Rams. However, he has missed a considerable amount of practice time this week, so it would be hard to justify playing him on Sunday.
This is not good news for Washington. Garcon was signed before the season to become the main receiving target for Redskins’ quarterback Robert Griffin III. The two seemed to form a potent on field bond during the preseason that culminated into the breathtaking offensive display Washington exhibited against the Saints.
If Garcon somehow can’t play on Sunday, the Redskins’ may resort to inserting second year receiver Aldrick Robinson into the starting lineup. Robinson had four catches for 52 yards and a touchdown in the Saints’ game. He also drew a pass interference penalty that led to a one yard touchdown run by running back Alfred Morris in the third quarter.
Luckily, Washington is facing a Rams team who ranked 22nd in the NFL in total defense in 2011. The Rams surrendered 429 yards in their 27-23 Week One loss to the Detroit Lions. However, the St. Louis defense forced three turnovers, which should be a concern for the Redskins. Even though Griffin III parlayed his impressive performance into NFC Player of the Week honors, he is still a rookie. And he can’t be expected to average 320 yards passing per game for the rest of the season.
Nevertheless, Garcon’s presence would go a long way towards building on the success of the Saints’ game, as well as enhancing Griffin III’s confidence. If they can stay healthy and continue their positive contributions, it will be proof positive that their opening day victory in New Orleans wasn’t a fluke.
