2007 Washington Redskins season

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2007 Washington Redskins season
Head coach Joe Gibbs
Owner Daniel Snyder
Home field FedExField
Results
Record 9–7
Division place 3rd NFC East
Playoff finish Lost Wild Card Playoffs (Seahawks) 35–14
Redskins' linebacker Rocky McIntosh and London Fletcher versus Green Bay, October 15

The 2007 Washington Redskins season was the team's 75th season. The Redskins finished their regular season with a record of 9–7 and a playoff appearance. This was an improvement over the 2006 season when they went 5–11 and finished last in the NFC East.

Over the course of the season, Washington went 5–3 in home games at FedExField, and 4–4 on the road; they lost 6 of their 7 games by one touchdown or less. After losing to the Seattle Seahawks in the wild card round, Coach Joe Gibbs announced his retirement, thus ending his second stint as head coach of the Redskins. During the season, the tragedy of Sean Taylor's death occurred before a game against the Buffalo Bills. For the first defensive play they fielded 10 men leaving the usual free safety spot empty, honoring Sean Taylor.

Coaching staff

Head coach Joe Gibbs entered his fourth year of his second tenure with the Redskins and was the second-to-last year on his existing contract. Gibbs previously coached the Redskins in the 1981–1992 seasons, during which he had won three Super Bowls with the Redskins. On January 8, 2008, three days after the season ended, Gibbs announced his retirement from the position of Head Coach and Team President; he would remain on board as a special assistant to Dan Snyder.

The Redskins fired former linebackers coach Dale Lindsey and promoted Kirk Olivadotti to take his job. Olivadotti previously helped coach the defensive line and special teams. The Redskins also added Tony Spinosa, Matthew Shea, and Bill Khayat to their coaching staff.

Offseason

Signings

On March 2, the Redskins signed London Fletcher, formerly with the Buffalo Bills, to a 5-year, $25 million contract. The deal also includes a $10.5 million signing bonus.[1]
On March 3, the Redskins signed Fred Smoot, formerly with the Minnesota Vikings, to a 5-year deal. Smoot was drafted by the Redskins in 2001 and signed with the Vikings in 2005.[2]
On March 8, the Redskins signed Ross Tucker, formerly with the Cleveland Browns, to an undisclosed contract.[3]
On March 21, the Redskins signed Jason Fabini, formerly with the Dallas Cowboys, to an undisclosed contract.[4]
On April 5, the Redskins signed David Macklin, formerly with the Arizona Cardinals, to a 1-year contract.[5]
On June 1, the Redskins signed Jason McAddley, formerly with the San Francisco 49ers, to an undisclosed contract.[6]
On August 21, the Redskins signed Randall Godfrey, formerly with the San Diego Chargers, to an undisclosed contract.[7]

Departures

On February 22, the Redskins released safety Troy Vincent.[8]
On February 28, the Redskins released tight end Christian Fauria.[9]
On March 2, Derrick Dockery signed with the Buffalo Bills.[10]
On March 4, Kenny Wright signed with the Cleveland Browns.[11]
On March 7, the Redskins released kicker John Hall.[12]
On March 9, T. J. Duckett agreed to terms with the Detroit Lions.[13]
On March 20, Adam Archuleta was traded to the Chicago Bears in exchange for a conditional 6th round draft pick.[14]
On March 22, the Redskins released wide receiver David Patten.[15]
On April 26, Warrick Holdman signed with the Denver Broncos.
On August 21, the Redskins released linebacker Lemar Marshall.
On September 1, the Redskins released cornerback Ade Jimoh and Defensive end Renaldo Wynn.

Free agents heading into the 2007 season

[16]

Position Player Free agency
tag		 Date signed 2007 team
LS Ethan Albright UFA January 12 Washington Redskins
DT Ryan Boschetti RFA March 12 Washington Redskins
G Derrick Dockery UFA March 2 Buffalo Bills
RB T. J. Duckett UFA March 9 Detroit Lions
S Vernon Fox UFA March 2 Washington Redskins
P Derrick Frost RFA April 2 Washington Redskins
LB Warrick Holdman UFA April 26 Denver Broncos
TE Brian Kozlowski UFA
OT Jim Molinaro RFA March 21 Dallas Cowboys
LB Jeff Posey UFA
OL Mike Pucillo UFA February 28 Washington Redskins
OT Todd Wade UFA March 14 Washington Redskins
CB Kenny Wright UFA March 4 Cleveland Browns
TE Todd Yoder UFA March 13 Washington Redskins

2007 NFL Draft

Round Pick Player Position College
1 6 LaRon Landry Safety LSU
5 143 Dallas Sartz Linebacker USC
6 179 H.B. Blades Linebacker Pittsburgh
6 205 Jordan Palmer Quarterback UTEP
7 216 Tyler Ecker Tight End Michigan

Preseason

Schedule

Week Date Kickoff Opponent Results Stadium Box scores TV
Final score Team record
1 August 11 8:00 p.m. EDT at Tennessee Titans 14–6 1–0 LP Field Box score @ NFL Game Center NFL Network
2 August 18 8:00 p.m. EDT Pittsburgh Steelers 10–12 1–1 FedEx Field Box score @ NFL Game Center CSN Mid-Atlantic
3 August 25 8:00 p.m. EDT Baltimore Ravens 13–7 2–1 FedEx Field Box Score @ NFL Game Center CSN Mid-Atlantic
4 August 30 7:30 p.m. EDT at Jacksonville Jaguars 14–31 2–2 Jacksonville Municipal Stadium Box Score @ NFL Game Center CSN Mid-Atlantic

Week 1: at Tennessee Titans

1 2 3 4 Total
Redskins 0 0 0 14 14
Titans 3 0 0 3 6

at LP Field, Nashville, Tennessee

  • Game time: 8:00 p.m. EST
  • Game weather: 93 °F, hot and clear
  • Game attendance: 69,143

The Redskins started their first preseason against the Tennessee Titans on the road on August 11. The Redskins defense allowed only six points and caused four fumbles, one of which they recovered. Many were surprised to see the Redskins' Quarterback Jason Campbell play the whole 1st half. Campbell wasn't productive, fumbled twice, and didn't score any touchdowns. The Redskins scored two late touchdowns in the last 1:17 to win the game. Marcus Mason scored a 1-yard rushing touchdown, and Byron Westbrook recovered a fumble in the endzone.GameBook

Week 2: vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

1 2 3 4 Total
Steelers 0 3 0 9 12
Redskins 7 0 3 0 10

at FedEx Field, Landover, Maryland

  • Game time: 8:00 p.m. EST
  • Game weather: 79 °F, clear
  • Game attendance: 69,322

In the Redskins' second preseason game, they scored first but not without having a scare first. On their second drive, Quarterbacks Jason Campbell was tackled at the knee while throwing a complete 29-yard pass to tight end Chris Cooley—Campbell hobbled off the field with a bruised knee. Todd Collins took over for Campbell with some early success in the game; he threw a 7-yard touchdown pass to Brandon Lloyd. The Redskins had four goal-line stands, and only allowed 12 points (four field goals). However, their offense struggled to really got back into the swing of things without Campbell; their only other score of the game was a field goal. The Redskins' sustained some injuries during the game: linebacker Marcus Washington suffered a dislocated elbow, and wide receiver Mike Espy ruptured his tendon and subsequently was out for the season due to the injury. GameBook

Week 3: vs. Baltimore Ravens

1 2 3 4 Total
Ravens 0 7 0 0 7
Redskins 3 3 7 0 13

at FedEx Field, Landover, Maryland

  • Game time: 8:00 p.m. EST
  • Game weather: 75 °F, rain
  • Game attendance: 60,080

Due to severe thunderstorms, the Redskins' third preseason game was shortened at the 11:38 mark in the third quarter. The kickoff was delayed over an hour and the game started at 9:12. The Redskins scored first in the game. Shaun Suisham had two field goals. The Redskins' defense looked great the whole night, only allowing the Ravens to a touchdown. In the third quarter, linebacker Dallas Sartz intercepted a Kyle Boller pass and ran it back for a touchdown. The game ended shortly thereafter. GameBook

Week 4: at Jacksonville Jaguars

1 2 3 4 Total
Redskins 7 7 0 0 14
Jaguars 0 10 14 7 31

at Jacksonville Municipal Stadium, Jacksonville, Florida

  • Game time: 7:30 p.m. EST
  • Game weather: 89 °F, chance of rain
  • Game attendance: 63,953

The Redskins started their last preseason game strong. The defense forced a 3-and-out on Jacksonville's first drive and the Redskins scored on their first possession. Jason Campbell finished the game with 5 of 5 completions and a touchdown to Antwaan Randle El. Mark Brunell also threw a touchdown pass to Ryan Hoag. Though the Redskins were leading at halftime, they would not score again for the rest of the game. They eventually gave up three more touchdowns as the Jaguars rallied past the Redskins' backups. GameBook

Regular season

Schedule

Week Date Opponent Time (ET) Result Game site Record
1 September 9, 2007 Miami Dolphins 1:00 W 16–13 (OT) FedEx Field 1–0
2 September 17, 2007 Philadelphia Eagles 8:30 W 20–12 Lincoln Financial Field 2–0
3 September 23, 2007 New York Giants 4:15 L 24–17 FedEx Field 2–1
4 Bye
5 October 7, 2007 Detroit Lions 1:00 W 34–3 FedEx Field 3–1
6 October 14, 2007 Green Bay Packers 1:00 L 17–14 Lambeau Field 3–2
7 October 21, 2007 Arizona Cardinals 1:00 W 21–19 FedEx Field 4–2
8 October 28, 2007 New England Patriots 4:15 L 52–7 Gillette Stadium 4–3
9 November 4, 2007 New York Jets 1:00 W 23–20 The Meadowlands 5–3
10 November 11, 2007 Philadelphia Eagles 1:00 L 33–25 FedEx Field 5–4
11 November 18, 2007 Dallas Cowboys 1:00 L 28–23 Texas Stadium 5–5
12 November 25, 2007 Tampa Bay Buccaneers 1:00 L 19–13 Raymond James Stadium 5–6
13 December 2, 2007 Buffalo Bills 1:00 L 17–16 FedEx Field 5–7
14 December 6, 2007 Chicago Bears 8:15 W 24–16 FedEx Field 6–7
15 December 16, 2007 New York Giants 8:15 W 22–10 Giants Stadium 7–7
16 December 23, 2007 Minnesota Vikings 8:15 W 32–21 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome 8–7
17 December 30, 2007 Dallas Cowboys 4:15 W 27–6 FedEx Field 9–7

Standings

NFC East
W L T PCT DIV CONF PF PA STK
(1) Dallas Cowboys 13 3 0 .813 4–2 10–2 455 325 L1
(5) New York Giants 10 6 0 .625 3–3 7–5 373 351 L1
(6) Washington Redskins 9 7 0 .563 3–3 7–5 334 310 W4
Philadelphia Eagles 8 8 0 .500 2–4 5–7 336 300 W3

Week 1: vs. Miami Dolphins

1 2 3 4 OT Total
Dolphins 0 7 3 3 0 13
Redskins 0 3 7 3 3 16

at FedEx Field, Landover, Maryland

The Redskins scored the first points of the game when Shaun Suisham kicked a 31-yard field goal in the second quarter. On the last play of the 1st half, Trent Green threw a 1-yard pass to Justin Peelle to claim the lead. The Redskins started the third quarter with Clinton Portis running for a 19-yard touchdown. Miami later answered with a field goal to tie the game. In the 4th quarter, both teams scored a field goal and the game went into overtime. Washington won the coin toss. They ran the ball down to Miami's 22-yardline, and Shaun Suisham made a game-winning 39-yard field goal. Clinton Portis finished the game with 17 carries, 98 yards, and a touchdown. The Redskins lost right tackle Jon Jansen for the year when he fractured his ankle in the second quarter. GameBook

Week 2: at Philadelphia Eagles

1 2 3 4 Total
Redskins 3 7 3 7 20
Eagles 0 6 3 3 12

at Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The Redskins' second regular season game, against the Philadelphia Eagles, started off with a Redskins field goal at the end of the first quarter. Less than five minutes into the second quarter, the Eagles scored a field goal to tie the game at 3-3. A few minutes later, the Eagles scored another field goal to take the lead 6-3, the only lead the Eagles would produce for the entirety of the game. Just before halftime, Jason Campbell hit Chris Cooley for a touchdown to end the first half up 10-6.

In the third quarter, the Eagles and Redskins both scored another field goal, bringing the score to 13–9 prior to a Redskins drive that began with 1:15 remaining in the third quarter. That would eventually lead to Clinton Portis running for a six-yard touchdown early in the 4th quarter, bringing the score to 20-9.

The Eagles, with a field goal late in the 4th quarter, were down by 8 as they drove down to the Redskins 9-yard line. The Eagles' drive stalled and they turned the ball over on downs with an incomplete pass. With possession on their own 9-yard line, the Redskins ran out the clock on their way to a victory. Final Score: 20-12.

Week 3: vs. New York Giants

1 2 3 4 Total
Giants 3 0 7 14 24
Redskins 7 10 0 0 17

at FedEx Field, Landover, Maryland

In the first quarter, the Redskins trailed early as The New York Giants kicker Lawrence Tynes got a 34-yard field goal. The Redskins took the lead with running back Clinton Portis getting a 1-yard touchdown run. In the second quarter, quarter back Jason Campbell completed an 8-yard touchdown pass to tight end Chris Cooley, while kicker Shaun Suisham made a 47-yard field goal. In the third quarter, Giants running back Reuben Droughns made a 1-yard touchdown run for the only score that quarter. In the fourth quarter, the Giants took the lead with Droughns getting another 1-yard touchdown run, while quarter back Eli Manning completed a 33-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Plaxico Burress. The Redskins managed to get a late-game drive, but it ended up with running back Ladell Betts getting taken down at the Giant's 1-yard line on 4th & Goal.

With the loss, the Redskins would fall to 2–1 entering their bye week.

Week 5: vs. Detroit Lions

1 2 3 4 Total
Lions 0 0 3 0 3
Redskins 0 14 2 18 34

at FedEx Field, Landover, Maryland

  • Game weather: 89 °F (Sunny)
  • Game attendance: 88,944
  • Referee: Ed Hochuli
  • TV announcers (Fox): Sam Rosen (play-by-play) and Tim Ryan (color commentator)

Coming off their bye week, the Redskins stayed at home for a Week 5 duel with the Detroit Lions. The Lions at that time had never beaten the Redskins in Washington, D.C. Though the first quarter was scoreless, the Washington Redskins began what would be a 14-play 80-yard drive in the second quarter that finished with a 7-yard touchdown pass from Jason Campbell to Chris Cooley. The Redskins next possession began at their own 17-yard line: in summary, an 83-yard drive in 7 plays, culminating in a touchdown for Mike Sellers in a 1-yard rushing play. The first half ended with the Redskins up 14–0. With 2:27 left in the third quarter, the Detroit Lions scored their first and only points with a 39-yard field goal to bring the score to 14–3. The Redskins next drive was only 9 yards and resulted in a punt, but put the Detroit Lions on their own 8-yard line. After a rushing play that resulted in a loss of 1 yard, the Washington Redskins sacked Detroit Lions quarter back Jon Kitna in the end zone for a safety, increasing the Redskin's lead to 13 with a score of 16–3 to end the third quarter. After a fourth-quarter fumble by Redskins' running back Clinton Portis, the Detroit Lions took possession at their own 10-yard line. The Lion's drove 26 yards before punting to James Thrash, who returned the punt for 62 yards and fumbled towards the endzone, where Rock Cartwright recovered the ball on the 3-yard line. After a Redskin's five-yard penalty, Washington Redskins quarter back Jason Campbell threw an 8-yard touchdown pass to Mike Sellers and then converted a 2-point attempt with a pass to Chris Cooley bringing the score to 24–3. Detroit's next possession ended with an interception by safety Sean Taylor for a 35-yard return which would later help the Redskins finish a drive with a field goal. With less than 3 minutes in the fourth quarter, the Detroit Lion's began a drive at their own 43-yard line. After gaining 14 yards, Jon Kitna threw an interception to cornerback Carlos Rogers, whom returned it 61-yards for a touchdown for the final score of the game.

With the win, the Redskins improved to 3–1.

Week 6: at Green Bay Packers

1 2 3 4 Total
Redskins 7 7 0 0 14
Packers 7 0 10 0 17

at Lambeau Field, Green Bay, Wisconsin

  • Game weather: 47 °F (rain)
  • Game attendance: 70,761
  • Referee: Terry McAulay
  • TV announcers (Fox): Kenny Albert (play-by-play) and Troy Aikman (color commentator)

Coming off their dominating home win over the Lions, the Redskins flew to Lambeau Field for a Week 6 inter-conference duel with the Green Bay Packers. In the first quarter, Washington trailed early as Packers running back DeShawn Wynn managed to get a 3-yard touchdown run. The Redskins would respond with quarterback Jason Campbell getting a 6-yard touchdown run. In the second quarter, the Redskins took the lead as Campbell completed a 14-yard touchdown pass to tight end Chris Cooley for the only score in the quarter.

In the third quarter, Washington struggled as Packers' kicker Mason Crosby got a 37-yard field goal, while cornerback Charles Woodson returned a fumble 57 yards for a touchdown. Afterwards, in the fourth quarter, the Packers held on for the win.

With the loss, the Redskins fell to 3–2.

Week 7: vs. Arizona Cardinals

1 2 3 4 Total
Cardinals 0 6 0 13 19
Redskins 7 7 7 0 21

at FedEx Field, Landover, Maryland

  • Game weather: 75 °F (sunny)
  • Game attendance: 85,640
  • Referee: Jeff Triplette
  • TV announcers (Fox): Sam Rosen (play-by-play) and Tim Ryan (color commentator)

Trying to rebound from their road loss to the Packers, the Redskins went home for a Week 7 match-up against the Arizona Cardinals. In the first quarter, Washington took the early lead with running back Clinton Portis getting a 2-yard touchdown run for the only score of the quarter. In the second quarter, the Redskins increased its lead with linebacker London Fletcher returning an interception 27 yards for a touchdown. The Cardinals would get a touchdown as quarterback Kurt Warner completed a 2-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Anquan Boldin (with a failed PAT).

In the third quarter, Washington increased its lead with Portis getting a 1-yard touchdown run for the only score of the quarter. In the fourth quarter, the Cardinals managed to get within striking distance as quarterback Warner and wide receiver Boldin hooked up on a 10-yard touchdown pass. Afterwards, the Cardinals got within two points with quarterback Tim Rattay completing a 1-yard touchdown pass to tight end Leonard Pope (with a failed 2-point conversion). Later, the Cardinals managed to recover its onside kick and managed to set up a game-winning 55-yard field goal. Fortunately for the Redskins: the Cardinals' kick missed wide left—securing the victory.

With the win, the Redskins improved to 4–2.

Week 8: at New England Patriots

1 2 3 4 Total
Redskins 0 0 0 7 7
Patriots 7 17 14 14 52

at Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts

  • Game time: 4:15 p.m. EST
  • Game weather: 55 °F, clear & windy
  • Game attendance: 68,756
  • Referee: Larry Nemmers
  • TV announcers (Fox): Kenny Albert (play-by-play) and Troy Aikman (color commentator)

Coming off The Redskins' home win over the Cardinals, they traveled to Gillette Stadium for a Week 8 inter-conference duel with the undefeated New England Patriots. In the first quarter, Washington trailed early as New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady got a 3-yard touchdown run for the only score of the period. In the second quarter, the Redskins continued to fall behind as Brady completed a 2-yard touchdown pass to linebacker Mike Vrabel, kicker Stephen Gostkowski nailed a 36-yard field goal, and Brady pulled a "Marino"—by doing a fake spike and then completing a 6-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Randy Moss.

In the third quarter, Washington's deficit increased when Brady got a 2-yard touchdown run, along with linebacker Rosevelt Colvin returning a fumble 11 yards for a touchdown. In the fourth quarter, the Patriots finished their job with Brady completing a 2-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Wes Welker, along with back-up quarterback Matt Cassel getting a 15-yard touchdown run. Afterwards, the Redskins got their only score of the game when quarterback Jason Campbell completed a 15-yard touchdown pass to tight end Chris Cooley.

With the loss, not only did the Redskins fall to 4–3, but the Redskins allowed the most points in a single game since 1961 (53 points to the New York Giants).

Week 9: at New York Jets

1 2 3 4 OT Total
Redskins 3 6 3 8 3 23
Jets 10 7 0 3 0 20

at The Meadowlands, East Rutherford, New Jersey

Coming off a humiliating road loss to the Patriots, the Redskins traveled to The Meadowlands for a Week 9 inter-conference duel with the New York Jets. In the first quarter, Washington immediately trailed as Jets running back/return specialist Leon Washington returned the opening kickoff 86 yards for a touchdown. The Redskins managed to respond with kicker Shaun Suisham's successful try at a 46-yard field goal, yet the Jets answered with their kicker Mike Nugent getting a 29-yard field goal. In the second quarter, the Jets increased their lead with quarterback Kellen Clemens completing a 1-yard touchdown pass to tight end Joe Kowalewski. The Redskins ended the half with Suisham getting a 40-yard and a 22-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, the Redskins drew closer with Suisham kicking a 40-yard field goal for the only score of the quarter. In the fourth quarter, the Redskins took the lead with running back Clinton Portis getting a 1-yard touchdown run, along with quarterback Jason Campbell's 2-point conversion pass to wide receiver Antwaan Randle El. The Jets managed to force an overtime with Nugent getting a 30-yard field goal. In overtime, the Redskins managed to come out on top as Suisham nailed the game-winning 46-yard field goal.

With the win, the Redskins improved to 5–3. The victory also improved Head Coach Joe Gibbs's overtime record to 10–3.

Week 10: vs. Philadelphia Eagles

1 2 3 4 Total
Eagles 7 0 6 20 33
Redskins 0 12 3 10 25

at FedEx Field, Landover, Maryland

  • Game time: 1:00 p.m. EST
  • Game weather: 49 °F (Sunny)
  • Game attendance: 90,218
  • Referee: John Parry
  • TV announcers (Fox): Kenny Albert (play-by-play), Daryl Johnston (color commentator) and Tony Siragusa (sideline reporter)

Coming off their overtime road win over the Jets, the Redskins went home for an NFC East rematch with the Philadelphia Eagles. In the first quarter, the Redskins trailed early as Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb completed a 4-yard touchdown pass to running back Brian Westbrook for the only score in the quarter. In the second quarter, the Redskins took the lead when quarterback Jason Campbell hooked up with wide receiver James Thrash on a 4-yard touchdown pass (with a failed PAT) and a 12-yard touchdown pass (with a failed 2-point conversion).

In the third quarter, the Redskins increased their lead with kicker Shaun Suisham getting a 23-yard field goal. Philadelphia managed to draw close with McNabb completing an 8-yard touchdown pass to tight end L.J. Smith (with a failed 2-point conversion). In the fourth quarter, the Redskins padded its lead with Campbell completing a 6-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Keenan McCardell, yet the Eagles answered with McNabb's 45-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Reggie Brown. The Redskins tried to pull away as Suisham nailed a 21-yard field goal. However, Philadelphia sealed the win with Westbrook turning a 57-yard reception and a 10-yard run into touchdowns.

With the loss, the Redskins fell to 5–4. This would turn out to be Sean Taylor's last game that he would ever play in: He sustained an injury that kept him from playing in the last two games before his death.

Week 11: at Dallas Cowboys

1 2 3 4 Total
Redskins 7 3 3 10 23
Cowboys 0 7 7 14 28

at Texas Stadium, Irving, Texas

Hoping to rebound from their divisional home loss to the Eagles, the Redskins traveled to Texas Stadium for a Week 11 NFC East showdown with the Dallas Cowboys. In the first quarter, the Redskins struck first when quarterback Jason Campbell completed a 19-yard touchdown pass to tight end Chris Cooley for the only score in the quarter. In the second quarter, the Cowboys tied the game with quarterback Tony Romo completing a 4-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Terrell Owens. Afterwards, the Redskins would take the lead into halftime as kicker Shaun Suisham managed to get a 45-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, the Cowboys took the lead as Romo hooked up with Owens again for a 31-yard touchdown pass. the Redskins' response would be Suisham kicking a 39-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, the Cowboys added onto their lead as Romo and Owens hooked up for a third time on a 46-yard touchdown pass, the Redskins' answer; Suisham kicking a 44-yard field goal. Unfortunately for the Redskins, the Cowboys managed to put the game out of reach with Romo and Owens hooking up for the fourth time on a 52-yard touchdown pass. The Redskins' only response would Campbell's 5-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Santana Moss.

With the loss, the Redskins fell to 5–5.

Week 12: at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

1 2 3 4 Total
Redskins 0 3 7 3 13
Buccaneers 10 9 0 0 19

at Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Florida

Trying to snap a two-game losing skid, the Redskins traveled to Raymond James Stadium for a Week 12 battled with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. In the first quarter, the Redskins trailed early as Buccaneers running back Earnest Graham got a 1-yard touchdown run, along with kicker Matt Bryant getting a 35-yard field goal. In the second quarter, the Redskins continued to struggle as Bryant gave the Buccaneers a 27-yard field goal and a 48-yard field goal. The Redskins would get its only score of the half with kicker Shaun Suisham getting a 43-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, the Redskins started to mount a comeback as quarterback Jason Campbell completed a 39-yard touchdown pass to tight end Chris Cooley for the only score of the quarter. In the fourth quarter, the Redskins managed to creep closer as Suisham nailed a 38-yard field goal. However, the Buccaneers' defense held on to secure the win.

With their third-straight loss, the Redskins fell to 5–6.

In the game, the Redskins were plagued with 6 turnovers (2 interceptions and 4 lost fumbles), which was the most the Redskins had ever given up in a single game since playing the Giants in 2004 (the Redskins had given up 7 turnovers in that game).

Chris Cooley had a total of 24 touchdown receptions since 2004 (the most by an NFC tight end).

Death of Sean Taylor

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Further information: Sean Taylor

On November 27, 2007, the Redskins lost Sean Taylor to a gunshot wound inflicted the day before. At the time, he was at home resting a knee injury that had kept him off the field for the two games prior to the incident. On November 26, 2007, at 1:45 a.m., Taylor was shot in the upper leg by an armed intruder at his Palmetto Bay home, critically wounding him by severing his femoral artery. His girlfriend tried to call the police from the house line, but experienced difficulty calling. Initial reports suggested that the line had been cut, though Police investigation subsequently refuted that. Taylor's girlfriend proceeded to call 911 from her cell phone, which delayed response time.

Taylor was airlifted to the Ryder Trauma Center at Jackson Memorial Hospital where he underwent surgery. He emerged from surgery about 12:30 P.M. However, he had lost a significant amount of blood and remained unconscious and in a coma. Taylor's doctors speculated that he had suffered brain damage due to the blood loss. An unnamed Redskins source reported that Taylor's heart stopped twice during the emergency surgery. Washington running back Clinton Portis and owner Dan Snyder were at the hospital where Taylor was cared for from the time they heard about the incident until his death. Portis was a junior on the University of Miami's National Championship team in 2001 while Taylor was a freshman.

In the early morning of November 27, 2007, Taylor died at the hospital. The news was released to the media by Richard Sharpstein (lawyer), who learned the news from Taylor's father around 5:30 a.m.

In 2004, when Gibbs made his comeback official, he had chosen Taylor, the fifth player selected in the 2004 NFL Draft, as his first round pick. Taylor, with agent Drew Rosenhaus, signed a seven-year, $18 million contract with the team – a contract which had 4 more years left when he died. Taylor was coming off a Pro Bowl season in 2006, and was the leading vote getter for NFC Free Safety in 2007 when his untimely death occurred. Taylor was posthumously elected to the starting Free Safety position for the NFC.

Week 13: vs. Buffalo Bills

1 2 3 4 Total
Bills 0 2 6 9 17
Redskins 3 6 7 0 16

at FedEx Field, Landover, Maryland

Just days after teammate Sean Taylor died of his injuries, the Redskins tried to snap a three-game skid at home against the Buffalo Bills. Before the kickoff, the stadium held a memorial service for Sean Taylor, as well as players across the NFL wearing a #21 sticker on the back of their helmets. For the team's first defensive play, they would come out with only 10 players on the field, as their honor to Taylor.

In the first quarter, the Redskins took the early lead as kicker Shaun Suisham managed to get a 27-yard field goal for the only score of the quarter. In the second quarter, the Redskins increased their lead as Suisham kicked a 28-yard field goal. Later, the Bills got on the board as linebacker Angelo Crowell sacked quarterback Jason Campbell in his end zone for a safety. The Redskins would end the half as Suisham kicked a 33-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, the Bills drew closer as kicker Rian Lindell managed to get a 38-yard field goal. Later, the Redskins responded with running back Clinton Portis getting a 3-yard touchdown run. Afterwards, the Bills ended the half as Lindell kicked a 43-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, the Bills drew closer as Lindell kicked a 24-yarder, along with a 33-yard field goal. Later, the Bills got into position to kick a 51-yard field goal. They got the kick, but Head Coach Joe Gibbs called timeout. When the Bills tried to kick again, Gibbs called timeout again, but unintentionally got his team an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty which not only moved the Bills 15 yards closer to their end zone but reduced Lindell's field goal attempt to 36 yards. Afterwards, the Bills ended the game with Lindell nailing the game-winning 36-yard field goal.

With their fourth-straight loss, Washington fell to 5–7.

Week 14: vs. Chicago Bears

1 2 3 4 Total
Bears 0 0 10 6 16
Redskins 0 7 7 10 24

at FedEx Field, Landover, Maryland

Coming off a home loss to the Bills (along with attending Sean Taylor's funeral in Florida), the Redskins played at home for their Week 13 Thursday night inter-conference game with the Chicago Bears. After a scoreless first quarter, the Redskins scored first when quarterback Todd Collins completed a 21-yard touchdown pass to tight end Todd Yoder for the only score of the second quarter.

In the third quarter, Washington's fullback Mike Sellers scored on a 1-yard touchdown run. The Bears would reply with kicker Robbie Gould making a 30-yard field goal, and later quarterback Brian Griese completed a 17-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Bernard Berrian. In the fourth quarter, the Redskins responded with kicker Shaun Suisham kicking a 23-yard field goal. Later, Chicago made it closer as Gould kicked a 22-yard field goal. Afterwards, the Redskins increased their lead with Collins completing a 16-yard touchdown pass to running back Ladell Betts. The Bears would answer with Gould making a 21-yard field goal, but their onside kick failed, which preserved a Washington win.

With the win, the Redskins improved to 6–7.

Starting quarterback Jason Campbell (10/16 for 100 yards) left the game in the second quarter with a dislocated left knee cap.

Week 15: at New York Giants

1 2 3 4 Total
Redskins 3 13 6 0 22
Giants 0 3 7 0 10

at Giants Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey

Coming off their home win over the Chicago Bears, the Redskins traveled to Giants Stadium for a Week 15 Sunday night NFC East rematch with the New York Giants. Quarterback Todd Collins would be making his first start since 1997.

In the first quarter, the Redskins drew first blood when the kicker Shaun Suisham nailed a 49-yard field goal for the only score of the quarter. In the second quarter, the Redskins increased its lead with Suisham kicking a 31-yard field goal, and to add to it after with running back Ladell Betts getting a 14-yard touchdown run. The Giants would get on the board with kicker Lawrence Tynes getting a 35-yard field goal. The Redskins would end the half with Suisham nailing a 28-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, the Redskins continued its dominance with running back Clinton Portis gets a 5-yard touchdown run. The Giants tried to rally as quarterback Eli Manning completed a 19-yard touchdown pass to tight end Kevin Boss. Afterwards, the Redskins' defense (along with the wind) held the Giants in check.

With the win, the Redskins improved to 7–7.

Week 16: at Minnesota Vikings

1 2 3 4 Total
Redskins 9 13 3 7 32
Vikings 0 0 7 14 21

at Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, Minneapolis, Minnesota

  • Game time: 8:15 PM
  • Game weather: Indoors, (17 degrees Fahrenheit with flurries outside)
  • Game attendance: 63,634
  • Referee: Bill Leavy
  • TV announcers: Al Michaels (play-by-play), John Madden (color commentator), & Andrea Kremer (sideline reporter)

This game was a must-win for the Redskins in order to maintain their playoff hopes. During the first quarter, the Redskins appeared to be in the position to score after Fred Smoot intercepted Tarvaris Jackson and returned the interception deep into Viking territory. However, the Redskins' offense was unable to score a touchdown. Mike Sellers appeared to score a touchdown on 4th and goal, but a replay challenge by Brad Childress nullified the touchdown and gave the Vikings the ball. However, the Redskins immediately tackled Tony Richardson in the end zone for a safety. Following the subsequent free kick, the Redskins marched down the field and took a 9–0 lead on a 33-yard pass from Todd Collins to Chris Cooley.

In the 2nd quarter, the Redskins expanded their lead to 16–0 on a 32-yard pass from Todd Collins to Santana Moss. Later in the quarter, the Redskins took a 22–0 lead when Clinton Portis took a handoff from Todd Collins and threw a 15-yard touchdown pass to Antwaan Randle-El in the end zone. Although the Redskins were not successful on the 2-point conversion attempt, they had a commanding lead at this point in the game, and the previously rowdy Metrodome crowd was very disheartened and silent at this point.

The Redskins stretched their lead to 25–0 on a 26-yard field goal by Shaun Suisham. Later in the quarter, the Vikings got the crowd back in the game when Tarvaris Jackson threw a 2-yard touchdown pass to Jim Kleinhasser, cutting the Redskins' lead to 25–7.

The Vikings further cut into the Redskins' lead around the 10-minute mark of the fourth quarter when Tarvaris Jackson scored on a 6-yard run, making the lead 25–14. The Metrodome crowd began sensing a comeback as momentum appeared to turn in the Vikings' favor. This came to a head mid-way through the fourth quarter when the Redskins appeared to complete a long pass to Santana Moss. Though initially ruled a catch by a referee on the sideline, the call was considered questionable by the game's announcers since Moss had to drag his toes to stay in-bounds as he caught the pass. Sensing an impending challenge by Childress, the Redskins raced down the field to snap the ball—since a play cannot be challenged after the ball has been snapped for the next play. However, the snap was fumbled and it appeared to be Vikings' ball after it was recovered by Vikings' defensive tackle Kevin Williams.

As the Vikings rushed onto the field to take over on offense, coach Joe Gibbs challenged that Minnesota had twelve defensive players on the field at the time the Redskins snapped the ball and fumbled it. After review, Gibbs' challenge was upheld and the call on the field was reversed—a five-yard penalty was assessed to the Vikings for having too many men on the field and the Redskins maintained possession. After the Redskins had retain possession of the football they had eventually scored on a 13-yard touchdown run by Clinton Portis, making the score 32–14 capping off a 75-yard drive. Although Tarvaris Jackson later scored on a 1-yard touchdown run to make the score 32–21, the Vikings were unable to score again, and the Redskins emerged with a victory. This enabled them to ensure that they will be able to control their own "destiny" to make the playoffs.

Week 17: vs. Dallas Cowboys

1 2 3 4 Total
Cowboys 0 3 0 3 6
Redskins 7 6 7 7 27

at FedEx Field, Landover, Maryland

  • Game time: 4:15 PM
  • Game weather: 39 °F (Rain)
  • Game attendance: 90,910
  • Referee: Scott Green
  • TV announcers: Joe Buck (play by play) and Troy Aikman (color commentator)

Needing a win (or losses by the Vikings & Saints) to secure a playoff berth, the Redskins closed out the regular season at home with an NFC East rematch with the Dallas Cowboys. In the first quarter, the Redskins got off to a fast start with running back Clinton Portis getting a 23-yard touchdown run for the only score of the quarter. In the second quarter, the Redskins increased its lead with kicker Shaun Suisham getting a 46-yard field goal. The Cowboys would respond with kicker Nick Folk getting a 37-yard field goal. Afterwards, the Redskins closed out the half with Suisham nailing a 21-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, the Redskins increased its lead with Portis getting a 1-yard touchdown run for the only score of the quarter. In the fourth quarter, the Redskins closed out their divisional rival with quarterback Todd Collins completing a 42-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Santana Moss. The Cowboys finished their game with Folk getting a 30-yard field goal.

With the win, not only did the Redskins close out the regular season at 9–7, but they also clinched the NFC's #6 seed and/or 2nd wild card playoff spot.

Playoffs

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Main article: NFL playoffs, 2007-08

Schedule

Playoff Round Date Opponent (seed) Result Record Game Site NFL Recap
Wild Card January 5, 2008 Seattle Seahawks (3) L, 35–14 9–8 Qwest Field Recap

NFC: Seattle Seahawks 35, Washington Redskins 14

1 2 3 4 Total
Redskins 0 0 0 14 14
Seahawks 7 3 3 22 35

at Qwest Field, Seattle, Washington

  • Scoring
    • 1st Quarter
    • 2nd Quarter
      • SEA – Josh Brown 50 yd FG, 8:58. Seahawks 10–0. Drive: 5 plays, 33 yards, 1:42.
    • 3rd Quarter
      • SEA – Josh Brown 33 yd FG, 4:30. Seahawks 13–0. Drive: 8 plays, 52 yards, 4:24.
    • 4th Quarter

Injuries

Current as of December 17, 2007:

Player Position Status Injury
Brandon Lloyd Wide Receiver Injured Reserve Broken collarbone
Randy Thomas Offensive Guard Injured Reserve Elbow, Triceps
Nehemiah Broughton Running Back Injured Reserve Knee
Steven Harris Wide Receiver Injured Reserve Knee
Mike Espy Wide Receiver Injured Reserve Knee
Derrick Blaylock Running Back Injured Reserve Heel
Jon Jansen Offensive Tackle Injured Reserve Ankle
Carlos Rogers Cornerback Injured Reserve Knee
Rocky McIntosh Linebacker Injured Reserve Knee

Statistics

Through Week 16

Passing

Player G QB Rat. Comp. Att. Pct. Yards TD INT Long Sack
Jason Campbell 13 77.6 250 417 60.0 2,700 12 11 54 21
Todd Collins 4 106.4 67 105 63.8 888 5 0 54 7
Antwaan Randle El 16 83.3 1 2 50.0 19 0 0 19 0
Clinton Portis 16 158.3 1 1 100.0 15 1 0 15 0

Rushing

Player G Att. Yards Y/G Avg. Long TD Fum FumL
Clinton Portis 16 325 1,262 78.9 3.9 32 11
Ladell Betts 16 93 335 20.9 3.6 20 1
Jason Campbell 13 36 185 14.2 5.1 29 1 13 8
Mike Sellers 12 23 75 6.3 3.3 15 2 1 0
Santana Moss 12 3 13 1.1 4.3 11 0 2 2
Rock Cartwright 13 2 0 0.0 0.0 1 0 0 0
Todd Collins 2 3 −3 −1.5 −1.0 −1 0 1 1
Antwaan Randle El 13 4 −3 −0.2 −0.8 1 0 1 0

Receiving

Player G Rec. Yards Y/G Avg. Long TD
Chris Cooley 16 66 786 49.1 11.9 39 8
Antwaan Randle El 16 51 728 45.5 14.3 54 1
Santana Moss 13 61 808 56.7 13.2 49 3
Clinton Portis 14 47 389 22.4 8.3 54 0
Keenan McCardell 9 22 256 28.4 11.6 32 1
Ladell Betts 14 21 174 12.1 8.3 28 1
Mike Sellers 12 17 117 9.5 6.9 24 1
James Thrash 10 9 107 11.9 12.6 31 2
Todd Yoder 14 7 97 6.9 13.9 30 1
Reche Caldwell 6 9 74 12.3 8.2 15 0
Brandon Lloyd 8 2 14 2.0 7.0 9 0

Kicking

Player G 0–19 20–29 30–39 40–49 50+ FGM FGA Pct. Long XPM XPA
Shaun Suisham 16 0–0 10–10 8–10 10–13 1–2 29 35 82.9 50 29 30

Punting

Player G Punt Yards Avg. In20 In10 TB Long
Derrick Frost 16 75 3,072 41.0 23 6 7 64

Defense

Player G Tackles Asst. TotalTK Sack YdL INT Yards TD FumR
London Fletcher 14 94 27 121 0 0 3 36 1 0
Rocky McIntosh 14 68 19 87 3.0 10 0 0 0 0
LaRon Landry 14 58 29 87 1.5 12 0 0 0 0
Shawn Springs 14 51 4 55 0 0 2 55 0 0
Andre Carter 14 38 12 50 10.5 65 0 0 0 0
Fred Smoot 11 38 5 43 0 0 0 0 0 0
Sean Taylor 9 32 10 42 0 0 5 98 0 0
Pierson Prioleau 14 30 14 44 0 0 0 0 0 0
Anthony Montgomery 14 28 8 36 0.5 4 0 0 0 0
Leigh Torrence 14 28 8 36 0 0 0 0 0 0
Reed Doughty 14 28 17 45 0.5 4 0 0 0 0
Marcus Washington 10 27 12 34 5.0 22 0 0 0 0
Cornelius Griffin 14 26 14 40 2.5 16 0 0 0 0
Phillip Daniels 13 22 12 34 2.5 10 0 0 0 0
Khary Campbell 14 21 5 26 0 0 0 0 0 0
Carlos Rogers 7 20 5 25 0 0 1 61 1 0
Demetric Evans 14 19 5 24 1.0 9 0 0 0 0
Randall Godfrey 9 13 3 16 0 0 0 0 0 0
H.B. Blades 14 9 3 12 0 0 0 0 0 0
Vernon Fox 12 7 0 7 0 0 0 0 0 0
Chris Wilson 14 7 2 9 2.0 20 0 0 0 0
Kedric Golston 13 7 4 11 1.0 0 0 0 0 0
David Macklin 4 6 0 6 0 0 0 0 0 0
Rock Cartwright 13 6 3 9 0 0 0 0 0 0
John Eubanks 6 6 1 7 0 0 0 0 0 0
Clinton Portis 14 5 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 0
James Thrash 10 5 1 6 0 0 0 0 0 0
Anthony Mix 3 4 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 0
Shaun Suisham 14 3 1 4 0 0 0 0 0 0
Chris Samuels 14 3 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0
Jason Fabini 14 2 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0
Matt Sinclair 2 2 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0
Lorenzo Alexander 11 2 2 4 0 0 0 0 0 0
Casey Rabach 13 2 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0
Santana Moss 12 2 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0
Pete Kendall 14 2 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0
Mike Sellers 12 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
Todd Yoder 14 1 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0
Chris Cooley 14 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
Antwaan Randle El 13 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
Mike Pucillo 11 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
Todd Wade 10 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0

References

  1. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.[dead link]
  2. ↑ CB Fred Smoot Returning to Redskins
  3. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.
  4. ↑ Redskins Add Veteran OT Fabini
  5. ↑ Macklin agrees to 1-year deal with Redskins
  6. ↑ Redskins Sign WR Jason McAddley
  7. ↑ Redskins Add Veteran Linebacker Godfrey
  8. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.[dead link]
  9. ↑ Redskins Re-Sign OL Pucillo, Cut TE Fauria
  10. ↑ Bills Sign Dockery to Seven-Year Deal
  11. ↑ Browns, DB Kenny Wright Sign 3-Year Deal
  12. ↑ Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found.[dead link]
  13. ↑ Duckett, Lions agree to terms
  14. ↑ Bears Trade for Adam Archuleta
  15. ↑ Patten Released
  16. ↑ RFA: Restricted free-agent, UFA: Unrestricted free-agent, ERFA: Exclusive rights free agent


Preceded by Washington Redskins Succeeded by
2008 Washington Redskins season
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