The Washington Redskins, a historic franchise in the NFL, went through significant changes in 2013, particularly with their coaching staff. This article will delve deep into the roles, achievements, struggles, and overall impact of the 2013 coaching staff on the team’s performance during that season. We will explore profiles, comparisons, and cultural connections that made this period memorable for fans and players alike.
The 2013 Coaching Staff Overview
In 2013, the Washington Redskins underwent a tumultuous season. Their coaching staff played a crucial role in navigating the challenges they faced. Below is an overview of key coaching personnel from that year:
| Coach Name | Position | Years with Redskins | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mike Shanahan | Head Coach | 2010-2013 | Led team to NFC East title in 2012 |
| Kyle Shanahan | Offensive Coordinator | 2010-2013 | Innovated offensive schemes |
| Jim Haslett | Defensive Coordinator | 2010-2013 | Led a top-ranked defense in 2012 |
| Chris Foerster | Offensive Line Coach | 2010-2013 | Developed strong offensive line dynamics |
| Bob Slowik | Defensive Backs Coach | 2013 | Focused on youth development |
Head Coach: Mike Shanahan
Background and Philosophy
Mike Shanahan, a two-time Super Bowl-winning coach, was brought in to revive a franchise that had fallen on hard times. His coaching philosophy centered around a powerful running game and a dynamic passing attack. Shanahan was known for his ability to adapt and implement innovative schemes that suited the talents of his players.
Achievements with the Redskins
During his tenure, Shanahan led the team to the playoffs in 2012. However, the subsequent season posed a stark contrast as the team struggled with injuries and performance issues. His experience and strategic insight were key, but the season ultimately ended in disappointment.
Key Challenges Faced
Despite his success, Shanahan faced various challenges in 2013:
- Injuries to key players, including quarterback Robert Griffin III
- Struggles within the locker room and player morale
- Inconsistent performance against divisional rivals
Offensive Coordinator: Kyle Shanahan
Impact on Offensive Strategy
Kyle Shanahan, Mike’s son, was instrumental in developing the Redskins’ offensive strategy. His innovative play calling and strategic mind were pivotal in the 2012 season, where the team ranked among the best in the league for rushing yards.
Innovative Play Calling
Kyle’s offensive schemes focused on maximizing the strengths of dynamic players like Robert Griffin III and Alfred Morris. His emphasis on zone-blocking schemes and play-action passes became hallmark features of the Redskins’ offense.
Fallout and Adjustment in 2013
The 2013 season proved challenging as opposing defenses adjusted to Kyle’s strategies, leading to decreased offensive production. Additionally, the struggles of the offensive line affected the overall effectiveness of their game plan.
Defensive Coordinator: Jim Haslett
Defensive Strategy and Performance
Jim Haslett brought a wealth of experience to the defensive side of the ball. Under his guidance, the Redskins had one of the league’s top defenses in 2012, but in 2013, the performance waned significantly.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Haslett’s approach relied heavily on aggressive blitzing and man-to-man coverage. However, this aggressive style sometimes left the secondary vulnerable, contributing to significant yardage losses throughout the season.
The Role of Player Development
One of Haslett’s achievements in 2013 was his focus on developing young talent, particularly among the defensive backs. However, the transition from collegiate play to the NFL presented challenges.
Special Teams Coaching
Special teams play a crucial role in football, often determining field position and providing momentum shifts. The Redskins’ special teams unit in 2013 faced ups and downs, largely influenced by coaching decisions.
Coaching Philosophy and Execution
The special teams unit struggled with performance consistency, leading to missed opportunities in pivotal moments. The coaching staff had to reassess strategies and player assignments as the season progressed.
Coaching Staff Comparisons
Strengths and Weaknesses Table
| Coaching Staff | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|
| Mike Shanahan | Experience, Strategic Depth | Player Management Issues |
| Kyle Shanahan | Creative Offense, Adaptability | Inconsistency in Execution |
| Jim Haslett | Strong Defensive Schemes | Vulnerability in Coverage |
Cultural Connections and Fan Engagement
The impact of the coaching staff extended beyond the field, influencing fan engagement and local culture. The Washington Redskins’ storied history and dedicated fan base were tested during this challenging season.
Community Involvement
Despite the struggles on the field, initiatives like youth football camps and community outreach continued to engage fans. The coaching staff emphasized the importance of local relationships and community involvement.
Pros and Cons of the 2013 Coaching Staff
Pros
- Had a mix of experienced veterans and young, innovative coaches.
- Strong community focus helped maintain fan support.
- Established a foundation for future growth and development.
Cons
- Inconsistent performance led to a disappointing season.
- Coaching decisions often questioned by analysts and fans alike.
- Struggles with player injuries and morale issues.
Conclusion
The 2013 Washington Redskins coaching staff faced numerous challenges, ultimately culminating in a disappointing season. While there were notable moments of innovation and success, the overall performance did not meet the expectations set after a promising 2012 campaign.
As we reflect on this era, it’s essential to understand how coaching philosophies, team dynamics, and community support intertwine to shape a sports franchise. The lessons learned and experiences gained in 2013 would contribute to the evolution of the Redskins moving forward.
FAQs about the 2013 Washington Redskins Coaching Staff
What were the main challenges faced by the Redskins coaching staff in 2013?
The coaching staff faced challenges such as injuries to key players, struggles in maintaining locker room morale, and inconsistent performance against rivals.
Who was the head coach of the Washington Redskins in 2013?
Mike Shanahan served as the head coach of the Washington Redskins during the 2013 season.
How did Kyle Shanahan’s offensive strategies impact the team?
Kyle Shanahan’s offensive strategies led to a successful 2012 season, but in 2013, teams adjusted to his play-calling, resulting in a drop in offensive productivity.
What was Jim Haslett’s defensive approach during the 2013 season?
Jim Haslett employed an aggressive defensive approach, focusing on blitzing and man-to-man coverage, but faced challenges with coverage vulnerabilities.
How did the coaching staff engage with the local community?
The coaching staff was involved in various community initiatives, including youth football camps and local outreach programs, helping maintain fan support.
Further Reading and Resources
For those looking to explore more about the NFL, coaching strategies, or the history of the Washington Redskins, consider visiting the following resources: