The Long and Short of the End-Around

Some media members and fans have questioned Coach Jim Zorn's decision to call an end-around option pass for Antwaan Randle El on the second play of the season opener against the Giants. On the Redskins' first play from scrimmage, running back Clinton Portis gained 34 yards on a rush behind left tackle Chris Samuels and left guard Derrick Dockery. On the next play, the Giants' secondary did a great job in coverage against wide receiver Santana Moss and tight end Chris Cooley. Randle El held the ball too long and was sacked for an 11-yard loss, resulting in second and 21 from New York's 48-yard line. The Redskins ran two more plays, failed to gain another first down and punted. They did not have another possession in the first quarter of the 23-17 loss. Despite what some people think, Zorn called the right play for that moment in the game,