Signs the Skins Are Building Something

Shanahan/Allen have taken a lot of heat for leading the Skins to a 2nd consecutive losing season. But we have to remember what they are doing: re-building a franchise from the ground up. New management, new coaches, new offensive and defensive systems, new players to fit these systems.

And perhaps most importantly, the Skins are building through the draft and through well-priced free agents who fit the system. We had 10 years of the old way -- trading drafts picks and signing high-priced free agents. It makes sense to give the new way at least 3-4 years before making up our minds.

Fortunately, there are signs that key pieces are falling into place:

1) Kyle Shanahan's passing game is starting to click. No more are the only receiving threats Santana Moss and a tight end. Jabar Gaffney makes big plays. Donte Stallworth makes big plays. Numerous receivers are involved each game.

2) Rookie running backs are looking good. Shanahan/Allen let Clinton Portis go and selected rookies Roy Helu and Evan Royster in the draft. Roy Helu has three consecutive 100-yard rushing games. And Royster is starting to look more comfortable as well, averaging more than 7 yards per carry spelling Helu against the Patriots.

3) The Skins offensive line is playing reasonably well despite major injury problems to starters at center and both tackle positions. Shanahan/Allen require a certain type of lineman for the zone-blocking scheme -- prioritizing speed and agility over size and strength -- and have hand-picked starters and back-ups accordingly. To their credit the offensive line has held up despite losing three key starters.

4) The defense is coming together. Shanahan/Allen have brought in numerous new starters to fit the 3-4 defense -- new linebackers Kerrigan and Riley, new defensive linemen Cofield and Bowen, new cornerbacks/safeties Atogwe, Wilson, and Gomez. Together with stalwarts Fletcher and Orkapo the Skins have a top 10 defense.

If we take the long view, there is indeed reason to be optimistic. Let the young players continue to develop, get this team a starting-caliber QB, and the Skins will be set up to compete with the best for years to come.