The 2012 Washington Redskins season represented a pivotal moment for a franchise searching for identity. Under the leadership of head coach Mike Shanahan, the team entered the year with high expectations following the acquisition of star quarterback Robert Griffin III. The campaign was defined by a dynamic offensive scheme and a complex narrative surrounding player health and team chemistry, ultimately resulting in a playoff berth that masked underlying instability.
Season Overview and Expectations
Coming into 2012, the Redskins were one of the most talked-about teams in the NFL. The previous season had ended with a frustrating loss, and the front office made significant moves to bolster the roster. The centerpiece of this rebuild was the selection of Robert Griffin III with the second overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft. Griffin, a dual-threat quarterback from Baylor, brought an electrifying element to a team that had relied heavily on a running game. The expectation was for a fast-paced, exciting brand of football that could compete with the league's elite.
Robert Griffin III and the Offensive Surge
RGIII lived up to the hype for the majority of the year, showcasing remarkable poise for a rookie and utilizing his speed to create plays outside the pocket. He formed a dynamic duo with running back Alfred Morris, who emerged as a dominant force in the league. The offensive line, while not perfect, provided adequate protection, allowing Griffin to extend plays with his legs. This rushing ability fundamentally changed the team's offensive identity, forcing defenses to account for the threat of a QB run on every snap.
Key Performances and Victories
Washington opened the season strong, winning their first two games against the Jacksonville Jaguars and the New York Jets. A critical early-season victory over the Dallas Cowboys on the road solidified the team's swagger. The Redskins' defense, often underrated, played a crucial role in these wins by generating turnovers and applying consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The team looked poised to make a deep playoff run, thrilling a fanbase that had endured years of frustration.
Injuries and the Downward Spiral
Despite the promising start, the season took a devastating turn during a week 10 game against the Kansas City Chiefs. Robert Griffin III tore his lateral collateral ligament (LCL) and patellar tendon, an injury that ended his season prematurely. This event was a massive blow, not just statistically but emotionally. The team lost its offensive engine and momentum, leading to a significant drop in performance. Backup Kirk Cousins was tasked with leading the offense, a challenge that revealed the depth chart's limitations.
The Playoff Push and Divisional Round Exit
In a remarkable turn of events, Washington secured a spot in the playoffs as a wild card team. The defense carried the team during the final weeks, culminating in a dramatic victory over the Dallas Cowboys in Week 17 to clinch the final berth. The energy in FedExField was palpable as the team advanced to the postseason. However, their journey ended in the Divisional Round against the Seattle Seahawks. A lack of game-plan preparation and an ineffective offensive performance led to a disappointing home loss, ending the season on a sour note.
Legacy and Long-Term Impact
Looking back, the 2012 season is viewed as a missed opportunity. The talent on the roster was undeniable, particularly on defense. However, the severe injury to Griffin III exposed a lack of depth at quarterback and a fragile roster construction. The season highlighted the volatility of a team built around a single player's athleticism. It served as a cautionary tale about sustainability and the importance of a balanced roster, lessons that would shape the franchise's approach in the years to come.
