Washington Redskins QB Robert Griffin III Displays Pocket Presence, Arm Strength in Exciting NFL Debut

By Kris Knox
Senior Writer

After months of anticipation, the RG3 era in Washington is officially underway.

Fans eagerly awaiting the NFL debut of rookie quarterback Robert Griffin III finally got their wish on Thursday night, as the Redskins battled the Buffalo Bills in Week 1 preseason action.

Griffin’s first in-game experience with the Redskins did not come without a few hiccups, but once the highly-touted Baylor product finally got into a rhythm, he did not disappoint.

Griffin’s first pass attempt fell incomplete and resulted in a three-and-out on the game’s opening possession. On the Redskins’ next drive, a botched handoff exchange with running back Evan Royster resulted in a Washington turnover and netted Griffin a fumble on the stat sheet.

However, everything seemed to click for Griffin on the Redskins’ next possession and the world got its first glimpse of the type of brilliance he hopes to carry to the pro level.

Griffin went three of four on the drive and completed passes of 20, 18 and 20 yards—all to offseason acquisition Pierre Garcon. The last pass, a perfectly executed quick screen, went for a score and capped a fairly impressive debut for the former Heisman Trophy winner.

Any fans hoping to witness one of Griffin’s signature runs were sorely disappointed, as the rookie signal-caller did his damage from the pocket—an overlooked aspect of Thursday’s game that the Redskins have to be pleased with.

Washington has spent the offseason raving about Griffin’s pocket awareness and arm strength, and in his first in-game action of the preseason, Griffin delivered on both counts.

Griffin finished the game four of six for 70 yards, one touchdown, one fumble and a 145.8 passer rating.

Washington’s other quarterbacks did not fare nearly as well. Fellow rookie Kirk Cousins completed just nine of 22 passes for 74 yards and an interception while last year’s starter, Rex Grossman, completed a mere two passes for 22 yards on 10 attempts.

While the regular season is still a month away, it is safe to say that any questions regarding Griffin’s ability to give the Redskins their best chance to win can be laid to rest. Barring injury, it looks like RG3 is here to stay.

Follow Kris on Twitter: @Kris_Knox

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