Monday Morning Quarterback: Redskins vs. Falcons

A lot happened at the Redskins game this weekend, and it brought out the best and
worst in Washington fans. The best is represented in the outpouring of concern and
well wishes for quarterback
Robert Griffin III, who in the third quarter was hit hard by the Atlanta Falcons
Sean Weatherspoon, resulting in what was described as a “mild” concussion. He did not return to the
field. The worst was the risible frustration aimed at kicker
Billy Cundiff after he missed a 31-yard field goal, adding to his three missed goals last week. There’s
been no mercy for him on Twitter. Also, unfortunately, the 24-17 loss was the Redskins’
eighth straight home defeat.

The Griffin episode provides a notable look at how the new-era NFL handles head injuries,
even when deemed mild. Any concussion symptoms mean the player cannot return to the
game. At first the Redskins said Griffin appeared “shaken up” by the hit, but coach

Mike Shanahan said he suspected a concussion when Griffin appeared disoriented, not knowing the
quarter or the score. According to the
Washington Post’s
Mark Maske, the NFL plans to look into what the Redskins said about the injury and when. Griffin
was examined by a neurologist at the stadium and then sent home, and will be given
further, independent tests this week. If he gets an all-clear, he’ll play this Sunday
against the Minnesota Vikings.

On Twitter, the thread of most RG3 comments was concern for his future well-being,
with some fans even worried he could get killed. But he’s a tough cat in a tough game,
and maybe needs a little old-time “hog” action on the offensive line. Still, it’s
not always easy to protect a quarterback with Griffin’s speed and agility, and who
doesn’t play a pocket game. For his part, he tweeted Sunday evening: “Thank you for
all the prayers & support I’m okay and I think after all the testing I will play next
week.”

Here’s a random selection of tweets about the game:

Carol Ross Joynt