Shanahan Was Right To Play RGIII

By Mo Johnson

The blogosphere (and real world as well) is full of Monday Morning quartbacks criticizing Mike Shanahan for playing Rober Griffin (RG3) or (RGIII) Sunday Night in the Skins loss to the Seahawks. Especially for playing him in the second half after it was clear the leg was bothering him and inhibiting his play.

Some are comparing it to the way the Washington Nationals handled their star pitcher, Steven Strasburg, pulling him after a set number of innings.

But the comparison is inapt to say the least. Strasburg's injury had a well-settled protocol which the Nationals simply followed.

In RGIII's case -- he did not have a serious injury, rather the sort of sprain players routinely play through. RGIII said he was ok and insisted on playing. In fact, RGIII said he'd be made if he didn't play. RG3 had carried the team for the most part this year and there just wanted a big reason to pull him. He assured the coach that he would carry the Skins to victory. If RG3 told me that, I'd play him. On what basis would you not?

Look, I'm a life-long Skins fan and was at the game. In fact, that last fumble sat on the ground so long I told my seatmates I was headed down to fall on it myself. I wish, in retrospect, Shanahan had pulled RGIII. Heck, I wish he'd pulled the center who made all those crappy snaps.

But hindsight is always 20/20. In this case, Shanahan was right to play Robert Griffin and he doesn't deserve the criticism he's getting.

Now, next year, after this experience, I think the decision will be easier that when RGIII is hurt, pull him until he's better. But, that will be a different situation.