Sunday Smorgasbord 10-15

• In the preseason it didn't really matter. There was cause to be concerned after the first two games but now after six games I think it is safe to say that the much ballyhooed 700 page playbook of Al Saunders isn't working after the Redskins lost to Tennesse 25-22 today. Something clearly needs to change as the Skins fell to 2-4 by giving the Titans their first win this season. This isn’t a "bench Mark Brunell, start Jason Campbell" rant, but I wouldn't be too opposed to that. One thing is for certain, the play calling has left a lot to be desired recently. I saw only one quarter of action today and I just do not understand what the play calling is all about. Somebody also needs to figure out what is wrong with the defense. Up 14-3 the Skins defense should have been able to shut down a rookie quarterback, but didn't.
• As depressing as the Redskins loss today was, Maryland's 28-26 victory over Virginia is being described as euphoric. (This of course means I need to throw some cold water on it...) In a role reversal, the Terps scored 21 points in the fourth quarter and erased a double digit lead. It is nice to see the Terps turning the tables. However, it should be remembered that Virginia hardly qualifies as a quality opponent. The Cavaliers have lost at home to Western Michigan and needed overtime to beat Wyoming by one point. While the Terps are relieved to get a win, they need to avoid cockiness and remember that they still have a long way to go.
• Adding to the local sports misery by making it an 0 for 3 professional sports weekend; D.C. United lost 3-2 to Chicago earlier tonight in a game that meant nothing to either team. D.C. was successful in avoiding taking any red cards and didn't pick any yellows that would have led to suspension for the start of the playoffs next weekend. D.C. finishes the regular season at 15-7-10 and moves on to play the New York Red Bulls in a home-and-home aggregate score first round playoff series.
• Could somebody please explain this to me? I am no longer allowed to bring my own soda into the Phone Booth for a Caps game, but last night some clowns in 409 were allowed to bring in a drum? Huh?
• And this week, the Caps will play their first set of three games in four nights. First they host the Florida Panthers on Wednesday night at the Phone Booth. They will then have a return bout with the Atlanta Thrashers in Atlanta on Thursday night. The Caps are back home on Saturday night facing the Tampa Bay Lightning. All games will start at 7:05 pm. The Terps hold homecoming on Saturday against Chuck The Chest's North Carolina State Wolfpack at noon. D.C. United starts their quest for their 5th MLS Cup Title on Saturday in the Joisey swamps vs. the New York Red Bulls at 2 pm. The Redskins visit Payton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts next Sunday at 4:15 pm.
• As always, please send all comments, questions, criticisms, questions, suggestions, and Halloween Costume ideas to "capsnut" over at gmail dot com.