Redskins RB Alfred Morris has a strong preseason debut
There was some concern that Washington Redskins running back Alfred Morris would struggle as the team transitioned to Bill Callahan's new blocking scheme. After a strong offseason, Morris put those doubts to rest during the Redskins' preseason opener against the Browns on Thursday night.
Morris started the game and played the first two opening series with the first team offense, as expected. Through two series, Morris carried the ball eight times for 42 yards through just one quarter of action. Morris looked like he was in midseason form showing off his trademark vision and smooth running style in-and-out of cuts.
Morris' night was highlighted by an 18-yard burst off the right side of the line on a 4th-and-1 on the Redskins' final drive with the first team offense. Morris took the ball off tackle, avoided the initial penetration and then bounced the run to the outside. Wide receiver Pierre Garcon helped spring the run with an excellent block to seal the edge. You can watch the big run here.
The Redskins' offensive line blocked well throughout the course of the night, especially when the Redskins ran the ball to the right side. The preseason debut showed an inconsistent performance form the Redskins' first team passing offense, but the first team running game looked great on the back of Morris and the revamped offensive line.