Redskins 2012 Season: Top Highlights & Moments

Hey guys! Let's dive into the unforgettable 2012 season of the Washington Redskins! This season was a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with incredible plays, nail-biting finishes, and the emergence of a true star. If you're a Redskins fan, or just a football enthusiast, you're in for a treat as we relive some of the most exhilarating moments. So, buckle up and let's get started!

The Spark of Hope: Pre-Season Buzz

Before the season even began, there was a palpable buzz surrounding the Redskins. The team had drafted Robert Griffin III (RGIII), a Heisman Trophy winner, and the hopes of the franchise rested squarely on his shoulders. The pre-season games offered glimpses of the potential RGIII possessed – his speed, his arm strength, and his undeniable charisma. Fans were dreaming of a return to glory, and the air was thick with anticipation. The pre-season was not just about RGIII, though. The coaching staff, led by Mike Shanahan, was working tirelessly to integrate new players and refine the offensive and defensive schemes. The focus was on building a cohesive unit, a team that could compete week in and week out. There were concerns, of course. The offensive line needed to gel, and the defense had question marks in the secondary. But the optimism surrounding RGIII overshadowed any lingering doubts. The feeling was that with a dynamic quarterback under center, anything was possible. The pre-season also served as a platform for other players to shine. Guys like Alfred Morris, a relatively unknown sixth-round pick, started to show flashes of the talent that would make him a key part of the Redskins' success. The pre-season is always a time of hope and promise, but for the Redskins in 2012, it felt like something truly special was brewing. The team had a star in the making, and the fans were ready to rally behind him. The regular season couldn't come soon enough.

The Rise of RGIII: Early Season Fireworks

The early part of the 2012 season was nothing short of electrifying. RGIII burst onto the scene, showcasing his dual-threat ability and captivating fans with his dazzling performances. In his NFL debut against the New Orleans Saints, RGIII threw for 320 yards and two touchdowns, leading the Redskins to a stunning victory. It was a performance that immediately silenced any doubters and solidified his status as a rising star. His ability to make plays with his arm and his legs was something the NFL hadn't seen in a while, and defenses struggled to contain him. But it wasn't just RGIII's individual brilliance that fueled the Redskins' early success. The entire offense seemed to click, with Alfred Morris emerging as a powerful running threat and the receiving corps making crucial catches. The offensive line, too, played a vital role, giving RGIII the time he needed to make plays. The Redskins' early-season success wasn't just about offense, though. The defense, led by veterans like London Fletcher, stepped up its game, making key stops and forcing turnovers. The team's overall chemistry was evident, and the Redskins looked like a team on a mission. There were bumps in the road, of course. The Redskins faced tough opponents and experienced some close losses. But even in defeat, the team showed resilience and a never-say-die attitude. The early part of the season established RGIII as a legitimate MVP candidate and ignited a passion in the Redskins fan base that hadn't been seen in years. The Redskins were back, and they were ready to compete.

The Undrafted Hero: Alfred Morris Emerges

While RGIII was the headliner, another key figure emerged during the 2012 season: Alfred Morris. An undrafted free agent, Morris quickly became a fan favorite with his hard-nosed running style and infectious enthusiasm. He provided a crucial balance to the Redskins' offense, taking pressure off RGIII and adding a dimension that defenses had to respect. Morris's story is truly remarkable. Undrafted out of Florida Atlantic University, he wasn't expected to make much of an impact in the NFL. But he defied the odds, impressing the coaching staff with his work ethic and his natural running ability. He quickly earned the starting running back job and never looked back. What made Morris so effective? He had excellent vision, a knack for finding the holes in the defense, and the power to break tackles. He wasn't the fastest or the most elusive back, but he was incredibly determined and always seemed to fall forward for extra yardage. His running style was reminiscent of some of the great power backs in NFL history. But Morris was more than just a talented player. He was also a humble and charismatic teammate, a guy who always put the team first. His infectious enthusiasm rubbed off on his teammates, and he quickly became a leader in the locker room. His story resonated with fans, who appreciated his blue-collar work ethic and his underdog status. The emergence of Alfred Morris was one of the biggest surprises of the 2012 season, and he played a crucial role in the Redskins' success. He proved that talent and hard work can overcome any obstacle, and he became an inspiration to aspiring football players everywhere.

The Streak: Seven Straight Wins

Midway through the season, the Redskins caught fire, embarking on a remarkable seven-game winning streak. This streak was the defining moment of their season, propelling them to the top of the NFC East standings and securing their first playoff berth since 2007. The winning streak was a testament to the team's resilience and their ability to perform under pressure. Each week brought a new challenge, but the Redskins found ways to overcome adversity and emerge victorious. The streak wasn't built on luck, though. It was a product of hard work, dedication, and a strong belief in the team's potential. The coaching staff made key adjustments, the players executed the game plan flawlessly, and the fans provided unwavering support. During the streak, RGIII continued to shine, making highlight-reel plays and leading the offense with poise and confidence. Alfred Morris pounded the ball on the ground, wearing down defenses and controlling the clock. The defense stepped up its game, forcing turnovers and making crucial stops in key situations. The Redskins' seven-game winning streak was more than just a string of victories; it was a statement. It showed the NFL that the Redskins were a force to be reckoned with, a team capable of competing with the best in the league. It rekindled the passion of the Redskins fan base, who had endured years of mediocrity. The streak was a moment of redemption, a sign that the Redskins were finally on the right track. It was a period of pure joy for Redskins fans, a time when anything seemed possible.

The Injury Scare: RGIII's Knee

However, the season wasn't without its challenges. In a late-season game against the Baltimore Ravens, RGIII suffered a knee injury that threatened to derail the Redskins' playoff hopes. The entire city held its breath as RGIII limped off the field, his future uncertain. The injury cast a pall over the team's success and raised questions about RGIII's long-term health. Would he be able to recover in time for the playoffs? Would he ever be the same dynamic player? The Redskins' coaching staff faced a difficult decision. Should they shut RGIII down for the rest of the season to protect his future, or should they let him play through the injury and risk further damage? The decision weighed heavily on everyone involved, from the coaches and players to the fans. In the end, RGIII opted to play through the injury, a decision that was both courageous and controversial. He showed incredible grit and determination, but there were concerns that he was pushing himself too hard. The injury served as a reminder of the fragility of football players and the risks they take every time they step onto the field. It also highlighted the importance of protecting young quarterbacks, especially those with RGIII's unique skillset. The injury scare was a sobering moment for the Redskins and their fans. It served as a reminder that success in the NFL is never guaranteed, and that injuries can derail even the most promising seasons. It added a layer of uncertainty to the Redskins' playoff run and left fans wondering what the future held for RGIII and the team.

Playoff Heartbreak: Seattle Seahawks

The Redskins made it to the playoffs as NFC East champions, but their Super Bowl dreams were dashed in the first round by the Seattle Seahawks. The game was a hard-fought battle, but the Redskins ultimately fell short, losing 24-14. The loss was particularly painful because RGIII re-injured his knee during the game, casting further doubt on his future. The playoff game against the Seahawks was a microcosm of the Redskins' season: moments of brilliance mixed with moments of frustration. The team showed flashes of the potential that had made them so exciting to watch, but they also made critical mistakes that cost them the game. RGIII played with his usual passion and intensity, but he was clearly hampered by his knee injury. He made some incredible throws, but he also struggled to move around in the pocket and was ultimately forced to leave the game. The loss was a crushing blow to the Redskins and their fans. It marked the end of a season that had been filled with so much promise, and it raised questions about the team's future. Would RGIII ever fully recover from his injury? Could the Redskins build on their success and contend for a Super Bowl title? The playoff loss to the Seahawks was a painful reminder of the challenges that come with playing in the NFL. It underscored the importance of staying healthy and the need to make the most of every opportunity. It left Redskins fans with a sense of disappointment, but also with a sense of hope that the team could learn from its mistakes and come back even stronger in the future.

Legacy of 2012: A Season to Remember

Despite the disappointing end, the 2012 Washington Redskins season will forever be etched in the memories of fans. It was a season of resurgence, hope, and excitement. The emergence of RGIII and Alfred Morris, the seven-game winning streak, and the team's first playoff appearance in years – these are moments that Redskins fans will cherish for a lifetime. The 2012 season was more than just a collection of games and statistics; it was a cultural phenomenon. It brought the city of Washington D.C. together, united by a shared passion for their football team. It reignited the passion of Redskins fans who had endured years of disappointment. It created memories that will be passed down from generation to generation. Of course, the season also came with its share of heartbreak. RGIII's injury cast a shadow over the team's success and raised questions about what might have been. The playoff loss to the Seahawks was a bitter pill to swallow. But even in defeat, the 2012 Redskins showed the heart and determination that made them so special. The season served as a reminder that success in the NFL is a journey, not a destination. It's a process of building a team, overcoming adversity, and striving for excellence. The 2012 Redskins may not have achieved all of their goals, but they laid the foundation for a brighter future. They gave their fans a reason to believe, and they reminded everyone that the Redskins are a team to be reckoned with. The legacy of the 2012 season extends beyond the football field. It's a story of hope, resilience, and the power of sport to unite a community. It's a reminder that even in the face of adversity, anything is possible.

So there you have it, guys! The 2012 Washington Redskins season – a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with incredible highs and heartbreaking lows. It was a season that will forever hold a special place in the hearts of Redskins fans. What were your favorite moments from the 2012 season? Let me know in the comments below!