Redskins the ugliest show on Earth

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By Ryan O'Halloran

Jim Zorn strode to a podium following a Washington Redskins practice Oct. 21 and answered a variety of questions for nearly 15 minutes.

But in a perfect example of how bizarre things have gotten during a disappointing 2-6 first half, one subject wasn't covered: Zorn's explanation for sticking with Jason Campbell four days after benching him in the loss to Kansas City.

Yes, in a quarterback town, even that position took a backseat, replaced by the addition of consultant Sherm Lewis, Zorn's loss of playcalling duties, several key injuries and the leaky offensive line.

After several calm seasons, Redskin Park again has become a three-ring circus. From the opening week of the regular season, there has been no shortage of drama.

SEPT. 13: ANOTHER WEEK 1 DUD

What happened: The Redskins fell behind 17-0 in the season opener at the New York Giants and lost 23-17.

Impact: In retrospect, it should have been the first sign of trouble. The offense was turnover-prone (Osi Umenyiora returned a fumble for a 37-yard touchdown), the defense was susceptible to big plays (the Giants had seven of at least 22 yards) and the team fell behind early. Plus, Zorn's decision-making already was being questioned. He used two trick plays - Antwaan Randle El's failed pass and Hunter Smith's fake field goal run for a touchdown - against a team the Redskins weren't going to beat.

SEPT. 20: THOMAS GOES DOWN

What happened: In the victory over St. Louis, which included the Redskins going 0-for-5 in the red zone, right guard Randy Thomas suffered a season-ending right triceps injury.