John Matthews
WMAL.com

ASHBURN — (WMAL) Real football will actually be played Thursday night, but the final score will be far from the highest priority.

Coach Jay Gruden told reporters Wednesday he’ll be looking closely at backup players when the Skins take on the Browns in Cleveland – many of whom will be long gone before the points actually start counting in September.

“This is about finding out about the young guys,” said Gruden. “It’s a chance for these guys to play, because once the season starts, the practice squad guys and your backups – they don’t get a lot of playing time unless there’s injury.”

Injuries have already taken their toll in training camp, and several longshots will enjoy a longer look Thursday because the regulars will be sidelined. Tight ends Logan Paulsen and Jordan Reed will be on the bench, as will several defensive backs.

“There’s a lot to look at for these guys, and we have a lot of guys who are really competing for jobs, and these games are very important to see who’s going to rise,” said Gruden.

Of course, many eyes both on the field and in the stands will be on quarterback Robert Griffin III, who has been named the starter, but who still has to win the confidence of the coaching staff.

“We’ll be looking for a good tempo in and out of the huddle,” said Gruden. “You’re looking for sound football – for quarterbacks to get the ball out of their hands and make decisions,” he added.

Gruden says Griffin and the rest of the first string offense will play about a quarter, depending on how the game is flowing.

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