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The Washington Redskins
With Kenard Lang
Redskin Defensive Lineman
Friday, Nov. 30, 2001; 1:30 p.m. EST
The Washington Redskins have become the first 0-5 team in the history of the NFL to win their next five games. What has lead to the team's impressive turnaround? How does the Redskin's current standing change the outlook for the season?
Washington Redskins defensive lineman Kenard Lang was online to take your questions and comments on the team, the season and the upcoming game against the Dallas Cowboys.
The transcript follows.
Editor's Note: Washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control
over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions.
Kenard Lang: Hello, Mr. Kenard Lang is here to answer all of your questions and intriguing thoughts.
Silver Spring, Md.:
Hi Kenard. Love watching you play defense. Do you enjoy all the recent media attention the team has gotten since the win streak, or do you try and ignore it?
Kenard Lang: I enjoy it, but I don't let it get to my head. Because the same ones that are praising us were talking bad about us.
Fairfax, Va.:
Kenard, it seems that the Cowboys games in recent years have become more and more of a mental battle. The Cowboys have had the edge, despite the fact that the Redskins have been the better team. Do you think that you guys will have the mental edge this time around?
Kenard Lang: Yes, we will have the mental edge. I feel we are more prepared mentally as far as knowing what it takes to win as a team.
Potomac, Md.:
Do you think you will be around on the Skins next season? I am sure they will try to sign you, but what I want to know, is the Skins the team you want to be on? Great job on a terrific season so far!
Kenard Lang: Yes, I do still want to stay with the Skins. I love the area, the team, the people and especially the fans. So if the Lord is willing and the Redskins want me to stay, I'll be a Redskin for life.
McLean, Va.:
Who is the toughest offensive lineman you have ever faced? Good luck against Dallas!
Kenard Lang: The toughest offensive lineman I have ever faced. Wow. The one who probably gave me the most problems, I would say Eric Williams of Dallas.
Norfolk, Va:
It is known in this league that you are a monster defensive lineman. However, in interviews and such you have a way with words. Do you consider yourself a poet? Some quotes that I read of yours are a little off the wall...sort of Pootie Tang-ish, even.
Kenard Lang: I make quotes and statements from stuff I have learned growing up and that I've heard probably from my parents and old wise men. And I just enjoy it -- to have fun. I'm not a boring person when I talk, so I don't want to be a boring person to my fans.
Rockville, Md.:
What do do expect from Emmitt Smith on Sunday?
Kenard Lang: His best -- 155 percent. Every time he plays against us, it doesn't matter what kind of season he's having; he always plays his best against the Redskins.
Orlando, Fla.:
Being a die-hard Redskin fan since 1968, just old enough to appreciate football, a co-worker asked me if you still played for the 'Skins (best team in the league!) I told her "of course, he's the best pass-rusher on the team." It was actually one of your teachers from Robinswood, Ms. Dean, asking. My co-worker is the manager for Ms. Dean's softball team National Women's champion I might add! Keep up the great work! I'm really stoked about the rest of the season and every Sunday, because I have the NFL Sunday ticket just so I can watch you guys! Thanks for being a Redskin. Chuck Fowler - Skins fan forever!
Kenard Lang: Thank you, and when you said Ms. Dean from Robinswood it brought a big smile to my face. Thanks for the support, and tell Ms. Dean I said hello, and does she need another student assistant?
Worcester, Mass.:
Do you feel that your celebratory sack dance has not received the publicity it should, a la Ickey Woods, Deion Sanders, or Merton Hanks' Head Shake? Are there plans in place to bring back the Fun Bunch?
Kenard Lang: If does, it does, if it doesn't. It's just the way how I feel. A lot of people don't like it, but a lot of people aren't Kenard Lang. I'm just out there having fun. If you like it you can do it yourself.
Richmond, Va.:
Hey Kenard,
Great play so far this season -- you've definitely taken your game up a level, and what you guys and Coach Schottenheimer have done has been an inspiration. I've been a fan of the Redskins since I was seven, and I can tell you that the old feeling is starting to come back. I think if we win this Sunday the sky's the limit, but the Cowboys are that one obstacle that we have to get over first. They're the bully in the schoolyard that keeps stealing our lunch money, and we have to stand up to them. Are you guys approaching it with that mentality, or are you going with the low-key "just another game" approach?
Kenard Lang: I guess somewhat going with the approach "it's another game," but we know what's at stake and who we are playing. And it's time for us to kick the bully in the shin and take back our quarters for lunch.
Providence, R.I.:
Mr. Lang, your postgame quotations and general freedom of speech have been an inspiration to all Redskins fans. Where did you learn to be such an effective vocal spokesman?
Kenard Lang: Thank you for the compliment. I guess it's the way I was reared by my parents. College has taught me a lot, and being around my peers.
Palo Alto, Calif.:
Hey, You're doing great job at tackle so far. My question is: do you think you can continue to work at this pace for the remainder of the season? I've heard rumors that the players on some of Marty's teams often hit a brick wall near the end of the season. I was just wondering how you felt as far as the workload is concerned.
Kenard Lang: What was in the past is in the past. Marty works well with the players, and when he sees that we are tired or fatigued, he lightens up. So he's a great guy to play for.
Raleigh, N.C.:
Mr Lang, after your first win, you said that you had not showered the week before that win, and that you would continue to quit showering as long as that superstition works. Now that you have won five in a row, how faithful have you been to that pledge? And, with all due respect, Mr Lang, if you have been faithful, how have your teammates been dealing with your sudden change in hygiene?
Kenard Lang: My own mother won't come around me. My teammates won't talk to me. And my coaches won't even look at me.
Triangle, Va.:
Kernard,
I have a college football question for you. Do you think Tennessee has any chance against Florida tommorow? And who do you want to see play Miami for the National Championship?
Kenard Lang: I think Tennessee has a good chance, but I want Florida to win. The reason why: the University of Miami never gets its just dues. And in my area where I live in Florida, everybody are Gator fans. So if Miami plays Florida, it'll be like Christmas if Miami wins.
Piedmont, S.C.:
What would you say has been the biggest reason for the team's defensive turnaround the past five games? Has Kurt Schottenheimer installed any new schemes? Keep the streak going!
Kenard Lang: The main difference has been that all three phases are playing together: offense, defense and special teams. That's the main reason why the season has turned around.
Washington, D.C.:
There has much that been written about Lavar Arrington and his growing role in the defense. Is he becoming a leader in the locker room as well as on the playing field?
Kenard Lang: A little bit. He's still maturing in a lot of ways, which is making the team better and making him more noticeable as a ball player and not just a number two overall draft pick.
Richmond, Va.:
Kernard,
I really think you have been one of the key factors for keeping the defence rolling this year. You have done better than anybody could have thought when you stepped into Stubbs shoes thus year. My question is:
If the Redskins can win the Superbowl this year, will you "willing" play the rest of your career as a tackel as you have been doing this season?
Kenard Lang: To be honest with you, I'm the kind of person that I'll do whatever it takes. So if that's the case, that's the case.
Great Falls, Va.:
What is your favorite pass-rushing technique to use on a lineman? Club, Bull Rush, Spin, etc.
Kenard Lang: I'd probably say head fake to swim. That's my main rush, and I always love it, because it shows your quickness and speed.
Seymour, Conn.:
Hey big guy,
My wife and I are coming to the Bears game in December. We will be sitting in the end zone, not sure what one but it's in the lower section. Do you think you can toss me the ball when you score a touchdown? Like I said, I'm not sure what end zone so you'll have to score twice. I'll be wearing red number 66 jersey. Hope to get that ball.
Kenard Lang: Of course. I'll throw you the ball and myself. But when I throw myself up there, you have to catch me.
Arlington, Va.:
I would like to compliment you on the spectacular year you are having! I sit in the stands where you come after the game to high-five the fans. Us fans really appreciate that and wish more Skins players would come see us. You, Shawn Barber and Larry Centers used to do it last year but now it's just you. Do you think you could talk some other guys into joining you?
Kenard Lang: Of course I will, because our energy comes from you guys down there in the end zone.
Camp Hill, Pa.:
Kenard, I know we're all happy about the great turnaround to get to 5-5. But, if we lose to Dallas it would really kill the momentum you have. Are you worried about any of the guys reading too many of their own press clippings and slipping up against Dallas? By the way, your inspired play through good times and bad this season is appreciated by all of us TRUE Redskins fans. One thing for every fan at the game on sunday: LET'S BE LOUDER THAN WE EVER HAVE BEEN AND HELP THE REDSKINS ROLL THE COWBOYS! Good Luck and HAIL TO THE REDSKINS!
Kenard Lang: No, because we are all professionals. The one thing we go take into every game is "if you have any doubts, look about." Which means if you have any doubt going into the situation, you don't need to do this. So we don't have any doubts AT ALL.
Walpole, Mass.:
Do you have any pre-game rituals (that you're willing to share) that get you psyched up for a game?
Kenard Lang: If I tell you, your computer will blow up like Inspector Gadget. Just kidding.
The main thing I do is jog around the field, talk with some of my friends and get back and look at my game plan. And listen to some music: Beethoven and Liberace.
Alexandria, Va.:
Last week Jay Fiedler of the Miami Dolphins threw four fourth quarter touchdowns in a come-from-behind victory.
Do you think that it is becoming increasingly clear that God wants the Miami Dolphins to win the Superbowl this year?
Are you concerned that even if the Redskins makes it to the Superbowl they will choke when faced with the Dolphins' astonishing array of offensive power?
Kenard Lang: No, we will not choke. I never choked on a chicken bone before, so I won't now. When we do make it to the Bowl, there'll be nothing but cheers and smiles and tears of joy.
Jon in Virginia Beach, Va.:
Kenard,
First, good luck against the Cowboys. It would be great to actually beat these guys. I'm a Miami alum and wanted to get your opinion on our Canes and if we will take out Virginia Tech in order to go to the National Championship? I know you must enjoy this after suffering through our years on NCAA suspensions.
Kenard Lang: I think they're playing excellent, and I'm bragging all the time. And of course they're going to beat the Hokies. I wish I were playing for them right now.
Dallas, Tex.:
Congragulations on a great year!
I hope you guys aren't overlooking the Dallas Cowboys. I am surrounded by Cowboys fans here and would be blasted in my office should you guys lose! What has the coaching team done to keep the team focused on this opponent?
-Diehard 'skins fan in Dallas!
Kenard Lang: [Marty] told us that we are still behind in the division, and the only way we are going to win our division is to win the rest of our games. That's what he told us in a nutshell.
Washington, D.C.:
Quincy Carter said that he's looking forward to lighting up the scoreboard against the sorry, no-account OVERRATED Redskins defense. What do you think about that?
Kenard Lang: What I think is that actions speak louder than words. So don't write a check your body can't cash.
Home of the Skins:
Kenard,
No need to worry, you are never boring, on or off the field.
Which of your teammates is most important to you on the field, and off the field?
By the way, have you been able to catch the new Bernie Mac show on Fox? I think you'd like it.
Kenard Lang: My good friends are Shawn Barber and Marco Coleman.
And the Bernie Mac show is off the chain, and I watch it all the time.
Worcester, Mass.:
Thanks for your answer. For the record, I love the dance. Could you please comment on Stephen Davis' dance, what some people have termed "The Ugly Dance?"
Kenard Lang: Stephen's dance shows his creativity. So if that's the case, he's lacking some intelligence.
Denver, Colo.:
Kenard,
I was one of the Skins fans at the Denver game and wanted to thank you for giving me your gloves after the game. It meant tons to myself and the other Redskins fans there. It meant even more to us to see you guys winning with such confidence again. Thanks so much for your effort and intensity, we hope to have you back next year! Beat Dallas this week,
Go Skins!
Kenard Lang: Thank you. It was wonderful to beat them Broncos and have our winning streak intact. You're welcome for the gloves, and stay loyal to the Redskins.
Alexandria, Va.:
Mt. Lang --
First of all, whenever I see you or hear your name I get a picture of a duck in my head (canard is french for duck!)...
Anyway, how is Shawn Barber doing? He was my biology lab partner in college (GO SPIDERS!)...
Go Skins!
Kenard Lang: Quack Quack.
Shawn Barber is doing fine. He's getting healthy, and he will be ready next season.
Stamford, Conn.:
When you were at the University of Miami, did you play with Duane "The Rock" Johnson, now of WWF fame? Do you keep in touch?
Kenard Lang: Yes, I played with the Rock. I talk to him on an every-now-and-then basis. He was a great guy then, and he's a great guy now.
San Diego, Calif.:
Kenard,
First let me congratulate you and the rest of the team for such a remarkable turnaround. It has taken a total team effort and each and every one of you is to be commended. The Cowboys have had our number. How are you and the rest of the team going to approach this game differently to make sure that you take care of business against a team you should beat?
Good luck Kenard!!!
Dave
Kenard Lang: We're going to take care of our responsibilities and assignments and what we're supposed to do. There are no more coulda shoulda woulda stories, or ifs ands or buts. If ifs and buts were candy and nuts, every day would be Christmas.
Aiken, S.C.:
Hello Kenard,
Thanks for playing hard and bringing back Redskin football. Hope you stay with us. Any thoughts on playing Larry Allen and what's your favorite rushing move?
Kenard Lang: Larry Allen is the best offensive lineman in the league, and this will really test my skills as a defensive lineman. So I'm looking forward to the challenge.
Sunrise, Fla.:
Kenard:
So much has been said about Coach Schottenheimer's coaching philosophy, do you believe that the players are finally accepting this and has it contributed to the success the Redskins are finally believing in themselves? One more question, can the Redskins forget about the losing streak you guys have had with the Cowboys and take these guys on?
Kenard Lang: One thing we have accepted is Coach Schottenheimer. And we have to live with Coach Schottenheimer. It doesn't matter if we are rebellious or soaking it in; he's not going anywhere.
We are going to try to end the streak of losing to Dallas this Sunday. Hail to the Redskins!
New Castle, Del.:
Hi, Kenard
I love your intensity for the game and was wondering if you like playing defensive tackle or would still rather be playing defensive end? Keep up the GREAT WORK! Skins all the way!
Kenard Lang: I'm enjoying defensive tackle, but defensive end is my first love. It's like a 3-year-old having his blankie and sucking his thumb. That's how I feel about defensive end.
Kensington, Md.:
First of all, you are playing some mad defense this year. Is it hard switching from defensive end to defensive tackle? I had to move from NG to defensive end in college and found it tough to change my instinctive techniques. Also, now that Arrington is proving himself to be a seriously deadly defensive force, are the d-linemen having to adjust? Do they want you to hold ground and tie up blockers so that LeVar can be left free to kill?
Kenard Lang: Yes, I did have to make some adjustments as far as going from end to tackle. Things move a lot quicker down there in the pit. My defensive line coach wants me to penetrate the line of scrimmage and make plays. LaVar is really playing off of Big Daddy and myself.
Rockville, Md.:
Lang. What do you think the score will be against Dallas? Because personally I think ya'll go to the playoffs. Only problem is Dallas scares me as I know they do you.
Kenard Lang: The Skins will be on top. I don't care if we win 2-0 or 160-3. A win is a win.
Annapolis, Md.:
Kenard! Are you planning on proving Mr. Norman "The Skins aren't for real." Chad wrong when it comes to his Post article?
Kenard Lang: The only reason he writes those articles is that's his job and that's how he puts food on the table. A lot of people make assumptions. And you know what that means.
Arlington, Va.:
How do you feel about Tony Kornheiser and Michael Wilbon? First thought that pops into your head.
Kenard Lang: Two guys talking about sports and talking about what they believe. I've got nothing bad against them.
Providence, R.I.:
What's your most rewarding moment as a football player? It can be from Pro, College, High School, Pop Warner, whatever.
Kenard Lang: As a football player: when I signed my letter of intent to play for the University of Miami.
As an athlete: I would probably say my sophomore year in college, when I was drafted by the Chicago White Sox.
Rock Hill, S.C.:
Kenard, what is the atmosphere like in the locker room now that you guys are winning?
Kenard Lang: A whole bunch of kids getting ready to go outside for recess at school. Everybody's happy and excited now that we've finally got the taste of winning in our mouths. And we want to keep it there.
Greenbelt, Md.:
What happened to them sideburns?
Kenard Lang: I still have my sideburns. They are in points now. I had to change my style, because I know people are keeping tabs on me. I have to be unique.
Washington, D.C.:
Kenard, you've heard about Nate Newton trying to smoke his weight in marijuana. And then a couple of weeks ago a few Eagles get caught puffing the weed on South Street in Philly. Is pot use rampant in the NFL? What do you say to kids who might be tempted by the dangers of drugs?
Kenard Lang: I'd say drugs are everywhere, just like school violence is everywhere -- not in the inner city, but also in the suburbs. So the main thing is be true to yourself, because nobody will treat you like you.
Columbia, Md.:
Despite your lack of size for a defensive tackle, how have you been able to make plays to stop the run along with Big Daddy in the past four or five ballgames? Can you guys last down the stretch without any quality depth along that defensive front to help give you guys a rest once in awhile?
Kenard Lang: We will last long down the stretch. It will take a gurney to get me off the field. We do have backups, but I'm such a competitor that I want to live and die on the field.
Myrtle Beach, S.C.:
Is it fair to say if we lose to the Cowboys we have to throw everything we have done so far out the window?
Kenard Lang: No. Because we're not going to lose to the Cowboys. We are going to win while chanting Hail to the Redskins!
Laurel, Md.:
I think that was a cheap shot by the NFL on LeVar. Yes, he shouldnt have slapped the guy. But, that was a serious cheapshot by the Eagles guy. He's only protecting himself.
Kenard Lang: I can't question how the league dishes out its fines, so whatever happens happens somewhat. A lot of times stuff is unfair, but you have to deal with it.
Peoria, Ill.:
What's it like having to gain weight to play tackle? Did you have to put on the pounds when you left college?
Kenard Lang: No, I didn't put on extra weight in order to play tackle. I stayed the same, because I believe in playing with what got me there, which is my quickness. And I don't want to take away from that by adding weight.
Worcester, Mass.:
What's it like going out on the town - do you get harrassed by fans and good looking women?
Kenard Lang: I'm used to people approaching me, and it doesn't bother me any more. And if a good-looking woman does come to me, I say, "Hello, you look radiant." And goodbye, because I have a girlfriend.
Kenard Lang: Quote of the day:
Before you make your decision, you control it. Once you make your decision, it controls you.
Think twice before you roll the dice.
Ciao, bella. Hail to the Redskins!
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