Redskins to bench RGIII, start Colt McCoy on Sunday

The Washington Redskins will bench Robert Griffin III in favor of Colt McCoy for Sunday's game against the Indianapolis Colts.

The Washington Redskins will bench Robert Griffin III in favor of Colt McCoy for Sunday's game against the Indianapolis Colts, coach Jay Gruden confirmed on Wednesday, according to ESPN's Mike Wells. ESPN's Adam Schefterfirst reported the news.

Schefter reports Griffin "still appears to be a significant part of the Redskins' long-term plan" despite not starting on Sunday, and that "Washington is hitting the reset button, though it might not last long."

Last week, Gruden said that Griffin had some "fundamental flaws" in a loss to the Buccaneers, then later said the quarterback has "auditioned long enough" and that the clock is ticking. Griffin missed six games after dislocating his left ankle during Week 2 and has completed 69.7 percent of his passes for 869 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions in five games.

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A loss to the San Francisco 49ers last Sunday dropped Washington to 3-8. On Tuesday, Gruden said Griffin needs to think less and "have some fun playing."

From Schefter's report: 

For the first time since it surrendered three first-round picks and one second-round pick for the right to draft Griffin III, the Redskins will have their full allotment of picks in addition to room under the salary cap.

Behind owner Dan Snyder and general manager Bruce Allen, the team will be positioned to strike this off-season, spend big-time dollars and improve its roster.

McCoy has played in two games for Washington this season, both of which were wins. This season, he has completed 36 of 42 passes for 427 yards, a touchdown and an interception. The 28-year-old is a former 2010 third-round draft pick. 

- Molly Geary