For Donovan McNabb, focus is all that matters at this stage of preseason.
So much is new to him and many of his teammates this offseason.
On Friday night, when the Redskins host the Buffalo Bills in the preseason home opener at FedExField, they must put aside the newness of it all and focus on the job at hand.
This is the first opportunity for the Redskins' offense to apply what they've learned in a competitive setting.
"It's a growing process," McNabb said. "We know everything is not where we need it to be for Dallas [in Week 1], but that's why we play the preseason -- to kick the rust off a little bit, to get our timing and chemistry where it needs to be, and get our confidence at a level where it needs to be."
McNabb is expected to play between 15-18 snaps in Friday's game, according to Mike Shanahan.
After 13 days of training camp, McNabb said he is looking forward to playing a preseason game.
"I think you look forward to getting out on the field and seeing new colors, new individuals, a new scheme," he said. "You want to run your offense and see what happens."
Points of emphasis: converting third downs and coming away with points on every offensive series.
Mistakes will happen, McNabb said. The key is to correct those mistakes.
Friday's preseason game is the first time McNabb will work with new Redskins offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan in game situations.
Through training camp, McNabb said he has developed a comfort level working with Kyle Shanahan, the 30-year-old son of Mike Shanahan.
"I have had a lot of coaches in my ear [through the years]," McNabb said. "Kyle is a little bit younger and energetic and he is excited about this opportunity. We both have to be on the same page on offense and communication is going to play a major factor. We're both looking forward to this opportunity."
Lastly, Friday's preseason game is the first time McNabb will wear a burgundy and gold uniform on game day.
It's also his first appearance as a Redskin at FedExField.
Even though McNabb had some of the best games of his career as a Philadelphia Eagle at FedExField, he should receive a warm welcome from Redskins fans eager to embrace a franchise quarterback.
"There will be some differences, but I have been in this game for 11 years, and this will be 12, and crowds cheer, crowds boo," he said. "I probably won't have too many boos here."
