Above every other trait, sources say, rookie QB Robert Griffin III’s fearless approach has been the most refreshing and rejuvenating quality. His confidence even when doubt is high has been the one thing that has fueled the Redskins more than perhaps anything in his sterling rookie season.

Griffin’s poise in the Thanksgiving Day victory over the Cowboys was evident. He rallied the team after a slow start with a second-quarter flurry and then withstood the Cowboys’ late run after what could have been a game-changing interception on an overthrow. Griffin most impressively has set a tone for this team, and despite a 3-6 start, the Redskins now sit at 5-6 and legitimately have a chance to qualify for the postseason in a bad season for the NFC East.

The confidence has rubbed off, sources indicate. Other players in the locker room have stood in lockstep with their belief that Griffin and the team can get it done in tough spots. Despite missing WR Pierre Garcon for most of the season (and what a difference he makes), the Redskins have remained a big-strike offense (10 TDs of 30 yards or longer, seven plays this season of 59 yards or more) that can flip a game on its head. That was not the case last season; the Redskins in 2011 had no plays longer than 51 yards.