MIKE PRESTON’S KEY MATCHUPS
Redskins WR Pierre Garcon vs. Ravens CB Shareece Wright: Everyone wants to talk about the showdown between Ravens wide receiver Steve Smith Sr. and Redskins cornerback Josh Norman, but they will cancel each other out if they’re matched up. Wright has to find a way to slow Garcon, who has 16 receptions for 237 yards and one touchdown. Wright has allowed five touchdowns in his past three starts. Edge: Redskins
Ravens offensive line vs. Redskins defensive line: For the first time last week against Oakland, the Ravens got movement along the interior in the second half. The Ravens will have rookie Alex Lewis back this week, probably at left tackle, and the Redskins are allowing 133 rushing yards per game, 30th in the league. If the Ravens want to stop Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins from slinging the ball around the field, they have to establish a running game. Look for the Ravens to try to set the tone early. Edge: Ravens
Redskins TE Jordan Reed vs. Ravens S Eric Weddle: Reed has some of the best hands of any tight end in the NFL and he can cause a lot of matchup problems with smaller safeties and No. 3 cornerbacks. Reed leads Washington in receptions with 25 for 263 yards. Weddle is having an outstanding season and keeps the secondary in sync. Few tight ends can run away from him, and Weddle gets off blocks well. Weddle’s matchup with Reed might go under the radar for a lot of fans, but it will be one of the most entertaining. Edge: Ravens