Five keys for Washington tonight against Eagles
It’s hard to say a game in early December is a must-win for a team just half a game out of first place but tonight’s matchupwiththe Eagles in Philadelphia is very important for a Washington Redskins team that has lost three of its past four, including two in a row. The Eagles, at 5-6, need a win too, as one more loss could mean the end of their playoff hopes, as well.
The Redskins biggest hope might come in the fact Philadelphia’s secondary has been decimated with injuries, though signs are pointing toward the Eagles having a more complete defensive backfield than they did in their victory over the Giants last week. Either way, Washington has to get it’s offense started if it is going to make a playoff run.
Get Adrian Peterson going: Peterson carried the offense for much of the start of the season, but he hasn’t had a big game since the offensive line fell apart with season-ending injuries to both starting guards and Trent Williams’s injured thumb. AndWashington’s offense isn’t the same without him rushing for more than 90 yards.
The Redskins finally have stability on the line and have had a full week to game-plan around Colt McCoy.
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Get to Carson Wentz: Wentz can be deadly with time to throw the ball. Pro Football Focus lists his adjusted completion percentage at 82.3 percent when he is not under pressure. Washington’s defensive front has been a strength this year, but it hasn’t consistently generated the pass rush many expected.
The Redskins did get to Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott on Thanksgiving, andthey will have to dothesameagain against Wentz and the Eagles.
Set Colt McCoy free: The Redskins quarterback has played with a somewhat limited offense giving dire circumstances the last two weeks. He came in as an emergency replacement for the injured Alex Smith two weeks ago and only had three days to prepare for the Cowboys. Finally, Washington has been able to design a game plan for him.
A week of working with the first team offense should help McCoy on Monday night, as well. McCoy talked this week about throwing more “50-50 balls” giving his receivers chances to make plays. Success at this will go a long way toward at last opening the team’s offense.
Wintheturnover battle: Abigpart of the Redskins run to 6-3 and first place in the NFC East came from hardly ever turning the ball over while forcing other teamsinto mistakes. In their last two losses, they’ve had five interceptions. That will not win many football games, especially considering the offense’s scoring limitations.
If the Redskins give the ball away on offense and don’t get at least two turnovers as a defense, they probably won’t win.
Keep the Eagles from running: The Redskins defensive front has done a good job of limiting opponents from opening their running game, rending them onedimensional.
By stopping Philadelphia’s running game, Washington’s front can take pressure off its young secondary, allowing it to make plays.