Keys to victory 1 Establish ground consistency » They need to do this every game, but if they don’t they have no chance to win. The Redskins are not equipped to beat a good team — maybe any team — with their passing attack right now. Washington’s line must stop allowing so much penetration on their stretch zone runs. They don’t need to average 4.5 yards a carry to win. They do need to get at least 3.5 per run but with 25-30 carries. Dallas has allowed a 100-yard rusher the past three weeks in a row.
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2 Avoid killer mistakes » Dallas has done a good job applying pressure (23 sacks) and causing turnovers (19, third most in the NFL). The Redskins, meanwhile, have allowed too much pressure (27 sacks), might have at least one new starter in the lineup (left guard Tyler Polumbus) and turn it over too often (21 times). Quarterback Rex Grossman, regardless of who’s at fault, still turns the ball over too much. If Grossman can play an error-free game, then that means the Redskins are blocking well and moving the ball.
3 Limit big plays » It can come from anyone — quarterback Tony Romo keeps plays alive with his legs (as everyone saw in the first game); running back DeMarco Murray has averaged 8.01 yards per carry the past four games; and receivers Dez Bryant and Laurent Robinson both average at least 16.2 yards per catch (with a combined nine touchdowns). The Redskins need to be aggressive going after Romo but that means the coverage must be tighter; that hasn’t always been the case.
Matchups to watch
LB Brian Orakpo
He’s recorded a half-sack against NFC East teams, but his pressure sets up others.
vs.
LT Doug Free
He did a solid job vs. Orakpo in the first meeting and has developed into a solid player.
C Will Montgomery
Could have another LG beside him. He needs to prevent quick penetration.
vs.
NT Jay Ratliff
Always a key whenever you face Dallas, he’s dangerous vs. run or pass.
LT Trent Williams
His pass protection was solid last week but not his run blocking.
vs.
LB DeMarcus Ware:
Yes, he has 13 sacks but his run defense is also outstanding and causes issues.
Expert’s Take
“Do things to keep him uncomfortable. If DeMarcus [Ware] knows by formation and personnel group that he’s one-on-one, that’s a tough play for Trent [Williams]. So the more looks and formations you show, you’ll slow him down and make him think.”
– FOX analyst Daryl Johnston
Examiner predicts …
Injuries ruin the Redskins’ chances in a game like this. Dallas is more explosive than the first meeting, and the Redskins will struggle to threaten the Cowboys’ defense.
Cowboys 24, Redskins 10
