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KEYS TO VICTORY
1. Stop the run » Washington has struggled to stop the run much of the season, especially in their base 3-4 defense. Don’t be surprised if Anthony Bryant continues to play more than Maake Kemoeatu at nose tackle. Bryant was more effective than Kemoeatu vs. Tampa Bay. Still, Dallas will test whomever is on defense because it is more committed to the run. They lack an elite back, but they have been very steady on the ground and that’s led to a high-powered offense.
2. Attack the secondary » Here’s the thing: Donovan McNabb has not taken advantage of situations. Last week, the Redskins pounded the ball. Tampa Bay used eight men in the box often in the second half and they still couldn’t do much in the passing game. Rex Grossman needs to change that vs. a secondary that has woefully underachieved, especially corners Terence Newman and Mike Jenkins. The safeties have been bad as well, so opportunities will be available.
3. Protect Rex » In Grossman’s career, the book on him is that under duress he makes horrible decisions. That’s why he’s thrown 36 interceptions in 31 career starts. He’s not a tall quarterback so he struggles to see over the line. So he’ll need a good pocket to deliver his throws. Grossman is not a fast quarterback, but he is nimble and can operate the bootlegs and play-actions that the offense loves to feature.
KEY MATCHUPS
| Redskins | Cowboys | |
|
LB Brian Orakpo » He caused havoc in the first game by moving around; he’s been more on the right side lately. |
vs. | LT Doug Free » He’s done a solid job in his first season as a starter. Dallas likes running behind the left side. |
| C Casey Rabach » He’s played better the past two games, but Ratliff’s quickness always is an issue.. | vs. | NT Jay Ratliff » Dallas’ defense has struggled, but Ratliff remains effective shooting gaps. He has 3 ½ sacks. |
| LT Trent Williams » He was solid in the opener, but Ware was good at setting him up wide early and then coming inside. | vs. | LB DeMarcus Ware » On an underachieving defense, Ware remains a top player with 9 ½ sacks. |
STATE OF THE TEAMS
COWBOYS » Dallas is 3-2 since interim coach Jason Garrett took over, with losses to New Orleans and Philadelphia by a combined six points. The Cowboys are running the ball well and their offense is averaging 32 ppg in this stretch.
REDSKINS » Washington is once again in chaos after the benching of quarterback Donovan McNabb for Rex Grossman. McNabb had not played well this season, but do players have confidence in Grossman? We’ll find out.
EXAMINER PREDICTS …
Maybe Grossman hits passes that McNabb has missed; maybe he reverts to how he played in his first six years. Our guess? Cowboys’ offense is too much.
Cowboys 28, Redskins 17
