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KEYS TO VICTORY
1. Beware the defensive playmakers » Green Bay has two standout defensive players in linebacker Clay Matthews Jr., and corner Charles Woodson. The latter in particular just seems to make a lot of plays. Woodson’s role this week could change with loss of starting safety Morgan Burnett. Matthews is a sack machine. He usually lines up at left outside linebacker, meaning that right tackle Jammal Brown must have a good game.
2. Control the rush » With Clinton Portis out, this is a huge issue. The Redskins can do this in a couple ways: using tight end Chris Cooley even more in protection, throwing a lot of quick passes to beat the rush, or throwing a few screens. Clearly they also need to run the ball well to control the clock. They won’t be able to win otherwise. Green Bay’s inside linebackers aren’t big; exploit this area.
3. Prevent the big play » Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers will be content to dink and dunk his way down the field. But he and the rest of the Packers would prefer to move with deep passes. Greg Jennings has had a quiet start to the season as teams have taken him away. However, Jermichael Finley is a stud and tough to cover because he’s a receiver in a tight end’s body.
KEY MATCHUPS
| Redskins | Packers | |
|
TE Chris Cooley » Just know that Detroit tight ends combined for 14 catches vs. Green Bay last week. |
vs. | LB A.J. Hawk » Athletic, but undersized. Hawk could have a busy day — on the ground and through the air. |
| LB Brian Orakpo » His sack total could take a big jump, or he’ll add to the total of holding penalties vs. him. | vs. | LT Chad Clifton » He’s struggled, partly because of a balky knee. He can get overpowered — hint, hint. |
| LG Kory Lichtensteiger » His footwork is fine, but he will be tested against the Packers pressure. | vs. | DE Cullen Jenkins » Gets overshadowed by big-name teammates, but underrated rusher already has four sacks. |
STATE OF THE TEAMS
PACKERS » Green Bay is considered a Super Bowl contender, but the Packers haven’t played that way. They’re 3-1, but they have no running game and issues at both offensive tackle spots, as well as a banged-up defense.
REDSKINS » Washington’s confidence recovered after a tough win at Philadelphia. The players say the defense has turned a corner, though that’s debatable. Losing Clinton Portis is a blow, but a strong belief in the offense has kept the players upbeat.
EXAMINER PREDICTS …
This is a good time to get the Packers, who aren’t playing well despite a 3-1 record. They’re also banged up on defense and at both offensive tackle spots.
Redskins 27, Packers 26
