Keys to victory 1
Be smart » The Panthers don’t stop the run, and they destroy themselves with penalties and turnovers, especially in the fourth quarter. So don’t get cute and try to pass too much with a banged-up line and a quarterback making his first start of the year. You need to have a mix, but don’t get overly aggressive against a team that typically costs itself with bad fourth-quarter mistakes. If the Redskins don’t turn it over, they’ll be fine.
2
Stop the run » The Panthers have an explosive offense with quarterback Cam Newton and receiver Steve Smith. But their running game is what Washington must stop. If the Redskins don’t do that, then the Panthers won’t be stopped. The problem is Carolina runs the ball out of different sets, using the Pistol look (quarterback in shotgun formation with a running back behind him), options and shotgun handoffs. So it can be hard to simply use eight defenders in the box.
3
Big returns » Brandon Banks finally showed some spark in the kick return game vs. Philadelphia. His presence could loom large against the Panthers. Carolina struggles in coverage, having allowed two punt returns for touchdowns and 26.8 yards per kickoff return. It’s time for the Redskins’ special teams to provide the offense a lift, especially when that offense hasn’t produced much of late. The Redskins have had three straight games of 17 points or less.
Matchups to watch
CB DeAngelo Hall
He likes giving lots of cushion to speedy receivers, sometimes it’s too much.
vs.
WR Steve Smith
He’s only 14 catches shy of last year’s total, and he’s still dangerous.
LT Sean Locklear
He has experience at this spot, but his best spot is right tackle.
vs.
DE Charles Johnson
He’s a power rusher and has five sacks. The Panthers move him around.
LB Ryan Kerrigan
He was too quiet last week , too often taking a wide rush to the quarterback.
vs.
RT Byron Bell
The undrafted free agent rookie will be making his third start; he’s been inconsistent.
Expert’s Take
“The run fits aren’t good. They get hooked on the edge quite a bit. They give up a lot of runs outside. They play hard up front. They’re not big at defensive tackle. They’re undersized and they’re playing backups at linebacker; that leads to a lot of problems.”
– Brian Baldinger, Fox/NFL Network.
Examiner Predicts …
It’s tough to pick this winner because of all the uncertainties. But the Redskins will produce crucial turnovers and a big Banks return will make the difference.
Redskins 23, Panthers 20
