In an odd turn of events this year, we’ve used the phrase ‘must-win game’ and talked about some high stakes a lot when it comes to the Washington Football Team. After a disastrous 2-7 start to the season was quickly turned around by a four-game winning streak and aided by a dismal NFC East division, we are now in the position where Ron Rivera has his team on the brink of a playoff spot, which would be the franchise’s first since 2015.
It all comes down to this Sunday against the Carolina Panthers, though. If Washington can find a way to win, coupled with a New York Giants loss to the Baltimore Ravens earlier in the day, there will be something to celebrate in D.C. on Sunday night. Easier said than done, though, especially when you consider the injuries and distractions that have plagued the past two weeks in the Washington football world.
A win is still very possible nonetheless, but Washington is going to need to be on top of their game and hope that a few things can break the right way for them on Sunday. Here are our five biggest keys to the game: