It’s really getting down to put-up for shut-up time for the Washington Football Team. After making the drastic decision to try and compete for the division and make a run at the playoffs a couple of weeks ago, it was this stretch of games that Ron Rivera had in his sights for where they would get back on the wagon.
Over the next six games, Washington’s opponents have a combined record of 6-22-1, with four of those six games coming against NFC East division rivals. If Washington can’t find a way to win some games against that level of competition, then they have no business picturing themselves in the playoff race.
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So it all starts this weekend, and with a game against the 0-5 New York Giants, Washington fans should feel confident from the jump. They are not favored to win, but it’s hard to look at the matchup and not see a lot of things that you like. The number one key to the game on both sides of the ball will rest in the trenches, where players like Chase Young and Montez Sweat need to do everything they can to get pressure on QB Daniel Jones, forcing him into multiple turnovers. On the flip side, Washington will be rolling out a revamped offensive line, with RG Brandon Scherff in the lineup, and rookie Saahdiq Charles getting his first NFL start at LT, replacing Wes Martin. If the O-line can play above expectations and give QB Kyle Allen some time to operate, as well as opening up some holes for RB Antonio Gibson, Washington has more than a fighting chance.
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One other roster move that should give extreme confidence is the fact that FS Troy Apke was benched for Deshazor Everett, the team confirmed on Sunday morning. Everett won the starting job in training camp, but he has subverted expectations throughout the season so far, and it’s time to give someone else a look. We haven’t seen much of Everett this season, but he’s been solid in the times when on the field. Hopefully his pairing with Landon Collins — who is out for revenge against his former team — will be the missing key for this defense.
In the end, I see a relatively ugly game that will be won by whichever team makes the fewest mistakes. Considering that NY has one of the most turnover-happy QBs in the league, who is forced to face one of the better defensive lines in the NFL, I think that Washington’s defensive can turn this matchup in their favor and grind out a win. Give me the Under, and take the points.