The Panthers are considered big favorites heading into today’s home game against the Redskins. As bad as Washington looks this year, every NFL team is a threat if you don’t take them seriously.

Here are three keys to avoiding what would be an embarrassing upset.

1. Contain Adrian Peterson and Derrius Guice

Peterson is now long past his prime when he was the most dynamic running back in the entire NFL and the last to win the MVP award. That doesn’t mean he can’t hurt you, though. The Panthers found that out the hard way in last year’s loss when Peterson ran for 97 yards on just 17 carries. This season, teams have been able to contain him to just 4.1 yards per rush and only one touchdown. Coach Ron Rivera shouldn’t hesitate to load up the box against Peterson and Derris Guice on early downs and force their rookie QB Dwayne Haskins (who has a pitiful 13.7 QBR) to beat them.

2. Avoid turnovers

Underdogs and long shots like the ‘Skins need to win the turnover battle to have any chance when they’re this over-matched. There is no clear favorite in this particular area of the game. Both teams come into Week 13 with an even takeaway/giveaway ratio. Kyle Allen took care of the ball last week (no picks or fumbles). He’ll need to keep that going and especially avoid throwing picks in the red zone as he has a few too many times this year.

3. Feed No. 22

The Panthers have to be mindful of Christian McCaffrey’s workload, especially now that the playoffs are out of reach. However, until they establish a significant lead, the offense should run through him. Washington ranks No. 21 in rushing defense DVOA and has allowed 137.6 rushing yards per game this year – only four teams have given up more on the ground.

[lawrence-related id=614910]

[vertical-gallery id=614802]