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KEYS TO VICTORY
1. Force turnovers » Giants quarterback Eli Manning has thrown 24 interceptions, but New York has committed 17 other turnovers this season. Nobody in the NFL has turned it over more. They Redskins need to create the sort of pressure like they did a week ago in Jacksonville. But to generate that they must do a good job of stopping New York on first down. The Giants should be able to hurt them more on the ground than the Jaguars did.
2. Get ahead » This sounds silly, except for the fact that every time they lose to New York it seems to get away from them early. And once the Giants get a lead on the Redskins, they can pressure with their front four and play keep away with their running game. New York is built to sustain a lead vs. Washington. The Redskins must be able to maintain offensive balance, otherwise they’ll be done.
3. Protect Rex » This can be done in several ways, starting with being able to run the ball. Then quarterback Rex Grossman won’t be forced to throw and the Giants will remain off-balance. But when he does, Grossman needs a good pocket. His poor decisions have typically come under duress and the Giants’ pass rush has recorded 44 sacks. That’s not a positive sign. The pass protection has improved but this will be its toughest test.
KEY MATCHUPS
| Redskins | Giants | |
|
LB Brian Orakpo » He’s recorded one sack during the last six games and just 1½ in the last eight. |
vs. | LT Shane Andrews » He’s been bothered by his back, but injuries to others forced his return. |
| NG Anthony Bryant » He played terrific vs. Jacksonville, staying low more consistently. He needs a repeat performance. | vs. | C Rich Seubert » He’s a converted guard, but he’s also an excellent lineman wherever he plays. |
| LT Trent Williams » Yet another test for the rookie; his awareness has improved but can still be shaky. | vs. | DE Osi Umenyiora » He has 9½ sacks and an astounding eight forced fumbles coming off the edge. |
STATE OF THE TEAMS
GIANTS » The Giants have endured tough times before this season and recovered, losing by a combined 43 points in Weeks 2 and 3 before winning five straight. New York must win Sunday to have a shot at the playoffs.
REDSKINS » Washington is playing better and with confidence, getting a boost from some young players. With no shot at the postseason, there’s little pressure other than trying to impress coaches. They’re more interested in just winning rather than playing spoiler.
EXAMINER PREDICTS …
Rule of thumb: The Giants always beat the Redskins. Someday that will change — but next year, not now.
Giants 24, Redskins 21
