Keys to victory 1 Don’t be one-dimensional » The Redskins’ offense moved the ball without help from the ground game last week. It’s hard to imagine the Redskins sustaining offensive success without a good rushing attack. And Seattle is excellent against the run (third in yards a carry). However, the Redskins still need to stay committed to the run vs. a big defensive front. Maybe they should try running from more three-receiver sets with Roy Helu.
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2 Stop Lynch » Seattle running back Marshawn Lynch has run well of late, with two straight 100-yard games followed by an 88-yard effort. He’s more of a power back and not the shifty sort who has given them trouble — and caused missed tackles. The run defense has performed well the past two games, and the Redskins need to make quarterback Tarvaris Jackson beat them. That’s not what Seattle wants.
3 Get a good start » Yeah, this is the case every game, but the way to build off a good showing one week is to start strong the next. Plus, an early lead would silence a loud crowd and put more pressure on Jackson and the Seattle passing attack. One thing to watch is how the Redskins’ receivers fare against two big starting cornerbacks (Richard Sherman and Brandon Browner are 6-foot-3 and 6-4, respectively). A first-quarter touchdown would be, you know, different.
Matchups to watch
LT Trent Williams
He expects to play despite a sprained knee; he did well vs. Dallas LB DeMarcus Ware last week.
vs.
DE Chris Clemons
He has eight sacks, six more than any other Seahawks player. He often rushes at right end.
QB Rex Grossman
Can he avoid killer mistakes for another game? He needs to use his eyes well vs. these safeties.
vs.
S Kam Chancellor
Chancellor leads Seattle with three interceptions and is fourth on the team with 59 tackles.
LB Brian Orakpo
He needs to take more advantage of the increased one-on-one opportunities with consistent pressure.
vs.
LT Russell Okung
Washington bypassed him for Trent Williams. Okung has good quickness.
Expert’s Take
“They have several guys who are really good: [Brandon] Mebane, [Red] Bryant, [Alan] Branch. And Chris Clemons is probably one of the 50 best players in the NFL, and most people have never heard of him. He used to play for the Redskins. That’s crazy. He’s relentless, and he has an amazing first step. He’s a dominating player.”
– Sports USA Radio NFL analyst Ross Tucker.
Examiner predicts …
The Redskins showed signs of life, and maybe that translates to this week. But they haven’t proved yet they can sustain anything. Seahawks 17, Redskins 14
