The Washington Redskins (5-6) have jumped up to first place in the NFC East after beating the New York Giants (5-6), 20-14. Washington now controls their destiny with three of their final five games against division rivals. For the Redskins, having meaningful December play is progress from recent seasons. This hasn’t been the case since their late-season run in 2012. It wasn’t a good looking win, but the Redskins got it done. That’s all you can ask for at this point.
The Good:
- Defensive Coordinator Joe Barry deserves a lot of credit. The Washington Redskins’ defense won this game. They forced four turnovers and for the most part completely shutdown the Giants’ offense. They did allow two late touchdowns, but without their high level play — Washington loses this game. I really like the play from Washington’s young talent on defense. Preston Smith’s game won’t be shown on the stat sheet, but he abused the left side of New York’s OL. The converted WR Quinton Dunbar had a big interception and played well. He has a lot of raw talent. Kysheon Jarrett continues to shine. He’s your future Free Safety… At least, he should be. Not to mention, Bashuad Breeland had a really good game vs Odell Beckham Jr. — although he dropped a interception late in the game.
- Ryan Kerrigan had maybe his best game of the season dropping Eli Manning for two sacks. He had some very key plays in this game.
- Jay Gruden is now 8-14 at home as Head Coach of the Washington Redskins. He’s won 5 of 6 games at home this year. Gruden is winning more at home than any coach has since Joe Gibbs in 2005 (minus 2012).
- Alfred Morris 78 yards rushing the ball, but he played a key role in this win. I didn’t like how the Redskins kept taking him out the game on key red zone possessions and third downs. However, he had one of his better games Sunday.
- Kirk Cousins did what you want to see from him on Sunday. He didn’t play great — almost had a pick six early in the game. But he played a super solid game and that’s really what the Redskins expected from him this season. He also made a big throw to DeSean Jackson that helped Washington win. He did a good job putting air under the ball and allowing DJax to go get-it. Cousins continues to play well along with Gruden at home. He’s only thrown one interception when playing at FedEx Field this year. He’s 5-0 when he doesn’t turn the ball over.
- The Redskins OL played better in this game than last week against the Panthers. Brandon Scherff did a nice job making some down-field blocks. Trent Williams continues to shutdown whoever stands in front of him.
The Bad:
- The Redskins offense failed to capitalize on any of the defensive turnovers. That’s completely not acceptable. They kept the Giants in this game when it really should’ve been a blowout. Washington has to do a better job taking advantage of those big plays their defenses has made.
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