Washington Redskins vs Baltimore Ravens Preview

The Washington Redskins are set to head up the beltway and face the Baltimore Ravens Saturday night at 7:30 pm.  For each team, this will be a dress rehearsal for the regular season. The third preseason game is when starters typically get the most reps, as many will not play again until week one. However, with the first wave of cuts due by 4:00 pm EST Tuesday, Aug 26 — it’s an important game for those hoping to make the team.

Washington is undefeated, again, so far this preseason. But there’s areas that certainly need to be corrected. This third preseason game will be crucial as they attempt to work the kinks before facing the Houston Texans week one.

What Not To Expect:

• Head Coach Jay Gruden says cornerback Tracy Porter “probably won’t play.” He has a hamstring injury.

• Chris Thompson will be a game-time decision. For his sake, Thompson absolutely needs to play. He had issues staying healthy.

• Stephen Bowen remains out on PUP. Gruden said earlier this week, “he’s out for a while until he gets cleared by doctors.” Bowen may not be ready for the regular season.

What To Expect:

• Rookie OL Morgan Moses and Spencer Long will get snaps early and often against the Ravens. They may even see some playtime along the line of starters towards the end of their series of play. Morgan Moses will get experience at Right Tackle, his more natural position, against the Ravens.

• With the Ravens down three at the cornerback position, look for Pierre Garcon and DeSean Jackson to make some noise. They could certainly have benefited from getting work against physical guys like Lardarius Webb and Jimmy Smith. However, they’ve had plenty work against physical corners this preseason. It should be a good opportunity for them to shine prior to week one.

• The last time Robert Griffin III played the Ravens, Haloti Nagta bulldozed into his leg. Washington game planned this week, which means you’ll see a more tailored offense for Griffin. I think for the first time this preseason you’ll get a closer look at what Griffin will look like in a Gruden system.

• DE Jason Hatcher will play for the first time this preseason. It’ll be interesting to see how he impacts the front seven.

• Gruden says starters will play, “most likely until halftime.” But it depends on how they’re doing.

• Gruden plans to start trimming his roster from 90 to 75 players Sunday.

Check back after the game for instant notes and analysis. 

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