3. Defense is better, but…
There’s no question this Washington defense is better than it was a year ago. The secondary had a strong game with cornerbacks Josh Norman, Bashaud Breeland and Kendall Fuller all having solid games. The defensive front put pressure on Carson Wentz throughout the game, forcing him into quick decisions.
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Unfortunately, the third-down woes that plagued this team last year are still there. The Eagles were eight of 14 on third down, many of which were 10 yards or more. Even when the Redskins would get pressure on Wentz, they’d miss a sack. Zach Brown and Mason Foster were among those that had Wentz in their grasp, yet failed to finish the play. It was costly.
Speaking of Brown, he was pretty good in his debut for the Redskins. He was especially active in the running game, hitting LeGarrette Blount several times in the backfield. Brown is a big reason for the improvement of this unit.
For the Redskins to win games, the defense is going to have to get off the field on third down. It sounds simple. It is. Whatever defensive coordinator Greg Manusky must do to put this team in a better position on third down, he must find a way. Otherwise, the new additions are moot.