The Washington Redskins are trying to bounce back from a disappointing Week 5 performance at New Orleans. Here are three players who need big games this week.
The Washington Redskins had 15 days to prepare for a Week 5 meeting with New Orleans at the Superdome. The Redskins lost 43-19 in a game that was never close. Washington struggled on both sides of the ball. In a competitive NFC, the Redskins must get back on track this week as they host the Carolina Panthers at FedEx Field. A loss would give them two losses in the NFC already and also a second home loss.
The Panthers present quite the challenge. Not only have the Redskins lost the past five meetings between the two teams, but they are also 0-4 against Cam Newton. Newton generally has big games against Washington including a five-touchdown performance three years ago.
In addition to Newton, the Panthers also have outstanding multi-purpose back Christan McCaffrey to deal with. Pro Bowl tight end Greg Olsen also makes his return this week.
Can the Redskins stop the 3-1 Panthers? Carolina has the No. 1 rushing attack in the league. An even better question would be can the Redskins and quarterback Alex Smith move the ball on Carolina’s defense?
Always notoriously stingy, the Panthers rank No. 4 in total defense in 2018. They can be vulnerable through the air, though, as they allow 280 yards passing per game. Can Smith and his weapons get on the same page enough to take advantage?
Here are three players who need big games for Washington to pull off the victory on Sunday.