NFL Week 2: 5 Biggest questions entering the weekend
2. Is the Washington Football Team a serious contender?
Washington is another team that was written off before the season even started, even though there were signs that they could be a solid team. Those signs were on full display in the second half of Week 1 as they overcame a 17-7 halftime deficit to beat the Philadelphia Eagles, 27-17.
In this comeback, they demonstrated that Dwayne Haskins can be competent when he needs to be — but their best asset is their defense. Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz was abused by Washington’s defense line, who sacked him eight times and forced three turnovers.
Rookie running back Antonio Gibson also looked solid on the ground, and even though Peyton Barber got the majority of the touches and scored twice, his 1.71 yards per attempt make it clear this is Gibson’s backfield in the future.
Through Week 1, Washington currently sits atop the NFC East, which is shaping up to be one of the weaker divisions in football. However, the question is whether or not they can maintain this lead.
Unfortunately, their upcoming schedule is challenging, as they face the Cardinals, Ravens and Rams in the next four weeks. Seeing if their defense holds up against more formidable offenses and if Haskins can play from behind in these games will paint a clearer picture of their season and postseason chances.