Redskins Ground Eagles 23-17
The Redskins passed another major test into establishing themselves as a playoff contender as they dumped the Eagles on the road 23-17. Although Moss didn't catch a ball this afternoon, he forced the Eagles defense to change their game plan and allowed Cooley and Randel-El to roam free on the underneath routes.
The Skins fell behind early and didn't buckle despite what looked to be a game changing 68 yard punt return for a touchdown by DeSean Jackson to put Philly up 14-0. To the Redskins credit they didn't panic and maintained the game plan with a steady dose of the running game. It appears that Jansen's overall presence at tackle has helped. His name has bareley been mentioned at all which should solidify his role back as the starter when Heyer returns from his shoulder injury.
The Skins chipped away at the lead with a couple of Suisham field goals and turned the momentum of the game around with a Randel-El to Cooley TD Pass. It was Randel-El's fourth career touchdown pass. The defense clamped down on Westbrook, McNabb, and the Eagles receivers in the second half without the likes of Taylor, Springs, and Washington. It was another stellar effort by Fletcher, Landry, and Horton.
The game could have been put out of reach with less tension had the Skins been able to apply any type of pressure on McNabb. Why Wilson isn't used in more situations is mind boggling. Carter was spotted on the field making appearances and some tackles without much in the way of pressure and sacks. It's a credit to the back seven that the defense has done as well as it has without much help from the front four. Eventually the lack of pressure from the front four will catch up with the Skins if things don't change soon. Fortunately for Redskins fans the schedule gets easier as the Rams, Browns, and Lions are the next three opponents.
Comments
The Eagles seemed to follow a similar incorrect strategy that the Cowboys employed a week ago. They stopped being aggressive after taking the 14-0 lead.
We've blamed the Redskins for this since the days of Gibbs first tenure. At least now it's our opponents problem. Zorn seems to follow the better path.
Posted by: Big Money Tony
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October 6, 2008 7:58 AM