1. Can the Redskins keep pace with the Eagles’ offense? Philadelphia averages 6.7 yards per play, third-most in the NFL, and scored 24 points against Buffalo last week despite committing five turnovers. The Redskins’ offense, on the other hand, hasn’t accounted for more than 22 points in a game. They must keep pace by finishing drives and maintaining possession for long stretches.
2. Will Philadelphia’s flood of turnovers continue? The Eagles’ minus-10 turnover ratio is tied for the worst in the league, and they averaged 3.5 turnovers in each game during their current four-game slide. The Redskins must pressure quarterback Michael Vick (four interceptions last week) into more mistakes.
3. Can Washington limit Philadelphia’s explosive playmakers? Vick, LeSean McCoy, DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin each scored touchdowns in last November’s 59-28 rout of the Redskins. The Redskins have to pressure Vick with four rushers and prevent the explosive receivers from releasing freely down the field.
4. To what extent are the Redskins committed to running the ball? They want to throw it, as evidenced by the three play-action passes they ran to start the game against the Rams, the team with the league’s worst-ranked run defense. The Eagles give up five yards per carry, so Washington could control possession by establishing the run and sticking with it.
5. Will the Redskins’ return game come back to life? Brandon Banks has averaged 3.2 yards on six punt returns in the last two games. That’s a considerable drought by his standards. Coach Mike Shanahan believes teams are focusing heavily on limiting Banks’ effectiveness.
• Rich Campbell can be reached at rcampbell@washingtontimes.com.
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