1. Can the Redskins rediscover their running game against a bad run defense? They have averaged 3.0 or fewer yards per carry in two of their three games. Those two games, however, were against the stout front sevens of New York and Dallas. The Rams allow 5.45 yards per rush, second-to-last in the NFL, so running lanes should be there.
2. Will quarterback Rex Grossman protect the ball? He has turned it over twice in each of the last two games. Against Dallas on Monday, he threw an interception when he didn’t see a linebacker in coverage. He later fumbled while running with the ball away from his body. He has to secure it better.
3. Can the Redskins’ defense intercept Rams quarterback Sam Bradford? The 2010 first overall pick has been sacked about once every 10 passes, but his one interception in 108 attempts is the best rate in the NFL. Linebackers Brian Orakpo and Ryan Kerrigan must help turn those pressures into turnovers by rushing Bradford’s decision-making.
4. How will the Redskins’ run defense fare? With Bradford completing only 51 percent of his passes, the Rams have relied on running backs Steven Jackson and Cadillac Williams. The Redskins’ run defense has faltered in the second half the last two weeks. A complete game is required.
5. Will Washington shore up its field goal operation? The Redskins have botched one field goal in each game so far — a miss, a block and a fumbled hold. They’re not explosive enough on offense to give away points like that, especially against an 0-3 team.
• Rich Campbell can be reached at rcampbell@washingtontimes.com.
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