The Washington Redskins are hitting the field for a football game for the first time since Dec. 31, 2017.
No, tonight’s result against the New England Patriots doesn’t mean anything in the long term, but Redskins fans have waited more than seven months to see their team return to action, even if the starters will not see much of the field.
Here’s everything you need to know for tonight’s game:
Opponent: New England Patriots (first preseason game for both teams)
Location: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts
Date and time: Thursday, Aug. 9, 7:30 p.m.
Television: NBC; NBC Sports Washington
Radio: Team 980
What to watch for: Alex Smith is likely to start, marking the first time he’ll see game action in a Redskins uniform … It will also mark the preseason debut for running back Derrius Guice, the team’s second-round draft pick last month. But first-round pick Daron Payne is unlikely to play after missing most practices between July 27 and Aug. 8. … In other rookie running back news, Patriots first-round pick Sony Michel will not play after having his knee drained earlier this week.
Pre-game reading:
Samaje Perine among 5 Redskins to watch vs. Patriots, by Matthew Paras
Redskins preseason opener matters for players on the fringe, by Adam Zielonka
Gambling and football coaches a bad mix, by Thom Loverro
Filming practice, beating Redskins at ’Madden’ all in a day’s work for Jack Gruden, by Adam Zielonka
• Staff can be reached at 202-636-3000.
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