Week 8 Preview: Redskins at Patriots

With everybody’s mind on the Colts game, many people are forgetting that we have a game today.  And the game today isn’t going to be a breeze either, as we are playing a strong Redskins team.  Although the fans may not be focused, I think the players are (thanks to Hoody) and I don’t think the upcoming Colts will be on their minds.

The Redskins are a very good team, and it will probably show today.  They have one of the most menacing defensive backfield in the league, with players such as Sean Taylor, LaRon Landry, Shawn Springs, Fred Smoot, and Carlos Rogers.  Their defensive line is led by Phillip Daniels and Andre Carter, two good ends.  The linebacking core is also good, led by rising second year man, Rocky McIntosh, as well as veterans such as London Fletcher.

Their offense is pretty good as well.  They have one of the top five offensive lines in the league, a group that includes Chris Samuels, Pete Kendall, Casey Rabach, Jason Fabini, and Todd Wade.  They’ve also got a terrific 1-2 punch at runningback, with Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts.  It doesn’t end there either, their receivers are great as well.  Led by Antwaan Randle El, Santana Moss, James Thrash, Brandon Lloyd, our boy Reche, and Keenan McCardell, they have the ability to strike quick.  At quarterback, they are led by a guy who will be a star in this league, as he has a combonation of speed, power, and arm strength.

When you look over thier roster, and you see how good they are, you have to question, are the Pats overlooking the Skins?

Players to Watch – Redskins

1. Jason Campbell, QB

2. Ladell Betts, RB

3. Sean Taylor, S

4. Rocky McIntosh, LB

5. Carlos Rogers, CB

Players to Watch – Patriots

1. Laurence Maroney, RB

2. Wes Welker, WR

3. James Sanders, S

4. Randall Gay, CB

5. Tom Brady, QB (Record Tracker – 27 TDS)

Keys to the Game – Patriots

1. Get the Run Game Going – the Redskins front seven doesn’t match the ability of its secondary, so I think to be successful on offense, the Patriots will really have to establish the run this game.

2. Stay Cool on Defense – The Redskins have the ability to get the ball rolling quickly on offense, but if the Patriots just stick to their assignments, they shouldn’t have to worry.

3. Srtike Early – If the Patriots can develop a nice early lead, we won’t have to worry too much.  The Redskins have a good offense, but it isn’t overly explosive, and we should look to exploit that.

Greg’s Prediction:

Patriots 34 Redskins 20 (probably will be more of a blowout, but you can’t count out the Redskins)