Redskins vs. 49ers: 5 Things Robert Griffin III Must Do Sunday

Nov 16, 2014; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III (10) throws an interception against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first quarter at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Protect the Football

I know we all love to compare Griffin’s rookie season to everything he’s done since. But one thing he was able to do during that 2012 season, was protect the football.

He threw for 20 touchdowns and just five interceptions that year. Griffin did have nine fumbles his rookie season, but he made a number of plays with his feet to balance out those mistakes.

In 17 games since that season, Griffin has thrown just 18 touchdowns and 15 interceptions; and also has seven fumbles. With the Redskins’ defense struggling to force turnovers, Griffin can’t’ afford to turn the ball over.

The 49ers are tied for third in the NFL with 21 takeaways this season, which has consistently kept them in ball games. Washington has to find a way to win the turnover battle Sunday, to keep their defense off the field and provide more opportunities for the offense to score.