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Washington Redskins 2017 Opponents: Sizing up the Philadelphia Eagles

By Jacob Camenker

Dec 11, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; during the fourth quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. The Redskins defeated the Eagles, 27-22. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 11, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; during the fourth quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. The Redskins defeated the Eagles, 27-22. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 4, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Michael Floyd (15) is tackled by Washington Redskins cornerback Bashaud Breeland (26) at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 4, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Michael Floyd (15) is tackled by Washington Redskins cornerback Bashaud Breeland (26) at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Redskins-Eagles Matchup: Redskins Defense

This is where things get a little shakier for the Redskins. The Eagles have a three headed monster at the receiving position. When they matchup, Josh Norman will likely take on Jeffery, the team’s No. 1 guy. After that, things are a bit more unclear.

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Bashaud Breeland is the Redskins No. 2 corner at the moment, but he struggled in 2016. He may have a tough time keeping pace with the speedster Smith, and he will need safety help over the top. If that happens, tight end Zach Ertz could find open space over the middle along with Matthews, who will be battling the unknown Redskins slot corner in the early stages of the 2017 season.

Making matters worse, Blount is the type of runner that the Redskins may have issues with. Because the team lacks a proven nose tackle in their 3-4 front, big backs will be able to power through the first level of the defensive line relatively easily. Terrell McClain and Jonathan Allen may help to slow him down in some cases, but that will most likely be an issue. The Redskins just do not have the depth and talent to compete at that level against bruising backs.

Because of these factors and the solid play of Wentz, the Redskins are going to have a tough time on defense. There is one caveat. If Ryan Kerrigan can pressure Wentz, that may do just enough to disrupt the passing game and get the inexperienced Eagles offense out of rhythm.

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