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Redskins Halftime Takeaways: Defense shines in low-scoring affair

By Ian Cummings

LANDOVER, MD - OCTOBER 25: A general view of FedExField in the fourth quarter of a game between the Washington Redskins and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on October 25, 2015 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Matt Hazlett/Getty Images)
LANDOVER, MD - OCTOBER 25: A general view of FedExField in the fourth quarter of a game between the Washington Redskins and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on October 25, 2015 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Matt Hazlett/Getty Images) /
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FOXBORO, MA – NOVEMBER 08: A Washington Redskins helmet before the game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium on November 8, 2015 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
FOXBORO, MA – NOVEMBER 08: A Washington Redskins helmet before the game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium on November 8, 2015 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

The Redskins lead 3-0 at the half against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The score might be deceiving, but it’s been a solid two quarters for the burgundy and gold.

The reserves came to play today. On defense, the team continues to generate quick stops, and on offense, although the team hasn’t been able to get points, they’ve consistently moved the football, and multiple players have stood out in their final chance to make the roster. Here’s what we can take away from the first half of action:

The Good

Nate Sudfeld kicked off the game going 4 for 4 for 36 yards on his first drive. Although he’s had his name mentioned in a favorable light by the Redskins’ staff more than a few times this offseason, Sudfeld hasn’t yet earned the trust of his fan base. Inaccuracy plagued him in his rookie season and in offseason workouts this year. But the second-year pro appears to be finding his rhythm. He was calm and calculated in the first half, playing it safe for the most part, but consistently moving the football. He showed some zip on his throws, and with another season on the roster under his belt, he could see more growth.

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Deshazor Everett continues to show more and more growth as an extremely versatile safety for the Redskins. He had several key run stops to start off the game, and he also provided consistent solid coverage in the secondary. Everett looks better and better with each passing game, and he’s virtually a lock to make the roster as a very reliable backup safety and special teamer. The defense all around has been solid.

Matt Hazel moved the chains on a conveyer belt in the first half, recording four catches for 60 yards. If nothing else, Hazel is a very intriguing practice squad player, but the Redskins might lose him if they take that risk. If the Redskins’ receiving core wasn’t as deep as it is, Hazel might make the roster without a hitch. Instead, he’s fighting for a spot, and he might end up earning one somewhere else.

Mack Brown was impressive in limited action in the first half. The thing that stands out most about his game is his quickness. Brown runs with energy, and he’s always quick to make the right cut. If anyone deserves to be kept around as a fourth running back, it’s Brown. And considering the fact that the Redskins will likely use all three of their top running backs extensively, keeping Brown as insurance might not be a bad idea.

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