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Redskins vs. 49ers: Riggo’s Rag Week 6 Prediction Duel

By Matthew Valdovinos

GLENDALE, AZ - DECEMBER 04: Head coach Jay Gruden of the Washington Redskins walks on to the field during a time out against the Arizona Cardinals in the third quarter of a game at University of Phoenix Stadium on December 4, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. The Cardinals defeated the Redskins 31-23. (Photo by Ralph Freso/Getty Images)
GLENDALE, AZ - DECEMBER 04: Head coach Jay Gruden of the Washington Redskins walks on to the field during a time out against the Arizona Cardinals in the third quarter of a game at University of Phoenix Stadium on December 4, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. The Cardinals defeated the Redskins 31-23. (Photo by Ralph Freso/Getty Images) /
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LANDOVER, MD – SEPTEMBER 03: A detailed view of a Washington Redskins helmet before the Washington Redskins play the Jacksonville Jaguars at FedExField on September 3, 2015 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
LANDOVER, MD – SEPTEMBER 03: A detailed view of a Washington Redskins helmet before the Washington Redskins play the Jacksonville Jaguars at FedExField on September 3, 2015 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /

Ian’s Prediction

For most of the week, I’ve pegged the 49ers as a team who’ll play the Redskins close. I’m not going back on this belief. But I think the team’s recent release of NaVorro Bowman will impact the score in Washington’s favor.

Bowman isn’t the All-Pro player he once was, and by cutting him, the team paved the way for Reuben Foster and Malcolm Smith to eventually take over as the starting linebackers. However, while both have upside, neither is as proven as Bowman was in that system, and his absence will sacrifice the depth at that part of the roster. The lack of his veteran presence will haunt the young 49ers more than they want it to, and that wound will be deepest against the Redskins, playing just two days after Bowman was released.

I expect the 49ers offense to run through Pierre Garcon and the offensive line, and by that formula, they’ll get a decent amount of points, but nothing more. Brian Hoyer’s inconsistency, as well as the lack of a true weapon in the backfield, will be this team’s downfall when they try to score points.

On the offensive side of the ball, the Redskins’ above-average offense will take advantage of a young, thin defense, and they’ll find a way to score early and often, using the 49ers’ shaky secondary to their advantage. I used to think this one would be close. But after this week’s turn of events, I’m less certain. I’ve got the Redskins by a bunch, taking this one 37-16 at home.

Next: 5 bold predictions for Redskins' game vs. 49ers

Who do you think got this one right? Matt has gotten right three of the first four, but could this be Ian’s week to come back? Be sure to let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to tune into the game at 1:00 today!

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