Redskins Challenge: Josh Doctson, it’s time to “Put up your Dukes”
After failing to secure a go-ahead touchdown exactly two weeks ago against the Kansas City Chiefs, Josh Doctson has the opportunity tonight to make amends and have a breakthrough performance for the Redskins offense.
Josh Doctson has received his fair share of criticism throughout his young career. Doctson missed 14 games in his rookie season with an Achilles injury. The Redskins drafted him hoping that he would have eventually made DeSean Jackson and Pierre Garcon expendable, but so far that hasn’t been the case. However, he’s still a young talented player.
Jay Gruden has vowed to get him more involved on offense. Doctson has shown promise when targeted. On the season, he has four catches, for 90 yards, and two touchdowns. It’s a small sample but he’s been targeted only nine times in five games.
A solid effort from the Redskins rushing attack is critical to keeping the Eagles honest defensively. Philadelphia has the top rushing defense in the NFL limiting teams to 67.5 yards per game. If the Redskins can commit to running the football, they’ll be able to take advantage of the Eagles secondary. Philadelphia is 29th against the pass allowing 273.5 yards per game.
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Gruden has shown the tendency to run the football out of three tight-end sets on first down. Adding new wrinkles like bootlegs and deep play-action passes are a great way to counteract an aggressive Eagles front-seven. Even shifting to three and four wide receiver looks would work.
Both Jordan Reed and Vernon Davis are excellent pass-catchers. Doctson is a relative unknown to the Philadelphia Eagles. He received zero targets in Week 1, but Doctson is primed for a big game. Kirk Cousins is gaining more trust and confidence in Doctson’s play.
Next: Evaluating Redskins D-line after Allen injury
The NFL is a week to week league, and with a strong performance against the Eagles, Doctson can atone for his big mistake two weeks ago. So Josh Doctson, I challenge you to “Put up your Dukes”, live up to the lofty expectations, and dominate the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday Night Football.