Interviewing the Redskins Enemy: Q&A with The Landry Hat

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SANTA CLARA, CA – OCTOBER 22: C.J. Beathard #3 of the San Francisco 49ers is stripped of the ball by DeMarcus Lawrence #90 of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL game at Levi’s Stadium on October 22, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

Question No. 3

Riggo’s Rag: On the defensive side of the ball, defensive end Demarcus Lawrence has erupted onto the scene, logging 9.5 sacks and doubling his career sack total in just six games. What enabled his rise, and what can we expect from him moving forward?

The Landry Hat: DeMarcus Lawrence actually led the team with 8.0 sacks two seasons ago. Last year, offseason back surgery and a four-game suspension for violating the league’s substance abuse policy really stunted his growth. Following another back surgery this offseason, some wondered if his decline in Dallas would only get worse.

But Lawrence has exceeded expectations this season and provided the Cowboys with a ‘war daddy’ pass rusher the team has been missing since the days of DeMarcus Ware. Lawrence’s presence has now opened up opportunities for other defensive lineman like David Irving and Tyrone Crawford to get more sacks. I expect Lawrence to continue to garner that kind of attention all season, while others like Irving and Crawford benefit.

Question No. 4

More from Riggo's Rag

Riggo’s Rag: Give us two under-the-radar names to keep an eye on in Sunday’s game, one on offense, and one on defense.

The Landry Hat: Here’s a very under the radar name for you. Wide receiver Noah Brown. This seventh-round selection out of Ohio State is unlikely to hurt the Redskins as a receiver. But where Brown could have a big impact is as a blocker. The 6-2, 225 pound rookie had a key block in last weekend’s matchup against the Niners that sprung Ezekiel Elliott for a 72-yard touchdown off a screen pass.

Defensively, the name to watch is cornerback Jourdan Lewis. The third round selection out of Michigan has been the focus of several offensive attacks since his Week 2 debut. For a rookie, Lewis plays like a hardened veteran. I fully expect Kirk Cousins and Co. to attack his side of the field early and often. And I’m excited at the prospect of what this kid can do.

Question No. 5

Riggo’s Rag: Who wins this game, and why?

The Landry Hat: Honestly, because I focus mainly on one or two teams, it’s hard to predict who wins this game, as I really don’t know what Washington brings to the table. But I can say this. When these two teams meet, throw out the records and the stats. The intensity on the field, and sometimes off it, can get to insane levels.

I do like the fact the Cowboys are coming off a blowout win, and the Redskins are coming off a short week following their Monday Night game. Add in the fact there is currently a 100% chance of rain predicted during this contest, and I’ll take Dallas’ running game over Washington’s. Dallas Cowboys 30, Washington 23.

Next: 5 bold predictions for the Redskins matchup vs. the Cowboys

Let’s thank The Landry Hat expert Steven Mullenax one more time for agreeing to be a part of this article! The Redskins play the Cowboys at 4:25 on Sunday, in a matchup that will be pivotal in shaping the NFC Wild Card race. The Redskins are 2-1 at home so far this season. With some solid play, and a little bit of luck, they can move to 3-1, and stay above .500 in the process.

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