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Redskins Challenge: Ryan Kerrigan, it’s time to “Put up your Dukes”

By Lawrence Jason Dukes

LANDOVER, MD - SEPTEMBER 10: Ryan Kerrigan #91 of the Washington Redskins celebrates against the Philadelphia Eagles in the second half at FedExField on September 10, 2017 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
LANDOVER, MD - SEPTEMBER 10: Ryan Kerrigan #91 of the Washington Redskins celebrates against the Philadelphia Eagles in the second half at FedExField on September 10, 2017 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) /
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Since his rookie year in 2011 Ryan Kerrigan has been the most consistent player on the Redskins defense. For the first time in his career, Kerrigan is on pace to log double-digit sacks in consecutive seasons.

Perhaps no player on the Redskins defense is as important as Ryan Kerrigan. Last week against the Giants, Kerrigan had five tackles and two sacks. At 5-6 the Redskins are on the brink of missing the postseason. If they are to make it to .500 they’ll need a Kerrigan to continue his solid play.

Injuries are beginning to mount up for the Cowboys offensive line. Tyron Smith is battling groin and back issues, while Zack Martin sustained a concussion against the Chargers. Both Martin and Smith are on track to play against the Redskins, but even with them, Dallas’ offense has been lethargic and inept without Ezekiel Elliott. The Cowboys have struggled to protect quarterback Dak Prescott as he’s been sacked nearly five times per game during Dallas’ three-game losing streak.

Kerrigan has an excellent opportunity to improve his Pro Bowl stock. Byron Bell is on track to start in place of the injured La’el Collins. If there’s a matchup that the Redskins defense can exploit it’s this one. Kerrigan had two sacks in week eight against Dallas. The Cowboys run a ton of empty-set formations, despite Prescott averaging 6.7 yards per attempt. A year ago, the Cowboys allowed 25 sacks in 16 games. Prescott has already been sacked 24 times in 2017.

If I’m defensive coordinator Greg Manusky, I’m basing my gameplan around Kerrigan. Good coaches put their best players in position to make plays. In a high-stakes matchup, it’ll be interesting to see how Redskins coaches respond. Kerrigan got the best of Collins in the first game against Dallas. Against his backup, Kerrigan could have a game similar to the one Adrian Clayborn had against the Cowboys three weeks ago. Kerrigan is a player to watch on Thursday night.

Next: 3 Keys to victory for the Redskins in Week 13

With the Redskins fighting for playoff survival, they need their best players to rise to the occasion. Washington’s defense has struggled throughout the years, but they’ll need a strong performance from their best pass rusher tonight. So, Ryan Kerrigan, I challenge you to “Put up your Dukes” and dominate the Dallas Cowboys on national television.

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