Redskins Challenge: Preston Smith, it’s time to “Put up your Dukes”

Preston Smith has yet to crack double-digit sacks in his three-year career. In the season finale against the New York Giants, Smith has a solid opportunity to not only pad his stats, but carry over his strong finish into the 2018 season.

The defense for the Washington Redskins has had its ups-and-downs all season. The Redskins are 7-0 in games in which they allow under 25 points. In their eight losses, the defense has surrendered at least 30 points in all but one game. One player that is coming on strong towards the end of the season, however, is outside linebacker Preston Smith.

The former second-round pick out of Mississippi State started 2017 strong with 4.5 sacks in Washington’s first five games. Once the team lost starting defensive end Jonathan Allen for the season due to a foot injury, Smith’s production drastically decreased. From Weeks 7 to 12, Smith registered zero sacks.

Although he’s still a young player, it’s imperative that Smith to continues his maturation process in the offseason. He’s built a penchant for disappearing for long periods of time. In games against the Chargers and Giants, Smith failed to log any type of statistical input. In Weeks 8 through 12, Smith logged a grand total of eight tackles.

In Week 17, Smith has a grand opportunity to change his fortunes. Per Dan Duggan of nj.com, newly acquired general manager Dave Gettleman released disgruntled right tackle Bobby Hart in his first personnel move. The Giants also benched left tackle Ereck Flowers. Also, according to Dan Schneier of 247 Sports, the coaching staff believed that Flowers ‘quit on the team’. With New York slated to start two rookies, a sixth-round pick and an undrafted free agent, at both tackle positions, it could be a long day for Eli Manning and the Giants’ offense.

Next: 5 bold predictions for the Redskins in season finale

In five career games against New York, Smith has made little impact, failing to get a sack all five times. However, I believe that will change on Sunday afternoon. With the Giants starting two rookies at both tackle positions, Smith should find success. So, Preston Smith I challenge you to “Put up your Dukes”, dominate the opposition, and register your first season with double-digit sacks.