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Redskins vs. Cardinals: Week 1 offense and defense matchups, score prediction

By Jacob Camenker

LANDOVER, MD - AUGUST 24: Quarterback Alex Smith #11 of the Washington Redskins looks on against the Denver Broncos in the first half during a preseason game at FedExField on August 24, 2018 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
LANDOVER, MD - AUGUST 24: Quarterback Alex Smith #11 of the Washington Redskins looks on against the Denver Broncos in the first half during a preseason game at FedExField on August 24, 2018 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /
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LANDOVER, MD – NOVEMBER 15: Linebacker Preston Smith #94 of the Washington Redskins waits to be introduced before playing the New Orleans Saints at FedExField on November 15, 2015 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Matt Hazlett/Getty Images)
LANDOVER, MD – NOVEMBER 15: Linebacker Preston Smith #94 of the Washington Redskins waits to be introduced before playing the New Orleans Saints at FedExField on November 15, 2015 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Matt Hazlett/Getty Images) /

Redskins defense vs. Cardinals offense

On the defensive side of the ball, the Redskins should also be set up for success. Sam Bradford is the Cardinals quarterback and while he’s very accurate, he won’t be a big-time playmaker. And because of the offensive line that’s in front of him, he may be forced to throw the ball away early and often.

The No. 1 matchup to watch in this game is the Redskins defensive line against the Cardinals offensive line. The D-line is arguably the most talented position group for the Redskins, and Jonathan Allen, Daron Payne, Ryan Kerrigan, and others will do a lot to pressure Bradford. The Cardinals have improved their interior O-line, but D.J. Humphries is still a weak spot at left tackle while Andre Smith is merely a veteran right tackle who could struggle against the Redskins youth.

If the Redskins can get pressure on Bradford, they will disrupt the passing game. Josh Norman should be a solid matchup against Larry Fitzgerald and will at least be able to cap his upside. With the Cardinals lacking a true No. 2 receiver, Greg Manusky can focus on taking Fitzgerald out of the game plan.

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The two weapons that the Skins defense needs to be careful of are Ricky Seals-Jones and David Johnson. The team struggled to cover tight ends last season, so Seals-Jones could have a chance to exploit the middle of the defense, which has largely remained unchanged. If he has a great game, the Redskins may have more trouble containing the passing game than initially anticipated.

As for Johnson, he’s a do-it-all running back who seems bound to put up big numbers against the Redskins defense. Even with an improved defensive line and run defense, Johnson will still be a big threat out of the backfield as a runner and a receiver. The goal for the Redskins should be to limit him, but stopping him altogether might be a bit difficult.

Overall, it seems like the Redskins have a slight edge on the Cardinals offense. They matchup well, and if they can get a strong pass rush going in Arizona, they will throw the offense out of rhythm and then will only have to worry about Johnson for most of the afternoon.

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