Redskins Ingredients for Improvement: Action and reaction
By Ian Cummings
Everything seems perfect after a Redskins win. But there are always Ingredients for Improvement.
Yes, we’re nitpicking. Someone’s gotta do it.
The Washington Redskins played a great game on Sunday. For our purposes, about as close to perfect as a team can be in Week 1. Offensively and defensively, there wasn’t much to feel bad about.
On offense, the Redskins engineered a masterful siege on the game clock, using a strong rushing game and an efficient, precise passing game to keep the chains moving, and to keep the ball in their hands. The Redskins ended the game with 30 first downs to Arizona’s 14, and in the time of possession battle, the Redskins dominated with 38:08, compared to Arizona’s 21:52.
The defense was just as dominant for the Redskins, with the young secondary leading the way. The young secondary was one of the biggest causes for concern in all the offseason speculation, but they quieted doubters on Sunday, led by a monster performance from Quinton Dunbar.
There was plenty to like from the Redskins’ season opener. Jay Gruden’s play calling was spectacular. Alex Smith ran the offense very well, and it’s clear that the defense is much improved from last year. Still, even after a perfect week, there’s always a way to improve! Let’s take a look at how Washington can build on this early success.