Postgame Redskins Reality Checks for Week 1 at Arizona

GLENDALE, AZ - SEPTEMBER 09: Running back Adrian Peterson #26 of the Washington Redskins slips by defensive back Tre Boston #33 of the Arizona Cardinals during the third quarter at State Farm Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
GLENDALE, AZ - SEPTEMBER 09: Running back Adrian Peterson #26 of the Washington Redskins slips by defensive back Tre Boston #33 of the Arizona Cardinals during the third quarter at State Farm Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /
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GLENDALE, AZ – SEPTEMBER 09: Tight end Jordan Reed #86 of the Washington Redskins reacts after scoring a four-yard touchdown during the second quarter against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images)
GLENDALE, AZ – SEPTEMBER 09: Tight end Jordan Reed #86 of the Washington Redskins reacts after scoring a four-yard touchdown during the second quarter against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images) /

No. 6 – Reality is, the Redskins need a “W” in the worst way this Sunday.

I said I’d be thrilled if the Redskins got the win in a business-like fashion and I’d be disappointed if they lost or looked like they were lucky to win. I predicted a sloppy win, expecting to be relieved but nervous throughout. My score prediction was Redskins 20, Cardinals 17.

The reality is, after the first touchdown, there was never another point where it felt like the Cardinals were coming back, and by halftime, I was simply basking in that rare opportunity to enjoy a game without worrying too much.  My nine-year-old daughter, who is a huge Redskins fan, told me after the game that she almost felt bored, and that it was more fun to win when you were nervous you might not. I can totally understand that sentiment, but I’ll take the “boring” win any time.

Reality Check: This game may have been much more about how bad the Cardinals are than how good the Redskins are. But good teams take care of business against bad teams. I can recall plenty of times (See Week 17 last year) where the Redskins played down to their competition and didn’t handle their business. It was nice to get a business-like win to open up the 2018 campaign.

Next. Redskins Ingredients for Improvement: Action and Reaction. dark

Look for Week 2 Pregame Reality Checks in preparation for the home opener against Indianapolis this week, and as always, leave your comments below or connect with me on Twitter @TheRealityIs__ .  Until later this week, enjoy the win, and #HTTR.