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Redskins vs. Panthers: 5 keys to victory in Washington’s Week 6 matchup

By Kyle Hundley

GLENDALE, AZ - SEPTEMBER 9: Quarterback Alex Smith #11 of the Washington Redskins takes the field for warmups before the game against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images)
GLENDALE, AZ - SEPTEMBER 9: Quarterback Alex Smith #11 of the Washington Redskins takes the field for warmups before the game against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images) /
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GLENDALE, AZ – SEPTEMBER 9: Tight end Jordan Reed #86 of the Washington Redskins runs during the first half against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
GLENDALE, AZ – SEPTEMBER 9: Tight end Jordan Reed #86 of the Washington Redskins runs during the first half against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

2. Redskins must utilize its offensive weapons

Jay Gruden must do a better job of play calling this game than he did against the Saints. He must also do a better job utilizing his playmakers.

After a strong performance to open the season, Chris Thompson has been quiet the last couple weeks. While some of this is because defenses are starting to key on him more, Gruden must be more creative in finding ways to deploy the “Chris Army Knife” and get him the ball in the open field.

Alex Smith also has two tight ends who are mismatches. While Jordan Reed was a non-factor in the blowout loss to the Saints, he still is one of the best tight ends in the league when healthy. Vernon Davis isn’t putting up numbers anymore like he was in his prime, but he can still run by linebackers and has the size to provide mismatches against smaller secondary players. Both tight ends need to be featured more against the Panthers.

If the Redskins can get these offensive playmakers going, they should have a good chance to put up solid offensive numbers against the Panthers — and at least move the ball better than they did against the Saints.

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