Redskins vs. Falcons: Week 9 top matchups, score prediction

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - OCTOBER 28: Head coach Jay Gruden of the Washington Redskins congratulates players Kapri Bibbs #46 and Paul Richardson #10 of the Washington Redskins after a touchdown in the first quarter against the New York Giants on October 28,2018 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - OCTOBER 28: Head coach Jay Gruden of the Washington Redskins congratulates players Kapri Bibbs #46 and Paul Richardson #10 of the Washington Redskins after a touchdown in the first quarter against the New York Giants on October 28,2018 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /
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NEW ORLEANS, LA – OCTOBER 08: Alex Smith #11 of the Washington Redskins warms up before a game against the New Orleans Saints at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on October 8, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)
NEW ORLEANS, LA – OCTOBER 08: Alex Smith #11 of the Washington Redskins warms up before a game against the New Orleans Saints at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on October 8, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) /

Redskins vs. Falcons score prediction

When I write pieces that include score predictions, I do it a weird way. I write the score prediction first, as a gut feeling of sorts, and through the act of researching and writing, I either convince myself that the score is correct, or I modify my initial conclusion.

I originally predicted the Falcons to win this game. Their offense is truly high-powered, and they have the motivation to win, down but not out in the early playoff race.

That said, the Redskins seem to be the more well-rounded team. The Falcons would be, if fully healthy, but injuries have ravaged their roster, much like what happened to the Redskins last year. They’re down their starting running back, two starting offensive linemen, and three key defenders. Matt Ryan and the offense can keep them in games, but with so many holes, it will be tough for them to withstand heightened adversity.

The Redskins, meanwhile, have a defense that is well-equipped to handle what the Falcons throw at them, and the offense, while limited to this point, has a mechanism for success: Run the ball, churn the chains, and don’t turn the ball over.

Regardless, this game will be close; the Falcons are a well-coached team, and they have the talent to compete, even if injuries have sullened their season. But I think (going against my better judgement to avoid the jinx) the Redskins will carry their momentum from a three-game winning streak and find a way to edge out the Falcons. It may come down to the wire; Washington’s style of play encourages such an outcome. But even if Washington might only know how to win close, they still know how to win.

So, if the Redskins lose, you can blame me.

Next. Redskins vs. Giants postgame Reality Checks. dark

Score Prediction: WAS 27, ATL 23

What do you think about this score prediction? Have thoughts leading into the Redskins upcoming matchup? Feel free to voice your thoughts and opinions in the comments section below.