Redskins vs. Falcons: 5 keys to victory in Washington’s Week 9 matchup

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - OCTOBER 28: Matthew Ioannidis #98 of the Washington Redskins reacts after a play against the New York Giants during the at MetLife Stadium on October 28, 2018 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - OCTOBER 28: Matthew Ioannidis #98 of the Washington Redskins reacts after a play against the New York Giants during the at MetLife Stadium on October 28, 2018 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /
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EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – OCTOBER 28: Alex Smith #11 of the Washington Redskins in action against the New York Giants during their game at MetLife Stadium on October 28, 2018 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – OCTOBER 28: Alex Smith #11 of the Washington Redskins in action against the New York Giants during their game at MetLife Stadium on October 28, 2018 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images) /

No. 2 – Redskins must control the ball and avoid three and outs

The Redskins had their way against the New York Giants on Sunday, running for 182 yards on 33 carries. They often found themselves in second and short while Adrian Peterson had his best game as a Redskin, carrying the ball 26 times for 149 yards, scoring two touchdowns.

Being able to run the ball and control the line of scrimmage also allowed the Redskins to control the clock and keep the defense well-rested. They must do so again this week. The Atlanta Falcons can score in bunches, as they have hit 31 points in four games this year. The Redskins have done so in just one game this year. This is why it is vital that the Redskins’ offense puts together some long scoring drives and maintains ball control, to keep 2016 NFL MVP Matt Ryan on the sideline as much as possible and limit the amount of opportunities he gets to put points on the board.