Redskins Reality Checks: Recaping the bizarre win over Tampa Bay

6. The Reality Is, Gruden needs to muster another miracle result.

I said I’d be watching to see if Gruden coaches this game like he has his back against the wall or like he has a one-game cushion in the division. I said I’d be watching for some sign of life from the return game and for some creativity in the pass-rush and the passing game. I said I’d be watching for some anger from the defense after getting punked last week, and to see if the defensive line could out-scheme the Buccaneers’ offensive line.

I said I’d be watching for the Redskins to win the discipline battle – positive turnover ratio, positive penalties breakdown, positive field position, positive game and clock management. I predicted that the Redskins would, once again, face the opportunity to fold, and once again, the leadership won’t allow it to happen. I predicted the Redskins would win a nail-biter 26-25 with the defense or special teams scoring or gifting the offense one of their touchdowns.

Reality Check: Yet again, this team found a way to win…in one of the most bizarre combinations of stats and results you will ever see. The Redskins gave up over 500 yards, and allowed six red zone trips on nine drives, and yet, only gave up three points. The Redskins were resilient on defense, finding ways to come up with plays in key spots over and over. They never folded, they never hung their heads. Lots of credit to Gruden and the coaching staff, as well as the leaders on the team, for drawing out this kind of performance on the road after a frustrating home loss last week.

At 6-3, the Redskins truly control their own destiny the rest of the way. A win each against Dallas and Philly could seal up a postseason berth. Gruden got his miracle win, and now it’s time for the Redskins to back it up a win with another good showing, this time, at home against the Texans.

It’s hard to know what to think about this team after such an unusual win. Were they lucky, or are they good? What do you think? Join the conversation @TheRealityIs__ on Twitter or in the comments below.