Redskins Week 13 Reality Checks: Team faces tough, winnable game
By Tim Payne
No. 5 – Reality Is, in a desperate game, mistakes are magnified.
While neither the Redskins nor the Eagles will be mathematically eliminated from playoff contention with a loss, both are desperate for a win. And in a game where both teams are desperate, it’s very often the team that makes less mistakes that gets the win.
The Redskins are among league-leaders in turnover differential. They also have the best punter in the league. However, they have made too many costly mistakes and been on the short end of too many questionable calls in the last four weeks to hold onto their lead in the NFC East.
The team that manages to play with desperation without getting sloppy and undisciplined will most likely win this game. Jay Gruden has historically gotten the best performances from his teams when their backs are against the wall. He’s also historically gotten weak performances from his teams when the lights are brightest. He’s in zero danger of getting fired tomorrow morning in any case. But he’s in plenty of danger of getting fired at season end if he ends up going from 5-2 to missing the playoffs. This game feels like a must-win to avoid that kind of collapse.
Prediction: Much like last week in Dallas, the Redskins get punched in the mouth early and rally to take the lead. Unlike last week, the Redskins are able to keep it close to the end. However, this is still the Redskins, and this is still Monday night. I think the Redskins will lose a close one to put their season on the brink. Philadelphia 24, Washington 21.
Next. Redskins vs. Eagles: 5 keys to victory in Week 13. dark
As always, when predicting a loss, I hope I’m wrong. But be honest, ‘Skins fans… who really thinks this one sets up as a Redskins win? What do you think? Join the conversation below or on Twitter @TheRealityIs__. #HTTR