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Redskins vs. Falcons: Preview, matchups to watch, score prediction for NFL Preseason Week 3

By Jacob Camenker

CLEVELAND, OHIO - AUGUST 08: Quarterback Case Keenum #8 of the Washington Redskins drops back for a pass during the first half of a preseason game against the Cleveland Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium on August 08, 2019 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OHIO - AUGUST 08: Quarterback Case Keenum #8 of the Washington Redskins drops back for a pass during the first half of a preseason game against the Cleveland Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium on August 08, 2019 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /
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GLENDALE, AZ – SEPTEMBER 09: Defensive end Jonathan Allen #93 of the Washington Redskins reacts during the NFL game against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
GLENDALE, AZ – SEPTEMBER 09: Defensive end Jonathan Allen #93 of the Washington Redskins reacts during the NFL game against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

Redskins defense vs. Falcons offense

Frankly speaking, this side of the ball is going to be more exciting to watch. The Redskins have a defense that could be a top-10 unit, if not top-five. The Falcons offense could be one of the best in the league this season. So, we’ll get a really good look at how the Redskins are going to stack up against a strong offense.

The Falcons’ biggest strength is their passing game. Even without Julio Jones, the team still has plenty of weapons. Calvin Ridley was a first-round pick last year. Mohamed Sanu has long been a sure-handed receiver with inside/outside versatility. Justin Hardy is a former fourth-round pick and a solid slot option. These three will provide a big test to Josh Norman, Quinton Dunbar, and Fabian Moreau and if they can limit the Falcons weapons, that will further entrench them as the starting trio.

Elsewhere, tight end Austin Hooper will test the Redskins linebacker and safety coverage, so we’ll get a good idea how much Landon Collins helps in that area. If his first preseason action is any indication, it will be a lot.

Washington Commanders
Washington Commanders /

Washington Commanders

The Falcons have an improved offensive line this season as well. In particular, the addition of first-round guard Chris Lindstrom will strengthen the interior offensive line. That will provide a nice test for the Redskins up front and if Daron Payne and Jonathan Allen can wreak as much havoc as the Jets did last week, that should be a good sign for the squad.

Montez Sweat will also be an interesting player to watch for Washington in this contest. He flashed a bit in his preseason debut, but he didn’t make any big-time splash plays. Battling with Jake Matthews could be a test for him, depending on how the Redskins choose to deploy Sweat in this contest.

As for the Falcons’ running game, they are flush with good options in the backfield. Devonta Freeman has been a forgotten man after missing most of last season with an injury. Meanwhile, Ito Smith is proving to be a solid rotational back as well. The Redskins run support will be tested as a result, and the linebackers will be particularly interesting to watch.

Last game, Josh Harvey-Clemons flashed for the ‘Skins. However, he may be dealing with a concussion, so that will give Cole Holcomb, who was sidelined last week with shoulder soreness, a chance to shine instead. Veteran Jon Bostic can also further stake his claim to a starting support with a solid showing in run support.

There is a lot to be excited about in this matchup, as two of the better units on each side of the ball will be going at each other in this game. The Redskins couldn’t ask for a better test to conclude the important portion of their preseason.

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