Redskins vs. Eagles: Keys to victory in Week 1 of the 2019 NFL season

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ATLANTA, GA – AUGUST 22: Strong safety Montae Nicholson #35 of the Washington Redskins reacts after an Atlanta Falcons missed field goal in the first half of an NFL preseason game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on August 22, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images) /

5. Redskins must win the turnover battle

While winning the turnover battle should be a point of emphasis every week, the Redskins must win this battle this week. The Eagles are among the most talented teams in the league while the Redskins are still building a competitive roster. When playing a team with more talent, as is the case with Philly, turnovers can be the deciding factor for the game.

One thing the defense and special teams units did a great job of during the preseason was force turnovers. From Jimmy Moreland making plays at the goal line to Robert Davis recovering one of the two fumbles off of Tress Way punts, it appeared as if someone was always ready to make a play when there was one to be made. Montae Nicholson’s pick-six was arguably the best play of the preseason.

Washington’s defense figures to be among the better defensive units in 2019. One thing Wentz has done an excellent job of since coming into the league is protect the football. The defense must be opportunistic and try to force Wentz and company into at least two turnovers. Three would be outstanding. If they can force Wentz into some uncharacteristic turnovers and give the Redskins’ offense with some short fields to work with, they have an excellent chance of winning this game.

Next. Five bold predictions for Redskins vs. Eagles in NFL Week 1. dark

We’ll soon see if this ends up happening, as the Eagles and Redskins kick off their respective NFL seasons at 1:00 p.m. ET on Sunday.

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