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Redskins vs. Cowboys: Keys to victory in Week 2 of the NFL season

By Kyle Hundley

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 22: Da'Ron Payne #95 of Washington sacks Dak Prescott #4 of the Dallas Cowboys in the first quarter of a football game at AT&T Stadium on November 22, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 22: Da'Ron Payne #95 of Washington sacks Dak Prescott #4 of the Dallas Cowboys in the first quarter of a football game at AT&T Stadium on November 22, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images) /
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TAMPA, FL – NOVEMBER 11: Adrian Peterson #26 of the Washington Redskins rushes during a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on November 11, 2018 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
TAMPA, FL – NOVEMBER 11: Adrian Peterson #26 of the Washington Redskins rushes during a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on November 11, 2018 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /

1. Redskins must get a productive game from Adrian Peterson

In a surprising move and one that did not sit well with veterans, Jay Gruden deactivated Adrian Peterson before the week one opener against the Eagles. With Peterson inactive, Derrius Guice was to be the lead back. He finished with 18 yards on 10 carries but is now out for an extended period as he deals with a knee injury.

Once again, enter Adrian Peterson.

In two games against Dallas last year, Peterson had 99 yards in the first game but just 35 in the second as injuries had decimated the team at this point. The ‘Skins running game struggled against a very talented Eagles’ defensive front as they finished with just 28 yards on 13 carries. The Cowboys also have a skilled front seven featuring Pro Bowlers DeMarcus Lawrence and Leighton Vander Esch.

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If the Redskins are going to keep a healthy balance on offense this week, Peterson is going to have to bail them out. The offensive line must do better. Without Trent Williams again, committing to run is not going to be easy.

Donald Penn filled in admirably, and Ereck Flowers looked good against Philly. The right side needs to step up this week as neither Brandon Scherff or Morgan Moses had great games. In all of Washington’s victories last year, Peterson had at least 17 carries. If he can hit that number again and give the ‘Skins some balance on offense, they will be in a position to win this one.

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