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Redskins vs. Patriots: Keys to victory in Week 5 of the 2019 season

By Kyle Hundley

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 29: Tress Way #5 of the Washington Redskins punts against the New York Giants during their game at MetLife Stadium on September 29, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 29: Tress Way #5 of the Washington Redskins punts against the New York Giants during their game at MetLife Stadium on September 29, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images) /
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ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 29: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots runs off the field after a game against the Buffalo Bills at New Era Field on September 29, 2019 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Bryan M. Bennett/Getty Images)
ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 29: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots runs off the field after a game against the Buffalo Bills at New Era Field on September 29, 2019 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Bryan M. Bennett/Getty Images) /

1. Redskins must get pressure on Tom Brady

So far, through one-quarter of the 2019 season, the Redskins’ pass rush has been underwhelming. Jonathan Allen battled an injury early in the season which didn’t help while Daron Payne has been pretty good but not great. After logging his first NFL sack, Montez Sweat, who some thought could challenge for rookie of the year (myself included), disappeared again against the Giants. Ryan Kerrigan, who has been the one consistent for the Redskins over the last decade, only has one sack. They have to get to Brady.

Tom Brady is too good to be given the time in the pocket. It’s well documented at this stage what happens when Brady has a clean pocket and time to go through his progressions. The Bills have arguably the best defense in the league, and they did an excellent job of making Brady uncomfortable in the pocket by throwing some exotic looks at him. That type of plan could help the Redskins though don’t expect it from ‘Skins’ defensive coordinator Greg Manusky at this point.

One thing Manusky cannot do is play zone defense against Brady; he’ll carve it up. Brady doesn’t hold on the ball for long either which can make it tough to get to him. They must play solid man defense and generate pressure.

The Redskins must have big games from the guys up front. If not, Brady is going to fill the stat sheet.

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