Redskins: Week 7 goals for Washington in Bill Callahan’s second game as coach

5. Limit Nick Bosa and the 49ers pass rush

So far this season, the 49ers defense has been among the best in the league. Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh deserves a lot of credit for what he’s been able to do with the unit, as they have improved annually in three years under his watch.

One area of the 49ers defense that has been particularly strong is the defensive line. Nick Bosa was drafted with the No. 2 overall pick and he has been a force to start the year. Along with Dee Ford, DeForest Buckner, and Solomon Thomas, the 49ers have a plethora of weapons that they can use to pressure opposing quarterbacks.

That said, the Redskins may be able to at least partially counteract their weapons. Last week, the Dolphins weren’t able to get much heat on the Redskins, logging zero sacks. Granted, it is the Dolphins and they are pitiful, but it’s important to note that the Redskins had their fully healthy offensive line playing in that game (minus Trent Williams, of course). If Brandon Scherff and Chase Roullier can continue to stay on the field, they’ll have a chance to win on the interior for sure.

On the outside, containing Ford and Bosa with Morgan Moses and Donald Penn may be a bit more difficult. That said, both players can play well when they’re at their best. Bill Callahan and Kevin O’Connell will need to give the tackles a bit of help, and they could have their tight ends and backs chip on passing plays just to make things a bit easier on Case Keenum.

The Redskins need to limit Bosa and company to have even an outside chance to win. But even if the Redskins can’t win, slowing down the 49ers pass rush would be a great achievement, and it would go a long way to boosting the offense’s confidence moving forward.