Redskins vs. Vikings: Keys to victory in Week 8 of the 2019 season

5. Redskins must force at least three turnovers

Through the first seven games of the season, the defense has struggled in a lot of areas. They’ve struggled to stop the run. They’ve struggled on third down. They’ve struggled to cover the middle of the field.

But, despite all that, they have been fairly opportunistic when it comes to creating turnovers. They have 10 of them. Their mediocre minus-2 turnover differential is more of a product of the offense’s struggles with ball security.

The Vikings do a good job protecting the football as they are plus-2 as a team, and Cousins only has three interceptions on the season, so it’s not going to be easy. Minnesota has just nine in seven games, so asking for three in one game is a lot to ask of the defense, but they can do it.

After forcing two turnovers against Miami, Troy Apke intercepted an errant Jimmy Garoppolo pass, and the Redskins would’ve recovered a critical fumble had it not been the play not been blown dead. So, they’ve been close to making game-changing plays. And the defense must continue to make plays on Thursday.

Thursday night games are always tough, especially as the visiting team, and the Redskins figure to be heavy underdogs. They must have a nose for the football, and force the Vikings some uncharacteristic turnovers to help steal some possessions, and get some extra chances at much-needed points.

If Washington can win the turnover battle and get three turnovers, and more importantly, score when they do take it away, there is an excellent chance they can steal a Thursday night road game.