Redskins vs. Lions preview: Matchups to watch, score prediction, more
By Ian Cummings
Redskins offense vs. Lions defense
Dwayne Haskins progressed from the first half to the second half in the New York Jets game. The hope is that the progression seen from Haskins can carry over into next week. Haskins started off slow and sloppy, but finished the game with a few highlights to look back on.
Against the Lions, Haskins will have another chance to produce, if the coaches give him the right game plan. The Lions have allowed the third-most passing yards per game in the NFL so far this season, and they’ve allowed the ninth-most rushing yards per game. On Football Outsiders, they’re ranked as the No. 26 unit in the league.
That said, while the Lions are statistically vulnerable, they have the talent to surprise with a trend-breaking game. Darius Slay is still one of the better cornerbacks in the league, and he’ll be matched up with Redskins rookie Terry McLaurin. In the defensive front, the Lions have experienced contributors like Mike Daniels, Damon Harrison, and Trey Flowers, who can all take advantage of an unsuspecting offensive line. And in the linebacking core, Jarrad Davis may be starting to find his stride.
Despite the talent found in pockets, the Lions defense is still an incomplete unit, and the Redskins should be able to find weaknesses, should they adequately prepare and scheme for the matchup. On the ground with Derrius Guice now healthy, the Redskins match up favorably with Detroit, and through the air, Haskins will have an opportunity to rectify his mistakes in the Jets game, while simultaneously adding to his improvements. With McLaurin covered by Slay, however, less reliable players may have to get involved.