Redskins vs. Lions: Keys to victory in Week 12 of the 2019 season

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ATLANTA, GA – AUGUST 22: Defensive end Jonathan Allen #93 of the Washington Redskins reacts with quarterback Case Keenum #8 of the Washington Redskins after an Atlanta Falcons missed field goal in the first half of an NFL preseason game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on August 22, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images) /

5. Redskins must do a better job against the run this week

The Jets took a page out of the Bill Callahan playbook as they ran it 33 times for 115 yards against the Washington defense. The Redskins’ defensive line must do better this week at shutting down the run.

That may be difficult to get as Daron Payne suffered an injury last week and is listed as doubtful for the game. With Payne unlikely to play, Jonathan Allen and Matt Ioannidis must have big games.

With Kerryon Johnson on IR, the Lions lost a promising, young talent in the backfield. As a result, they’ve been a middle of the pack team at just under 100 a game. But Detroit was able to run the ball last weekend. They ran for 121 yards and two touchdowns on 28 attempts against a good Dallas defense. Being able to keep a solid run/pass balance on offense helped backup quarterback Jeff Driskel.

Next. Top 10 prospects Redskins should look at with top pick. dark

Driskel has shown surprising athleticism running the football in two starts as well. He has 88 yards on 13 attempts. If Washington can slow him and the Detroit running game down and make Driskel beat them with his arm, the ‘Skins will have a chance on Sunday.

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