Redskins Halftime Takeaways: Fabian Moreau, Montez Sweat lead charge
By Ian Cummings
The Redskins got off to a slow start against the Carolina Panthers, but they’ve since righted the ship, and they’re well within striking distance as they enter the intermission.
The Carolina Panthers rocketed out to a 14-0 lead over the Washington Redskins in the first quarter, and at the time, it looks as if the Panthers would engineer a rout of the burgundy and gold.
After the Panthers hot start, however, the Redskins defense adjusted, ironing out communication issues, and generating consistent pressure against Kyle Allen. The Redskins offense slowly started gleaning more and more value from the opportunities provided by the defense and punter Tress Way, and now, at the half, the Redskins trail the Panthers by a score of 14-12.
The defense has been the big story for Washington, with three total sacks spread amongst Montez Sweat, Matt Ioannidis, and Jonathan Allen. Sweat has 1.5 through two quarters, and his speed has been very evident on the edge. He’s been assisted by a very stout interior rush, and a vulnerable tackle situation for the Panthers.
Fabian Moreau has been the story again in the secondary. His red zone interception led to the Redskins first touchdown, and it’s now his third pick in two weeks since switching to the boundary to replace Josh Norman. Moreau has been a revelation on the outside, and he simply keeps producing as offenses avoid Quinton Dunbar.
On offense, Dwayne Haskins took some time to get going, but on the final drive of the half for the Redskins offense, he was as sharp as he’s been all season, going through his reads and making clutch completions in big spots. The drive ultimately stalled when a strip sack was followed by an offensive pass interference call on Jeremy Sprinkle, and the Redskins settled for a field goal attempt, which was blocked. But Haskins did a great job of driving down the field in the two minute drill, and he’s showing more comfort and confidence every week.
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The Redskins clearly have some issues to work out, whether it’s with pass protection or with defensive consistency, but their performance this week has been a pleasant surprise. They’re showing more flexibility under the game’s fluctuating conditions, and the offense is showing signs of life. Can they take the lead in the second half and come away with the win? Let’s find out.