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Three takeaways from Washington Football Team’s Week 1 win vs. Eagles

By Jacob Camenker

LANDOVER, MARYLAND - SEPTEMBER 13: Ryan Kerrigan #91 of the Washington Football Team celebrates after a play against the Philadelphia Eagles in the second half at FedExField on September 13, 2020 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
LANDOVER, MARYLAND - SEPTEMBER 13: Ryan Kerrigan #91 of the Washington Football Team celebrates after a play against the Philadelphia Eagles in the second half at FedExField on September 13, 2020 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) /
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LANDOVER, MD – SEPTEMBER 13: Daron Payne #94 and Chase Young #99 of the Washington Football Team tackle Carson Wentz #11 of the Philadelphia Eagles in the second half at FedExField on September 13, 2020 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images)
LANDOVER, MD – SEPTEMBER 13: Daron Payne #94 and Chase Young #99 of the Washington Football Team tackle Carson Wentz #11 of the Philadelphia Eagles in the second half at FedExField on September 13, 2020 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images) /

2. Washington’s defensive line is as good as advertised

Washington was down 17-0 in this game before they pulled off an absolutely incredible comeback. In truth, the team was only able to come back because of their defense.

And in particular, their defensive line was responsible for the win.

The biggest weakness for the Eagles coming into the game was their offensive line. They were missing three starting linemen and Washington absolutely had to take advantage of that fact. At first, it didn’t look like they were going to be able to do that. But then, things changed.

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After the opening drive, Washington was able to sack Carson Wentz a whopping eight times. Five players racked up at least one sack and the pressure on Wentz forced him into numerous mistakes. The sacks created game-changing plays and really shifted the momentum for Washington, as Philadelphia was consistently behind the chains as a result of their pressure.

The defensive line playing well was to be expected. They are one of the best units in the NFL and are a truly elite pass rush that features five former first-round selections and Matt Ioannidis. As long as this unit is healthy, they will continue to key the team’s success.

Two players above all else deserve shoutouts. First, Ryan Kerrigan’s two sacks were critical for the team. He broke the seal on the sack party and was able to break Washington’s all-time sack record with the game-changing plays.

Elsewhere, Chase Young put his top-level talent on display early and often. Save for a couple of offsides calls — which can be chalked up as rookie mistakes — Young was excellent. His athletic ability is other-worldly and he truly is ready to make a big impact for Washington. As long as he keeps generating pressure, this defense has all the potential in the world.

We’ll soon see if this performance can continue against healthier offensive lines. But make no mistake: Washington living up to these lofty expectations among the front four is why the team was able to win on Sunday.

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