Riggo's Rag
FanSided

Washington Football Team vs. Lions Week 10 preview, score prediction

By Ian Cummings

LANDOVER, MD - NOVEMBER 24: Jeff Driskel #2 of the Detroit Lions prepares to receive the snap during the second half of the game against the Washington Redskins at FedExField on November 24, 2019 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
LANDOVER, MD - NOVEMBER 24: Jeff Driskel #2 of the Detroit Lions prepares to receive the snap during the second half of the game against the Washington Redskins at FedExField on November 24, 2019 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
3 of 4
Next
LANDOVER, MD – OCTOBER 25: Andy Dalton #14 of the Dallas Cowboys attempts a pass against the Washington Football Team during the first half at FedExField on October 25, 2020 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
LANDOVER, MD – OCTOBER 25: Andy Dalton #14 of the Dallas Cowboys attempts a pass against the Washington Football Team during the first half at FedExField on October 25, 2020 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /

Defense

Just as the Lions are suffering from injuries on defense, they’re also a bit short-handed on offense. Kenny Golladay was a non-participant on Wednesday’s practice, and starting right tackle Tyrell Crosby was a limited participant.

Additionally, Matthew Stafford has been less than one-hundred percent for some time, and last week, his play was noticeably affected by his status, as he tossed two interceptions to a young, underwhelming Vikings defense.

The Washington Football Team’s defense again has a chance to prove their mettle, something they haven’t done consistently with their provided opportunities in 2020. While several key components of Detroit’s offense may elicit questions, however, there are threats to take note of. Detroit’s receiving core still has some speed threats, and Adrian Peterson will be looking to make this a revenge game after Washington cut him ahead of the 2020 season.

Consequently, the interior line will be particularly important in this contest, especially with Taylor Decker serving as a big challenge for Montez Sweat on the left side. Against the run, Daron Payne, Jonathan Allen, and Tim Settle will have to stand their ground and keep things clean for the linebackers, and against the pass, Settle will have to continue to make an impact as a fill-in sack specialist for Matt Ioannidis (he has 3.0 this year, despite playing 31% of the snaps).

If Washington can avoid allowing space up the middle, and simultaneously penetrate through the interior on passing downs, then they can take a big first step toward beating the Lions and moving to 3-6. Those gains on the interior will trickle back to the second and third levels, where the linebackers and defensive backs will be able to play with more confidence.

Home/Commanders News