Washington Football Team: Five bold predictions vs. Bengals in Week 11

LANDOVER, MARYLAND - NOVEMBER 08: Chase Young #99 of the Washington Football Team reacts as he runs onto the field before a game against the New York Giants at FedExField on November 08, 2020 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
LANDOVER, MARYLAND - NOVEMBER 08: Chase Young #99 of the Washington Football Team reacts as he runs onto the field before a game against the New York Giants at FedExField on November 08, 2020 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) /
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Nov 15, 2020; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Washington Football Team running back J.D. McKissic (41) runs the ball toward Detroit Lions defensive tackle John Penisini (91) during the fourth quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 15, 2020; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Washington Football Team running back J.D. McKissic (41) runs the ball toward Detroit Lions defensive tackle John Penisini (91) during the fourth quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports /

3. J.D. McKissic sees at least 12 targets, catches 10

Since Alex Smith was inserted into the Washington lineup, J.D. McKissic has been one of the most targeted receivers in the NFL.

Yes, you read that right. Washington’s change-of-pace back is one of the league’s most targeted receivers. He’s seen more than Terry McLaurin the past couple of weeks and has posted an absurd total of 29 targets.

It’s easy to understand why this is happening. Smith simply loves to check the ball down when he doesn’t see anything open downfield. McKissic is also elusive and good with the ball in his hands, so the connection is a strong one and it should continue to be.

Related Story. Five players to watch for Washington in Week 11. light

There’s no reason to expect a significant downturn in targets from McKissic any time soon. He has seen target totals of 14 and 15 in consecutive weeks and while he may not continue to see that high a volume, he should continue to crack double digits in that area.

Against the Bengals, Washington will probably have to throw quite a bit to stay competitive with the Bengals and their explosive offense. For that reason, McKissic should expect to see about 12 targets in this contest and he could generate a season-high in catches with 10.

McKissic is simply becoming a huge part of Washington’s game plan. With no clear-cut No. 2 receiver behind McLaurin, it makes sense for Smith to target him when the team has nothing downfield, so expect this trend to continue for the rest of the season.