Week 11 Reality Checks: Washington at Carolina

By Tim Payne | Nov 19, 2021

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 26: Antonio Gibson #24 of the Washington Football Team celebrates with Terry McLaurin #17, Chase Roullier #73 and Morgan Moses #76 after rushing for a 23-yard touchdown during the fourth quarter of a game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium on November 26, 2020 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

3. The Reality Is, Washington’s offensive line has to remain dominant.

Unexpectedly Solid. That’s how I’d describe Washington’s offensive line this season. At times, with a full or near-full compliment of starters, they’ve been downright dominant. Their performance against Tampa on Sunday was something between inspired and “Hog-like”. If Washington is going to win against a talented defense in Carolina this week, they’ll have to get another strong performance from the men up front.

Expect a heavy dose of run again as Washington looks to slow down the speedy edge rushers for the Panthers and keep the Panthers’ explosive offensive weapons off the field. If Ricky Seals-Jones is unable to go, look for a heavy dose of John Bates at tight end, which actually bolsters the run game due to Bates’ prowess as a blocker compared to the other tight ends on the roster. Assuming Scherff and Cosmi both are able to play on Sunday, Washington should be able to control the line of scrimmage and generate decent running lanes for Gibson, McKissic and Patterson.

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