Offensive efficiency was key in a ‘good’ win by Redskins

The Washington Redskins bounced back in a big way after an uninspired effort in Week 2. Washington’s offense just as they did in a Week 1 victory, looked cohesive and efficient over a formidable opponent in the Aaron Rodgers led Green Bay Packers. The Burgundy and Gold offense led by Alex Smith was clicking on all cylinders scoring touchdowns on two out of their first three drives of the first quarter. Jay Gruden’s offense ran 17 plays for 133 yards taking up over eight minutes in time of possession in just the first quarter alone.

The Redskins had to come out and hit their opponent in the mouth early and often. With Green Bay coming into the game ranked 24th in opponent yards per completion (11.2), Washington needed to exploit that weakness to open up other aspects of their offense. That was something that had to change from the previous week as the Colts stacked the box using stunts to confuse and stifle the Redskins offense. The Redskins getting Jordan Reed involved early was a huge plus in taking those extra defenders out of the run box.

Washington’s success enabled them to take advantage of a Packers defense that is 22nd in the NFL allowing 4.7 yards per rushing attempt. Adrian Peterson had another stellar day to add to his illustrious career as he rushed for 120 yards and two touchdowns on 19 carries. Peterson averaged 6.32 yards per attempt. The Redskins offense would average 4.7 yards on the ground as a unit.

Redskins young d-line trio came of age in win over Packers

Greg Manusky’s defense once again as they have played throughout the first three games executed there gameplan effectively. Washington was able to come away with the critical third down and fourth down stops that gave their offense a plethora of opportunities to put points on the board. Led by the two big men from Alabama in Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne, Washington was able to hold Aaron Rodgers to 265 yards passing and two touchdowns.

The Redskins defense is No. 2 in the NFL in opponent points per game (14.7) and No. 2 in opponents yards per game (278) through three games. Greg Manusky’s unit has played an intricate part in the early success of the Redskins.

One thing to note in an overall good win for Washington is the much-improved effort in converting on third downs and in the red zone. The Redskins offense was 5 of 11 for 45% in converting on third down and a solid 60% in red zone scoring percentage (TD only). That aided in the Redskins big win on Sunday.