There is no doubt the Washington Redskins coming into the regular season opener needed to rectify a few issues that have plagued them throughout the preseason. Sustaining drives through a balanced dose of the ground and air attack would be needed for success. By doing so, would give the Burgundy and gold a better opportunity to score points in the red zone and control the clock.
On Sunday at State Farm Stadium in Phoenix Arizona, the Redskins were able to do just that through their running back tandem of Adrian Peterson and Chris Thompson who collectively get the nod as the games impact player(s). Both put their stamp on the game and gave coach Jay Gruden a plethora of combinations to attack Arizona’s physical defense.
Gruden was able to take full advantage of Thompson’s quick an elusive abilities that complimented Peterson’s patient physical running style. Both gave the Cardinals defense different looks that kept them off balance. Washington amassed 182 yards on the ground and averaged 4.3 yards per attempt.
With Peterson and Thompson possessing the skills to catch the ball out of the backfield, the Cardinals defensive unit struggled to contain the two as they would combine for 133 receiving yard on the day.
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The one, two punch of Peterson and Thompson will have an exhausting effect on defenses. It also allows the offensive line to get into a rhythm by firing off of the ball. The complete package allows the Redskins offense to chew up clock and keep their defensive unit fresh.
Let's be clear when you can have lengthy drives that chew up a ton of clock it keeps your defense fresh. This puts pressure on the opposing teams offense especially when you put touchdowns on the board #WASvsAZ #Redskins
— Dujunnea Bland (@NotBland21) September 9, 2018
Gruden’s running back combo would put up over 150 yards through three quarters. Chewing up over 22 minutes in the first half and 33:08 for the game.
Peterson and Thompson have shredded the Cardinals defense to the tune of 150 rushing yards through 3 qtrs. AP is a few yards of hitting century mark by himself. #Redskins
— Lake Lewis Jr (@LakeLewis) September 9, 2018
The duo would finish the game with a combined 161 yards on the ground. Patience, vision, and speed allowed them to break off a few big runs that would permit the Redskins to sustain long drives that helped to close out the game.
The future Hall of Famer finished the day with 96 yards on 26 rushing attempts, one touchdown with two receptions for 70 yards. While Thompson finished the game with five carries for 65 yards along with six receptions for 63 yards and one touchdown.
Washington could be a very difficult team to game plan for if they can continue to be balanced on offense throughout the season. A solid running game will open up opportunities in the passing game for quarterback Alex Smith.