All 3 phases played a role in Redskins 23-17 win over Panthers

After a forgettable performance on Monday Night Football against the New Orleans Saints, the Washington Redskins needed to rebound in a big way if they wanted an opportunity to stay atop the NFC East division. The Burgundy and Gold did just that and mustered a solid 23-17 win over the Carolina Panthers. In the win, all three phase of offense, defense, and special teams had a hand in a hard-fought victory.

Washington started the game on defense and they set the tone early by only allowing five plays for 22 yards and a punt in the Panthers first drive. Despite a quick three and out for the Redskins offense on their first possession, Washington’s special teams unit would prove to be special. The punt coverage unit came away with a huge turnover that gave the Redskins excellent field position that would be the catalyst in their first touchdown of the game.

Washington’s defense in the first half only allowed 165 yards on 28 plays including one touchdown along with gathering two turnovers (fumble and interception). The defense’s performance coupled with that of special team coordinator Ben Kotwica’s group would give the Redskins offense extra opportunities often with a short field to extend there lead.

Kotwica’s unit pinned the Panthers offense deep against the goal line and had a couple of big contributions in adding critical points. Redskins placekicker Dustin Hopkins had a pivotal 56-yard field goal to cap off a 12 play 42-yard drive that took up over seven minutes of the clock. His field goal forced the Panthers into a situation of needing a touchdown to have a shot to win.

Instant analysis of Redskins 23-17 win over Panthers

Jay Gruden’s offensive unit is at its best when running the football is a focal point. Washington was able to ride on the back of Adrian Peterson once again as he carried the ball 17 times for 97 yards. The Redskins would put up 132 total rushing yards in an extremely balanced offensive showing.

The Redskins must continue to carry this level of play onward as they did a solid job of stopping the Panthers offense on third down (3 of 9 for 33%). By comparison, on third downs, the Redskins were 7 of 16 for 43.75 percent.

Washington has shown a resilient attitude in their ability to rise up after a tough loss. Now they will need to display that business-like attitude that many of Washington’s leaders are crying out to attain.

One thing is for certain, if the Redskins want to be considered a true contender and respected among the media as such, it will need to begin a streak of uniformity and carrying a good win on the field into Week 7 against the Dallas Cowboys at FedEx Field next Sunday.