The Washington Redskins are off to their best start since 2008 with a 5-2 record after knocking off the New York Giants 20-13. The defensive line led by Daron Payne, Jonathan Allen, and Matt Ioannidis shined as they held Giants running back Saquon Barkley to 38 rushing yards. With the team on a three-game winning streak and their first 2-0 start in the NFC East since 2016, there’s not much to complain about following Sunday’s game.
The Redskins were clicking on all cylinders which means everyone’s value is on the rise this week.
Here is who stood out the most:
1. Safety, D.J. Swearinger Sr.
Swearinger built on his stellar season with two interceptions, four solo tackles, and three pass deflections against the Giants. His first interception came off Eli Manning’s pass intended for Odell Beckham Jr. at Washington’s 12-yard line. The second interception came late in the third quarter which Swearinger returned for 22 yards. He currently leads the NFL with four interceptions and Pro Football Focus named him the highest rated safety in the league with a 90.9 grade through the first half of the season.
2. Defensive Lineman, Matt Ioannidis
For a fifth-round draft pick, the Redskins are getting a lot of production out of Matt Ioannidis. He wreaked havoc on Manning and ended the contest with 2 ½ sacks. Ioannidis is strong, disruptive, and constantly in the quarterbacks face. We’ve also seen him back defenders into the quarterback on multiple occasions. Ioannidis has compiled 5 ½ sacks throughout seven games. Now that he’s healthy and paired with Allen and Payne on the interior, the Temple product is on his way to having a successful season.
The #Redskins entire defense should be given a game ball for their efforts in today’s win over Giants. AP as well for his tough running.
— Lake Lewis Jr (@LakeLewisJr) October 28, 2018
3. Running Back, Adrian Peterson
Peterson continues to prove that at 33-years old, he’s still got the juice. He rushed for a total of 149 yards to include a 64-yard touchdown to seal the deal in the fourth quarter.
Adrian Peterson seals the deal with 64 yard touchdown. He definitely still got it! #Redskins #WASvNYG
— Carita Parks (@CaritaCParks) October 28, 2018