With Apke, numerous others injured, Redskins must focus on those available

The Washington Redskins are hosting the Carolina Panthers for their Week 6 game and the Panthers are a team that appear to have Washington’s number. If one looks at team history, it wouldn’t provide much hope for a win because the Redskins haven’t beaten Carolina the last five times they’ve played. Perhaps more optimism would result if one employs the odds… as it, it’s been so long sine the Redskins have beaten the Panthers (since 2006, in fact) they’re due. Or, the Burgundy and Gold could simply play really well to change the current trend.

However it happens, Sunday’s game could be difficult. The Panthers are a good team and the Redskins are going to have to play at the opposite end of the spectrum than the way they played Monday night against the New Orleans Saints. Communication, execution and a good game plan will be paramount but having the right guys on the field would increase the odds exponentionally. Unfortunately, there are numerous starters that are injured right now. Since that is the case, it’s going to be up to the guys that are available to step up and that’s where the coaches are focusing their energies right now.

“It’s difficult,” head coach Jay Gruden said today. “But the guys that are here, we’re trying to focus on them and getting them ready to play and then have a backup plan if some of these other guys can play.”

Safety Troy Apke (hamstring) is currently listed as OUT, OG Shawn Lauvao (calf) is listed as DOUBTFUL and WRs Jamison Crowder (ankle), Paul Richardson Jr. (knee/shoulder) and Josh Doctson (heel) are all QUESTIONABLE. Also in that last category are RBs Chris Thompson (rib/knee) and Adrian Peterson (shoulder/knee/ankle); and LB Zach Vigil (thigh).

Coming off a short week makes Sunday’s game an even bigger challenge. Washington must find answers for Panthers QB Cam Newton and RB Christian McCaffrey; and linebackers Thomas Davis and Luke Kuechly. Without all of the Redskins starters at the skill position groups, it’s not going to be easy. Fortunately, some of those listed as QUESTIONABLE will play Sunday but there will likely be one or two that don’t or who aren’t 100 percent and are therefore less effective. The injury count still isn’t as bad as it was late last sesason but the phrase, “next man up” has already been heard around Redskins Park.