Heading into the regular-season opener, the Washington Redskins needed to correct some issues that have plagued them for some time. Sustaining drives with a balanced dose of the ground and air attack would be necessary for success. Doing so would give the Burgundy and Gold a better opportunity to score points in the red zone and control the clock and, for at least some of the game; Washington did just that.
In the first half of Sunday’s 32-27 loss, the Redskins established a respectable rushing attack. This allowed the offensive line to get into a healthy rhythm and give QB Case Keenum time to make plays down the field. Washington’s wide receiver corps had been in question due to their youth and inexperience. However, Keenum was still able to complete passes to seven different pass-catchers.
There might yet be questions around who the potential deep threat for the Burgundy and Gold is but rookie WR Terry McLaurin made a significant impact, showing his potential.
The 6-0, 210 lbs. wideout put his versatility on display, making aggressive plays on the football when catching the ball in traffic. One thing about McLaurin that tends to go unrecognized is his speed and crisp route skills. Keenum was able to find McLaurin on a 69-yard bomb down the middle of the field in the first half for a touchdown that gave the Redskins a 17-0 lead.
The former Buckeye finished the day catching five out of seven targets for 125 yards and one touchdown. Despite the loss, HC Jay Gruden and OC Kevin O’Connell have reasons to be optimistic about their young offensive talent. McLaurin could be a vital piece to an explosive passing offense for the Redskins.
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