The 1-5 Washington Redskins were looking for a fresh start after relieving former coach Jay Gruden of his duties and promoting Bill Callahan as the interim head coach. However, with that change, the inconsistencies and miscues still existed even though the win over the Miami Dolphins. The Burgundy and Gold got off to a slow start offensively but the defense applied enough pressure that the Miami Dolphins offense was prevented from developing any stability. This led to the Redskins 17-16 win in Miami.

Even though it wasn’t a pretty win, a win is a win. To follow are a few players/units that saw stocks rise or fall versus the Dolphins:

Stock Up

1). Defensive Coordinator Greg Manusky

After an abysmal four-game start (giving up nearly 65 percent of the opponent’s third-down conversions), Manusky’s unit has improved somewhat. In fact, the defensive squad only allowed three of 14 third-down conversions (21.42 percent) against Miami.

The aggressive nature of the scheme has been noticeable with Manusky, on many occasions, bringing additional pressure using blitzes. This kept the Dolphins offense off-balance and unable to figure out where the pressure was coming. Washington’s defense will need to continue this upward trend if it wants continued success.

 

2). CB Quinton Dunbar

The fifth-year pro out of Florida has elevated his game every time he has been on the field. Over the past three weeks, he has fired up the turnover machine, amassing three interceptions. Additionally, his physicality has forced quarterbacks to throw away from him. When they have chosen to take their chances, he has made opposing quarterbacks pay.

Dunbar does a fantastic job of understanding where he needs to be so that he can make a play on the ball or secure a tackle. So far this season, the Miami native has 21 combined tackles and four pass deflections. Washington will need this type of play from him for the duration of the season as they try to turn around an awful defensive start to 2019.

3). WR Terry McLaurin

McLaurin is definitely a bright spot for the Redskins and continues to improve. But most importantly, he continues to produce. It’s been said repeatedly but his route running skills along and ability to make tough catches is second to none.

Through six games, Mclaurin has logged 23 receptions for 408 yards, averaging 17.7 yards per catch and five touchdowns. If he continues on this pace, he could be a serious contender for rookie of the year honors.

Stock Down

1). QB Case Keenum

After having played fairly solidly through the first two weeks of the season, Keenum has regressed in a big way. In addition to having four interceptions and two fumbles over the past three games, the Texas native has looked uncomfortable in the pocket.

Keenum isn’t seeing the whole field, often missing wide-open receivers downfield. His lack of comfort in the pocket affects his footwork which is evident in his woeful throws to the sideline.

The nine-year pro completed 13 of 25 passes for 166 yards and two touchdowns in the win over the Dolphins. However, for a third straight week, the veteran has missed plays that could have extended drives or even led to points. Fortunately for the Redskins, his mistakes didn’t cost them the Miami game. As their opponents get tougher, though, the Redskins will need more consistent play from Keenum if they want to improve on their 1-5 record.

 

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