Rams vs. Redskins Preview
The Washington Redskins will look to continue their impressive start to the season when they travel to St. Louis to take on the Rams on Sunday.
The Redskins are 1-1 after losing in overtime to the Houston Texans last week. The Redskins opened the season with a home win against long-time rivals, the Dallas Cowboys.
Washington has been energized by the arrival of their first legitimate starting quarterback in quite some time. Donovan McNabb has not failed to live up to expectations, leading the Redskins to a 1-1 start against two good teams with 597 yards passing in two
games and no interceptions.
McNabb exploded against the Texans in week two for 426 yards passing, hitting eight different receivers.
Despite their success in the air, the Redskins running game remains a concern. Washington recently released running back Larry Johnson, leaving them with just Clinton Portis as the only recognized back. Portis has been below-average so far, rushing for 99 yards
in two games.
The Redskins defence seems to mirror their offence perfectly. They haven't allowed a 100 yard rusher yet, but have given up 779 passing yards in just two games.
That's good news for Rams' rookie quarterback, first overall pick Sam Bradford. Bradford has made a promising start in the NFL. In two games, Bradford has thrown for 420 yards, three touchdowns and four interceptions.
The Rams are clearly going to let Bradford try to make some plays and he has thrown quite a lot in the first two weeks. If his arm gets tired, he can lean on veteran running back Stephen Jackson.
Jackson hasn't been spectacular this season, but he has been very solid, averaging just under four yards-per-carry. The Rams are hoping that years of being the sole focus of the defence haven't taken their toll on Jackson, who is in his seventh season.
Despite a promising rookie at quarterback, the Rams are 0-2 after playing two of the worst teams in the league and it could be a long season. They do have the benefit of quite an easy schedule, but whether they have the talent to take advantage is another matter.
They will be in tough against a Redskins team that will be full of confidence. Bradford will have opportunities against an average Redskins secondary and if he can take them early, the home crowd could spur the Rams on to a win. This is the kind of game that
the Redskins of last year might lose, but with Donovan McNabb under centre, the Redskins are a different proposition this year. Redskins to win in a bit of a shootout.
Prediction: Redskins 34 Rams 20
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