Redskins vs Jaguars Preview
The Washington Redskins and Jacksonville Jaguars come into Sunday’s match up at FedEx Field with 0-1 records. The Jaguars, who finished 4-12 last season, jumped out to an early 17-0 lead against the Philadelphia Eagles last week only to see the Eagles score 34 unanswered points which resulted in a 34-17 loss. The Redskins continued to add to their nine game losing streak, dating back to last season, with a 17-6 defeat in Houston against the Texans.
Football teams see their biggest improvements from week 1 to week 2. The Redskins have to improve in their specials teams. Last week the team surrendered a blocked extra point and a blocked punt that was returned for a touchdown. Head Coach, Jay Gruden said earlier this week that the special teams mistakes, “just can’t happen.”
Another area of improvement to look for is on the offensive side of the ball. The Redskins had great success on the ground last Sunday, totaling 131 yards rushing. Gruden said on Monday, “If I had to do it all over again Sunday, then I would’ve ran the ball more than I did.” Look for running backs Alfred Morris and Roy Helu to get over 30 carries on Sunday.
Gruden: “If I had to do it all over again Sunday, then I would’ve ran the ball more than I did” vs. the Texans.
— Washington Redskins (@Redskins) September 8, 2014
If the Redskins can establish the run game early and often, quarterback, Robert Griffin, III should have success in the play action game. Griffin, who passed for 267 yards last Sunday, was limited to only throwing short passes and screens against Houston. Griffin looks to expand the passing game to the intermediate and deep routes against the Jaguars.
.@RGIII said there weren’t many opportunities vs. Houston to get out and scramble. Also said offense has to find ways to open up big plays.
— Washington Redskins (@Redskins) September 10, 2014
On defense the Redskins have a challenge this week containing the passing game of the Jaguars. Jaguars’ quarterback Chad Henne was able to pass for 266 yards and throw two touchdowns last week. Henne’s main target against the Eagles was rookie receiver, Allen Hurns, who caught four passes for 110 yards and two touchdowns. Cecil Shorts will return to the Jaguars’ receiving corps against the Redskins after missing last week with a hamstring injury. Shorts led the Jaguars last season in both receptions and yardage.
The Redskins will be without TE Jordan Reed, CB Tracy Porter and LB Akeem Jordan. Kicker Kai Forbath is a game-time decision as he battles a sore groin. Defensive tackle Kendrick Golston is doubtful.
Gruden said TE Jordan Reed, CB Tracy Porter and LB Akeem Jordan are OUT for Sunday’s game vs. Jacksonville.
— Washington Redskins (@Redskins) September 12, 2014
Other Notes: The Redskins are 4-1 against the Jaguars, including 2-0 at home. The Redskins won 20-17 in overtime at Jacksonville in the most recent meeting in 2010. The game will air on CBS at 1:00 pm.
