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Washington Redskins Blow Playoff Chances With Poor Performance
The Washington Redskins had a chance to move into the playoff picture with a win on Monday night. They came up very short in those efforts and now will be hard pressed to make the postseason.
Monday night’s game was supposed to be a big statement game for the Washington Redskins. They had a chance to control their own destiny in regards to the playoffs, but they put forth a terrible effort in a loss to the Carolina Panthers. The Redskins fell by a final score of 26-15, and essentially flushed their chances of making the Wild Card round down the toilet.
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The most disappointing thing about the game was what the Redskins came out flat. They had minimal energy despite an extra day off prior to a home game that they knew was a must-win scenario.
The defense put together a lackadaisical performance and saw the secondary and linebacking groups completely collapse. The tackling was absolutely atrocious, and they seemingly missed a tackle on every single play. Martrell Spaight had a brutal performance in place of Will Compton. Bashaud Breeland and company made so many mistakes in coverage. It was just brutal all-around, and that is how the Panthers offense was able to generate so many yards.
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In wake of this performance, I would not be surprised to see Joe Barry get fired. The team may end up needing a scapegoat, and the poor performance in fundamental aspects of the defense could cause him to get canned. It may not happen until the end of the season, but do not be surprised to see him possibly go.
On the offensive side, things were not much better. Kirk Cousins put together one of the worst performances of his stellar season. Cousins ended up going 31-for-46 for 310 yards and a pick. He was ever so slightly off in the first half, and that caused the offense not to get into a rhythm. He just could not figure out the zone defense of the Panthers, and that led to his struggles.
In the running game, Rob Kelley was completely stymied. He only got eight carries for 9 yards, though he did have an impact in the receiving game and he ran for a touchdown. The Redskins just got no push against the Panthers physical front, which was expected coming into the game.
In an uncharacteristic scene, tight end Jordan Reed was ejected in the third quarter. The veteran tight end punch safety Kurt Coleman in the face following a red zone play by the Skins. It was a boneheaded decision, and Reed could face discipline as a result.
The only positive on Monday night was the performance of DeSean Jackson. He caught seven passes for 111 yards and made a couple of nice catches along the sideline. This was definitely the worst game of the season for the Redskins, and the team should be ashamed of their effort.
