This has been the quietest “Beat Dallas” week in a long time for the Redskins, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. For the first time since 1999 the Redskins are playing a week 17 game in which is a meaningless game due to already having the division locked up. Neither team can gain or lose anything from this game, but let’s not forget about the history of this rivalry and what it means to this team and it’s fans.
The Redskins would love to end the regular season by winning a game against a hated rival and gaining momentum heading into the playoffs.
Let’s take a look at the keys to victory, and what it will take to win #BeatDallas week.
Avoid a Cowboys sweep
Cowboys fans don’t have much to brag about this season but one thing is for sure, if the Redskins lose on Sunday it will be something they talk about until the start of next season. Sure as fans we could just point out the fact that we are in the playoffs and they are last in the division, but that’s all more of the reason to win this game.
The Cowboys came to FedEx and won a game that could have been won by the Redskins minus a few blunders. That is not something the Redskins have forgotten. Regardless of which players play on Sunday, expect the Redskins to be focused and ready to end the regular season sending the Cowboys and their fans packing.
Get out healthy
Dashon Goldson and Quinton Dunbar have both already been ruled out for the game. Perry Riley Jr and Matt Jones are doubtful. The players listed as questionable are: Desean Jackson, Trent Williams, Deangelo Hall, Jason Hatcher, and Pierre Thomas.
Jay Gruden has not said how long the starters will play, however he did say that the healthy guys would play. That is a pretty clear indication that the names above will more than likely not suit up or not see the field.
Winning this game is important to gain momentum and to stay in a rhythm but it is also important to stay healthy. Losing keys players a week before a playoff game would be devastating. The Redskins coaching staff understands this and will be smart with how long the starters play.
I think it’s very possible that the starters only get 1 quarter or even less of playing time on Sunday. If that’s the case the Colt McCoy will be ready to go and will look to beat Dallas on their home turf once again.
Cousins & Reed could break franchise records
Both Kirk Cousins and Jordan Reed have the opportunity in front of them to break a few single season franchise records on Sunday. Reed already broke the TE single season receiving yards record, which he broke against the Eagles last week. Reed also holds the record for catches and TDs by a TE in franchise history. This week Reed has the opportunity to catch the most TDs by any Redskins pass catcher in team history.
As for Cousins, he is now 120 yards short of getting the franchise record for most passing yards in a season. That is quite the honor considering the great QBs who have played in Washington.
Coach Gruden is very much aware of the records and what they mean for these players, we’ll see if that has an impact on playing time this Sunday.
Gain Momentum
Staying hot going into the playoffs is crucial. The teams that have the most success in the playoffs are statistically proven to have gained some sort of momentum going into the playoffs. The Redskins understand this and want to remain hot next week when they host a playoff game. It’s important that the team remain in rhythm and keep the excitement level high.
If the Redskins are able to keep momentum going, they are very much capable of beating whoever it is they play in the playoffs.
Time for the young guys to shine
This is a good opportunity for players to make a statement going into next season that didn’t get a lot of playing time this season. The Redskins have been awesome at recovering from injuries and have proven they have depth, but this is a good chance for players to showcase their talents. Look for guys like Ryan Grant, Rashad Ross, Chris Thompson, Alex Smith, Ty Nsekhe, Arie Kouandjio, Jeron Johnson and even Keenan Robinson all looking to make a statement.
This is a bit of an audition and opportunity for those guys to show that they are not only reliable if their number is called but also making a case for why they should be here next season. Beating Dallas at home to end the season is a good place to start.
PROS
#1: Records could be broken. As one of the oldest franchises in the NFL, major credit to Kirk Cousins and Jordan Reed for the opportunity to break more records on Sunday. This is a reflection of their hard work and their amazing seasons.
#2: Momentum. Good opportunity to shut up the Dallas fans at their home and leave them with something to remember until next season. They will be at home watching the game from their couch, while the Redskins will be playing in the playoffs. Gain momentum from this game and carry it forward into the playoffs.
#3: No pressure. Nothing is riding on this game other than it’s a rivalry game and 9-7 is better than 8-8. The Redskins have an opportunity to go have fun and beat a rival on the road without any added pressures.
CONS
#1: Risk of injuries. With only 1 week until the Redskins host a playoff game, fans will be holding their breaths that the team is able to get out healthy and riding a momentum wave into the playoffs.
#2: Will the Cowboys be head hunting? I don’t want to start a controversy but it’s no doubt the Cowboys could be salty about their season, would they be willing to take cheap shots at the Redskins out of spite? I’m not saying, but I’m saying…
#3: Getting swept by Dallas this season would suck, and would be the biggest negative that stands out in fans minds about the regular season if it were to happen.
The Washington Redskins vs Dallas Cowboys is this Sunday at 1pm EST on FOX
As always follow me on Twitter @anthonyraposa for all things Redskins as well as your news and outlook.
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