The Washington Redskins are currently #5 in total offense and #2 in passing offense. The Cleveland Browns are giving up 403 yards of offense and 28 points per game. Those looking for an improved rushing attack may be waiting another week as the Browns pass defense is its weak link. The red zone scoring offense should receive a major boost this week.
Conversely, the Cleveland Browns are scoring 18 points per game while allowing 28, however, they are averaging over 6 yards per carry with Isaiah Crowell and Duke Johnson. Quarterback-turned-receiver Terrell Pryor is a dual threat, averaging over 17 yards per reception. Corey Coleman only has 7 receptions but he is averaging 24.7 yards per catch and has two touchdowns.
Fortunately, the Redskins have the secondary to cover Cleveland Man-to-Man with Norman and man-zone on the other side with Dunbar or whoever is starting and an actual free safety in Ihenacho as opposed to a converted and learning on the job corner in Hall.
Clearly and convincingly, the task at hand is to pass fifty times and stop the run. Expect a lot of blitzing into the A and B gaps to contain rushing between the tackles. It will be critical for the outside linebackers to not overpursue. They must contain the edges and force runners back into the middle of the field.
Special teams needs to continue to be special. The Redskins, who lead the league in fumbles caused, need to continue to force turnovers.
Overall, this is a game the Redskins should dominate and it would not be surprising to see them post 40+ points.
While not necessarily a key to victory, it would also be a great game for the defense to figure out how to stop the run as Cleveland will do a lot of it.