Week five for the Washington Redskins means a trip up 95 to Charm City and a match-up with the Baltimore Ravens.
The Ravens are 3-1 on the season, suffering their first loss against Oakland last week at home, while the Washington Redskins are riding a two-game win streak, getting their season back on track.
Here are a few players and positions to watch during the Battle of the Beltways:
RED ZONE, RED ZONE, RED ZONE
The Washington Redskins finally found some success in the Red Zone last week against Cleveland, scoring four touchdowns. They have another chance this week to build on that.
The Baltimore Ravens red zone defense is worst in the NFL, allowing opponents to score seven touchdowns on eight trips inside the 20. That’s almost an almost 90 percent success rate for Ravens opponents.
THIRD-DOWN DEFENSE
The Redskins defense has struggled to get off the field in third down. Last week against Cleveland, the Redskins saw numerous missed tackles that kept Cleveland drives alive. The Redskins' inability on third down have them worst in the league, allowing opponents to convert 27-of-47 third-down plays.
MORE RUNNING
The Redskins run game has vastly improved over the past couple of weeks. Against Cleveland, Matt Jones racked up over 100 yards for the first time since week two of the 2015 season.
However, Sunday’s game presents a new challenge. The Ravens are tops in the NFL in overall defense. They do a great job at stifling the run.
NORMAN VS SMITH, SR.
I feel like every week, we have a tantalizing matchup between Josh Norman and the opponent. This week, not only is Norman facing a future Hall of Fame receiver, but also a former teammate.
Josh Norman and Steve Smith, Sr. played together in Carolina for several season. However, this week has had a different vibe, because Norman and Smith have been nothing but complimentary of each other’s talents.
That will most definitely change once the two battle on the field. Maybe they’re saving their energy for the game!
