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Sunday, November 8, 2009

Redskins RB Clinton Portis vs. Falcons' front seven
The Falcons rank 23rd in the NFL in defense against the run, allowing 121.7 yards per game. Unfortunately, the Redskins are 26th in the NFL in rushing, averaging 93.4 yards per game, and Portis has 490 yards on the season. A key to Washington's success has always been the running game, and that means Portis.
Redskins' first-half offense vs. Falcons' defense
The Redskins' offense is averaging just 4.7 points in the first half and has been shut out going into halftime three times. That offensive futility means the Redskins are often trailing and puts pressure on a passing game that already has its question marks. The Redskins need to find success early to maintain a balanced offense, especially against a potentially explosive Falcons offense.
Redskins' secondary vs. Falcons QB Matt Ryan
Although his completion percentage has dipped below the 66.7 percent he was averaging in the first four games, Ryan remains a major threat. He has thrown for at least two touchdowns in five of Atlanta's seven games, but in the past four games has been intercepted eight times (including three by New Orleans). The Redskins' defense is tied for last in the NFL with three interceptions.
Redskins' new roles vs.
Falcons' defense/special teams
Two things to watch will be the play of TE Fred Davis, who replaces injured Pro Bowler Chris Cooley, and DB DeAngelo Hall, who is expected to participate some more on punt returns. Davis must try to match Cooley's dependability and production in the pass game while drastically improving in his pass blocking. Hall might provide a spark against his former team.
Redskins' QB Jason Campbell vs.
Falcons' pass defense
The Redskins' passing game has been limited by the offensive line and Campbell has taken a beating. Against a Falcons defense ranked 31st in the league against the pass, there may be an opportunity for Washington to get something going. Atlanta has allowed 28 pass plays of 20 yards or more, second worst in the league, and a 256.4 yards per game through the air. Washington is ranked 20th in the NFL, averaging just over 200 yards per game.
Redskins' offensive line vs. Falcons' pass rush
The Falcons have struggled against the pass, picking up just 14 sacks -- tied for 24th in the NFL. They'll have a prime chance to improve against a Redskins team that has allowed 23 sacks (27th in NFL) and 35 quarterback hits (17th). Campbell has fumbled 10 times (losing three); Atlanta has forced 15 fumbles and recovered 11.

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Talking Points

	Redskins RB Clinton Portis vs. Falcons' front seven The Falcons rank 23rd in the NFL in defense against the run, allowing 121.7 yards per game. Unfortunately, the Redskins are 26th in the NFL in rushing, averaging 93.4 yards per game, and Portis has 490 yards on the season. A key to Washington's success has always been the running game, and that means Portis.
	Redskins' first-half offense vs. Falcons' defense The Redskins' offense is averaging just 4.7 points in the first half and has been shut out going into halftime three times. That offensive futility means the Redskins are often trailing and puts pressure on a passing game that already has its question marks. The Redskins need to find success early to maintain a balanced offense, especially against a potentially explosive Falcons offense.
	Redskins' secondary vs. Falcons QB Matt Ryan Although his completion percentage has dipped below the 66.7 percent he was averaging in the first four games, Ryan remains a major threat. He has thrown for at least two touchdowns in five of Atlanta's seven games, but in the past four games has been intercepted eight times (including three by New Orleans). The Redskins' defense is tied for last in the NFL with three interceptions.
	Redskins' new roles vs. Falcons' defense/special teams Two things to watch will be the play of TE Fred Davis, who replaces injured Pro Bowler Chris Cooley, and DB DeAngelo Hall, who is expected to participate some more on punt returns. Davis must try to match Cooley's dependability and production in the pass game while drastically improving in his pass blocking. Hall might provide a spark against his former team.
	Redskins' QB Jason Campbell vs. Falcons' pass defense The Redskins' passing game has been limited by the offensive line and Campbell has taken a beating. Against a Falcons defense ranked 31st in the league against the pass, there may be an opportunity for Washington to get something going. Atlanta has allowed 28 pass plays of 20 yards or more, second worst in the league, and a 256.4 yards per game through the air. Washington is ranked 20th in the NFL, averaging just over 200 yards per game.
	Redskins' offensive line vs. Falcons' pass rush The Falcons have struggled against the pass, picking up just 14 sacks -- tied for 24th in the NFL. They'll have a prime chance to improve against a Redskins team that has allowed 23 sacks (27th in NFL) and 35 quarterback hits (17th). Campbell has fumbled 10 times (losing three); Atlanta has forced 15 fumbles and recovered 11.