No team was struck with the injury stick more than the Washington Redskins last season, and that played a major part in them winning just seven games. Still, the fact that they won that many games with a decimated roster is promising as they look to eclipse that total in 2018. The team didn’t make many roster moves this offseason, but the big one involves the most important position on the field. After years of roster haggling with Kirk Cousins, the two parted ways and the Skins will look to Alex Smith to lead them back to the postseason.
Washington Redskins Futures Odds at BookMaker.eu
Washington Redskins Over 7 Wins +103
Washington Redskins Under 7 Wins -124
2018 Washington Redskins Offense Preview
The biggest change on the club came on the offensive end where the Skins essentially swapped out Cousins for Smith. Smith is older and doesn’t possess the cannon arm of Cousins, but he’s a winner and he’s coming off his best season statistically. And compared to some other starters around the league, Smith is a spring chicken at 34.
The Skins are counting on the return of several players on the offensive end to help improve the 16th ranked scoring unit. The loss of All-Pro Trent Williams on the line was a factor in allowing 41 sacks. A healthy Jordan Reed at tight end will be of comfort to Smith, who’s always integrated that position in his passing game. Smith is also reunited with former 49ers teammate Vernon Davis, who can still catch it.
There is a logjam at running back and the hope is that one or more among the group can take over the every down duties. Rookie Derrius Guice, the Skins’ second-round pick, could be a game-changer in the backfield. We probably won’t see as many turnovers with Smith behind center and taking better care of the football could translate into an extra win or two.
2018 Washington Redskins Defense Preview
The defense added very little to the team last year and upgrading the unit was a top priority during the offseason. After finishing last against the run in 2017, the addition of Daron Payne and Tim Settle provides beef up front and they will make it difficult for teams to run between the tackles. The group of starting linebackers returns after Zach Brown re-upped. Ryan Kerrigan is still one of the most feared pass rushers in the game after collecting 13.0 sacks last season.
The biggest question is on the back end. The Skins ranked ninth in pass defense, but the secondary was overhauled and will need a new starting cornerback to play opposite Josh Norman, who failed to get a pick last season. D.J. Swearinger led the team with four picks and returns to his staring safety spot. We should see improvement up front and if the back end complies, the Skins are better than a .500 team.
2018 Washington Redskins Schedule Analysis
The NFC East holds the Super Bowl champs and the other clubs have improved as well. The Skins are right with Dallas and the Giants and more success within the division will improve their chances of exceeding their projected win total. Washington was just 1-5 against its division rivals. A loss to New York in last season’s finale denied them a chance to finish with a .500 record.
The opportunity for a fast start is there with games at Arizona and against the Colts, a pair of teams breaking in new head coaches and coming off lackluster years. However, the bye week is at an inopportune time again. The Skins took Week 5 off last season and their bye is in Week 4 this year. That leaves 13 consecutive weeks of football with seven of the games on the road. Getting off to a good start is imperative if the Skins are going to cash the over.
The Final Verdict
The Skins are good enough to contend for a playoff spot, but they are also a few key injuries away from a top draft pick. Injuries are critical for every club, but it’s hard to imagine the Skins getting hit as hard as they did last season. Better health will equate to more wins and an upgraded roster with additional depth will also help.
Smith has gotten high praise from his coaches and teammates in training camp, and he’s a proven winner who hasn’t been on a sub-.500 team since 2010. He should help elevate a team that has been middle of the road the past three years averaging eight wins. If the Skins do the minimum they pay over bettors. And I think they do.
NFL Odds: Washington Redskins Over 7 Wins
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