The Washington Football Team will play in its second preseason game as they host the Cincinnati Bengals tonight at FedEx Field. Washington is looking to gain more continuity and work towards starting the regular season off in rhythm. While the Bengals have their struggles, Washington can get the necessary work to evaluate the players to make the 53 man roster. Here are my three things to watch.
Finish the Job
In the first preseason game against the New England Patriots, the first team offense moved the ball fairly well. Ryan Fitzpatrick was able to connect with Terry McLaurin and Logan Thomas on some solid gains while Antonio Gibson gained good yards on the ground. However the first team offense could not put the ball in the end zone, and settled for a missed field goal and a punt. The first team defense got a big hit on Cam Newton but couldn’t recover the ball (the play was ruled an incomplete pass) and then missed tackles on the next drive. Both first teams need to finish drives with the offense scoring touchdowns and the defense getting off the field and finishing turnovers.
Rookies Second Game
The 2021 draft class got their first taste of an NFL game last week with some mixed results. Jamin Davis will look to play less in his head and more free flowing. Samuel Cosmi played well but had a few plays he would want back. Dyami Brown will hope to get more opportunities to showcase his talent. Benjamin St. Juste will continue to get work all over the field. While the rookies may not flash, the rookies need to show growth from last week and their abilities in the system. The staff is looking at some close battles so whatever the rookies can put on tape will help their cause.
Wide Receiver Battle
The toughest position battle on the team will be on display in this game. With Ryan Fitzpatrick and the first team playing about a quarter, then Taylor Heinicke should be up next with about a quarter worth of play. Kyle Allen makes his return and should get the drives with the 3rd team, which allows those players on the bubble to get opportunities to catch the ball. The battle between Antonio Gandy-Golden, Stephen Sims, Dax Milne, Cam Sims, and DeAndre Carter will come down to that. Also watch special teams and see person plays which team. Those final spots will come down to special teams.
