NFL Picks Week 7: Rushing Attack and Defense Will Carry Redskins vs. Carolina

Despite four interceptions on Sunday vs. the Eagles, the Redskins lost on Sunday by all of one touchdown. They fell behind 20-0, yet still made a decent attempt at a comeback.

That effort got starting quarterback Rex Grossman benched. Grossman threw all four of the interceptions before being replaced by John Beck.

Not only did Grossman find the bench last Sunday, but Beck will start this week against the Carolina Panthers.

Now, largely because of their rookie quarterback Cam Newton, the Panthers are getting the attention of the NFL, even if their record is only 1-5.

So, if you were running the Washington offense this week, how would you game plan? Well, let me tell you what I would do.

First of all, the rushing attack of Tim Hightower and Ryan Torain would be heavily featured. I really doubt that I would call on Beck to throw more than about 15 passes.

The reason for that is not just because Beck is a huge unknown, but it's also nice to keep Newton and the Panthers' offense on the bench.

Carolina has a terrible run defense. So, if Washington is running the ball, they will consistently make first downs, move the ball and keep the clock moving, keeping Newton off of the field. The Panthers have done nothing to suggest that that theory is wrong.

When the Panthers' offense is on the field, they will be facing an aggressive defense, led by the strong pass rush of Brian Orakpo. No, I am not saying that they will shut the Panthers down, but they will force Newton into making mistakes. 

As great as he has been, Newton still has nine interceptions this year against only seven touchdown passes.

Washington may be in the middle of a slide. Since starting 3-0, they have lost to the Cowboys, beaten the winless Rams 17-10, and lost to the Eagles.

It's entirely possible, even likely that their star will fade and they will miss the playoffs. Still, that doesn't mean that the Redskins won't win another game.

This is a matchup that sets up well for the Redskins. Look for them to control the game on offense and play clutch on defense.