Redskins vs. Eagles: 5 Keys to a Washington Victory

The Washington Redskins will conclude their frustrating 2011 campaign with a road trip to Philadelphia to take on the equally-disappointing Eagles.

This battle of NFC East underachievers should reveal a lot about the future prospects of each. Both Mike Shanahan and Andy Reid have come into plenty of criticism regarding the mediocre performances of their squads this season.

Each coach will be desperate to end the season on a high and create a measure of optimism heading into what promises to be a pivotal offseason for both franchises.

The Redskins had managed to restore a healthy amount of pride after running the New England Patriots close and then manhandling the New York Giants in consecutive games.

However, last week's woeful capitulation against the Minnesota Vikings undid that good work and the Redskins owe their fans a strong performance to close out the season.

The Eagles have had the better of the rivalry in the last three seasons, having defeated the Redskins in four of their last five meetings.

But the Redskins triumphed in their last visit to Philadelphia and can be confident in their chances of scoring a repeat on Sunday.

Here are five keys to ensure a Redskins victory and finishing a hugely disappointing season on a high.

5. Play, Read, React and Wait for the Eagles to Make a Mistake

The main reason the Philadelphia Eagles are not headed to the postseason is their alarming talent for self-destruction.

The Eagles offense, which on paper is easily one of the most talented in the league, has been guilty of a litany of mistakes this season.

Jim Haslett needs to forgo his blitzing tendencies and design a defensive structure that will simply reduce Philadelphia's big-play threat.

Washington's defense should adopt a safe, read-and-react approach, counting on the Eagles; inability to string long drives together without eventually giving the ball away. After all, it has been their habit all year.

4. Run the Football to Stay Away from the Eagles' Pass Rush

The Redskins offense should rely on their vastly improved running game to limit the danger posed by the vaunted Eagles pass rush.

Washington backfield mates Evan Royster and Roy Helu can work in tandem to wear down the Eagles lightweight defensive front.

Edge rushers Trent Cole and Jason Babin are less effective when the ball is run straight at them. The Redskins have become very effective running stretch plays in recent weeks and the tactic could pay huge dividends in Philadelphia.

It will be up to Kyle Shanahan to trust the running game and have the patience to carefully pick his spots with the pass.

3. Contain Michael Vick in the Pocket

Containment is the key to handling Michael Vick, rather than all-out attack. The Redskins need to show the same patience and discipline on defense as they must demonstrate on offense.

Cutting off Vick's escape routes is the priority for the Redskins front seven. The defense must maintain their rush lanes and trap Vick in the pocket.

Additional blitzers should be used sparingly and the nickel package may be the best front to deploy. The Redskins must stock the line with their most athletic pass rushers to track and counter Vick's movements.

With seven men in coverage, the southpaw signal caller will be tempted to pull the ball down early and take off running. If the line creates a stout barrier and holds firm, the Eagles offense will go nowhere.

2. Double Team Cullen Jenkins

Washington's offensive line must prevent ultra-talented defensive tackle Cullen Jenkins from taking over the game.

The Redskins should double team the cat-quick veteran and stop him from regularly penetrating the backfield.

Jenkins is a tenacious and technically-sound lineman who is able to generate tremendous push inside. He has the quickness to chase the Redskins' outside runs down the line.

On passing downs, backs and tight ends can be used to chip the speedy ends Cole and Babin. But Jenkins will require the attention of two linemen on most plays.

1. Be More Physical at the Point of Attack Against the Run

After last week's horrendous showing against the run, the Redskins defense must be more physical at the point of attack this Sunday.

Staying disciplined, filling lanes and maintaining proper tackling angles will be important in keeping track of the elusive LeSean McCoy.

Washington defenders cannot allow themselves to be blown off the ball as easily as they were against the Vikings.

The onus will be on outside linebackers Brian Orakpo and Ryan Kerrigan to set a hard edge on the outside and turn McCoy inside.

The line must hold up blockers and create clear pursuit lanes for London Fletcher and Perry Riley. Only by working as a unit and playing with more physicality will the Redskins solve their woes against the run.

Ending the Season on a Positive Note Is Vital

The season may be winding down, but finishing with a win is vital. It has been clear for a few weeks that 2011 is another lost season for the Redskins, but this final game is still important for a number of reasons.

A win would even the Redskins record in the division at 3-3, not a bad mark considering the team's recent struggles against NFC East foes.

Defeating a team like the Eagles, who have been spectacular in recent weeks, would show that the Redskins have a real foundation of talent to build on heading into 2012.

Closing out the campaign with victory would give the Redskins their fourth win on the road, a respectable mark that proves the team can compete against tough opposition and cope in hostile environments.

Ending on a winning note would generate plenty of enthusiasm amongst the team and create real optimism throughout the fan base.