DJ Swearinger Slams Redskins' Defensive Play-Calling in Loss vs. Titans

Washington safety D.J. Swearinger, who has been critical of his team's effort throughout the season, took aim at defensive coordinator Greg Manusky after Saturday's 25-16 loss to the Tennessee Titans that all but ended any postseason hopes.

"We should have blowed them out," he said, per John Keim of ESPN.com. "If I'm the D-coordinator, I'm calling zone every time on third down because you got a backup quarterback. Make him beat us. We're playing a backup quarterback. Why would you put us in man-to-man? We are our best on defense when we look at the quarterback."

Swearinger also indicated he's been frustrated throughout the season with Manusky's play-calling:

"I voice my frustration every single time I come off the field. I'm a very smart football player. I probably watch more film than the coaches. That's 100. That's probably documented. I try to give my insight, but it doesn't work. So I can only put my heart in this s--t, dog...and give them what I can give them. Whether they take it or not, that's another thing. That's where the frustration comes in at, when we don't win."

Swearinger was particularly frustrated the team didn't play more zone coverage against Tennessee backup Blaine Gabbert. He replaced Mariota after the incumbent was injured late in the first half, finishing 7-of-11 for 101 yards and a score.

For the season, Washington ranks 15th in passing defense, allowing 237.5 yards per game. The club has also given up 24 passing touchdowns, tied for 16th.

As for Swearinger's own play, he acknowledged he made some mistakes:

"I'm not giving no excuses on my play. I missed a few tackles, but I feel with a lot of these playmakers we have on this team, you should try to get your players involved. We got a lot of talent on this team. When I look at film on other teams, I always see nickel [defensive backs] blitzing, always see safeties blitzing. It's frustrating. I don't know what to say about it.

For the season, Swearinger has accumulated 53 tackles, four interceptions, three forced fumbles, a fumble recovery and a sack. Pro Football Focus has given him a grade of 80.9 for the season, 11th among safeties.

Washington sits at 7-8 and is technically still alive in the postseason picture. But either a win from the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday or wins from both the Minnesota Vikings and Seattle Seahawks would end Washington's postseason hopes before the final week of the season.