The Redskins Portal - ESPN 980

I've been accused the last few days of describing Seattle as the best team since the '85 Bears.  I don't believe that at all but I do believe they are the best all-around team in the NFL right now.  If every playoff game this year were played on a neutral field, I think Seattle would be the favorite to win the whole thing.  They have a very good defense, very good offense, and very good special teams.  They've won 5 in a row coming into the postseason by an average score of 42-10.  They're excellent but....so are the Redskins, and the Skins are playing at home.  I like the home team's chances.

The Skins beat Seattle if...

1.  they match Seattle's physicality. Seattle tries to be physically intimidating on both sides of the ball.  The Redskins are really physical offensively with their run-game in particular and have been much more physical defensively in recent weeks.

2.  RG3 is closer to 100%. The Skins can beat weak teams like Dallas and Philly with a less-than 100% RG3 but he needs to be right against Seattle.  His explosiveness could be the deciding factor if he has it.

3.  they stop the run. Slowing down Marshawn Lynch is a must.  Seattle likes to do some of the same things the Redskins do offensively like running the read-option with their quarterback but it all starts with Lynch.  If the Redskin defense can't keep him around 4 yards per or less, they're in trouble because they won't get off the field enough.

4.  they don't lose the turnover battle. I'm not sure they have to win it, but they can't lose it.  Seattle has been as effective as the Skins at taking the ball away (31 total takeaways on the season for both teams) but the Skins have to continue to do what they've done all season long....protect the football.  Amazing they have a league-best 14 total turnovers in 16 games.

5.  they don't give up the big play. Seattle can strike quickly with any part of their team.  Leon Washington is as dangerous as any kick returner in the league.  They've scored off of blocked kick returns, interception returns, and fumble returns.  Lynch, Wilson, Rice and Tate are all big-play guys on offense.  The Redskins were vulnerable to the big play earlier in the season.  If they can keep their recent trend of not giving up the big play they'll be in good shape.

Prediction:

Skins 20-19.