Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Washington Redskins: Keep Your Enemies Close – 5 Questions with Riggo’s Rag

The Jacksonville Jaguars lost in an absolutely brutal fashion in week 1 to the Philadelphia Eagles, but they need to try and forget about it as they travel to Washington in their week 2 matchup against the Washington Redskins. There were a lot of changes in Washington over the course of the offseason, so we pinged our friends at Riggo’s Rag to get to know the Redskins a little better. Here’s what editor Maurice Barksdale had to say:

1. After a disappointing sophomore season, people are expecting big things out of Robert Griffin III in year 3. How did he look in the preseason and week 1?

"Robert Griffin III was up and down in the preseason and he had a so-so game in week one against the Texans.  He completed 78% of his passes for 267 yards but mostly on short to intermediate passes.  However, he’s still learning to become more of a pocket passer in Jay Gruden’s offense.  So for now it’s all still a work in progress."

2. Not everyone was a big supporter of the Jay Gruden hiring, but how have Washington fans and players reacted so far?

"So far I think most Redskins fans are happy with what they’ve seen from Jay Gruden.  He’s much more open and candid than Mike Shanahan was and the players seem to be responding favorably to his leadership style.  But ultimately it all comes down to winning and the honeymoon won’t last long if Gruden doesn’t produce some tangible results in the won/loss column.  Especially with the talent he has at his disposal on offense."

3. The Redskins didn’t have a first round pick this year, but are there any rookies expected to step in immediately and play a big role?

"There are no Redskins rookies expected to play big roles as of yet but injuries could change things.  Against the Jaguars look for rookies Trent Murphy – OLB, Ryan Grant – WR, and Bashaud Breeland – CB to play roles on the two deep for the Redskins and each could have an impact on the game."

4. The defense was pretty rough in Washington in 2013. Should we expect improved play in 2014?

"The Redskins defense is already improved over last season.  They have much more playable depth across the entire defense and have upgraded several positions.  Jason Hatcher is a step up at defensive end, inside linebacker Keenan Robinson has added much needed size and speed, and cornerback David Amerson has vastly improved over his rookie season last year."

5. What’s your prediction for the game?

"I think the Jaguars are a much improved team over last season but I think the Redskins are just a deeper team.  The Jaguars performance against the Eagles showed the league how much potential they have and I think the Redskins know they will have a fight on their hands.  But being at home and having more talent on offense I think will tip the scales in favor of the Redskins."