GLENDALE, Ariz. -- A few thoughts on the Washington Redskins' 30-20 loss to the Arizona Cardinals:
What it means: The Redskins just aren’t very good and their season isn’t about to turn around any time soon. Injuries have hurt the defense, but the front seven is relatively healthy and not making nearly enough plays. So it can’t compensate for inexperienced corners or inconsistent safeties. It’s a bad mix. At 1-5, the Redskins are worthy of their record. They do not make enough plays to affect games; and defensively do they have enough such players? They certainly do on offense, yet managed just 13 points and turned it over twice. There were a lot of positives written during the summer about coach Jay Gruden and the new vibe/energy he brought. That’s not to be confused with changing the culture, however. To do so you must win. He now faces a legitimate test of leadership and his abilities as a coach. The Redskins have now lost 13 of their past 14 games dating to 2013. Yes, it's a new coach and a new season. But it doesn't feel that way.
Stock report: Brian Orakpo, going down. Orakpo made some nice plays, but if he wants the big contract he must make the big play. It was there for him. He dropped it. That can’t happen, not from your highest-paid defensive player. Place-kicker Kai Forbath’s stock went up. He made both of his field goals, but just as big -- he was getting touchbacks. That’s what the Redskins have needed.
Untimely mistakes: In the fourth quarter alone, the Redskins lost a fumble (on what appeared to be a bad call that wasn’t overturned; more on that later), threw three interceptions and dropped a potential pick. A team that has lost all but one game can’t keep hurting itself that way and expect to win. Quarterback Kirk Cousins forces passes over the middle and it got him in trouble again. NFL games are typically close, so the team that can make plays in the fourth quarter wins. The Redskins lose a lot because they don’t make those plays.
Game balls: Receiver DeSean Jackson had some monstrous plays and that led to 10 points for Washington. And he drew two penalties in the fourth quarter. He also stopped on a slant route that led to an interception. So I’ll also go with tight end Jordan Reed. He did not play every snap, but he made an impact as well with his ability to run after the catch. He was a matchup problem for Arizona. I’ll also give left tackle Trent Williams a nod for how well he played on one good leg.
What’s next: The Redskins host Tennessee in what should be a winnable game at home. The Titans are 2-4 and coming off a two-point win against Jacksonville. But with how Washington has played, there’s never a sure thing.