NFL Washington Redskins

5 Takeaways From The Washington Redskins’ Week 3 Loss

5 Takeaways From The Washington Redskins' Week 3 Loss

NFL: Washington Redskins at Philadelphia Eagles
Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

The Washington Redskins were defeated by the Philadelphia Eagles 37-34 on Sunday for the team's second loss of the season. This game was highly anticipated coming into the 2014 season and did not disappoint. DeSean Jackson returned to Philly and made a statement with a big play, and emotions ran high as a brawl occurred between these division rivals. Here are some observations about the Redskins following the game.

5. Kirk Cousins Will Thrive In Jay Gruden's Offense

NFL: Washington Redskins at Philadelphia Eagles
Jeffrey G. Pittenger-USA TODAY Sports

5. Kirk Cousins Will Thrive In Jay Gruden's Offense

NFL: Washington Redskins at Philadelphia Eagles
Jeffrey G. Pittenger-USA TODAY Sports

Quarterback Kirk Cousins got his first start of the season for Washington after the injury to Robert Griffin III and played exceptionally well. Cousins threw for 427 yards and three touchdowns, showing accuracy and solid decision-making throughout the game. His lone mistake came on a miscommunication with the wide receiver and an incredible catch by the safety. Cousins is a great fit for Jay Gruden's offensive scheme.

4. Chris Baker Should Be Suspended One Game

NFL: Washington Redskins at Philadelphia Eagles
Jeffrey G. Pittenger-USA TODAY Sports

4. Chris Baker Should Be Suspended One Game

NFL: Washington Redskins at Philadelphia Eagles
Jeffrey G. Pittenger-USA TODAY Sports

Things got ugly in the fourth quarter when Chris Baker leveled Eagles quarterback Nick Foles with a cheap shot, inciting a brawl between the two teams. The move was completely unnecessary and idiotic. With all the rules to protect the quarterback in the NFL nowadays, don't be surprised if Roger Goodell punishes Baker for his actions. He may miss the next game or have to reach for his wallet and pay up.

3. Special Teams Mistakes Cost Redskins The Game

NFL: Washington Redskins at Philadelphia Eagles
Jeffrey G. Pittenger-USA TODAY Sports

3. Special Teams Mistakes Cost Redskins The Game

NFL: Washington Redskins at Philadelphia Eagles
Jeffrey G. Pittenger-USA TODAY Sports

The Redskins' special teams made two critical errors in the game that may have cost the team a win. The kickoff team allowed a 102-yard return to Chris Polk in the first half that kept the Eagles in the game. With the score tied at 27 in the fourth quarter, Kai Forbath missed a 33-yard field goal that would have given Washington the lead. Both plays gave the Eagles momentum and allowed them to hold on to the victory.

2. Injuries In The Secondary Will Be Hard To Overcome

Washington Redskins v Philadelphia Eagles
Getty Images

2. Injuries In The Secondary Will Be Hard To Overcome

Washington Redskins v Philadelphia Eagles
Getty Images

The Redskins lost their defensive captain and leader of the secondary when DeAngelo Hall left the game with an Achilles injury in the third quarter. It appears that Hall will be out for the remainder of the season, which will be tough for Washington to overcome. Rookie Bashaud Breeland will likely step into Hall's role, and has looked good in game action this year. It may not be a significant downgrade, but still a tough loss nonetheless.

1. Redskins Are Not In Trouble After Going 1-2

NFL: Washington Redskins at Philadelphia Eagles
Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

1. Redskins Are Not In Trouble After Going 1-2

NFL: Washington Redskins at Philadelphia Eagles
Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

Overall, Washington played well enough to win this game, but ultimately Philadelphia made more plays. The Redskins should not be panicking just yet, as they will get another shot at the Eagles later in the season. However, winning the next game against the New York Giants is critical. Washington cannot afford to lose two division games in a row early in the year.

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