Through two preseason games, the Redskins have yet to have all of their pieces in place on defense because of injuries and ongoing rehabilitation processes. The makeshift starting unit has yet to put on a flawless performance, which is understandable. But Coach Jay Gruden draws encouragement from one major element of the attack: run defense.
The unit as a whole has proved especially stingy against the run, holding Cleveland and Detroit to a combined 91 rushing yards.
Washington’s starting defense held the Browns to just 11 rushing yards in their limited action in the preseason opener, and last week against Detroit, the Redskins gave up only another 11 rushing yards to the Lions’ starters.