Washington Redskins Lose to Baltimore Ravens, 23-3, in 2017 Preseason Opener

After a long 221 days, Washington returned to the game field tonight in what some have dubbed the “Battle of the Beltway.” Well, it wasn’t much of a battle against the local Baltimore Ravens, as the Redskins couldn’t manage to cross the goal line even once, but fans did finally get the chance to see some new faces would fare under the bright lights of a Thursday night competition.

There was a lot about the game that wasn’t particularly pretty, but you could optimistically chalk it up to rust, right? Kirk Cousins and the offensive starters stayed in the game for just two series, both ended in three-and-outs.) Likewise, the majority of the defensive starters played only two series. Colt McCoy had an interception. Will Blackmon, McCoy, and Samaje Perine had fumbles, though all were recovered by the Redskins. The team simply did not look sharp at times, and the occasional flag fests from the officials reinforced that feeling. The other kick in the gut was that Washington failed to escape without injury. Both Trent Murphy (knee sprain) and Su’a Cravens (knee) will have to undergo MRIs before the team can determine just how serious their injuries are.

However, several players showed flashes upon which the team can build. Jonathan Allen registered his first sack and looked to quickly acclimate himself to the speed of a pro game. Phil Taylor, nose tackle, showed hustle and made a push to prove his value to the team as a part of a still developing defensive line. Rookies Josh Harvey-Clemons, a seventh-round draft pick, and Nico Marley, an undrafted player, pressured the Ravens’ offense, made tackles, and seemed to consistently find their way to the ball. In a crowded linebacker field, it was a good night for those two young men.

At the end of the day, it’s important to remember one thing: tonight was game one of the p-r-e-s-e-a-s-o-n. Step away from the edge. Or don’t? Leave us your thoughts on tonight’s standouts, frustrations, and everything else in the comment section.