Offensive Line Soldiers On

The injuries struck without warning or mercy.

- Brian McNally

A Washington Redskins offensive line that was stable for almost two years fell apart in early October and colored what will be a disappointing season. Yet there is some hope in the carnage.

Despite losing four of five starters at various points throughout the season, the Redskins have still managed to produce a respectable offense under coach Jay Gruden and quarterback Kirk Cousins.

Sacks have risen since last season and the running game still struggles at times. But the Redskins entered the final quarter of the NFL season with an offense that ranked 15th in points per game, 12th in passing yards and 11th in yards per play. It has remained productive despite the crippling rash of injuries.

“It is difficult,” Gruden said. “When you have a brand new center and a left guard and left tackle who haven’t played together at all, it’s not easy.”

That has been Washington’s lot this season, however. Sacks per pass attempt rose from 3.79 percent (fourth) to 8.47 percent (23rd) entering the final quarter of the season in part because of the injuries. It started when Pro Bowl left tackle Trent Williams aggravated a right knee injury in a Week 4 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs on Oct. 2. Even a bye week didn’t help much. Williams continued playing, but was clearly hampered in a Week 6 win over the San Francisco 49ers on Oct. 15 and a Week 7 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.