Patriots Demolish Redskins, Leading To Jay Gruden’s Firing
The first half didn’t look quite promising for the undefeated New England Patriots. Careless turnovers, bad blocking by the offensive line, and a big play helped keep the game 12-7 Patriots at the half. The second half was a different story. The Patriots came out and put up 21 points in the second half. Oh, and the defense? Yeah, they shut out Washington in the second half.
300 for @TomBrady, 100 for @Edelman11, a season-high for @Flyguy2stackz & another strong showing for the defense. pic.twitter.com/9OnimPI5RC
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) October 7, 2019
The stats speak for themselves. Julian Edelman had over 100 receiving yards. Tom Brady finished with 348 passing yards and three passing touchdowns. The Patriots finished the game with a convincing 33-7 victory over the Redskins. Early Monday morning, it was reported that Jay Gruden had been fired as the head coach of the Washington Redskins.
The #Redskins move on from coach Jay Gruden, who by the end was likely waiting for this to happen and is obviously not surprised. A lost season in Washington, but the early move gives them a chance to start their search in earnest
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 7, 2019
Was It The Right Move?
People were talking about Gruden potentially getting fired if he lost to the Patriots. But when you really think about this situation, was it the right move? The Redskins have played the Eagles, Cowboys, Bears, Giants, and Patriots this season so far. That is NOT an easy schedule by any means! The Eagles and Cowboys will be fighting for the NFC East. The Giants have renewed energy with rookie quarterback Daniel Jones. The Bears have one of the best defenses in the entire NFL. The Patriots are well…the Patriots. The Redskins are in Miami next week. Me personally, I would have given Gruden one more week to see if he can beat a team that the Redskins should beat more often than not. He’s lost two starting quarterbacks, hasn’t had his starting left tackle, and lost a valuable tight end in five games. It’s not entirely Gruden’s fault. But I guess I understand Washington wanting a fresh start and different leader.
Back To The Patriots
Like I said before, the Patriots started off slow in this one. Even when they were down 7-0 and 7-6, I had a good feeling this team would be just fine. 27 points later, we’re all celebrating another victory Monday. The offense seemed to step it up a notch from the mediocre performance last week in Buffalo. The defense was one big play away from potentially posting another shutout on the season. This team is pretty solid all the way around. Sure, the running game and the offensive line could use some work. But hey, no NFL team is perfect!
In Conclusion
Another game and the Patriots take care of business. This week is different however as the Giants come to town for Thursday night football. Daniel Jones has given the Giants a much needed spark and Saquon Barkley could be back in the Giants backfield. Should the Patriots win this game? Definitely. But on a short week, anything can happen. The road continues on and the Patriots continue to look like the best team in football. Good luck to Jay Gruden, but the Patriots have business to take care of…per usual.
-Alan Nahigian (@BigAl2793)