Washington vs. Detroit: Gameday Preview

The Washington Football Team is set to kickoff against the Detroit Lions at 1pm from Ford Field.

Both teams have had a lackluster season so far, and are looking to right the ship against an opponent who is sub .500. Although this game may lack the star-studded appeal of other matchups this week, it does hold some intriguing storylines.

Alex Smith returns to the starting line-up for the first time since November 18, 2018. It will mark the first time he has done so in 728 days.

What a journey it's been for Alex Smith.

So inspiring 🙏

(h/t @FieldYates) pic.twitter.com/JCaeXK4CtO

— ESPN (@espn) November 15, 2020

In spot duty last week, the quarterback threw the ball 32 times for 325 yards and a touchdown. He even had nine consecutive throws for a completion. However, his three interceptions proved too much to overcome as the team lost in the final minutes. His last interception, a poorly thrown forced pass across his body, proved to be the deciding factor.

One positive to take away from Smith’s performance, is that he was timely and efficient. For the first time all season, the Washington offense snatched up big chunks of yards as Cam Sims had a career game eclipsing 100 yards. Can Smith improve on what he did last week, and eliminate turnovers? We’ll see.

The Return of Adrian Peterson

Another compelling part of today’s matchup is that running back Adrian Peterson will be on the opposition’s sideline. Washington decided to go full “youth movement” when they released the future Hall of Famer this offseason.

Was it the correct call? I’d argue not. Although Peterson has played in limited duty in Detroit, he has still produced respectable numbers. On the season he has 350 yards rushing and two rushing touchdowns in a crowded backfield that consists of Kerryon Johnson and D’Andre Swift. The veteran could have provided a change-of-pace sledgehammer for the Burgundy and Gold, and could have provided a steady presence for whomever was playing quarterback.  Peterson also has the ability to have a break-out game, and it would have been nice to see him pick on a vulnerable defense. I suspect “All Day” to punch in a touchdown against his former team. He’s already shown he’s thinking about it.

Adrian Peterson says Washington will 'get to realize what they let go' https://t.co/acj43RqGLI

— NBC Sports Washington Football (@NBCSWASFootball) November 9, 2020

The best part about this? Is Chase Young is Ready.

Chase Young knows Adrian Peterson will “bring it” Sunday. But….: pic.twitter.com/nmJfoMzPiU

— John Keim (@john_keim) November 12, 2020

Check out more of our content from Full Press Coverage Below. We got you covered for this week’s match-up!

• Week 10 Inactive Report vs. Detroit
• Detroit Lions: Five Key Match-Ups
• Bryce Love Returns to Practice