LT David Diehl vs. OLB Brian Orakpo
Again, Diehl finds himself against a Pro Bowl outside linebacker. Last week it was Dallas' DeMarcus Ware, who was held to zero sacks, zero quarterback hits, and four tackles (two solo). This week it is Brian Orakpo, one of four Redskins defenders with five sacks or more. With a different configuration of the Giants offensive line in Week One, Washington sacked Eli Manning four times with seven quarterback hits. The Redskins will try to get to Manning the same way on Sunday with Orakpo as well as rookie Ryan Kerrigan, the other outside backer leading the team with 6.5 sacks.
DE Jason Pierre-Paul vs. LT Willie Smith**
In place of the suspended Trent Williams, rookie Willie Smith will be making his second career start against the NFC Defensive Player of the Week. Jason Pierre-Paul is coming off a signature performance and could be in line for another big game against the rookie. Two of Jason Pierre-Paul's 12.5 sacks came against the Redskins in the season opener while he helped hold them to 74 rushing yards with six tackles.
Special Teams vs. Brandon Banks**
Lawrence Tynes has attributed his success this season to mild weather and playing indoors. While that may be true, Tynes has been limiting returners with his deep kickoffs. Meanwhile, Brandon Banks will walk out to MetLife Stadium on a 40-degree afternoon leading the NFL in kickoff return yards and attempts. Banks also averages 10.6 yards in punt return, but he has yet to run one back for a touchdown in either category.
Linebackers vs. RB Roy Helu**
Along with the defensive ends, Mathias Kiwanuka and Michael Boley will need to wrap up the rookie running back who has a knack for getting to the outside. Helu had only one rush for two yards in their first meeting, but has since taken over fulltime duties while looking for his fourth-straight game of 100 yards.
