The Redskins vs Bills in Toronto shapes up as one of the most intriguing matchups of Washington’s 2011 season. With both teams exceeding expectations and playoff positioning already on the line, this unique neutral-site game in Canada carries enormous weight for both franchises.
An Unlikely Setting for a High-Stakes Game
This is technically a Bills home game — but nobody is pretending otherwise. The contest takes place at Rogers Centre in Toronto as part of the NFL’s ongoing international series. Consequently, both teams arrive without a true home field advantage, which adds an extra layer of unpredictability to an already fascinating matchup.
Washington’s Surprising Start
Before the season, quarterback Rex Grossman boldly predicted a division title for the Redskins. Most people laughed. Seven weeks later, nobody is laughing quite as loudly. Washington sits at 3-3, just one game behind the first-place New York Giants in the NFC East. The division, moreover, has proven far less formidable than many predicted heading into the year.
Beck Takes the Reins
The biggest storyline surrounding Washington right now is the quarterback position. Coach Mike Shanahan benched Grossman in favor of John Beck against the Carolina Panthers last week. Beck performed admirably given his limited game experience, but Washington still fell 33-20 as Cam Newton and Steve Smith dominated the afternoon. With another full week of preparation behind him, Beck will need to be sharp against a hungry Bills defense.
Washington’s Defense Needs to Refocus
The Redskins have been generally solid defensively in 2011. However, the last two weeks have exposed some troubling trends. Allowing Newton and Smith to put up huge numbers was a concerning sign. Furthermore, Washington will face an even tougher test this week against Buffalo’s dynamic offensive attack. Getting back to their early-season defensive form is, therefore, the Redskins’ most urgent priority heading into Toronto.
Buffalo Is No Pushover
The Bills have been one of the NFL’s genuine surprises in 2011. They jumped out to a stunning 3-0 start — including a shocking comeback win over the New England Patriots — before cooling slightly to 4-2. Importantly, Buffalo remains undefeated at home. Quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick has been outstanding, far exceeding expectations as a legitimate starter in this league.
The Jackson-Spiller Threat
Washington’s defense will need to be at its absolute best to slow down Buffalo’s rushing attack. Running backs Fred Jackson and C.J. Spiller have combined to push the Bills to fourth in the league in rushing yards. Jackson in particular is having a spectacular season. If Washington cannot control the ground game, Fitzpatrick will have all the space he needs to pick apart the secondary through play action.
What’s at Stake
The implications of the Redskins vs Bills in Toronto extend well beyond a single week. A Bills victory further cements their status as legitimate AFC contenders alongside the Patriots. A Washington win, meanwhile, puts the Redskins right back in the thick of the NFC East race with a clear path toward the division title Grossman predicted before the season. For both franchises, this game is a genuine statement opportunity.
Final Thoughts
Few Week 8 matchups carry this much narrative weight — and even fewer take place in Canada. The Redskins vs Bills in Toronto is a must-watch for fans of both teams and a pivotal moment in what has been a genuinely compelling 2011 NFL season. You may want to look into additional direct tv channels for this one. Washington will need a complete performance from Beck, a rejuvenated defense and a plan to stop Fred Jackson. Do all three, and maybe Washington can steal a win.
