The Washington Redskins are now 4-5 after a 47-14 dismantling of the New Orleans Saints. It was the most impressive, and possibly most important, win of the Jay Gruden Era in Washington. His seat has been warm at times this season, but this win should be enough to cool it off. Here are Three Reasons Why Jay Gruden Should Be Off The Hot Seat:
3. Running Game Emergence
One of the Redskins' biggest issues this season has been their running game. They hadn't been able to run the ball effectively, and it was hurting their offense. After crushing the Saints, the Redskins might have solved those issues. Three separate RBs picked up at least 50 yards for the Redskins. Washington racked up 225 yards on the ground, and that doesn't include a 78-yard screen that might as well be a run. If the Redskins continue to get this type of play out of their running game, Gruden's job should be safe.
2. Kirk Cousins' Play
Gruden bet his job on Cousins. He has Colt McCoy and Robert Griffin III on the bench, but he's placed his faith in Cousins. Gruden could have pulled the plug after Cousins threw six picks and four TDs in a four game stretch earlier this season. Instead, he stuck with Cousins and is reaping the benefits. In his last three games, Cousins has thrown eight TDs against one pick. If Cousins keeps playing like this, Gruden will keep his job.
1. Playoff Chances
The win over the Saints is big for the Redskins' playoff chances. The Redskins are in the middle of the NFC East playoff race, as that division is very much up for grabs. Four of the team's final six games are against NFC East teams. If the Redskins' running game shows up and Cousins continues to play well, they can win the division. Washington isn't out of the wild card battle either. The NFC North should get two teams, likely the Vikings and Packers, but the other spot is up for grabs. The Falcons have the advantage, but they've struggled in recent weeks. If Gruden can get this team to the playoffs, or even close, his job should be safe.
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