Redskins preview

REDSKINS (3-7) at EAGLES (6-4)

Today, 1 p.m.

Where: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia

TV: Chs. 5, 45

Radio: ESPN 980

KEY MATCHUP

EAGLES PR DeSEAN JACKSON vs. REDSKINS P HUNTER SMITH

Not only is Jackson explosive in the Eagles’ passing game, he also leads the NFL with a 14.9-yard average on punt returns. Last week at Chicago, he had a 53-yard return.

The Redskins are eighth in punt coverage and haven’t allowed a return of more than 29 yards, much less a touchdown. Injuries to H.B. Blades and Mike Sellers and the promotion of Rock Cartwright to starting running back could force special teams coach Danny Smith to reshuffle his personnel, so it’s up to Hunter Smith to neutralize Jackson.

Smith averaged 3.28 seconds of hang time on seven punts against Philadelphia last month, and Jackson had returns of minus-1, 29 and 3 yards. Since returning from a groin injury, Smith has averaged a solid 4.48 seconds of hang time, forcing opponents into five fair catches.

Redskins coach Jim Zorn said opponents have mixed up between punting for direction and hang time, but with Jackson, Smith seems to be inclined toward focusing on hang time.

“With guys that good, it doesn’t matter where the ball is on the field as much as it has good hang time,” Smith said.

THREE KEYS

1. Rock rolling early

Redskins running back Rock Cartwright gets his first start in six years because of injuries to Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts. The Redskins’ only legitimate chance is to establish the running game and keep Philadelphia’s offense off the field. Two of the Redskins’ three victories have come when they’ve had more rushes than passes.

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