Cam Newton passes the ball vs. the Washington Redskins. (Photo: Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
LANDOVER, Md. – It was another Monday Night-mare for the Redskins.
The Panthers roughed-up Washington 26-15 to hand the ‘Skins their 16th loss in the last 17 Monday Night Football games at FedEx Field. This defeat could cost Washington, the defending NFC East champions, a repeat trip to the postseason.
The Redskins entered the game in possession of the NFC’s sixth and final playoff spot and controlling their own postseason fate. But the loss now puts Washington on the outside looking in at the playoff picture with just two weeks to play.
Quarterback Kirk Cousins fumbles the ball. (Photo: Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
The Redskins only touchdown of the game came with 3:45 left in the second quarter. Rob Kelley’s five yard TD pulled Washington to within 13-9.
Carolina seemed to control the game from start to finish. The Panthers jumped out to a 10-3 lead on Cam Newton’s 30 yard TD strike to Ted Ginn, Jr. Newton is 4-0 all-time vs. the Redskins.
Tight end Jordan Reed is ejected from the game. (Photo: Rob Carr/Getty Images)
After trailing 13-9 at the half, the ‘Skins did not score a touchdown in the second half. Jordan Reed, the team’s standout tight end, was ejected for throwing a punch at a Carolina player. Washington was just 2-for-12 on third down.
Carolina rushed for 148 yards on the game, while the Redskins gained just 29 on 2.2 yards per rush.
The loss drops Washington to 7-6-1. Tampa Bay (8-6) and Green Bay (8-6) both now sit ahead of the ‘Skins in the race for the second and final wild card playoff spot. The Redskins play at Chicago (3-11) Saturday.
