Week 3 matchup

The Redskins aren't going to fool anybody; they're going to try to run inside. Portis (5-11,205) is an explosive back with excellent vision who hits the hole with authority and is superb at cutting back. Cowboys DTs La'Roi Glover and Leonardo Carson will look to clog the middle and force the center and both guards to block them. If they do that, Portis and Nguyen will meet in the hole many times.

If the Redskins fail up the gut, they're going to run the "power zone" play off tackle. That could be a problem for the undersized Nguyen (5-11, 243), as it will be difficult for him to see over the linemen to locate Portis.

The Redskins also will try the counter run, which means Nguyen will have to read Portis and not the linemen. Nguyen overreacts at times, and if he isn't patient, Portis could break off some big runs. Look for a tight end to slip down to keep Nguyen from getting to Portis on the outside. The Redskins like to use two tight ends for just that reason. Nguyen will have to fight through to get to Portis. If Nguyen is sealed by the tight end, the responsibility for Portis will pass to the other linebackers or safeties, a matchup the Redskins favor.

Possibly the most dangerous part of Portis' game is his ability to catch the ball. If the Cowboys' defense starts to stuff the run, Portis will become a receiver and work against Nguyen in the curl and hook area.

Advantage: Portis.

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