Going into Sunday's game, the Redskins offense is ranked No. 3 in the NFL, averaging 421.8 yards per game.
Even more impressive, is that they are managing to keep such high production without wide receiver Pierre Garçon for more than half of the first four games.
In his first game as a Redskin, Garçon had 109 receiving yards with a touchdown on a memorable pass from quarterback Robert Griffin III. He missed the next two games due to a right foot injury, and was reactivated in last week's game where he recovered a fumble for a touchdown.
"It's going to take some time to feel back like my old self; like it was in training camp," Garçon said. "It's a process, it's a battle but it's coming along."
No matter how much time Garçon missed, he is constantly driven to give his best effort on each down he plays.
"You have to go out there and play hard and try to set the tone for the team, the offense and help the running backs get more yards when you're blocking for them. It's part of the game," Garçon said. "You just have to go out there and give a great effort. That's what coaches ask for and that's what we've got to give them every time."
The effort has not gone unnoticed by the Redskins, who are 2-0 in games that he starts.
"It was good to have Pierre out there," said offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan. "I know he wasn't 100 percent healthy, but for him to show up and battle like he did…He only had one catch, but he had a huge fumble recovery in the end zone for a touchdown."
Garçon is expected to play this Sunday against the Falcons, after experiencing his first full week of practice. He said he tries not to get discouraged on the field when he can't perform to his own expectations.
"It's part of football, injuries happen," Garçon explained. "You just have to deal with them and do what's best for you to get back out there 100 percent."
There is a constant buzz around the locker room that this weekend's game is going to be a shootout for 60 minutes. Garçon explained that every game in this league is an important one.
"Playing in the NFL is tough. Winning a game in the NFL is tough and we've played a lot of close games and I expect the same this week," Garçon said. "If we win it would be very good for us, but if we lose we just have to learn from it. It'll be a good game no matter what."
The addition by Garçon into any facet of the Redskins offense will certainly improve their top tier success. He anticipates that his foot will continue to feel better each day, and noted the treatment he is receiving by the Redskins' training staff.
"[I'm] getting better every day. Never really know until Sunday and you get out there and go all out."
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