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DJ Swearinger entered Week 8 as the NFL’s top-rated safety according to Pro Football Focus. New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning found out why in the second quarter, as Swearinger came away with a huge momentum-killing interception in the red zone.
Redskins were matched up in man-zone. As wide receiver Odell Beckham came off a rub route, Swearinger recognized the route concept and passed off tight end Evan Engram into the secondary before jumping the route ahead of Beckham and picking off the pass.
Good read from DJ Swearinger here, passed off the TE, broke on the slot, fantastic reactions to the throw to pull in the INT. #Redskins pic.twitter.com/eSrETdiScG
— Mark Bullock (@MarkBullockNFL) October 28, 2018
It was a timing route for the Giants and Manning surely anticipated Swearinger to stay true to the coverage by chasing Engram. Swearinger understood he had coverage over the top with the shorten spacing of being in the red zone.
DJ Swearinger continues to demonstrate why he is PFF's #1 ranked Safety in 2018.
Red zone interception. #Redskins ball!
Two spoons! pic.twitter.com/RzdN8NjfqP
— Chad Ryan (@ChadwikoTWW) October 28, 2018
It was a heads up play by Swearinger and illustrated how good he has been this season for the Redskins. Washington’s defense came away with another stop to protect their early lead. Meanwhile the Giants, who ranked 30th in red zone conversion, have another promising drive halted.
Manning will get the finger pointing for throwing the interception, however, Swearinger deserves a lot of credit for making a veteran play.
