Atlanta Falcons: Five keys to beat the Washington Redskins

Dec 15, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons cornerback Desmond Trufant (21) breaks up a pass intended for Washington Redskins wide receiver Josh Morgan (15) in the second half at the Georgia Dome. The Falcons won 27-26. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports

The Atlanta Falcons are heading into the second quarter of the season with a perfect 4-0 record and will be looking to get another victory when they host the Washington Redskins this Sunday in the Georgia Dome.

The Falcons have not lost to the pesky Redskins since 2006 with their most recent victory coming in 2013 at the Georgia Dome, 27-26. Ryan has a 3-0 record against Washington, but the game always seems to be closer than expected. The Falcons won by a touchdown in 2012 and won by two touchdowns in 2009.

The Falcons will be facing Kirk Cousins for the second time after their 2013 meeting and didn’t do a great job against him. Cousins completed 29 of 45 for 381 yards and three touchdowns. Running back Alfred Morris rushed for 98 yards.

Let’s take a look at what the Falcons will need to do in order to put the Redskins out and improve to 5-0.