Race for the NFC East

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Best win II: Washington Football Team 23, 49ers 15. The NFC team with the longest current winning streak? That’s the Washington Football Team, which after going to Glendale, Ariz., to play the 49ers, extended its streak to four games and took over first place in the NFC East. Sunday’s win was especially impressive after starting quarterback Alex Smith was sidelined shortly before halftime with a sore calf. But what we’re learning about Washington is that while Smith has been a steadying offensive presence, if Washington is going to win this division it’s going to be because of a legitimately good defense. Chase Young had likely already done enough to wrap up the defensive rookie of the year award; his performance on Sunday, with a 47-yard fumble return touchdown, along with a forced fumble, a sack, two quarterback hits and two pass breakups should have us talking about Young not just among the best rookies, but among the best defensive players, period. We can’t rule the Eagles out of the NFC East race after they’ve shown life over the past game and a half — and they have the benefit of the Week 3 tie should Washington fall back — but right now Washington doesn’t just look like the best team in the worst division, but a team that no one in the NFC should want to play.

The Athletic