NFL: Washington Redskins will be in the playoffs in 2014 if…

And: Jim Haslett’s defensive unit can finally turn the corner. Only the Minnesota Vikings (480) gave up more points than the Redskins (478) this past season. And even when they managed to win the NFC East the previous season, the team allowed 388 points, a less-than-scintillating average of 24.3 points per game

The team features one of the best pass-rushing combinations in the league with outside linebacker Brian Orakpo and Ryan Kerrigan. The duo combined for 18.5 sacks in 2013 with Orakpo leading the way with 10.5 sacks. It was a nice bounce back season for the three-time Pro Bowler, who missed the final 14 games in 2012.

The front seven should also benefit from the addition of 2013 Pro Bowl defensive lineman Jason Hatcher, who led the Dallas Cowboys with 11 sacks this past season. Hopefully the eight-year pro can also help a run defense that allowed a mediocre 110.6 yards per game on the ground. Meanwhile, a veteran-laden secondary featuring cornerback DeAngelo Hall and strong safety Brandon Meriweather welcomes free safety Ryan Clark and well-traveled cornerback Tracy Porter.

This is a defense that has allowed a combined 94 offensive touchdowns the past two seasons, including 60 scores through the air. The “Help Wanted” sign may still be out for this unit.