The day before Thanksgiving is the perfect time to take note of the things our local teams can be thankful for. The Washington Redskins hold a 6-3-1 record, only third in the NFC East but still within striking distance of the playoffs.

Here are three things the Redskins can feel good about on Turkey Day.

1. The chance to humiliate the Cowboys on Thanksgiving: The Redskins have a unique opportunity coming tomorrow. If Washington wins, it can humiliate its archrival on national TV and claim the legitimacy of having beaten the team with the NFL's best record. A win would also boost the Redskins' playoff chances. But if they lose, it's understandable because the Cowboys are the top team and they're playing at home. To be clear, a victory would be greatly preferred.

2. New clarity about the QB situation: Kirk Cousins's career game against the Packers wasn't just a boon for him. It was a win for the team, which lacked definitive evidence that he was or wasn't a franchise quarterback as recently as several weeks ago. Now it's obvious that some team will sign Cousins to a long term, massive deal. If that's the Redskins, they'll have clearer-cut information to feel good about it.

3. Smart investment in Josh Norman: Norman has injected energy and confidence into the Washington defense. Coach Jay Gruden has been impressed, saying that he wouldn't want Norman to change despite penalties and that he's been as good as advertised. The trash talking corner isn't cheap, but it's rewarding to see a high-priced free agent signing pay off on the field.

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