After a summer-long battle with a highly-favored backup, Rex Grossman proved on Sunday that he has what it takes to be the starting quarterback for the Washington Redskins.
After falling behind 7-0, Grossman rallied the Redskins by throwing for 305 yards and two touchdowns to push Washington to a 28-14 victory Sept. 11 at FedEx Field in front of an emotional crowd on the 10-year anniversary of the terrorist attacks of 9/11.
Aided by a strong running game and a punishing defense, the Redskins electrified a sold-out stadium, carrying over a solid 3-1 preseason into their 2011-2012 campaign. Tim Hightower, the team’s newly acquired running back and story of the summer, led all runners with 50 yards on a game-high 24 carries. While his performance wasn’t outstanding, Hightower’s ability to grind out yards in the first half opened up passing lanes for Grossman to work with later in the contest.
Tight end Fred Davis led Washington with 105 receiving yards on five catches. The No. 2 tight end on the depth chart filled in admirably for a hobbled Chris Cooley, who added two catches for 21 yards.
Washington (1-0) will host the Arizona Cardinals (1-0) Sept. 18 at FedEx Field.
