The Washington Redskins advanced to a 3-1 record for the first time since 2008 after edging the St. Louis Rams, 17-10, on Oct. 2 in St. Louis. The NFC East division leaders harassed the Rams on defense, sacking second-year quarterback Sam Bradford six times, twice in the fourth quarter.
Bradford was held to just 164 yards passing on the day; he tossed a 15-yard touchdown pass to Rams star running back Stephen Jackson in the fourth quarter as St. Louis attempted to come back from a 17-point deficit. They outscored the Redskins 10-0 in the final period, but ran out of big plays down the stretch as Washington held off the surge for the win.
Most Outstanding Player(s) of the Game:
Redskins’ running back Ryan Torain played his first action since breaking his left hand this summer, and eventually losing his starting role to veteran back Tim Hightower, who was acquired through free agency this off-season. Perhaps the rest did him well as he led the game with 135 rushing yards and a touchdown on 19 carries.
Skins’ veteran receiver Santana Moss scored the only other touchdown for Washington on a 6-yard pass in the opening quarter. He finished with five catches for 39 yards.
Unsung Hero of the Game:
Redskins’ star linebacker Brian Orakpo lived up to his normal high standards as a pass rusher, sacking Bradford 2.5 times on Sunday. But it was also pleasant to see defensive end Stephen Bowen get after the quarterback, too, recording 1.5 sacks on Bradford. Bowen is usually known for stopping the run, but Skins fans will gladly accept the extra contributions in pass rushing.
Next Up:
The Redskins will take their bye week this coming Sunday. They’ll play their next action on Oct. 16 against the Philadelphia Eagles at FedEx Field in Landover, Md.
