Week 12: Redskins 20, Seahawks 17

November 24, 12:06 AMWashington Redskins ExaminerMark Newgent

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(AP Photo John Froschauer)

The Nutshell
This game initially had the feel of the last two playoff games against the Seahawks. However, the offense finally re-awakened in the second half to put up enough points, and the defense came up with two crucial interceptions. Redskins win 20-17, improve to 7-4, and maintain their hold on the last playoff spot for one more week.  NFL Network video highlights here.

Aside: How many play-action passes and draws fooled the JV FOX camera crew?

Offense
Lack of execution killed promising drives in the first half, but the offense looked rejuvenated against the Seahawks amassing 386 yards in total offense (187 rushing, 199 passing) and 24 first downs. They made the plays they needed to keep scoring drives alive in the second half. I was hoping to see a nail-in-the coffin touchdown in the final minutes of the game, but alas Ladell Betts fumbled spoiling what would have been a beautiful seven minute game salting drive.
Grade: B

(AP Photo Elaine Thompson)

Defense
The defense was uncharacteristically vulnerable to the run, mostly due to poor tackling. The Seahawks had 139 yards total, 103 of them from Maurice Morris. The pass defense was very good holding Hasselbeck to just 103 yards, picking him off twice, and breaking up a slew of passes. Last week, I argued that in order to reach the playoffs, the defense was going to have to make some game changing plays. The two picks were game changers.
Grade: B

Special Teams
Ryan Plackemeier’s punting was a mess (28.3 net avg.). Shaun Suisham missed from a makeable distance—again, and the kickoff team allowed 124 return yards including a 55-yard return to open the second half
Grade: D

(AP Photo John Froschauer)

Individual Performances
Clinton Portis put the team on his back once again, 29 rushes for 143 yards.

Jason Campbell (20/33, 199 yards, 1TD) played with a lot of poise and made some key scrambles. No style points for the slides though.
 

Santana Moss: 4 catches for 72 yards.
 

Chris Cooley: 5 catches for 54 yards.
 

LaRon Landry: one interception that set up a touchdown.
 

Shawn Springs: one interception that sealed the win.
 

Rocky McIntosh: 7 tackles and a sack.

Malcolm Kelly played!

Up Next: A rematch with the 10-1 New York Giants.