Early trend
Redskins safety LaRon Landry often was used near the line. But he botched man coverage badly, allowing two big catches and nearly a third. So they removed him from that duty while still using him close. He had a strong second half, including intercepting a pass.
Did you notice …
How varied Brian Orakpo‘s rushes are? He beat the Raiders with various moves, sometimes charging hard, then stunting to the middle. Another time he came off softer, fooling the tackle who anticipated an inside rush, and then sprinting past him wide.
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Under the radar
Redskins running back Quinton Ganther was solid in his first career start with 50 yards rushing and two touchdowns on 14 carries. What was most impressive was how many tackles he broke. He consistently gained yards after first impact.
From the sidelines
Jim Zorn and/or Sherm Lewis wisely stayed aggressive inside the 10-yard line early in the fourth for a touchdown that clinched the win. Also, they ran heavily to the right side of the line when it was clear the Raiders couldn’t stop them.
Tom Cable and the Raiders needed to do a better job of having quarterback JaMarcus Russell take short drops and making quick throws. When he dropped deep, he was indecisive and in trouble. But once he entered, the Raiders were doomed.
