GIANTS 23, REDSKINS 17
Early trend
The Giants converted five of seven third downs on their two first-half scoring drives, including a 30-yard Eli Manning touchdown pass. That changed in the second half (one of five), but a Redskins defense that led the league in three-and-outs last year posted none.
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Under the radar
Redskins cornerback Carlos Rogers made a terrific break on a pass on New York’s first series. And he got his hands on the ball. And he dropped it again. Rogers’ missed interception not only prevented good field position, it enabled New York to drive downfield for a field goal.
Did you notice …
The Redskins flip-flopped ends Andre Carter and Phillip Daniels on a handful of occasions. Another time, they lined up with five defensive linemen. However, right before the snap, Brian Orakpo went to a two-point stance. Also, Reed Doughty was the primary strong safety in the fourth quarter.
From the Sidelines
The Redskins don’t play with enough discipline to win big games on the road. That’ll be a challenge for Jim Zorn moving forward. The dumb penalties have been tolerated for too long. But Zorn’s offense could not generate much of anything and that’s a bigger issue.
Though the Giants failed on a fourth-and-1 from the 3, Tom Coughlin’s decision set up good field position on their next drive and a second-quarter touchdown. Also, Coughlin’s new defensive coordinator, Bill Sheridan, did a good job with a secondary missing a couple key players.
