Impact player Ryan Torain added energy to the Redskins’ rushing attack, finishing with 135 yards on 19 carries. Torain consistently gained yards after contact and avoided negative yards. He runs with more power than Tim Hightower but is not as good on third downs.
Under the radar
Linebackers Brian Orakpo and Ryan Kerrigan had strong days, both against the run and as rushers. Orakpo failed in coverage against Steven Jackson but dominated left tackle Rodger Saffold at times. He finished with 2? sacks.
Did you notice …
How effective punter Sav Rocca was again? He has been a terrific pickup. Rocca averaged 45.7 yards a kick and dropped three inside the 20-yard line. The Rams had 1 yard on punt returns as his high kicks allowed the coverage to do its job.
From the sidelines
The Rams somehow hung in there despite playing lousy for three quarters. The no-huddle sparked the offense, and if not for numerous drops they could have pulled an upset. But coach Steve Spagnuolo’s team commits too many costly penalties.
The Redskins tried to get too cute at times offensively, especially with a QB known for making mistakes. But give Mike Shanahan credit for inserting Torain. Jim Haslett’s pressure eventually got to Sam Bradford.
