By Ryan O’Halloran
SEATTLE – Up downs for the Redskins after they snapped a six-game losing streak with a 23-17 win over Seattle on Sunday.
UP
Running back Roy Helu
In his first chance to be ‘The Guy’ in the backfield, all Helu did was deliver 108 yards rushing on 23 carries (including an impressive 28-yard touchdown) and seven catches for 54 yards. He also had a couple of key blitz pick-ups.
DOWN
Field goal/point after protection
Another field goal blocked and a blocked point after. Granted, the Seahawks’ Red Bryant has done that four times this year, but this wasn’t the first time the Redskins’ interior line was bulldozed backward. Mike Shanahan didn’t cite any snap, hold or ball-flight issues on the two kicks.
UP
Cornerback DeAngelo Hall
Even before his interception to seal the win, Hall was having one of his best games of the year. He broke up six passes and although I’ll check the tape Monday to confirm, he said he played more press coverage than usual. The Redskins’ defense is better off when Hall is playing aggressive.
DOWN
Third down offense
The Redskins piled up 416 yards (second-most this year) despite converting only 3 of 10 opportunities on third down.
UP
Third down offense
That said, two of the Redskins’ three touchdowns came on third down – Helu’s run on third-and-3 and Anthony Armstrong’s on third-and-19.
UP
Receiver Anthony Armstrong
Speaking of Armstrong, he made his only catch in the last five games count. Running a ‘go’ route against Brandon Browning, he used his speed to create separation and collected Grossman’s 50-yard throw despite having Browning draped all over him. Maybe that will spark a December resurgence for No. 13.
DOWN
Penalties, penalties, penalties
The Redskins’ 10 penalties tied a season high and the 115 penalty yards were the most this year. Throw out the yardage to some extent since 44 came on Josh Wilson’s pass interference penalty. But the penalty total was out of character – the Redskins have four of fewer penalties in six games.
UP
The first-half intensity
Don’t know about you, but was amused by all of the trash talking during the pre-game, including the Coin Toss Brouhaha. Trent Williams laughed when I told him, “For what’s its worth, it was entertaining,” and London Fletcher laughed when telling me, “Didn’t look like it was a 3-7 team vs. a 4-6 team did it?” No it didn’t.
UP
Receiver Santana Moss’ return
Out the last four games with a broken left hand, Moss started and saw his usual heavy work load. He was targeted seven times and caught four passes for 29 yards, representing a solid initial step back.
DOWN
Injuries at the safety position
Oshiomogho Atogwe didn’t start because he was deemed non-full speed (Reed Doughty took his place). But Atogwe was forced into action when LaRon Landry sustained a groin injury. He did finish the game, though.
Contact O’Halloran at rohalloran@comcastsportsnet.com
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