The Washington Redskins are out of playoff contention, but their attempt to salvage the year and avoid a losing record took a positive turn Sunday with a 27-11 win over the Denver Broncos in the home season finale at FedEx Field.
For the second straight week, Washington’s defense set the tone, as Pro Bowl-bound Ryan Kerrigan and fellow linebacker Preston Smith had two sacks each. Another linebacker, Zach Vigil, led all defensive players with 14 total tackles, including 12 solo tackles. Also, defensive back D.J. Swearinger picked off an errant Brock Osweiler pass.
“The defense played very well in all phases,” said Redskins head coach Jay Gruden. “The communication has been outstanding and we have been eliminating big plays.”
Quarterback Kirk Cousins, playing in what could be his final home game in a Washington uniform, was 19 of 37 for 299 yards and three touchdowns to three different receivers (Jamison Crowder, Josh Doctson and Vernon Davis). Cousins also had an interception.
Washington’s success on offense (388 total yards) came despite facing a Broncos defense that was top-ranked in the league.
“I was very impressed with our offensive line and our receivers,” Gruden said. “They all did a great job.”
Washington (7-8), who finished 5-3 at home in 2017, ends the season at the Meadowlands against the New York Giants (2-13) on New Year’s Eve at 1 p.m.