Redskins Recap: Uneven win keeps Jay Gruden alive as head coach

An optimist would call this game a competitive one. A realist would call it a sloppy one.

The Redskins managed to squeeze out a win that would have never happened against any other team. The Cardinals came into the contest bruised and battered, and throughout the game, they constantly took steps back on their own. But in the end, a win is a win. And the Redskins restored a little bit of pride today, beating a team in the playoff hunt to improve to 6-8.

It was far from a perfect game. The offense couldn’t move the football consistently, and the Redskins’ special teams were atrocious. But Jay Gruden kept the team alive with, for the most part, solid play calling. He kept his team accountable when they made mistakes, and by the final whistle, they were able to come out on top.

Lost in the storylines of 2017 disappointment will be the stellar play of Anthony Lanier and Zach Vigil. Lanier had two sacks and three deflections at the line today. He was the only defensive lineman who dominated an injured Cardinals offensive line.

Vigil was also stout, not only making key plays, but also showing a good command of the defense, making adjustments when necessary. The defense tossed around Blaine Gabbert and the Cardinals’ squad all day, holding them to 15 points, keeping them out of the end zone for all four quarters.

Next: Washington Redskins Week 15 Game Thread

Moving forward, Jay Gruden’s job is just a little bit safer, and the Redskins head into next week’s game against the Broncos with a little more confidence and motivation. The playoffs are out of reach, but the Redskins can still end on a high note, and be proud of their efforts as the season comes to a close.