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Four Washington Football Team players deserving of game balls vs. Bengals

By Ken Johannesen

Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 22, 2020; Landover, Maryland, USA; Washington Football Team running back Antonio Gibson (24) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals during the first quarter at FedExField. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 22, 2020; Landover, Maryland, USA; Washington Football Team running back Antonio Gibson (24) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals during the first quarter at FedExField. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports /

Offensive game balls

RB Antonio Gibson

Antonio Gibson has established himself as the No. 1 featured back in Washington’s versatile offense.  He is a true weapon, not only as a rushing threat, but also as a receiving back.

Gibson was something of a question mark coming out of the non-power five program Memphis.   Not only has Gibson proven to be a solid offensive player, but he is also becoming a solid blocker on passing downs as well.  Gibson was able to produce 94 yards rushing on Sunday while averaging just under six yards a carry.  He also tacked on a 10-yard reception.

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These games are becoming a routine affair now as Gibson finds out where he fits in offensive coordinator Scott Turner’s playbook.  The greater the comfort level for Gibson in this system, the better he will become and that is a scary thought for opposing defenses.  For his efforts on Sunday, Antonio Gibson is awarded the first game ball.

WR Terry McLaurin

Is there anything that Terry McLaurin can’t do?  In a consistently recurring theme this season, the former Ohio State star had another outstanding game on Sunday.  It’s obviously a recurring nightmare for opposing defensive coordinators each week.

McLaurin hauled in five receptions against the Bengals for 84 yards.  The Buckeye is having a sensational second season — he already has 871 receiving yards and could hit 1,000 against the Cowboys if all goes well — and is well on his way to establishing himself as one of the elite receivers in the NFL today.

Washington has scored magnificently in the third round of the 2019 (McLaurin) and 2020 (Gibson) NFL drafts.  With two third-round picks in 2021, the trend may continue with truly incredible results.  McLaurin is far ahead of his pace as a rookie last season; he’s on pace for 99 receptions, 1,393 yards, and six TDs.

One more stat.  Three of his receptions on Sunday directly led to 17 WFT points.  McLaurin is a game-changer.  For his efforts on Sunday, Terry McLaurin is awarded the second game ball.

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