Grading the Washington Football Team’s performance vs. Steelers
Week Thirteen Grades and Evaluations
Offense
It’s the same script week after week. Start slowly and finish with a strong effort. The offense barely managed to score a field goal with one second remaining before halftime. Otherwise, the offense was lackluster for the first 28 minutes of the game. Adding a 49-yard field goal before halftime turned out to be a huge factor in the outcome of the game.
The second half was much different as Washington’s offense began to have its way with the Steel Curtain. The quarterback was brilliant. The receiving corps was solid. A tight end shined in the primetime spotlight. The offensive line paved the way.
Yes, a better first half is needed, but the offense flexed their collective biceps in the second half and the upset was complete. Key players include the offensive line, Alex Smith, Logan Thomas, J.D. McKissic, Cam Sims, and the elite blocking of Terry McLaurin.
Grade: B+
Defense
The defense came into Western Pennsylvania hoping to turn up the factory heat on Monday night against the Steelers and melt their undefeated season into a rubble of worthless lead.
The defense kept it close in the first half and dominated the previously undefeated home team in the second half. From an impressive four-down stand inside their own one-yard line to a game-sealing interception, the defense continued to show why they are one of the best in the NFL, especially the defensive line. Here are some stats from Monday’s game.
- One interception (sealed the victory)
- Pittsburgh running backs limited to 21 yards on 14 carries
- Pittsburgh tight ends limited to 68 total yards (most of the yards occurred in the first half)
- Eight pass deflections, including four behind the line of scrimmage
- Two quarterback hits
- Five tackles for lost yardage
- Pittsburgh 6-15 on third down conversions and 0-2 on fourth down conversions
Friends, that is taking it to the heart of an 11-0 team on their home field. The Steelers’ offensive unit was overwhelmed by a relentless Washington defense. The most impressive showing from the defense came on a goal line stand. Pittsburgh used all four downs inside the one and came away empty on a short drive in the second quarter. Don’t be surprised if this defense actually continues to get better over the next four games. Just ask Pittsburgh.
Grade: A
Special Teams
Tress Way enjoyed another solid game on Monday night. Seven punts traveled for an average of 46 yards, including a 60-yard effort. Dustin Hopkins earned NFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors after nailing three long field goals and two extra points against Pittsburgh. His perfect night lifted Washington to the upset win. The return unit was solid and played mistake-free football.
Grade: A+
Coaching
The offense sputtered along in the first thirty minutes, but the defense kept it close enough. The team needs to find an answer for the continuous first-half difficulties that have plagued them since the season opener.
The offense made good adjustments at halftime and overcame the handicap of losing their best running back to an injury. The defense took control against an 11-0 Super Bowl contender and played on their own terms, not Pittsburgh’s. The special teams unit provided Washington with another solid outing. Overall, the coaches had this team prepared and the players outmuscled a very good football team.