Needing to make a statement, the Washington Redskins looked as good as they have all season, forcing three turnovers en route to a 17-3 halftime lead over the Philadelphia Eagles.
Meanwhile, Andy Reid’s seat may have turned from red-hot to white-hot.
Part of Washington’s statement came from the most unlikely of sources — their struggling secondary. DeAngelo Hall and the debuting Brandon Meriweather picked off rookie quarterback Nick Foles on consecutive drives to open the game.
Cashing in on the first turnover, Robert Griffin III connected with fullback Darrel Young on a six-yard touchdown pass to give Washington an early lead.
Griffin’s touchdown toss also set the Redskins franchise record for most completions by a rookie quarterback (173).
As an encore, he would connect with a wide open Aldrick Robinson for a 49-yard touchdown in the second quarter. Eagles cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha was burned badly on the play.
Barry Cofield forced a fumble late in the half that was recovered by Ryan Kerrigan at the Philadelphia 14-yard line.
Kai Forbath tacked on a 31-yard field goal to give Washington a 14-point halftime lead.
Griffin finished the half with two touchdowns and 99 passing yards.
Rookie counterpart Foles passed for 120 yards behind a 12-of-22 half that included the two picks.
NOTES: Linebacker London Fletcher left the game in the first quarter with a left ankle injury, but was able to return.
