Each week, THN will choose their three players of the game at each position. Here are week twelve's selections:
Offense: Clinton Portis
The Redskins offense faltered once again, this time against a very aggressive and fast Chargers defensive line. Portis was given many chances - 29 to be exact - to break one loose but very few big holes were available. Portis’ longest carry of the game was 8 yards, yet he still managed 87 yards against a stingy San Diego defense and ran hard all day. Late in the game, Portis caught a 23-yard pass that led to a 13-yard touchdown run by Rock Cartwright one play later. Portis had a total of 110 all-purpose yards.
Defense: Marcus Washington
Marcus helped lead the Redskins defense in shutting down the Chargers offense in the first half. LaDanian Tomlinson was held to only 37 yards rushing and plenty of pressure was applied to quarterback Drew Brees. Marcus was responsible for two of Brees’ sacks during the Chargers second offensive drive of the game.
Marcus was disruptive all over the field. He defended a pass thrown to Brees from Tomlinson by knocking the ball out of Brees’ hands. He also saved the defense from giving up a touchdown by tackling wide receiver Eric Parker at the one-yard line after receiving a hand-off from Tomlinson on an end-around. The 6th year linebacker also tipped a pass that was intercepted by Shawn Springs with just over a minute remaining in the game. The offense was unable to do anything with that opportunity given to them by the defense.
Statistically, Washington totaled 6 tackles and was credited with 1.5 sacks. Despite solid numbers, Washington actually did more on the field than stats can show.
Special Teams: Rock Cartwright
Despite poor punting, Rock helped the Redskins contain Chargers punt returner Eric Parker for 32 yards on 5 returns. The energetic Cartwright logged 2 special teams tackles and was very important in containing kick returner Darren Sproles. On coverage units, Rock has continued his solid and consistent play. He has a nose for returners and was downfield throughout the whole game.
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