Redskins 38, Browns 21
Offense: Rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden’s two third-quarter interceptions proved to be backbreakers because the Redskins scored touchdowns off both of them. Even though rookie running back Trent Richardson rushed for two touchdowns, he had only 11 carries for 28 yards (2.5 average), including just two runs in the second half. The Browns converted 4-of-12 third downs (33 percent) and went 0-for-2 on fourth down. Thumbs down.
Defense: The Browns were shredded by rookie quarterback Kirk Cousins, who made his first career start. Cousins filled in for rookie sensation Robert Griffin III, who was sidelined with a sprained right knee, and crushed the Browns with play-action fakes and rollouts. He completed 26-of-37 passes for 329 yards and two touchdowns with one interception. Thumbs down.
Special teams: Four of Reggie Hodges’ six punts traveled 40 yards or less. The Browns covered kicks and punts well, but they didn’t do any significant damage in the return game, either. Thumbs down.
Coaching: The offense was out of rhythm for the vast majority of the game, and the running game was abandoned in the second half. The defense prepared as if Griffin would play all week and didn’t adjust well to Cousins. Thumbs down.
