The Washington Redskins may have beaten the Pittsburgh Steelers, 24-13, on Monday Night Football, but the second game of the preseason did not bring much good football news to the nation's capital.
With Robert Griffin III still sidelined while recovering from a torn ACL, Kirk Cousins again got the start for the Redskins. After a stellar preseason debut, Cousins once again looked sharp but gave way to Rex Grossman after leaving the game with a foot injury.
Washington's defense rose to the occasion, though. Ryan Kerrigan intercepted a reckless Ben Roethlisberger pass in the first quarter and returned it for a touchdown. Grossman then threw a touchdown pass to help the Redskins take a 17-6 lead into halftime that they wouldn't relinquish.
The Steelers' first-team offense was less than effective. Rookie running back Le'Veon Bell made his preseason debut but left the game after just four carries. That paved the way for a nice night from Jonathan Dwyer. But rookie wideout Markus Wheaton may have been the most impressive offensive player for the Steelers, making plays downfield for the second straight week.
Injury report:
In addition to Cousins' sprained foot, wide receiver Leonard Hankerson, wide receiver Aldrick Robinson and defensive tackle Barry Cofield all left the game early for the Redskins. Hankerson injured his knee and Robinson injured his thigh in the game.
Meanwhile, Bell was the biggest injury casualty for the Steelers. He suffered a foot injury as well after missing last week's preseason game with a sore knee.
Did they cover?
The Redskins were favored by 2.5 points in the game and covered the spread.
What's next?
In Week 3 of the preseason, the Redskins will play the Bills at home, while the Steelers will take on the Chiefs at home.
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