Redskins coach Mike Shanahan says Albert Hanyesworth’s performance against Chicago is not only the “best he’s played this season” but “the best game he’s played since he’s been” in Washington.
(Shanahan watched each of last year’s games on film when he got the job.)
Haynesworth “only” had three tackles and a sack, but he disrupted the interior of the Bears offensive line all day. It was Haynesworth’s play that led to Lovie Smith’s bone-headed non-challenge of a Jay Cutler fumble.
“The first thing I look for is someone who plays 100 percent,” Shanahan said via Jason Reid of the Washington Post. "...I was pleased with his effort. I was pleased with his adjustments.”
Mike Wise of the Washington Post gives credit to the Redskins coaching staff for essentially taking away Haynesworth’s run game responsibilities. (Haynesworth now essentially just tries to get to the quarterback, like he wanted all along.)
“When the big fella plays the way he did, it’s just great for our whole defense,” linebacker London Fletcher told Reid.
Haynesworth told Wise that this has been the worst year of his life personally and professionally and he just wants to get through it. He thought of his fallen brother before Sunday’s game started.
“Like before, when we were warming up and stuff. . . . I was crying a little bit and stuff and I could hear my little brother like, ‘You’re crying over me?’ ” Haynesworth said.
The Redskins and Haynesworth have been through a lot and their marriage is almost certainly going to end after the season. Sunday’s effort gave hope that they may finally have some fun together while it lasts.