This 2021 NFL season reminds us that 30 years ago Washington assembled its greatest team in franchise history, going 14-2 and racing through the playoffs to the Super Bowl XXVI championship and Vince Lombardi Trophy.
Week 2 Washington 33, Dallas 31
For the second consecutive week, Washington would perform before a national TV audience, this time at Texas Stadium on Monday Night Football.
Redskins’ kicker Chip Lohmiller enjoyed a perfect night, connecting on all four field goal attempts and all three extra points. Lohmiller was impressive connecting on field goal attempts from 53, 52, 45 and 46 yards, the last putting Washington (2-0) up by two scores in the final quarter at 33-24.
Dallas (1-1) held leads of 14-7 and 21-10 in the second quarter, but Washington battled back as Mark Rypien connected with Art Monk down the right sideline from 37 yards, and Lohmiller’s second field goal (52 yards) narrowed the Dallas lead to 21-20 at the half.
After trading field goals in the third quarter, the final frame began with Dallas leading 24-23. But Gerald Riggs’ plunge from one yard and Lohmiller’s final field goal (46) put Washington ahead to stay 33-24.
Earnest Byner being forced to carry the running load with Ricky Ervins injured, gained 101 yards in 22 carries. Wide Receiver Ricky Sanders was even called upon to rush three times for 26 yards.
Mark Rypien did not have his best game but did end up completing 14 of 26 attempts for 203 yards, two touchdowns and one interception.
Sanders was on the receiving end of five receptions for 85 yards and Art Monk had four catches for 61 yards and a TD. Tight Ends Terry Orr and Jimmie Johnson made key catches; Orr had a 23-yard reception and Johnson a three-yard touchdown pass.
Sidney Johnson and Fred Strokes each sacked Troy Aikman once, while Smith led Dallas with 112 rushing yards and eight receptions for 42 yards. Tight end Jay Novacek had seven receptions for 60 yards.