LANDOVER, Md. -- Though the Washington Redskins came up just short against the New York Giants on Sunday, there were some positives that came out of the 41-35 overtime defeat. Here are three Redskins who stood out during the Week 16 divisional matchup:
Game Ball No. 1: Wide Receiver Steven Sims Jr
As the season has progressed, Sims has become more involved in the Redskins' passing attack. In Week 12 against the Carolina Panthers, starting slot receiver Trey Quinn sustained a concussion, which opened the door for Sims to see increased snaps. Since being thrust into a starting role, Sims had nine receptions for 95 yards and a touchdown entering Sunday.
Against the Giants, Sims set career highs with six receptions, 64 yards and two touchdowns with his family in attendance. Sims also drew a critical pass interference penalty on fourth down to set up Washington's game-tying touchdown just before the end of regulation.
The first touchdown showcased Sims' strong hands and ability to catch the ball in traffic, as he completed a diving, juggling catch with Giants cornerback Corey Ballentine draped all over him.
His second touchdown was arguably more impressive, displaying pristine route running and great awareness to get both feet down in the back of the end zone. Sims faked to the outside and then cut back inside to separate himself from Ballentine before hauling in the seven-yard touchdown reception.
"I knew once I came out of my break, I always look to see where I'm going first and then I find the ball," Sims said. "I knew I had space once I set up the defender."
Game Ball No. 2: Quarterback Case Keenum
Starting quarterback Dwayne Haskins injured his ankle on the first play of the second half, leaving Keenum to come on relief.
Prior to Sunday, Keenum's last snap came against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 8. Despite the long layoff, Keenum impressed in his relief appearance by throwing for 158 yards and a touchdown and finishing the game with a passer rating of 107.8. He also rushed for the game-tying touchdown with 37 seconds left, his first of the season.
That rush capped a 99-yard drive during which Keenum made several key throws, including a 32-yard completion to Sims on a third-and-nine from the 2-yard line.
Check out photos of the Washington Redskins during their regular season Week 16 game against the New York Giants.
Game Ball No. 3: Wide Receiver Terry McLaurin
The rookie third-round pick missed the Week 4 matchup against the Giants because of a hamstring injury, but he returned to the field Sunday to make a career-high seven receptions for 86 yards on nine targets.
Since being promoted to starting quarterback, Haskins and McLaurin's relationship has developed further each week. The young wideout was featured in the offense early on, as his 34-yard reception helped set up the Redskins' first touchdown.
As the game progressed, McLaurin continued to be a featured part of the offense and provided a matchup problem for the young Giants secondary.
On the game-tying touchdown drive, McLaurin displayed his freakish athleticism and ability to make contested catches. With 59 seconds left on a third-and-one, McLaurin made an impressive leaping catch over Giants cornerback Sam Beal to keep the chains moving. His final reception of the game highlighted why McLaurin has become a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses.
"You're gonna take some hits in football," McLaurin said after the tough catch. "You just wanted to make a play to get us into position to score."
