“When They Last Met” is an ongoing series during the NFL season, recalling the preceding game between Washington and the next opponent on the Commanders’ schedule.
Washington 16, Jacksonville 13 – Week 15, December 16, 2018
Dustin Hopkins’ 36-yard field goal on the game’s final play provided Washington a 16-13 win over the Jaguars at TIAA Stadium in Jacksonville.
Tied 13-13, Fabian Moreau’s interception of a Cody Kessler pass intended for Dede Westbrook halted a 7-play Jacksonville drive at the Washington 29. Moreau’s 16-yard return put the ball at Washington’s 45 with 2:31 remaining.
The Redskins then drove 36 yards to the Jaguars’ 19-yard line, setting up Hopkins’ opportunity to win the game with his field goal. Persistently, Washington had gone to Adrian Peterson on six consecutive plays before quarterback Josh Johnson knelt for a 2-yard loss, setting-up Hopkins for his game-winner.
Peterson ran for 4 yards, had a 7-yard completion from Johnson, then runs of 15,7,1 and 4 yards before Johnson’s kneel-down put Hopkins where he wanted the ball snapped for his winning field goal.
Former Washington kicker Kai Forbath’s 41-yard field goal with 11:16 remaining had extended the Jacksonville lead to 13-6. But Johnson led Washington on a 68-yard drive in 10 plays, tying the score on his 6-yard pass to Jeremy Sprinkle at the right pylon.
Ryan Kerrigan and Jonathan Allen both had productive days defensively for Washington. Kerrigan collected 2 QB sacks, 5 solo tackles, 4 QB hits, one forced fumble and a tackle for a loss. Allen also earned 2 QB sacks, 4 solo tackles, three tackles for a loss and 2 QB hits.
Johnson completed 16 of 25 passing attempts for 151 yards, also rushing for 49 yards on 9 carries. Jamison Crowder led Washington receivers with 4 receptions for 46 yards. While Peterson rushed for 51 yards on 19 carries.
Westbrook enjoyed the game’s biggest play when he returned a Tress Way punt 74 yards for a touchdown with only 4 seconds remaining in the half, giving the Jaguars a 10-3 lead.