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 16—Washington 34, New York Giants 17— December 15, 1991
Mark Rypien threw three touchdown passes with no interceptions, leading Washington to its 34-17 win over NFC East Division rival the New York Giants at RFK Stadium in Washington, DC.
Rypien connected for touchdowns with Gary Clark in the first quarter from 65 yards, Terry Orr in the second from 22 yards and again with Clark from 50 yards in the final quarter.
Washington was able to run the ball well, opening up the play-action passing for Rypien. Ricky Ervins gained 85 yards in 13 carries, and Earnest Byner added 68 yards in 17 carries, as the Redskins rushed 36 times for 151 yards.
Clark led all receivers with 129 receiving yards on only three receptions, while Art Monk collected five receptions for 91 yards.
Defensive end Charles Mann and defensive tackle Bobby Wilson both sacked Giants’ QB Phil Simms twice, while linebacker Monte Coleman and safety Danny Copeland each collected a Simms pass for an interception.
Washington kicker Chip Lohmiller was successful on both of his field goal attempts from 36 yards and on all four extra-point attempts.
Trailing 10-7 in the second quarter, Washington (14-1) took control, scoring 20 consecutive points on the defending Super Bowl champs, to lead 27-10 in the third quarter.
Simms completed 23 of 41 for 288 yards and a touchdown. However, he was intercepted twice and sacked four times. Rodney Hampton led New York, (7-8) rushers with 67 yards on his 16 rushing attempts.