:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/22493249/186057484.0.jpg)
Week 8 Rewind: The NFL's worst passing defense went from 32nd to 30th in one game, as Denver Broncos pass rushers and cornerbacks stifled Washington Redskins quarterbacks Robert Griffin III and Kirk Cousins to only 154 passing yards on the day in Week 8.
It was a remarkable improvement from top to bottom on the defense. Defensive lineman Terrance Knighton proved virtually unblockable; linebacker Von Miller did a terrific job spying RGIII while also registering his first strip sack of the season; Broncos defenders hit Redskins quarterbacks 11 times.
It was the coverage that really took advantage and shined. Redskins receivers were smothered all day.
Broncos cornerback tandem Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and Chris Harris Jr. were a revelation in coverage, and they get Mile High Report's coveted Teammates of the Week award for Week 8. Just look at their impressive stat sheet.
| Player | Thrown At | Rec | Yds | PD | INT | PFF score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie | 7 | 3 | 8 | 1 | 1 | 4.6 |
| Chris Harris Jr. | 7 | 2 | 19 | 0 | 1 | 2.3 |
| Total | 14 | 5 | 27 | 1 | 2 | 6.9 |
Note the two interceptions. Nothing changes the scope of a game like a turnover, and the Broncos found their ball-hawking in Week 8. DRC's pick-six was really the final nail in the Redskins' coffin.
Their performance was even more remarkable when you consider how well Redskins receivers performed a week later. Take Pierre Garcon - the Washington weapon had a whoppping 172 yards against the Chargers in Week 9. Broncos DB's held him to 46 yards the week before.
When it comes to combined cornerback play, it doesn't get much better than this.
Who gets your Teammates of the Week award for Week 8?