Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III bags NFC offensive award

Landover, MD, United States (4E Sports) – Fueled by his outstanding debut against the New Orleans Saints, Washington Redskins rookie quarterback Robert Griffin III was picked as NFC Offensive Player of the Week, the NFL announced Wednesday.

The 22-year-old Griffin completed 19 of 26 passes for 320 yards and two touchdowns to lead the Redskins to a 40-32 victory over the Saints, finishing with a 139.9 passer rating. He also rushed for 42 yards on 10 carries.

In the process, Griffin became the first player in league history to pass for more than 300 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions in his NFL debut.

Griffin also became the Redskins player to win the award since running back Clinton Portis did it in 2008 after a 145-yard effort against the Philadelphia Eagles. He is also first Redskins rookie to receive the honor since Rod Gardner in Week 6 of the 2001 season.

With his strong performance, Griffin has automatically been included as nominee for the Rookie of the Week award, which will be announced later.

Griffin’s 320 passing yards were the second most by a rookie quarterback in Week 1 in NFL history, trailing only Carolina’s Cam Newton’s 422-yard performance last season. He eclipsed the 300-yard efforts by 2012 No. 1 overall pick Indianapolis’ Andrew Luck (309) and Peyton Manning (302 in 1998).

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