49ers vs. Redskins: 5 Positives to Take from Washington's Tough Defeat

It's probably too soon to address anything remotely positive after the Washington Redskins slipped to their fifth defeat of the season.

The San Francisco 49ers took advantage of the Redskins' struggling offense and propensity to be soft against the run to secure a comfortable victory.

But now that a once-promising season seems destined for the doldrums, any cause for optimism, however slight, would be welcome.

There will be plenty of time for recriminations, but here are five signs of encouragement evident in today's game.

5. Leonard Hankerson Made Some Plays

Disappointing third-round draft choice Leonard Hankerson showed signs of life late in this game.  The former University of Miami product offered glimpses of his tremendous potential.

Hankerson hauled in four receptions for 34 yards and showcased his size and strength by brushing aside 49ers cornerback Tarrell Brown to register a two-point conversion.

Hankerson may finally be ready to become a major contributor for a Washington offense that desperately needs genuine playmakers.

4. The Offensive Line Held Up Better Than in Recent Weeks

After allowing 10 sacks last week against a Buffalo Bills defense not known for excellence in getting to the passer, many felt the rugged 49ers pass rush would be in for a field day.

But the Redskins' front five held up surprisingly well against the aggressive San Francisco defense.  The 49ers managed a solitary sack, and their most dangerous pressure specialists were held at bay most of the afternoon.

Much maligned left tackle Trent Williams returned to the starting lineup and despite some rocky moments, he played with an intensity that has been sorely lacking in recent games.

The makeshift interior also managed to do a decent job against massive nose tackle Isaac Sopoaga.  The offensive line will need to show similar improvement next Sunday against the Miami Dolphins and Cameron Wake.

3. Graham Gano

Graham Gano continued his remarkable transformation from a year ago.  Gano wowed the crowd with a successful 59-yard kick, giving the Redskins their first points of the day.

Given the lack of explosion on offense, the Redskins will need to rely on an efficient kicker for the remainder of the season.

Gano is proving that he can be reliable and productive in clutch situations. 

2. Brian Orakpo and Ryan Kerrigan Continue to Bring the Heat

The Redskins' two most dangerous pass-rushers each recorded a sack and enjoyed productive days for Washington's defense.

Rookie Ryan Kerrigan registered the hit of the day when he sacked Alex Smith with such ferocity that he very nearly lifted the 49ers quarterback out of his shoes.

Brian Orakpo was a consistent threat off the edge and his power proved too much for the left side of the San Francisco offensive line on more than one occasion.

The pressure generated by Orakpo and Kerrigan is making the 3-4 front a success, and the duo is quickly becoming too much for most pass protection schemes to handle.

1. Roy Helu

It's hard not to be impressed by the all-purpose yardage wracked up by fourth-round draft choice Roy Helu in his first full start.

Helu caught 14 passes out of the backfield for 105 yards.  He displayed good hands and a wide array of moves after the catch.

Helu also ran the ball well, gaining 41 yards on 10 carries against a stout San Francisco rush defense.  His speed and strength were particularly impressive.

The fact that the Redskins were playing catch-up prevented Helu's productive running from taking over the game.

The former Nebraska star demonstrated a useful, versatile skill set that can serve the Redskins' offense well as the season progresses.

Things are certainly bleak for the Redskins at the moment.  But with veterans like Santana Moss, Chris Cooley and O.J. Atogwe on the shelf, the team needs help from its unproven youngsters.

Despite the result, there was enough evidence in this game to suggest that some promising young players are ready to step up and carry the load.