LANDOVER, Md. (CBSDC) — With playoff hopes on the line and pressure mounting for success in Mike Shanahan’s third season as head coach, the Washington Redskins needed to make a statement Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles.

The wasted little time in doing so, coming out firing and lead their division rival Eagles 17-3 at halftime.

Part of Washington’s statement came from the most unlikely of sources — their struggling secondary. DeAngelo Hall and the debuting Brandon Meriweather picked off rookie quarterback Nick Foles on consecutive drives to open the game.

Follow the Game: Play-By-Play

Cashing in on the first turnover, Robert Griffin III connected with fullback Darrel Young on a six-yard touchdown pass to give Washington an early lead.

Griffin’s touchdown toss also set the Redskins franchise record for most completions by a rookie quarterback (173).

As an encore, he would connect with a wide open Aldrick Robinson for a 49-yard touchdown in the second quarter. Eagles cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha was burned badly on the play.

Barry Cofield forced a fumble late in the half that was recovered by Ryan Kerrigan at the Philadelphia 14-yard line.

Kai Forbath tacked on a 31-yard field goal to give Washington a 14-point halftime lead.

Griffin finished the half with two touchdowns and 99 passing yards.

Rookie counterpart Foles passed for 120 yards behind a 12-of-22 half that included the two picks.

NOTES: Linebacker London Fletcher left the game in the first quarter with a left ankle injury, but was able to return.