The Redskins had ended 1985 showcasing the potential of their re-tooled offense, and they picked up where they left off to open 1986.

The game started slowly, with the Eagles scoring a TD in the first quarter, and Washington answering with a Moseley field goal. But Jay Schroeder and the Redskins offense came to life in the second quarter, with new RB Kelvin Bryant catching a TD pass and Schroeder running one in himself. The Eagles answered with another TD drive, bringing the score back to 17-14. Just before halftime, reserve kicker Steve Cox came in a kicked a 55 yard FG, bringing the lead back to six.

Washington dominated the second half, with Kelvin Bryant scoring on two runs, and Schroeder adding a TD pass to Didier. The Redskins defense clamped down on the Eagles' offense, sacking and intercepting Ron Jaworski multiple times.