Nate Orchard Blocks Punt For Redskins Against Giants

LANDOVER, M.D. – Former Utah defensive end and linebacker Nate Orchard made a big play on special teams for the Washington Redskins against the New York Giants.

The Giants were attempting a punt with 14:38 remaining in the game and holding a 35-21 lead when Orchard attacked the gap and was able to get to the punter in time to block the kick. The ball was recovered at the 17-yard line and New York lost 11 yards on the play by Orchard.

It was Orchard’s first career block.

BLOCKED 🚫 #NYGvsWAS@budlight | #BudLightCelly pic.twitter.com/lrLFTF92yZ

— Washington Redskins (@Redskins) December 22, 2019

The Redskins only needed one play on offense after the block when they benefited from a pass interference call and Adrian Peterson ran in a one-yard touchdown. The Giants missed a field goal on the ensuing possession and the after both teams exchanged punts, the Redskins tied the game late in the game to send it to overtime. New York scored a touchdown on their first drive of the overtime period to win the game.

Orchard finished the game with two tackles, a pass deflection and a blocked punt. It’s his fourth game with the Redskins after signing with the team as a free agent. Orchard was last on the Miami Dolphins during the preseason before getting cut.

It doesn't surprise me at all that Nate has kept fighting to stay in the league. He's already overcome so much adversity. Watch this interview after his performance Sunday. Congrats @nateorchard44 https://t.co/V0g67Q7sO4 pic.twitter.com/O4KsuU8vHS

— Jeremiah Jensen (@JJSportsBeat) December 2, 2019