“That’s receivers and tight ends blocking down the field, helping me string out those long runs. I get tired but obviously it’s a good thing.”

But on Sunday, Washington’s defensive linemen did a better job of fighting through blocks, clogging running lanes, stringing out runs and making tackles.

Mr. Maitland put in time as an assistant director on the TV series “Law & Order” and he understands how to narratively string out violence.