Robert Griffin III builds confidence in Redskins' win

LANDOVER, Md. – Robert Griffin III didn't rack up big numbers, but he made big plays, led the winning drive and had something to smile about in his return from being benched as starting quarterback of the Washington Redskins.

His future with Washington is uncertain after a season of injury and struggles. The Redskins haven't publicly committed to bringing him back for a fourth season. But after Saturday's 27-24 upset victory over the Philadelphia Eagles, Griffin said he wants to stay in burgundy and gold.

"I wouldn't want to be anywhere else," said Griffin. "I wouldn't want to play with any other players. These guys mean a lot of me, and I can feel it in the locker room after the game."

Before the game, Griffin slapped hands with fellow offensive starters during warmups.

The No. 2 pick in the 2012 NFL draft missed six games early this season with a dislocated ankle. After returning for three starts, he was benched for poor performance. Coach Jay Gruden criticized his footwork, his reads and his overall work as a pocket passer.

Griffin got the start Saturday because Colt McCoy went on injured reserve with a neck injury. He came through in handing the Eagles a loss that was another jolt to their playoff hopes.

"We wanted to spoil their Christmas and send them home, and we did our part," said Griffin.

But what did the win mean to him, the Heisman Trophy winner from Baylor?

After his outstanding rookie year, he had knee surgery. He struggled last season. He's been in and out of the lineup this season.

"It really isn't about me. This win's about this team, and we've been through the ringer a little bit this season. We've been through a lot of adversity, a lot of mess," said Griffin.

Griffin hit 16 of 23 passes for 220 yards and one interception on another try at a deep ball to DeSeanJackson. But Washington got the win to salvage something in its 4-11 season.

"You would think a 3-11 football team would just quit, but we're not. … I don't want to be anywhere else," said Griffin.

He hit Jackson with deep balls of 55 and 51 yards on touchdowns drives.

"I think he's the ideal quarterback, has a lot of talent, he's young,'' said Jackson. "He just suffered some unfortunate injuries. … He just needs to be consistent. He needs to stick with it, even when it's not going right."

Griffin made a big play when it mattered most.

With the game 24-24, Washington got the ball at its own 42-yard line after an interception off Eagles quarterback Mark Sanchez with 1:31 left.

On the first play after the turnover, Griffin connected with wide receiver Pierre Garcon on a 23-yard pass. A roughing the passer penalty, third of the game against the Eagles, added 15 yards. The Redskins were on their way to the winning 26-yard field goal by Kai Forbath with five seconds left.

"I've been impressed with Robert," said Gruden. "… He made some throws and stood in there and made a couple of runs and they were some big runs.

"I just thought he managed the game extremely well. … He competed and that's what you want to see quarterback do. He competed and was being a leader. … I'm happy for Robert."

Gruden was asked if Griffin had earned the starting job.

"We won today, so heck yeah," said Gruden. "Let's finish this season out on a high note (at home against Dallas) ... Then after the season we will make all the necessary sdjustments.

"It's a great opportunity for Robert to reestablish himself as the leader of this football team -- hoping he does it."

Griffin has abstained from social media in recent weeks. He said his words get twisted and spark controversies.

"One last thing, since I'm not on social media right now, I just want to say happy anniversary, 27th anniversary, to my mom and dad," said Griffin.

Missing DeSean?: Jackson had another big day against the Philadelphia team that cut him in March. He had four catches for 126 yards. In a loss in Philadelphia earlier this season, Jackson had five catches for 177 yards, including an 81-yard touchdown.

Does he think the Eagles regret the decision to cut the player who led them in receiving in 2013?

"That's a question you have to ask them (Eagles Coach Chip Kelly didn't address that)," said Jackson.

"I think a lot of the guys miss me. They tell me that during the game. … They constantly tell me how much they miss me and they wish I was there. … I'm happy to be here in Washington."