Graham Gano

Immediately after the Washington Redskins’ preseason victory over the Indianapolis Colts on Friday, coach Mike Shanahan said quarterback John Beck “did a good job.” But for the most part, the coach remained tight-lipped on what he thought of Beck’s first live audition for the Redskins’ starting quarterback job.

Two days later, after reviewing film of Beck’s 14-for-17, 140-yard performance, Shanahan praised the quarterback for his execution and decision making.

“I was pleased with John’s play after looking at the film,” Shanahan said of Beck, who spread the ball around to 10 different pass-catchers while pacing the Redskins on drives of 80, 45, 74 and 84 yards.

Beck didn’t throw a touchdown pass, and only one of the drives led to a touchdown (a 1-yard run by Tim Hightower). The others resulted in Graham Gano field goals. Beck was sacked three times. But Shanahan said he didn’t find fault in Beck’s decision to hold onto the ball those three plays.