Washington's defense, however, stiffened just enough in the second half and Dallas could not match it.

The defense stiffened on third down in the second half, and the Chargers converted only two of their six chances.

Inside the Tennessee 35-yard line, however, the Volunteers' defense stiffened.

However, Baltimore's defense stiffened and held on for the win.

New York's defense stiffened in the second half and allowed them to hold on for the victory.

From there on out, Chicago's defense stiffened for the win.

Cleveland tried to come back, but Denver's defense stiffened.

They won because the defense stiffened after that first drive and did not allow the Bears to score again until the final quarter.

The Knicks' defense stiffened a bit, but their offense - they made only 10 of 40 shots - went south.

Columbia's own defense is stiffening when it has to.