Some local beat reports love to crush Griffin. The media in general is pretty tough and often negative in DC.
As for the game, I liked what I saw out of Griffin for the most part - seemed to go through his progressions (at least from what I can tell from watching on TV), got the ball out quick, seemed more decisive. I also liked what I saw from the right side of the offensive line (Schreff/Moses), new CB Chris Culliver, Ryan Grant, and really liked what I saw from rookie RB Matt Jones. Cousins looked good, but I still don't think he should start. Also of note - Andre Roberts has no business returning punts.
With all that said, @NYCgarman has it right - pre-season doesn't really mean much.
The Niles Paul injury looked brutal; one of those injuries I don't like to watch on replay. I feel bad for the man, apparently while on the ground he told Darrel Young "DY this was supposed to be my year man...".