Suffice it to say D.C. is using excessive proper now. Daniels seems to be the true deal, and the crew has overachieved expectations. After a blowout Week 1 loss to Tampa Bay, the Commanders beat the Giants 21-18 earlier than dealing with the Bengals and at the moment are tied for first place with the Eagles in the NFC East. Nonetheless, it is also necessary to not get too carried away… but.
The Week 2 win in opposition to the Giants — a nasty crew that was anticipated to be unhealthy — seemingly would have been a loss had it not been for New York’s particular groups points in that recreation. After Graham Gano was injured on the opening kickoff, the Giants didn’t have an obtainable kicker, and their incapability to transform any additional factors on their three touchdowns was the sport’s distinction.
The Bengals’ win was way more spectacular, however Cincinnati is among the large disappointments of the season so far, sitting 0-3 with an sudden house loss to the New England Patriots in Week 1. They’re thought of a formidable opponent as a consequence of their success in latest seasons, however regardless of star QB Joe Burrow being again wholesome, they’ve some deeper points to type out.
It was evident from watching Monday’s recreation that the identical factor can nonetheless be mentioned about Washington’s roster. Daniels was the story, and rightfully so, however his efficiency additionally masked one other poor one from the Commanders’ protection, which didn’t drive a single punt or turnover. Burrow had his method with Washington’s porous secondary, throwing for 324 yards and three touchdowns, with 118 of these yards and two touchdowns belonging to Ja’Marr Chase.
The defensive entrance wasn’t a lot better, struggling to place strain on Burrow — one other recurring theme this season. In three video games, the Commanders recorded solely four sacks and stars Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne have been invisible, combining for under six tackles. Contemplating that this unit is meant to be one of many crew’s strengths, that’s regarding.
The offensive line has been improved from a season in the past, and Washington’s receiving threats — specifically Terry McLaurin (4 receptions for 100 yards and a landing) — lastly obtained concerned on Monday. With Daniels underneath middle, there is no cause to assume the Commanders’ “college offense” cannot proceed to be an thrilling watch.
In the end, this roster is not constructed to win proper now, because it nonetheless options a number of obtrusive holes. Subsequently, expectations should be tempered — and that is okay. This season was at all times in regards to the future, and Daniels’ early success makes that future a lot brighter.