Are the Commanders already a lost cause this season? Technically, no team is completely out of contention only five games in. It appears, though, Washington would need a miraculous series of events in order to not remain one of the bottom feeders in the league. Unfortunately, the issues faced by the franchise are too many to single out. Simply put, there’s trouble in Washington.
Head coach Ron Rivera is on shaky ground to say the least. His team only boasts a 1-4 record coming into their matchup against the Bears this Thursday. Many believe he is only a loss or two away from losing his job. Chicago poses a major threat to Rivera’s security, as they are also far from a great team. If the Commanders can’t win against them this game, the writing is on the wall for the coaching staff and their leader.
Not enough holes, or blocking
Other problems are brought on by the team itself. Washington’s offensive line now looks somehow worse than last year. They rank in the bottom 15 according to multiple sources and haven’t filled the void left by guard Brandon Scherff leaving for the Jaguars. Center Chase Roullier’s serious leg injury hasn’t helped matters either. In return, the Commanders’ offensive ground game has suffered heavily. They are averaging only 3.9 yards per carry between their committee of runners. Quarterback Carson Wentz has faced a lot of pressure, being sacked 20 times thus far in the young season.
Speaking of Wentz, his inability to drive the field and put points on the board has been another detriment to the team. He unsurprisingly has six interceptions already to his name. The Commanders have also been behind in every outing so far in their five matchups. A lot of their lack to keep up comes from reciever Terry McLaurin not getting enough looks on offense. His numbers have taken a step back so far this year. He is sitting at 19 receptions that have resulted in only one touchdown.
There needs to be more coverage, and pressure
The defensive side of the ball hasn’t helped matters much either. They have given up 21 or more points every game, failing to provide decent coverage in the secondary. Teams have lit up the Commanders for 7.2 yards per passing attempt. Turnovers have also contributed to the team’s downfall, with opponents notching seven more than Washington’s total. The return of defensive end Chase Young can’t come soon enough. He is hopefully expected back in the lineup after week 7 at the earliest.
Last week’s tilt against Tennessee left a sour taste in the mouths of fans. The Commanders had a goal line series to take the lead with a touchdown at the end of the game. Their efforts ultimately ended up with Wentz throwing an interception on third down to conclude regulation. His pass to J.D. McKissic didn’t really have a chance, as Titan’s linebacker David Long Jr. hawked the ball. Understandably, the Commanders should use that bitter loss as even more fuel in the weeks to come. Their backs start against the wall tonight versus Chicago.
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