Well, well, well, that was an exciting opener. I think we saw all the potential this team has, as well as the issues that still remain. The good definitely outweighed the bad yesterday and the team has room to grow. Let’s take a final look back at yesterday’s game.
The Good
- Carson Wentz- A touchdown on Washington’s opening drive, rare (Last season vs. the Raiders). A touchdown in their first two drives, unheard of ( 1991 vs. the Detroit Lions). Wentz showed the reason why the coaching staff was enamored with him. The quick release, the mobility and strength in the pocket, and the deep ball were all on display. Four touchdowns passes hasn’t happened here since Kirk Cousins. The coaching staff and team trusts Wentz and that’s all you can ask for.
- Derrick Forrest- Starting in place of Kam Curl, Forrest had himself a ball game yesterday. Forrest’s best attribute is his power and tackling ability and he showed that yesterday. Conversely his coverage skills had been a work in progress which is why he was not starting. While he had some issues early in the game, he got better and better as the game went along. This situation allows the team to be extra careful with Kam Curl. Great showing.
- Offensive Weapons- When was the last time a Washington team had this many options: Terry McLaurin, Curtis Samuels, Jahan Dotson, Antonio Gibson, JD McKissic, Logan Thomas, Armani Rogers, John Bates and Brian Robinson is not even there yet. That is a great list of talent that can hurt a team in a lot of ways. We all saw the importance of Curtis Samuels as a Swiss army knife and the Dotson pick looks better and better. Scott Turner called a great game in the first half but got a tad cute later in the game. This offense will be fun to watch.
The Bad
- Turnovers- The Commanders were in full command, (you see what I did there) and driving towards another score before the half to put it away. Then a Curtis Samuel fumble changed the entire game. Instead of going up 17 or 21-3 Jacksonville gained confidence. Wentz then had back to back interceptions, the first was definitely on Wentz, the second was a crazy defensive play, handed the Jags the game. You usually don’t win games when you lose the turnover battle so that has to be better.
- Injuries- Phidarian Mathis was lost for the season after just a few plays yesterday with a torn meniscus. Jonathan Allen got shaken up at the end of the game. The defensive line can’t handle anymore injuries so hopefully there aren’t anymore.
- Third Quarter- In the opposite of the first half the team came out flat and play calling was lack luster and gave the Jags belief. Washington had the ball to start the quarter and could have nipped the game in the bud. Washington should be better.
The Ugly
- Merchandise Mistake- Apparently outside the stadium there was a stand selling a Commanders mug with the state of Washington on it not Washington DC. That simply can’t happen with a professional franchise. Small things like that matter.
- NFC East- The entire division was yesterday with the exception of the Dallas Cowboys who will be without starting QB Dak Prescott for 6-8 weeks.
- Next Up- The Commanders head on the road to face the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. This game has given Washington problems in the past so it will be interesting to see how they play up there.
