The Washington Commanders are coming off of an energizing win in the season opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Now today they face a team that has recently given them lots of trouble in the Detroit Lions. Washington has lost their last four trips to Ford Field in a ton of debacles. Their last visit the Lions came from behind after Alex Smith had brought Washington from behind. To truly sense that this team has turned the corner, they need to defeat the Lions today. Here are my three keys for Washington to secure the victory today.
1. Be the Aggressor
One of the more exciting aspects of last week’s game was the aggressiveness of the team to start the game. The offense looked dynamic and explosive and most importantly modern. The Lions defense gave up 38 points and 455 yards. Washington’s offense needs to put up similar numbers and put the game out of reach. The defense needs to be stout against the run to put the game in Jared Goff’s hands and the dial up the pressure. Goal- Offense 400 total yards and 31 points, defense 3 sacks and tow turnovers.
2. Win the Turnover Battle
Washington completed a rare feat last week in victory, they lost the turnover battle and won the game. While impressive, that’s not a winning formula in the NFL. Wentz must not have the momentum altering interceptions like he did last week while the defense needs to force a couple themselves. If the team wins the turnover battle they should have success. It’s real simple but something the team needs to do to be a winning team. Goal- Win the turnover battle 2 to 1.
3. Block out the Noise
This game has had the Lions as the trendy pick to win the game. America believes in the Lions more than they do the Commanders. That’s good because there is no pressure to win and a great chance to change the narrative. However if they lose the same dysfunction and outside factors will creep into this team. The opportunity to go 2-0 into next weeks meeting with the Philadelphia Eagles is too good to pass up. Win the game, change the narrative. Goal- Just win baby!
Prediction
I expect another close game but I see Carson Wentz having another strong game with three touchdowns and 250 yards passing. Commanders 31 Lions 20
