The second game of the preseason is here and the Commanders host the Baltimore Ravens on Monday Night Football. Ravens have been the better franchise as of late and they are a model for the renewed Commanders to copy. However after a testy two days of joint practices, this game adds a new dimension to the game. Here are three things I am looking for tonight (not a win or loss because its the preseason!)
Win the Trenches
Can Washington’s lines win the line of scrimmage. Offensively, will the line allow time for the quarterbacks to throw while winning the run game. Defensively can the line dictate the game as the best unit on the field. These two things are the biggest keys to success for the Commanders this season. The Ravens are physical so can the Commanders match it.
Sam I Am
Now that Sam Howell officially has the job, how does he handle the game. The Ravens won’t hold back so will he get the ball out quickly. Protecting the football is the priority so incompletions are fine, sacks are ok. Not putting the ball at risk will allow the defense to keep a long field. I am looking for rhythm from the offense to set a tempo.
Defensive Backs
One of the tougher battles on the team is defensive back so I am intrigued to see these guys compete. Kendall Fuller, Ben St. Juste, Emmanuel Forbes, Kam Curl, Derrick Forrest are locks but the other spots are a battle. I want to see how the others battle, are they physical and do they make any mistakes. With a lot of videos of Ravens receivers “winning” one on one last week, let’s see the pride from the group.
Prediction
It’s the preseason but I am guessing 21-20…….. Commanders!
