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The Washington Commanders showed some promising signs in their preseason opener against the New York Jets yesterday, despite the 20-17 loss. Here are my key impressions:
The Positives:
The Negatives:
The Washington Commanders overall, had a mixed performance in their preseason opener against the New York Jets, which they lost 20-17. I don’t take opening preseason games as indicators of much more than what they were at the moment. My negative impressions of that game are as follows:
Inconsistent Defense: The defense struggled at times, particularly in the second half. They allowed the Jets to come back and score crucial points, including a late field goal that provided the winning margin for the home team.
Special Team Issues: Biggest concern, is the kicking game, specifically, the misses in camp and thus far, one of two during live preseason action. Kick-offs are still fresh and a little weird to me but I’m intrigued by Davion Davis as a no-nonsense, straight-ahead punt returner. He totaled 10 yards but there were moments where you can see breaking long runs is well within his repertoire.
Depth Concerns: Some of today’s “starters” will be backups when the season begins, but despite that, the team still needs to bolster their second and third teams’ talent. During Rivera’s last season, the Commanders had second and third-string talent starting for him. There are at least 35 new faces on this squad and more needs to come in, but that takes time, and perhaps better coaching improves the leftovers' play until better reinforcements arrive. As the season progresses and injuries inevitably occur, maintaining the level of play will be a daunting task.
Penalties: The Commanders were flagged for several penalties, which stalled drives and gave the Jets more offensive opportunities. They were all correctable and possibly due to uncertainty in a new system, under new coaches, and in line with new players. Despite these issues, it’s important to remember that it’s just the first preseason game, and there’s plenty of time for the team to address these concerns before the regular season starts.
Overall, the Commanders’ new-look team showed potential, especially with their young quarterback. It’s just the beginning of the preseason, so there’s plenty of time to build on these positives and address any weaknesses.
The Positives:
- Jayden Daniels’ performance: The rookie quarterback had an impressive debut for some here but to me, he didn’t do anything that I hadn’t witnessed before in his game. In fact, I’d say he was pretty conservative in his approach to his first NFL start and for those who aren’t as familiar with him, he is much better than what you saw yesterday. In his initial foray into the NFL, an 11-play 70-yard drive, he completed 2 of 3 passes for 45 yards, converted three third downs, and ended it with a TD run, his first. This drive showcased his potential and poise behind the center.
- Offensive Highlights: The Commanders’ offense looked sharp in the opening series and for the most part, all game long. You’re not going to see a lot of their schemes or indicators of what this group can do in Kliff Kingsbury’s offense, but considering what we did see in terms of execution, and to a lesser degree, creativity, there are hints of a more dynamic and versatile offensive approach this season.
- Defensive Efforts: The defense had some strong moments, including a sack by Benning Potoa’e. However, there were areas where improvements are needed, particularly in stopping the Jets’ running game. In the passing game it was refreshing to see Commanders’ defenders at least close to opposing receivers no matter how the play unfolded this is a great sign and one that leaves room for improvement and perhaps better outcomes in future games.
- Special Teams: What do you call it when you miss a field goal and make another in your preseason opener with no settled starter on board? Mixed results?? I’m not impressed with the NFL’s new kick-off scheme, but it is far better than its predecessor whose main feature was kicking the ball out of the end zone. I’m going to have to see more of the new approach before giving any detailed assessments.
The Negatives:
The Washington Commanders overall, had a mixed performance in their preseason opener against the New York Jets, which they lost 20-17. I don’t take opening preseason games as indicators of much more than what they were at the moment. My negative impressions of that game are as follows:
Inconsistent Defense: The defense struggled at times, particularly in the second half. They allowed the Jets to come back and score crucial points, including a late field goal that provided the winning margin for the home team.
Special Team Issues: Biggest concern, is the kicking game, specifically, the misses in camp and thus far, one of two during live preseason action. Kick-offs are still fresh and a little weird to me but I’m intrigued by Davion Davis as a no-nonsense, straight-ahead punt returner. He totaled 10 yards but there were moments where you can see breaking long runs is well within his repertoire.
Depth Concerns: Some of today’s “starters” will be backups when the season begins, but despite that, the team still needs to bolster their second and third teams’ talent. During Rivera’s last season, the Commanders had second and third-string talent starting for him. There are at least 35 new faces on this squad and more needs to come in, but that takes time, and perhaps better coaching improves the leftovers' play until better reinforcements arrive. As the season progresses and injuries inevitably occur, maintaining the level of play will be a daunting task.
Penalties: The Commanders were flagged for several penalties, which stalled drives and gave the Jets more offensive opportunities. They were all correctable and possibly due to uncertainty in a new system, under new coaches, and in line with new players. Despite these issues, it’s important to remember that it’s just the first preseason game, and there’s plenty of time for the team to address these concerns before the regular season starts.
Overall, the Commanders’ new-look team showed potential, especially with their young quarterback. It’s just the beginning of the preseason, so there’s plenty of time to build on these positives and address any weaknesses.
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