The Washington Commanders' protection wants to enhance drastically in Week 3. Dan Quinn picked up his first win as head coach towards the New York Giants final time round, however issues should improve shortly heading into the tricky-looking journey to the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday Night Football.
This was at all times going to be a gradual course of. There are new faces to mesh and a brand new system in place to hopefully present a extra affluent future over time. That hasn't occurred instantly. The Bengals' offense led by star quarterback Joe Burrow may have no hassle having their manner with the unit if they are not for the problem.
Washington's defensive entrance is coming in for extra criticism than most. The move rush was a giant concern earlier than the marketing campaign and exhibits no indicators of making a distinction primarily based on the primary two contests. Some are additionally demanding extra from the highly-priced defensive deal with tandem of Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne as two established figures.
The line of defense acquired an enormous enhance in Week 2 when Johnny Newton was lastly given taking part in time. He endured a tough first offseason with the franchise because of foot surgical procedures and different irritating illnesses that hindered his transition. The Commanders have taken issues slowly to keep away from any pointless setbacks, however the second-round choice acquired on the sphere for 12 snaps (21 percent) throughout Washington's last-gasp conquer the Giants.
Quinn acknowledged throughout his latest media availability that Newton got here out of the competition unscathed. The Commanders are nonetheless managing the participant's apply involvement all through the week, which is comprehensible within the circumstances. However, the pinnacle coach hinted that the explosive inside presence is on observe to see extra involvement with the nationwide highlight evident.
Dan Quinn says Johnny Newton's pitch depend will enhance this week.
— Ben Standig (@BenStandig) (*3*)
Expecting miracles from Newton is unwise. He's nonetheless getting on top of things and discovering his soccer legs after so lengthy away from the gridiron. The Commanders will choose and select their spots with the rookie. But he may very well be a helpful asset in apparent pass-rushing conditions when it is all mentioned and performed.
It's all hand on deck for the Commanders as they embark on a troublesome stretch of fixtures over the subsequent month. Coming out on the opposite aspect positively is essential. The extra reps Newton can generate, the higher their possibilities might be.
Nobody apart from the diehard optimists will anticipate the Commanders to beat the Bengals in Week 3. This is likely to be a step too far at this stage of their rebuild. At the identical time, it might permit Washington to play with out stress and put collectively a efficiency its fanbase may be proud of whether or not they emerge victoriously or not.
As for Newton? He's wanting to make up for some misplaced time and make the league pay for discarding him till the Commanders ended his slide at No. 36 total within the 2024 NFL Draft. That ought to present all of the motivation wanted to make an impression, however Washington will stay cautious till the teaching employees is totally assured he can deal with a hefty workload.
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