The Washington Commanders are entering Week 5 on a three-game winning streak, but there are still some pivotal matchups on their schedule. Washington steamrolled the Arizona Cardinals 42-14 on the road at State Farm Arena.
Washington will host the struggling Cleveland Browns at home this Sunday. Clearly, the burgundy and gold are focusing on one game at a time. As they lead the NFC East, there’s one question that comes to mind. Have the Commanders been tested thus far?
This Sunday’s game is equally important and it’s a chance for the team to continue to build good habits. Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury has kept the offensive simple, but it’s been explosive. Over the past two weeks, the defense has stepped up despite them being ranked in the mid-20s in most statistical areas defensively.
The Commanders are entering the matchup against the Browns with a clean bill of health. As the season continues to move, there are a few tests that will push Washington. Here are a few pivotal tests that the Commanders will need to pass.
Washington: Non-Divisional Matchups
Week 6 @Baltimore Ravens
Washington will head up I-95 to take on the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Banks Stadium. The Commanders’ defense will be tested as they take on Lamar Jackson and the Derrick Henry running attack. As of now, Henry is leading the league with 480 rushing yards while averaging 6 yards per carry. On the other hand, Jackson is starting to get more comfortable in the pocket, with a 66.7 percent completion rating.
The Commanders will need to stop the down hill tandem which can be a difficult task as the season wears on. Baltimore likes to expose the middle with flexing Isaiah Likely and Mark Andrews with quick curls and slants. Zay Flowers is a target in the middle as well with his lightening speed. Throughout the season, Washington has struggled to protect the middle and hold up in man-to-man. If they can collapse the pocket while keeping Jackson in it, they will be successful. While Henry is freight train no one wants to tackle, he doesn’t fair well when it’s a nickel and dime running game.
The Commanders will be challenged to score points through the air. Baltimore’s ability to get to the quarterback can be overwhelming for opponents, and they can cover in man or zone. Jayden Daniels will be limited in his big-time runs and will have to prove that he can consistently throw under duress in the pocket while converting drives into touchdowns. M&T Bank Stadium is a tough place to play in, and the Ravens are 13th in overall defense. The team is averaging 315.3 yards on defense (allowing), and they have only allowed nine touchdowns.
Week 10 – Pittsburgh Steelers
Despite both of the pivotal test being in the AFC North, the Pittsburgh Steelers will provide a challenge as well. The Steelers are ranked 4th in the league, averaging 261.3 defensive (allowing) yards and only allowing five touchdowns.
Daniels and the receiving core will be tested during Week 10 because of the physical play by Pittsburgh’s secondary and defensive line. Joey Porter Jr. does a great job of jamming the receiver at the line and is a solid cover. Minkah Fitzpatrick goes for the big plays because of the pressure that T.J. Watt applies to the offensive line.
While the Commanders “simplified” offense should fair well, execution will be important. Will Terry McClaurin, Olamide Zaccheaus, Luke McCaffrey be able to get open quick enough if the Steetlers take away Zach Ertz?
On the other hand, Justin Fields will provide a problem because of his ability to extend the play. Washington’s secondary and linebacking core will be picked on throughout the game. Washington will need Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler at full health. Will Ekeler be available?
This game will be a chess game, and the long game will win.
Main Image: Mark J. Rebilas – USA Today Sports
