It’s been a season to remember for the Washington Commanders. After they finished 4-13 one year ago, Washington cleaned house and, through 13 games, has already doubled its win total (8-5) from last season.
The Commanders are on a bye this week, but when they return in Week 15, they will look to remain in the NFC playoff hunt. Washington is currently in the No. 7 spot, 1.5 games ahead of other teams.
After a three-game losing streak, the Commanders rebounded on Sunday, crushing the Tennessee Titans 42-19. Washington’s offense put up almost 500 yards, led by the running game, which produced a season-high 267 yards.
The remaining goal for the Commanders over the final five weeks of the regular season is to make the playoffs. However, outside of that obvious goal, what should be Washington’s focus for the remainder of this season?
Pro Football Focus named one goal for all 32 NFL teams for the rest of this season. PFF’s goal for the Commanders: Improve defensively.
The Commanders secured a much-needed victory over the Titans in Week 13, staving off other playoff hopefuls to reach 8-5 and move to a 78% postseason probability. If Washington wants to go deeper than anticipated in Dan Quinn’s first year as head coach, it will need its defense to play at a higher level. The Commanders sit only 23rd in defensive EPA per play and 24th in yards per play allowed, although those figures have improved since Week 7 — ranking 17th and 13th, respectively.
Still, that’s not dominant enough to neutralize NFC powerhouses like Detroit, Philadelphia or even Minnesota. The debut of trade deadline acquisition Marshon Lattimore could help, but this unit still needs to play better collectively if likely Offensive Rookie of the Year Jayden Daniels wants to cap off his rookie season in style.
Yes, Washington must improve defensively. Some things are holding the defense back. The inability to stop the run consistently, allowing big plays, inconsistent pass rush, and the lack of turnovers. Washington’s overall pass defense ranking is high because teams have ran so well against the Commanders.
The truth is that Washington has improved defensively. This unit looks much different than it did in the season’s early weeks. That’s coaching. The Commanders are still limited personnel-wise, but that should change with the impending debut of Lattimore. Lattimore and rookie Mike Sainristil give the Commanders a legit cornerback duo for the stretch run to the playoffs.