In their first meeting this season, the Commanders lost to the Eagles 24-8. Defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio candidly offered to the press Friday, “Yeah, the scary part is we actually played pretty good. They’ve got a really good team. They’re rolling. They’re red hot.”
But Del Rio was quick to add, “We’re going to go in and compete. We got ourselves ready, got to meet a great challenge. We’ll show up and compete.”
“It’s a big task. They’ve got a great big offensive line. I think they’re very well-coached. They’ve got excellent backs, and then the quarterback’s a runner as well. So it’s a tough ground game to slow down.”
Eagles fans are loud and boisterous. In addition, it will be a MNF atmosphere.
“I love it. Love it. It’s a great atmosphere. I mean, It should be a very exciting game for us to be a part of on Monday night.”
“We’ve got to be able to slow down a very explosive offense. Their receivers are gifted, and the quarterback’s red hot. They’ve got the best offensive line going in the league. They’ve got capable backs, and the tight end is a really good player.”
Del Rio would love to get some turnovers on the Eagles. “It’s the most important stat in football, and there’s no secret that they’re on top of the league right now in that category and that directly leads to them being undefeated at this time.”
“I think all year I’ve been pleased with the effort, the energy, the commitment, the way we’re attacking things. You’re going to improve when you work at it like that. And we’re close to the halfway point, I guess and I like some things, there’s some things that we would need to do better, and we’re working at it, but I love, I absolutely love the commitment, the effort, the energy the guys put forth in terms of trying to understand the game plan which changes from time to time and for different opponents.”
Del Rio likes how his guys have really bought in this year.
“I’m glad to have the buy-in; it’s important. I think that’s the only way to get better and to attack things straightforward. Brutally honest but create an atmosphere that is fun to be around, and that’s what we look to do.”
Chase Young continues to work out and progress toward being reactivated.
“Well, his energy’s always great. He’s giving it everything he has, and when he is right, we’re going to play him, but until he is right, we’re not going to play him.”
Del Rio is quick to point out that his defensive line is leading the way.
(Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne) “they’re talented guys. They work hard, and have a great work ethic. I think they both love the game, love football. I think it helps to have players that love football and those two guys love it.”
“We talked about [Defensive Line Coach Jeff Zgonina] Z last week. I think he’s done a good job working with those guys (defensive line)”.
