The inexperience of quarterback Sam Howell
Yes, it is true Russel Wilson has slipped from what he was for the Seahawks for several years. It is also true that this will be Sam Howell’s first NFL game, where he will be going up against a loud road crowd.
Thus, there could be delay of game penalties as Howell may have trouble hearing the play call and getting the ball snapped in time with all of that volume. False starts might also be a problem. Remember, it is still a new offense to Howell as well. The more reps he has in the offense, the more confident he will be later in the year.
If the Commanders get behind and have to pass, the Broncos will be prepared to send extra rushers to frustrate Howell, forcing him to adapt quickly.
The Washington run game was lacking against the Cardinals.
In their 28 carries last week, the Commanders averaged only 3.3 yards a carry. In addition, that low number was while they have a very mobile quarterback in Howell.
The Commanders did not produce a single double-digit run last week. Brian Robinson had the longest run of only 7 yards, while Howell and Curtis Samuel each had a long of 6 yards. That must be better this week, much better. We are certainly hoping Antonio Gibson holds onto the ball better in 2023.
Your Long Snapper should not be receiving this much attention
Cheeseman had success in his first two seasons, but this year determined to change his technique, and the results have not been good. This team is not a dominant team. Therefore, they will play close games this season. Cheeseman, therefore, could easily cost this team a game (or two). Holder Tress Way saved Cheeseman last week, grabbing a rolling snap and getting it down in time for Joey Slye’s field goal.
A long snapper is not a full-time player; thus, they are called a specialist. Cheeseman only snaps the ball on punts, extra points and field goals. Plain and simple, if he can’t get it turned around, why on earth would Ron Rivera keep him?
The Broncos running game must be slowed this week
The Commanders defense will no doubt be attempting to keep Russell Wilson in the pocket Sunday. They also need to prepare for a running game that was 11th in the NFL last week, averaging 4.3 yards a carry. An effective running game could be Wilson’s best friend, Sunday. The Commanders defense will need to plug the run more successfully than the Raiders did in Week 1.