November 23, 2024 • 29 mins
The Washington Commanders are taking on the Dallas Cowboys at home this weekend, and there are plenty of opportunities for the Burgundy & Gold to get their eighth victory and double their win total from 2023. Senior Writer Zach Selby is joined by Moises Linares from the Spanish broadcast and Lynnell Willingham from 106.7 The Fan to discuss how the offense can get back on track and much more.
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Episode Transcript
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Speaker 1 (00:10):
What is up?
Speaker 2 (00:11):
What's going on?
Speaker 3 (00:11):
Y'all? This is another episode of the Beatdown podcast. Welcome
and I am your host, Senior writer for the Washington Commanders,
Zach Selby. It's been a minute since we got to speak,
and a lot of things that have happened over the
last week. Not all of them have been ideal for
the Commanders. They started off losing by one point to
the Pittsburgh Steels twenty eighth to twenty seven, had a
short week, came back on the road against the Philadelphia Eagles,
(00:35):
and despite a valiant effort, they did lose twenty six
to eighteen. They are now second place in the NFC East.
They are seventh seed in the playoffs. Big turnaround from
what they were at just a couple of weeks ago.
The good thing is they have plenty of time to
get back on track here, starting with a home matchup
against the Dallas Cowboys, who are going through a little
(00:56):
bit of an injury reddle season here with Dak Prescott
on season ending, I are Michael Parsons is back, but
he is he was unhealthy for most of that time.
Their offensive line is banged up, their defense is not
playing as well as has in the past. Uh so
everything points to it being a prime bounce back opportunity
for the commanders, but they still have to execute. They
still have to come up with their own solutions to
(01:17):
their problems. And how are they going to do that? Well,
that is exactly what we're going to be talking about today.
And with me, we have two more guests. We have
more of this Slenarist who comes back to us. You
can find them on the Spanish broadcast for us every Sunday,
and Linelle Willingham, who you can find on one of
six seven the fan guys, how are we doing this?
Lovely Thursday morning?
Speaker 1 (01:39):
What's up? What's up now? How you doing? Brother? I'm just.
Speaker 2 (01:44):
This is exciting. Yeah, I'm excited for another game. Excited
to hear it. Another boy says, call this weekend.
Speaker 1 (01:50):
Let's go. I'm hoping so too. Man.
Speaker 4 (01:52):
We've been, uh, we've been, We've been I guess off
for the past two weeks.
Speaker 1 (01:56):
Hopefully we can turn it back around.
Speaker 3 (01:59):
And and hey, what better way to turn things back
around and get back on it and then a matchup
against an nc NFC East rival with the Dallas Cowboys.
Everyone listening, they know the spield of another deal. I
will be asking these two fellows three questions on offense,
one a defense, one more of a general question about
the matchup with the Cowboys. There will be points that
will be given out at the end of each round.
(02:19):
And since I, as always am the host, is placed
upon my heavy shoulders to the burden of picking a winner,
and that's just the way it is. But again, you
should not put too much stock into who wins or
who loses. In my opinion, you should be more focused
on these guys objective takes on the game because they
are some of the best of what they do. And
with that being said, let's get to it, starting with
(02:42):
I think we should really start with the Washington offense
right because just you know, a couple months ago, they
were riding high. They were performing at a historic pace
number that we haven't seen, let alone from a rookie
quarterback at all, you know, in NFL history, just blow
people out. Electing right now, over the past two weeks,
there has been a little bit of regression. I guess
you could say some of that is because of the
(03:03):
fact that, you know, maybe a regression to the mean.
Jade Nan is maybe not performing as as historic of
a pace as he was, because that would just be insane.
The other thing is, like this team was playing against
two really good defenses. The Pittsburgh was a phenomenal unit,
very well coached. Philadelphia the same way they were playing
out of their minds on Thursday night. But the fact
(03:25):
of the matter is that the Commanders do still need
to get back on track and get something closer to
what they were performing at, you know, in weeks one
through seven when they were really performing at a really
high rate. And as I was saying, the Cowboys present
a really good opportunity to do so. They're in the
bottom third of most, if not all, defensive metrics that
(03:47):
matter in several ways. So Leno, we'll start with you here,
and what do you think is the best way for
Washington's offense to just give back on track.
Speaker 2 (03:58):
Yeah, look, I think it was some easy solution, they
wouldn't be struggling right now.
Speaker 1 (04:03):
Guys.
Speaker 2 (04:03):
I think it clearly is something that is going to
take time.
Speaker 1 (04:07):
And as you.
Speaker 2 (04:08):
Mentioned, I think we're sole reactionary as a as a
fan base of the media corpse, especially with this year's offense,
because the first nine weeks, as you mentioned, they came
out like gang Busters, and it for if we're being
realistic and looking at it objectively. They scored twenty seven
points against Pensbursh Steelers, which for my money right now
(04:29):
is the best offense in the National recuse the best
defense in the National Football League.
Speaker 3 (04:33):
And hey, look, the Ravens didn't do that either. The
Ravens did not really good offense.
Speaker 1 (04:38):
So that's what That's.
Speaker 2 (04:39):
What Pittsburgh, you know, designed themselves to do, is to
stop mobile quarterbacks. Because they have to see Lamar Jackson
twice the year, and he's got one win against the
Steelers in his career to this point. They do a
really good job of bottling him up. I think they
did a really nice job bottling Jayden up, but Washington
left some opportunities out on the field in that game
(05:00):
against Pittsburgh. The real offensive concern, I would say, came
in the game against Philadelphia. Jayden Daniels got sped up.
They were dropping seven guys in the coverage muddy and
the picture post snap, and you saw this offense take
a step back. But in both of those games, the
big issue and the number one thing in my opinion,
was their inability to stay ahead of the change Washington's
(05:21):
been one of the best third down teams in the
NFL the last two weeks. They're eight for twenty six
on third down, and a lot of that has to
do with the lack of running efficiency. So I think
it's a couple of different things. But I guess the
running game. Getting the running game back going and getting
positive yards off first and second down, to me, it
would really help kickstart things. And I guess open up
(05:45):
Cliff Cliff Kingsbury's full menu plays so we can be
a little bit more versatile trying to attack defenses. But
all in all, I think they got to get back
to running the football effectively.
Speaker 3 (05:56):
Yeah, I think that's really something that has been missing.
You know, that is not their fault, right, Like, I mean,
the offensive line is banged up, and then b Rob
has been was out, you know for the Giants game
and the Steelers game. I feel like, you know, if
if b Rob had played, I feel like they would
have they maybe may maybe could have won that game
because I think you really see how efficient this offense
is when they're running the football. But Mores as well,
(06:17):
we'll kick it over to you and we'll as see
the same question. But also like kind of maybe focus
a little more on Jayden here, because I think that's
something that people, a lot of people have focused on, right.
I mean, over the last two games, he's completed six
fifty nine percent of his passes, which not not as
not as efficient as he has been over the past,
you know, previous few weeks or so. So what do
(06:40):
you what do you think is is there a secret
sauce to getting the Commanders offense back on track with
with Jaden or is it just a matter of, as
they've been saying, you know, the amount of practice reps
of getting back into a rhythm and timing. Is Is
it as simple as that?
Speaker 4 (06:52):
I think, first of all, don't panic, Washington Commanders fans.
Speaker 1 (06:55):
You can't panic.
Speaker 4 (06:56):
It's two losses against two great teams, two great defense
says in the league, like Linnelle said that you're talking
about perhaps the best defense in the NFL when we're
talking about the Pittsburgh Steelers, and you still put up points.
But one of the things that we have to get
back on track is the fact that this team needs
to run the ball better.
Speaker 1 (07:15):
Right.
Speaker 4 (07:15):
We haven't seen that the past two the past two games,
and perhaps that's because of the reasons just mentioned.
Speaker 1 (07:21):
You're playing two great defenses.
Speaker 4 (07:23):
Those are great learning lessons for this young Washington Commander's team.
Speaker 1 (07:28):
If Washington is running.
Speaker 4 (07:29):
The ball, well, that's going to open the playbook. It's
going to open lanes for a guy like Jayden Daniels.
He hasn't been able to do that in the last
two games. Perhaps is the fact that he wasn't truly
one hundred percent after that shot he took to the grips. Perhaps,
I mean, I know we're not going to get all
that information from coach or from the coaching staff. You
don't want to panic. You don't want to put out
(07:49):
panic to the fan base or to the team itself.
Speaker 1 (07:52):
But Jaden says he's ready to go.
Speaker 4 (07:54):
I think this meaning bye week, has helped the team
in general to get back on track.
Speaker 1 (08:00):
Now when we're talking.
Speaker 4 (08:00):
About the running game, because I know Lanell mentioned that,
we have to mention the fact that you have to
take advantage against Dallas Cowboys team that ranked second to
the last in the NFL against the run, allowing one
hundred and fifty one yards per game, and I believe
that's one of the keys. We also have to mention
the fact that this is a team that's allowing over
(08:21):
twenty nine points per game among second two worst and secondary.
Because if we're just going to focus on the running game,
we also have to talk about the secondary because this
is a team that's allowing seven yards per play.
Speaker 1 (08:36):
You have to exploit those weaknesses.
Speaker 4 (08:38):
I believe you have the tools the weapons to do so.
If you're able to establish that running game, that means
Jaden Daniels will have options that we'd optioned to either
pass or run, and I think.
Speaker 1 (08:51):
That will be the difference.
Speaker 4 (08:52):
So I think this is a perfect game to recalibrate
the offense to make sure we get back on track.
And if those if those key components are put into place,
I think the commander is gonna be fine.
Speaker 3 (09:05):
And both of you have really have brought up the
running game, and I think that that really is so key,
you know, because it's not just Brian Robinson, it's not
just Jayden, and it's also Austin Echlizer, is Jeryman Nichols
like this. This This this running attack has really like
I think it allows them to to open up so
many other opportunities for them, whether it's play action, whether
(09:26):
it's you know, just getting Jayden, you know, in more
of a rhythm in terms of just getting down and
distance stuff. But Linnelle coming back over to you, like
specifically the running game the offensive line like this this
bye way, this mini buy has. It seems like it's
really helped that unit in a lot of ways.
Speaker 1 (09:43):
You know.
Speaker 3 (09:43):
Dan Quinn even said all the all the offensive linemen
are full participants, which is so key right now. Brandon
Coleman was on the Angel forty. It's a full participant.
You know, Tyler battis center, he he was out there, Uh,
Nick al Gretti, you know Sam cos and they were
all out there. So how big is it going to
be for this running game which is going to be
as a Dallas Stevens as boy as I said, that
(10:05):
was a lot of the second most rushing yards per game.
How big is going to be able to get all
of those guys back?
Speaker 2 (10:10):
Helly, Yeah, I thought it was huge that, you know,
Dkey said they all practicing full. There was a little
bit of clarity needed in my opinion on who the
actual starters are. I know, Cornelius Lucas has started some
games too, and his injury status.
Speaker 1 (10:26):
Has kind of been up in the air.
Speaker 2 (10:27):
So I'm curious to see when we get to Friday
who's officially up and active for the game. But I
think the offensive line the past two games has gotten baptized,
is the best way that I can describe it.
Speaker 1 (10:39):
Man.
Speaker 2 (10:40):
The combination of injuries and then going up against two
of the best defensive fronts in the NFL has caused
this group to have some issues. Pittsburgh sent five or
more rushers nineteen times in their game on Sunday. That
was the most that they had done that all season,
and they caught some confusion up front. You all know
Tyler Biad's responsible for a lot of the line shifts
(11:02):
up front, and from a communications standpoint, I think you
know he struggled to identify fronts against Philadelphia and against
Pittsburgh because they do so much to try to confuse
you up part, and saw free rushers in both of
those games. I think for a full week of practice
this week, a full week to get back to your
normal schedule, hopefully the communication improves.
Speaker 1 (11:24):
The interior three.
Speaker 2 (11:25):
Between biadash Ala, Grady, and Cosmy we've been strong this
year for the last two games. Going up against Jordan
Davis and Jalen Carter, and Cam Hayward. They really struggled,
but those are three of the best interior guys in
the league. The tackle spot is what I'm really looking
at going into this game, knowing Michael Parsons and his
ability to ruin a football game. Brandy Coleman and Andrew
(11:46):
Wiley have also been banged up, both dealing with shoulder injuries.
For Coleman, you know, the last two weeks going up
against you know, TJ. Wadd and Nolan Smith and Bryce
up he struggled a little bit. I want to see
him bounce. But the other key too is guys. It's
not just the five guys up front against Philly. They're
dropping seven guys in the coverage, so you want to
(12:07):
have as many guys with on the route as possible.
One thing that's helped watching this past protection they're leaving
in back and tight ends the chip more than any
team in the NFL. And when you've got seven guys
in coverage and you're leaving guys in the chip, there's
not a lot of options for the quarterbacks. So we'll
see what the protection plan.
Speaker 1 (12:22):
Is this week.
Speaker 3 (12:24):
Yeah, I'm interested to see what what Brandon Coleman does
against against Michael Parsons, because yeah, as you mean, like
t J. Wadd and all those of the guys like
they're they're really really solid players. Mike Parsons is one
of the best defensive players in the league right now
period and has been over the last you know, however
long he's been in the league. Like, so it's gonna
be quite the challenge for him and in Cornelius Lucas.
(12:47):
But Moys is real quick, you know, kind of a
little bit of a Tandy topic change here, you know,
both you know, you know, Lales brought it up and
DQ brought it up on Mondays press conference and on
Wednesday's press conference about how important it is to get
a full week of practice, and you see, you know,
like the timing and rhythm maybe maybe not as sharp
as it could have been. You mentioned things like, you know,
(13:09):
the Louke McCaffrey miss against the Steelers. There were a
co misses, you know, with Noel Brown against the Eagles. So,
I mean, how big do you think this full week
of practice is.
Speaker 1 (13:17):
Going to be. I think it's huge.
Speaker 4 (13:19):
Before I even answer that question, I just wanted to
add another point to the last one. You have to
get guys like Terry McCloy and Volff. If you have
a guy of that caliber with two.
Speaker 1 (13:29):
Receptions, it's not going to be enough. And if you're facing.
Speaker 4 (13:32):
A defense that it's allowing seven or more yards per play,
you need to involve one of your best playmakers, one
who's at the top of the charge when.
Speaker 1 (13:40):
We're talking about contested catches in the NFL. Therefore, that's
just another weapon to add.
Speaker 4 (13:45):
Now to answer you a question about the week with
the practice, I believe so it's huge because you're talking
about a rookie quarterback that doesn't have that NFL experience.
He guess he's a former Heisman Trophy winner and at
the collegiate level. But to have all the reps, all
the experience possible on the practice field is gonna be crucial.
Speaker 1 (14:04):
And when you have your.
Speaker 4 (14:05):
Best guy out of out of the loop because he's
still recovering from a possible injury or you're just trying
to protect them, it's gonna limit the fact that you
can't do as much as you want now that they've
had this, you know.
Speaker 1 (14:18):
Many by week to recover. I believe it's gonna be crucial.
Speaker 4 (14:21):
We should see some adjustments and the best version of
Jaden Daniels. Social media is a monster when it comes
to criticizing and knocking players out. But I believe, and
I feel strongly that he's gonna be all right.
Speaker 1 (14:35):
He's gonna bounce back.
Speaker 4 (14:36):
And this weekend days he's had to prepare for the
next game are gonna be crucial for Jade and Daniels
to lead this team moving forward.
Speaker 3 (14:44):
Jayden said it best. You can't replace practice reps in
this league. It's so important. Yeah, and we'll see where
they go from here, but we're gonna we're gonna move
on to the next question before that score date. Both
of you guys are tied forward to four battling it
out here like the Commanders and Colwis will be on Sundays.
Let's switch over to the Commander's defense here. And the
Cowboys have committed twenty turnovers this season, tied for the
(15:06):
most in the league. Cooper Rush is leading the offense
right now, and there's been some upson downs. See Lamb
is still great, but you know they have Rico Daddles
out there running back, probably not the same caliber as
Tony Poler was. Azekiel Ellen is out there, but he
is definitely not what he was early in his career.
So Mores says, we'll stick with you here, and what
(15:28):
can the Commanders do to force Dallas to make these
make these mistakes and create more opportunities for their offense,
Because it seems like the Cowboys. If you wait long
enough for this Cowboys offense, they are going to provide
you with these opportunities to get the ball back.
Speaker 1 (15:44):
I think they're gonna have to take advantage. They have
to put a pressure on Cooper Rush.
Speaker 4 (15:48):
It's only his ninth career starting in the NFL, and
although he had a decent showing back in twenty twenty two.
Speaker 1 (15:54):
You have to take advantage. This is not the starter.
Speaker 4 (15:56):
He's not in the lead quarterback in the league, and
you have to put the pressure on him just the
way the same way the Houston Texans did in the
last game. They were able to sack them five times,
force them to fumble once. I believe that he also
had an interception. He wasn't able to put the ball
in Cee Lamp's hands. So you're facing a quarterback that's
(16:17):
not your typical starter.
Speaker 1 (16:19):
And although he did beat.
Speaker 4 (16:21):
The Commanders, because that usually comes up a couple of
seasons to go. This is a different commander's team. You
have the weapons on defense to put pressure on him.
Speaker 1 (16:29):
Sack them.
Speaker 4 (16:30):
And I know guys like Dante Fowler Junior are going
to be hungry to put hands on a quarterback he
knows very well.
Speaker 1 (16:36):
Same thing with Drans Armstrong.
Speaker 4 (16:38):
It's a perfect opportunity for the Washington Commanders defense to
shine and have a great game. For me, those are
the keys if you want an unstable or these stable
these cowboys offense.
Speaker 1 (16:51):
Put the pressure on Cooper Russian.
Speaker 4 (16:53):
The results are going to eventually show up because this
is a team that normally implodes during the game.
Speaker 1 (16:59):
Yeah, you're right.
Speaker 3 (17:00):
I mean I was watching film on them yesterday and
he just it seemed like the longer the drive was
you just like you knew it was coming, there's gonna
be some sort of interceptions, some sort of fumble, some
sort of mistake that was going to get them off balance.
It kind of reminds me of how the Giants I
have played so far this year. It seems like the
longer the drive, it's the more mistakes sort of happened.
And Linelle, we'll go over to here with the same question.
(17:22):
I mean, what do you think the commanders can do
to force more of these turnovers and maybe even like
those a little more on the secondary, because the secondary
I think has been playing a lot better than people
have predicted that they would, especially compared to what it
was in Week one.
Speaker 2 (17:36):
Yeah, I still think, you know, despite what Dallas has
offensively a quarterback, I still think they have weapons on
the perimeter.
Speaker 1 (17:44):
Cee Lamb's one of the.
Speaker 2 (17:46):
Best receivers in football. Still, I think the Brandy Cooks
has helped out a tremendous amount as well. I just think,
like like you both mentioned, it's about getting pressure but
also making that one dimension all although they don't have
the premier names in the backfield that we're a customer
to them have, and they still want to run the
(18:07):
football first and foremost of you know, Washington had some
struggles running the football. We saw the damn bus in
that fourth quarter against Philly, you know, all being against
a special back like sayquont Barkley. But that's my number
one concern. Can you make Dallas one dimensional? And then
if you're able to do that, your pastor I should
be able to naturally take over. Dallas starts two rookies
(18:27):
up front at center and at left tackle with Tyler
Geiden and Cooper BB, should be an opportunity for a
guy like Deron Payne and Dante Fallon to really take
advantage of the young guys.
Speaker 3 (18:40):
And you know, I was really a big fan of
both Guiden and Cooper BB, you know, heading into the
draft process. They are really good young players. And you know,
you bring up the rush to the rushing, the rushing
offense for the Cowboys, and it's it definitely has not
been you know, what they would want it to be.
Right now. I think they only had three rushing touchdowns
all year, uh with you know, executly getting two of
(19:02):
their second to last in rushing yards per game eight
and one points. But at the same time, they're looking
at and looking at the Commanders defense, which is thirtieth
in rushing yards allowed, and thinking, Okay, this is our
opportunity to get back on track here with this. So
moy says, will go over to you here and talks.
You know, you mentioned you mentioned the pass rush I
think is very important, But how did the Commanders they
shore up this running defense that they have, because it
(19:25):
really has been some like the deciding factor and especially
in the fourth quarter. You know, Sakon Barkley against the
eat with the Eagles and they even you know, you
could even argue with the with the Steelers before that, like,
what what do you think they can do to fix
that part of their defense? Well, I think you're going
to face a team that's struggling in the running game
in the Dallas Cowboys. They ranked thirty first in the league.
(19:46):
They're averaging just a little bit over three yards per game.
Seek Elliott's is not the same guy we saw a
couple of years ago. So I think those are key.
Speaker 4 (19:53):
Components for Scooper Rush to throw the ball he did
over fifty times in that last match against the Easton Texans,
and he had what if I'm not if I'm not wrong,
he had a four turnover worthy plays. I think they're
gonna show up once again against the Washington Commanders.
Speaker 1 (20:12):
And if you do that and you're able to capitalize.
Speaker 4 (20:14):
On these big plays, Washington is gonna get what they've
been looking for all season, which is more turnovers and
what we're asking here. So I believe that if you
make them one dimensional, like you mentioned, and you force
them to throw the ball over fifty times, the Commander
is gonna have a big opportunity to capitalize in that secondary.
The running game has not been a factor for the Cowboys. Therefore,
(20:36):
I'm not that worried about what they can do. I
think we have a solid defensive corps and I think
they're they're gonna be forced to throw on the ball
and that's where Washington's gonna have.
Speaker 1 (20:45):
To make the big place.
Speaker 3 (20:46):
And you know, to that point, Washington's fifth and path
yards pass yards allowed this season and linnelle real quick
before we move on to the final question here, we're
gonna stick on that, on that secondary and talk about
the rookie Mike Sandmerstill. He's been ask to do a
lot for this team. He was at he covered AJ
Brown and Devoud the Smith a lot. AJ Brown only
had sixty five yards and no touchdowns. I mean, I
(21:09):
think if you'd have if you'd have said before that
game that AJ brownle will be hold lesson one hundred
yards with no touchdowns, you would take that any day
of the week. So what do you think about Samerstill
and now how he's been able to perform this season.
Speaker 2 (21:21):
I think he's been special. If he brings in championship pedigree,
a national champion for the University of Michigan, and he's
only listed at five to ten, but for my money,
he's the toughest player on this Commander's defense in terms
of what he does in the run game, taking on
offensive lineman, coming in, being physical in the run game,
and then his ability to track the football and get
(21:43):
his head around as a defensive back is such an
important trait and the Southern you know, quite frankly, some
of the other members of this Commander's secondary struggle with hell.
Other secondary across the league struggle with this, and he's
done a really good job with this as a rookie.
Since he's moved to the outside, I personally think he's
gotten comfortable there. I know there's conversation about him eventually
(22:05):
going back inside. I'd be really hesitant to do that,
just because it feels like he's starting to really create
his identity as an outside corner. He's got good ball skills,
and I think he just represents everything Washington wants.
Speaker 1 (22:18):
In the dB. Yeah, I am.
Speaker 3 (22:20):
I'm very fascinated to see what they do with that
secondary once Marshall Lattimore gets on the field, because you're right,
he has been so good on the outside, and I
get he's good on the inside. I think that's what
they feel like his natural position is. But we'll see,
we'll we'll see what they do either way. I think
more more talented players on the field with the secondary,
the better it's going to be. We're gonna move on
(22:41):
to the final question. But before we get do that, guys.
You guys are still tied, you know, so it's going
to be coming out of the last question here, and
that last question is going to be pretty key here.
Everyone I think can objectively say they were they were
pretty banged up heading into that the Mani bye week,
especially off to line some of the positions as well.
(23:02):
So Linelle, I'm gonna start with you for this final question.
I want you to make your best case for what,
like the most important player is for the team that
they're going to be getting back healthier heading into this
final stretch of the year.
Speaker 2 (23:15):
So the most important player as far as health goes,
I would say Jaden Daniels. I look, I can continue.
I'm not I believe that dan Quinn and the coaches
as well as Jaden are being honest about he's he's healthy,
He's healthy enough to not be on the injury report,
but I do think it's one of those injuries that
(23:37):
are going to linger throughout the year.
Speaker 1 (23:39):
I think we.
Speaker 2 (23:39):
Saw him struggle against Philadelphia because it was a short
practice week, not as much time to get your body
back to one hundred percent to go out and play.
I think with this mini buy, it allows him to
recover and hopefully you can see him regain some of
that explosiveness. I give credit to Pittsburgh and Philly for,
you know, how they able to contain him and be
(24:01):
disciplined with their rush to keep it within the pocket.
But it felt like to me just watching him, there
was a reluctancy to take off and run, and I think,
you know that may have to do with some of
what he's feeling. I know they mentioned on the broadcast
for Amazon Prime that you know he's going to be
winsend time to time, and there's some discomfort with the
torque of his upper body. Hopefully with some extra rest
(24:23):
that goes away, and if he can get back to
being the guy we saw the first nine weeks, there's
a chance this team can run the table to finish
out the season. But his health to me is so
important and I know that the list, he's not on
the injury report, but clearly to me there's something there
that's fair.
Speaker 1 (24:43):
Definitely fair.
Speaker 3 (24:44):
So moys as well, we'll stick to you an them, well,
they all kind of He took jayde and Daniels off
the board here, But is there anybody got Brook the
easy way out?
Speaker 4 (24:53):
Man?
Speaker 1 (24:53):
He took the easy way out.
Speaker 3 (24:54):
Come on, son, So other than Jane Daniels, who do
you think is the most important player the Commanders back
healthier heading into the rest of the stretch.
Speaker 4 (25:02):
I just want to bring out a point to what
Linelle said right now, because he was asked during the
week regarding having his ribs wrapped and he answered that.
Speaker 1 (25:13):
You know, he did it because he wanted to stay warm.
Speaker 4 (25:15):
So I wonder how much all of this might have
with the fact that he's playing under different conditions.
Speaker 1 (25:21):
Probably now I used to playing the cold.
Speaker 4 (25:23):
That game versus the Philadelphia Eagles was a pretty cold game. Therefore,
he probably is still getting used to that type of
weather in the East Coast. Not sure if that's the case.
It's just an observation, so we're gonna have to wait
and see. But for me, if you ask me what
player might be a key, a key addition to Washington.
If he comes back, I would say Javante Jean.
Speaker 1 (25:46):
Baptize just because we saw what he did.
Speaker 4 (25:49):
And if he does come back, he would be returning
for the first time since we six when he faced
the Baltimore Ravens.
Speaker 1 (25:56):
He's a guy that, prior to that injury, had fourteen tackles,
one sack, one tackle for loss.
Speaker 4 (26:02):
And the most important thing of all that is the
fact that he did that coming off the bench when
he participated in thirty six percent of Washington's snaps, he
was trending in the right direction, kind of showing us
that he could be another key addition on defense.
Speaker 1 (26:19):
For the Commanders. And if he's able to come back,
I think he.
Speaker 4 (26:24):
Would be He would be a great, great ad for
this defense that needs all the help in the pass
rush right now. And he did get he did get
his twenty one day window activated, so he's not on
the active roster yet, but it seems like, you know,
he's a full participant on Wednesday.
Speaker 3 (26:40):
We'll see what he is for the rest of the week.
But if he does come back, you right, he would
add a lot more depth to past russ that has
performed pretty well right now. I think they're tired for
twelveth in sacks. But again, I think, you know, bring
there's anything wrong with bringing more pressure. I feel like
I should I should have a drum roll here for
for the last for the last little bit here. But
(27:02):
I think the winner I think has to be you Morses,
because I think you're right, like putting pressure on these
quarterbacks is going to be so important. And Javonte Jean
Baptiste has been has been has you know, he was
coming along really well and I think I think he's
gonna assuming he does get healthy, he's active, I think
he's going to be really really key.
Speaker 1 (27:18):
You know.
Speaker 3 (27:19):
To add more depth here, it looks like Lenelle dropped off.
But Morris is do you have any passing words of victory?
Speaker 1 (27:25):
He's a sore loser. He's mad. Now I think I
don't want people to take that bad. I think he
lost connection so he had to Yeah.
Speaker 4 (27:32):
Probably oh good, good one in one for this season,
So that's not bad at all. I think that it's
going to be a good game for the Washington Commanders
on Sunday. It's a good opportunity to bounce back to
show the rest of the Division that we mean business
is not a coincidence.
Speaker 1 (27:47):
This team of seven and four. Remember we have.
Speaker 4 (27:50):
To go back all the way to nineteen ninety six
to kind of feel that way of having that type
of winning record and the fact that we're here week twelve,
seven and full record, it's a good, good feeling for
Washington fans.
Speaker 3 (28:04):
And you know, to that point, I think people have
to have to realize that, you know, while this is
it's a tremendously successful, you know start for the Commanders.
People did not really expect like this out of this team.
They're performing at like a really good pace right now.
They're seven and four. They could double their wind total
with a win against the Cowboys three to one in
the division, which which would be the first time since
(28:25):
twenty twelve, which would just you know that that's a
phenomenal start to the first year of Adam Piers and
Dan Quinn leading this team. But we're gonna get off
here now. This is the end of the show. Hopefully
next time we're talking next week, we're gonna be talking
about the Commander being eight and four heading into a
matchup against the Tennessee Titans and then going into their
bye week be sure to rate, review and subscribed anywhere
(28:45):
you get your podcasts, and this has been the beatdown
What is up?
Speaker 2 (00:11):
What's going on?
Speaker 3 (00:11):
Y'all? This is another episode of the Beatdown podcast. Welcome
and I am your host, Senior writer for the Washington Commanders,
Zach Selby. It's been a minute since we got to speak,
and a lot of things that have happened over the
last week. Not all of them have been ideal for
the Commanders. They started off losing by one point to
the Pittsburgh Steels twenty eighth to twenty seven, had a
short week, came back on the road against the Philadelphia Eagles,
(00:35):
and despite a valiant effort, they did lose twenty six
to eighteen. They are now second place in the NFC East.
They are seventh seed in the playoffs. Big turnaround from
what they were at just a couple of weeks ago.
The good thing is they have plenty of time to
get back on track here, starting with a home matchup
against the Dallas Cowboys, who are going through a little
(00:56):
bit of an injury reddle season here with Dak Prescott
on season ending, I are Michael Parsons is back, but
he is he was unhealthy for most of that time.
Their offensive line is banged up, their defense is not
playing as well as has in the past. Uh so
everything points to it being a prime bounce back opportunity
for the commanders, but they still have to execute. They
still have to come up with their own solutions to
(01:17):
their problems. And how are they going to do that? Well,
that is exactly what we're going to be talking about today.
And with me, we have two more guests. We have
more of this Slenarist who comes back to us. You
can find them on the Spanish broadcast for us every Sunday,
and Linelle Willingham, who you can find on one of
six seven the fan guys, how are we doing this?
Lovely Thursday morning?
Speaker 1 (01:39):
What's up? What's up now? How you doing? Brother? I'm just.
Speaker 2 (01:44):
This is exciting. Yeah, I'm excited for another game. Excited
to hear it. Another boy says, call this weekend.
Speaker 1 (01:50):
Let's go. I'm hoping so too. Man.
Speaker 4 (01:52):
We've been, uh, we've been, We've been I guess off
for the past two weeks.
Speaker 1 (01:56):
Hopefully we can turn it back around.
Speaker 3 (01:59):
And and hey, what better way to turn things back
around and get back on it and then a matchup
against an nc NFC East rival with the Dallas Cowboys.
Everyone listening, they know the spield of another deal. I
will be asking these two fellows three questions on offense,
one a defense, one more of a general question about
the matchup with the Cowboys. There will be points that
will be given out at the end of each round.
(02:19):
And since I, as always am the host, is placed
upon my heavy shoulders to the burden of picking a winner,
and that's just the way it is. But again, you
should not put too much stock into who wins or
who loses. In my opinion, you should be more focused
on these guys objective takes on the game because they
are some of the best of what they do. And
with that being said, let's get to it, starting with
(02:42):
I think we should really start with the Washington offense
right because just you know, a couple months ago, they
were riding high. They were performing at a historic pace
number that we haven't seen, let alone from a rookie
quarterback at all, you know, in NFL history, just blow
people out. Electing right now, over the past two weeks,
there has been a little bit of regression. I guess
you could say some of that is because of the
(03:03):
fact that, you know, maybe a regression to the mean.
Jade Nan is maybe not performing as as historic of
a pace as he was, because that would just be insane.
The other thing is, like this team was playing against
two really good defenses. The Pittsburgh was a phenomenal unit,
very well coached. Philadelphia the same way they were playing
out of their minds on Thursday night. But the fact
(03:25):
of the matter is that the Commanders do still need
to get back on track and get something closer to
what they were performing at, you know, in weeks one
through seven when they were really performing at a really
high rate. And as I was saying, the Cowboys present
a really good opportunity to do so. They're in the
bottom third of most, if not all, defensive metrics that
(03:47):
matter in several ways. So Leno, we'll start with you here,
and what do you think is the best way for
Washington's offense to just give back on track.
Speaker 2 (03:58):
Yeah, look, I think it was some easy solution, they
wouldn't be struggling right now.
Speaker 1 (04:03):
Guys.
Speaker 2 (04:03):
I think it clearly is something that is going to
take time.
Speaker 1 (04:07):
And as you.
Speaker 2 (04:08):
Mentioned, I think we're sole reactionary as a as a
fan base of the media corpse, especially with this year's offense,
because the first nine weeks, as you mentioned, they came
out like gang Busters, and it for if we're being
realistic and looking at it objectively. They scored twenty seven
points against Pensbursh Steelers, which for my money right now
(04:29):
is the best offense in the National recuse the best
defense in the National Football League.
Speaker 3 (04:33):
And hey, look, the Ravens didn't do that either. The
Ravens did not really good offense.
Speaker 1 (04:38):
So that's what That's.
Speaker 2 (04:39):
What Pittsburgh, you know, designed themselves to do, is to
stop mobile quarterbacks. Because they have to see Lamar Jackson
twice the year, and he's got one win against the
Steelers in his career to this point. They do a
really good job of bottling him up. I think they
did a really nice job bottling Jayden up, but Washington
left some opportunities out on the field in that game
(05:00):
against Pittsburgh. The real offensive concern, I would say, came
in the game against Philadelphia. Jayden Daniels got sped up.
They were dropping seven guys in the coverage muddy and
the picture post snap, and you saw this offense take
a step back. But in both of those games, the
big issue and the number one thing in my opinion,
was their inability to stay ahead of the change Washington's
(05:21):
been one of the best third down teams in the
NFL the last two weeks. They're eight for twenty six
on third down, and a lot of that has to
do with the lack of running efficiency. So I think
it's a couple of different things. But I guess the
running game. Getting the running game back going and getting
positive yards off first and second down, to me, it
would really help kickstart things. And I guess open up
(05:45):
Cliff Cliff Kingsbury's full menu plays so we can be
a little bit more versatile trying to attack defenses. But
all in all, I think they got to get back
to running the football effectively.
Speaker 3 (05:56):
Yeah, I think that's really something that has been missing.
You know, that is not their fault, right, Like, I mean,
the offensive line is banged up, and then b Rob
has been was out, you know for the Giants game
and the Steelers game. I feel like, you know, if
if b Rob had played, I feel like they would
have they maybe may maybe could have won that game
because I think you really see how efficient this offense
is when they're running the football. But Mores as well,
(06:17):
we'll kick it over to you and we'll as see
the same question. But also like kind of maybe focus
a little more on Jayden here, because I think that's
something that people, a lot of people have focused on, right.
I mean, over the last two games, he's completed six
fifty nine percent of his passes, which not not as
not as efficient as he has been over the past,
you know, previous few weeks or so. So what do
(06:40):
you what do you think is is there a secret
sauce to getting the Commanders offense back on track with
with Jaden or is it just a matter of, as
they've been saying, you know, the amount of practice reps
of getting back into a rhythm and timing. Is Is
it as simple as that?
Speaker 4 (06:52):
I think, first of all, don't panic, Washington Commanders fans.
Speaker 1 (06:55):
You can't panic.
Speaker 4 (06:56):
It's two losses against two great teams, two great defense
says in the league, like Linnelle said that you're talking
about perhaps the best defense in the NFL when we're
talking about the Pittsburgh Steelers, and you still put up points.
But one of the things that we have to get
back on track is the fact that this team needs
to run the ball better.
Speaker 1 (07:15):
Right.
Speaker 4 (07:15):
We haven't seen that the past two the past two games,
and perhaps that's because of the reasons just mentioned.
Speaker 1 (07:21):
You're playing two great defenses.
Speaker 4 (07:23):
Those are great learning lessons for this young Washington Commander's team.
Speaker 1 (07:28):
If Washington is running.
Speaker 4 (07:29):
The ball, well, that's going to open the playbook. It's
going to open lanes for a guy like Jayden Daniels.
He hasn't been able to do that in the last
two games. Perhaps is the fact that he wasn't truly
one hundred percent after that shot he took to the grips. Perhaps,
I mean, I know we're not going to get all
that information from coach or from the coaching staff. You
don't want to panic. You don't want to put out
(07:49):
panic to the fan base or to the team itself.
Speaker 1 (07:52):
But Jaden says he's ready to go.
Speaker 4 (07:54):
I think this meaning bye week, has helped the team
in general to get back on track.
Speaker 1 (08:00):
Now when we're talking.
Speaker 4 (08:00):
About the running game, because I know Lanell mentioned that,
we have to mention the fact that you have to
take advantage against Dallas Cowboys team that ranked second to
the last in the NFL against the run, allowing one
hundred and fifty one yards per game, and I believe
that's one of the keys. We also have to mention
the fact that this is a team that's allowing over
(08:21):
twenty nine points per game among second two worst and secondary.
Because if we're just going to focus on the running game,
we also have to talk about the secondary because this
is a team that's allowing seven yards per play.
Speaker 1 (08:36):
You have to exploit those weaknesses.
Speaker 4 (08:38):
I believe you have the tools the weapons to do so.
If you're able to establish that running game, that means
Jaden Daniels will have options that we'd optioned to either
pass or run, and I think.
Speaker 1 (08:51):
That will be the difference.
Speaker 4 (08:52):
So I think this is a perfect game to recalibrate
the offense to make sure we get back on track.
And if those if those key components are put into place,
I think the commander is gonna be fine.
Speaker 3 (09:05):
And both of you have really have brought up the
running game, and I think that that really is so key,
you know, because it's not just Brian Robinson, it's not
just Jayden, and it's also Austin Echlizer, is Jeryman Nichols
like this. This This this running attack has really like
I think it allows them to to open up so
many other opportunities for them, whether it's play action, whether
(09:26):
it's you know, just getting Jayden, you know, in more
of a rhythm in terms of just getting down and
distance stuff. But Linnelle coming back over to you, like
specifically the running game the offensive line like this this
bye way, this mini buy has. It seems like it's
really helped that unit in a lot of ways.
Speaker 1 (09:43):
You know.
Speaker 3 (09:43):
Dan Quinn even said all the all the offensive linemen
are full participants, which is so key right now. Brandon
Coleman was on the Angel forty. It's a full participant.
You know, Tyler battis center, he he was out there, Uh,
Nick al Gretti, you know Sam cos and they were
all out there. So how big is it going to
be for this running game which is going to be
as a Dallas Stevens as boy as I said, that
(10:05):
was a lot of the second most rushing yards per game.
How big is going to be able to get all
of those guys back?
Speaker 2 (10:10):
Helly, Yeah, I thought it was huge that, you know,
Dkey said they all practicing full. There was a little
bit of clarity needed in my opinion on who the
actual starters are. I know, Cornelius Lucas has started some
games too, and his injury status.
Speaker 1 (10:26):
Has kind of been up in the air.
Speaker 2 (10:27):
So I'm curious to see when we get to Friday
who's officially up and active for the game. But I
think the offensive line the past two games has gotten baptized,
is the best way that I can describe it.
Speaker 1 (10:39):
Man.
Speaker 2 (10:40):
The combination of injuries and then going up against two
of the best defensive fronts in the NFL has caused
this group to have some issues. Pittsburgh sent five or
more rushers nineteen times in their game on Sunday. That
was the most that they had done that all season,
and they caught some confusion up front. You all know
Tyler Biad's responsible for a lot of the line shifts
(11:02):
up front, and from a communications standpoint, I think you
know he struggled to identify fronts against Philadelphia and against
Pittsburgh because they do so much to try to confuse
you up part, and saw free rushers in both of
those games. I think for a full week of practice
this week, a full week to get back to your
normal schedule, hopefully the communication improves.
Speaker 1 (11:24):
The interior three.
Speaker 2 (11:25):
Between biadash Ala, Grady, and Cosmy we've been strong this
year for the last two games. Going up against Jordan
Davis and Jalen Carter, and Cam Hayward. They really struggled,
but those are three of the best interior guys in
the league. The tackle spot is what I'm really looking
at going into this game, knowing Michael Parsons and his
ability to ruin a football game. Brandy Coleman and Andrew
(11:46):
Wiley have also been banged up, both dealing with shoulder injuries.
For Coleman, you know, the last two weeks going up
against you know, TJ. Wadd and Nolan Smith and Bryce
up he struggled a little bit. I want to see
him bounce. But the other key too is guys. It's
not just the five guys up front against Philly. They're
dropping seven guys in the coverage, so you want to
(12:07):
have as many guys with on the route as possible.
One thing that's helped watching this past protection they're leaving
in back and tight ends the chip more than any
team in the NFL. And when you've got seven guys
in coverage and you're leaving guys in the chip, there's
not a lot of options for the quarterbacks. So we'll
see what the protection plan.
Speaker 1 (12:22):
Is this week.
Speaker 3 (12:24):
Yeah, I'm interested to see what what Brandon Coleman does
against against Michael Parsons, because yeah, as you mean, like
t J. Wadd and all those of the guys like
they're they're really really solid players. Mike Parsons is one
of the best defensive players in the league right now
period and has been over the last you know, however
long he's been in the league. Like, so it's gonna
be quite the challenge for him and in Cornelius Lucas.
(12:47):
But Moys is real quick, you know, kind of a
little bit of a Tandy topic change here, you know,
both you know, you know, Lales brought it up and
DQ brought it up on Mondays press conference and on
Wednesday's press conference about how important it is to get
a full week of practice, and you see, you know,
like the timing and rhythm maybe maybe not as sharp
as it could have been. You mentioned things like, you know,
(13:09):
the Louke McCaffrey miss against the Steelers. There were a
co misses, you know, with Noel Brown against the Eagles. So,
I mean, how big do you think this full week
of practice is.
Speaker 1 (13:17):
Going to be. I think it's huge.
Speaker 4 (13:19):
Before I even answer that question, I just wanted to
add another point to the last one. You have to
get guys like Terry McCloy and Volff. If you have
a guy of that caliber with two.
Speaker 1 (13:29):
Receptions, it's not going to be enough. And if you're facing.
Speaker 4 (13:32):
A defense that it's allowing seven or more yards per play,
you need to involve one of your best playmakers, one
who's at the top of the charge when.
Speaker 1 (13:40):
We're talking about contested catches in the NFL. Therefore, that's
just another weapon to add.
Speaker 4 (13:45):
Now to answer you a question about the week with
the practice, I believe so it's huge because you're talking
about a rookie quarterback that doesn't have that NFL experience.
He guess he's a former Heisman Trophy winner and at
the collegiate level. But to have all the reps, all
the experience possible on the practice field is gonna be crucial.
Speaker 1 (14:04):
And when you have your.
Speaker 4 (14:05):
Best guy out of out of the loop because he's
still recovering from a possible injury or you're just trying
to protect them, it's gonna limit the fact that you
can't do as much as you want now that they've
had this, you know.
Speaker 1 (14:18):
Many by week to recover. I believe it's gonna be crucial.
Speaker 4 (14:21):
We should see some adjustments and the best version of
Jaden Daniels. Social media is a monster when it comes
to criticizing and knocking players out. But I believe, and
I feel strongly that he's gonna be all right.
Speaker 1 (14:35):
He's gonna bounce back.
Speaker 4 (14:36):
And this weekend days he's had to prepare for the
next game are gonna be crucial for Jade and Daniels
to lead this team moving forward.
Speaker 3 (14:44):
Jayden said it best. You can't replace practice reps in
this league. It's so important. Yeah, and we'll see where
they go from here, but we're gonna we're gonna move
on to the next question before that score date. Both
of you guys are tied forward to four battling it
out here like the Commanders and Colwis will be on Sundays.
Let's switch over to the Commander's defense here. And the
Cowboys have committed twenty turnovers this season, tied for the
(15:06):
most in the league. Cooper Rush is leading the offense
right now, and there's been some upson downs. See Lamb
is still great, but you know they have Rico Daddles
out there running back, probably not the same caliber as
Tony Poler was. Azekiel Ellen is out there, but he
is definitely not what he was early in his career.
So Mores says, we'll stick with you here, and what
(15:28):
can the Commanders do to force Dallas to make these
make these mistakes and create more opportunities for their offense,
Because it seems like the Cowboys. If you wait long
enough for this Cowboys offense, they are going to provide
you with these opportunities to get the ball back.
Speaker 1 (15:44):
I think they're gonna have to take advantage. They have
to put a pressure on Cooper Rush.
Speaker 4 (15:48):
It's only his ninth career starting in the NFL, and
although he had a decent showing back in twenty twenty two.
Speaker 1 (15:54):
You have to take advantage. This is not the starter.
Speaker 4 (15:56):
He's not in the lead quarterback in the league, and
you have to put the pressure on him just the
way the same way the Houston Texans did in the
last game. They were able to sack them five times,
force them to fumble once. I believe that he also
had an interception. He wasn't able to put the ball
in Cee Lamp's hands. So you're facing a quarterback that's
(16:17):
not your typical starter.
Speaker 1 (16:19):
And although he did beat.
Speaker 4 (16:21):
The Commanders, because that usually comes up a couple of
seasons to go. This is a different commander's team. You
have the weapons on defense to put pressure on him.
Speaker 1 (16:29):
Sack them.
Speaker 4 (16:30):
And I know guys like Dante Fowler Junior are going
to be hungry to put hands on a quarterback he
knows very well.
Speaker 1 (16:36):
Same thing with Drans Armstrong.
Speaker 4 (16:38):
It's a perfect opportunity for the Washington Commanders defense to
shine and have a great game. For me, those are
the keys if you want an unstable or these stable
these cowboys offense.
Speaker 1 (16:51):
Put the pressure on Cooper Russian.
Speaker 4 (16:53):
The results are going to eventually show up because this
is a team that normally implodes during the game.
Speaker 1 (16:59):
Yeah, you're right.
Speaker 3 (17:00):
I mean I was watching film on them yesterday and
he just it seemed like the longer the drive was
you just like you knew it was coming, there's gonna
be some sort of interceptions, some sort of fumble, some
sort of mistake that was going to get them off balance.
It kind of reminds me of how the Giants I
have played so far this year. It seems like the
longer the drive, it's the more mistakes sort of happened.
And Linelle, we'll go over to here with the same question.
(17:22):
I mean, what do you think the commanders can do
to force more of these turnovers and maybe even like
those a little more on the secondary, because the secondary
I think has been playing a lot better than people
have predicted that they would, especially compared to what it
was in Week one.
Speaker 2 (17:36):
Yeah, I still think, you know, despite what Dallas has
offensively a quarterback, I still think they have weapons on
the perimeter.
Speaker 1 (17:44):
Cee Lamb's one of the.
Speaker 2 (17:46):
Best receivers in football. Still, I think the Brandy Cooks
has helped out a tremendous amount as well. I just think,
like like you both mentioned, it's about getting pressure but
also making that one dimension all although they don't have
the premier names in the backfield that we're a customer
to them have, and they still want to run the
(18:07):
football first and foremost of you know, Washington had some
struggles running the football. We saw the damn bus in
that fourth quarter against Philly, you know, all being against
a special back like sayquont Barkley. But that's my number
one concern. Can you make Dallas one dimensional? And then
if you're able to do that, your pastor I should
be able to naturally take over. Dallas starts two rookies
(18:27):
up front at center and at left tackle with Tyler
Geiden and Cooper BB, should be an opportunity for a
guy like Deron Payne and Dante Fallon to really take
advantage of the young guys.
Speaker 3 (18:40):
And you know, I was really a big fan of
both Guiden and Cooper BB, you know, heading into the
draft process. They are really good young players. And you know,
you bring up the rush to the rushing, the rushing
offense for the Cowboys, and it's it definitely has not
been you know, what they would want it to be.
Right now. I think they only had three rushing touchdowns
all year, uh with you know, executly getting two of
(19:02):
their second to last in rushing yards per game eight
and one points. But at the same time, they're looking
at and looking at the Commanders defense, which is thirtieth
in rushing yards allowed, and thinking, Okay, this is our
opportunity to get back on track here with this. So
moy says, will go over to you here and talks.
You know, you mentioned you mentioned the pass rush I
think is very important, But how did the Commanders they
shore up this running defense that they have, because it
(19:25):
really has been some like the deciding factor and especially
in the fourth quarter. You know, Sakon Barkley against the
eat with the Eagles and they even you know, you
could even argue with the with the Steelers before that, like,
what what do you think they can do to fix
that part of their defense? Well, I think you're going
to face a team that's struggling in the running game
in the Dallas Cowboys. They ranked thirty first in the league.
(19:46):
They're averaging just a little bit over three yards per game.
Seek Elliott's is not the same guy we saw a
couple of years ago. So I think those are key.
Speaker 4 (19:53):
Components for Scooper Rush to throw the ball he did
over fifty times in that last match against the Easton Texans,
and he had what if I'm not if I'm not wrong,
he had a four turnover worthy plays. I think they're
gonna show up once again against the Washington Commanders.
Speaker 1 (20:12):
And if you do that and you're able to capitalize.
Speaker 4 (20:14):
On these big plays, Washington is gonna get what they've
been looking for all season, which is more turnovers and
what we're asking here. So I believe that if you
make them one dimensional, like you mentioned, and you force
them to throw the ball over fifty times, the Commander
is gonna have a big opportunity to capitalize in that secondary.
The running game has not been a factor for the Cowboys. Therefore,
(20:36):
I'm not that worried about what they can do. I
think we have a solid defensive corps and I think
they're they're gonna be forced to throw on the ball
and that's where Washington's gonna have.
Speaker 1 (20:45):
To make the big place.
Speaker 3 (20:46):
And you know, to that point, Washington's fifth and path
yards pass yards allowed this season and linnelle real quick
before we move on to the final question here, we're
gonna stick on that, on that secondary and talk about
the rookie Mike Sandmerstill. He's been ask to do a
lot for this team. He was at he covered AJ
Brown and Devoud the Smith a lot. AJ Brown only
had sixty five yards and no touchdowns. I mean, I
(21:09):
think if you'd have if you'd have said before that
game that AJ brownle will be hold lesson one hundred
yards with no touchdowns, you would take that any day
of the week. So what do you think about Samerstill
and now how he's been able to perform this season.
Speaker 2 (21:21):
I think he's been special. If he brings in championship pedigree,
a national champion for the University of Michigan, and he's
only listed at five to ten, but for my money,
he's the toughest player on this Commander's defense in terms
of what he does in the run game, taking on
offensive lineman, coming in, being physical in the run game,
and then his ability to track the football and get
(21:43):
his head around as a defensive back is such an
important trait and the Southern you know, quite frankly, some
of the other members of this Commander's secondary struggle with hell.
Other secondary across the league struggle with this, and he's
done a really good job with this as a rookie.
Since he's moved to the outside, I personally think he's
gotten comfortable there. I know there's conversation about him eventually
(22:05):
going back inside. I'd be really hesitant to do that,
just because it feels like he's starting to really create
his identity as an outside corner. He's got good ball skills,
and I think he just represents everything Washington wants.
Speaker 1 (22:18):
In the dB. Yeah, I am.
Speaker 3 (22:20):
I'm very fascinated to see what they do with that
secondary once Marshall Lattimore gets on the field, because you're right,
he has been so good on the outside, and I
get he's good on the inside. I think that's what
they feel like his natural position is. But we'll see,
we'll we'll see what they do either way. I think
more more talented players on the field with the secondary,
the better it's going to be. We're gonna move on
(22:41):
to the final question. But before we get do that, guys.
You guys are still tied, you know, so it's going
to be coming out of the last question here, and
that last question is going to be pretty key here.
Everyone I think can objectively say they were they were
pretty banged up heading into that the Mani bye week,
especially off to line some of the positions as well.
(23:02):
So Linelle, I'm gonna start with you for this final question.
I want you to make your best case for what,
like the most important player is for the team that
they're going to be getting back healthier heading into this
final stretch of the year.
Speaker 2 (23:15):
So the most important player as far as health goes,
I would say Jaden Daniels. I look, I can continue.
I'm not I believe that dan Quinn and the coaches
as well as Jaden are being honest about he's he's healthy,
He's healthy enough to not be on the injury report,
but I do think it's one of those injuries that
(23:37):
are going to linger throughout the year.
Speaker 1 (23:39):
I think we.
Speaker 2 (23:39):
Saw him struggle against Philadelphia because it was a short
practice week, not as much time to get your body
back to one hundred percent to go out and play.
I think with this mini buy, it allows him to
recover and hopefully you can see him regain some of
that explosiveness. I give credit to Pittsburgh and Philly for,
you know, how they able to contain him and be
(24:01):
disciplined with their rush to keep it within the pocket.
But it felt like to me just watching him, there
was a reluctancy to take off and run, and I think,
you know that may have to do with some of
what he's feeling. I know they mentioned on the broadcast
for Amazon Prime that you know he's going to be
winsend time to time, and there's some discomfort with the
torque of his upper body. Hopefully with some extra rest
(24:23):
that goes away, and if he can get back to
being the guy we saw the first nine weeks, there's
a chance this team can run the table to finish
out the season. But his health to me is so
important and I know that the list, he's not on
the injury report, but clearly to me there's something there
that's fair.
Speaker 1 (24:43):
Definitely fair.
Speaker 3 (24:44):
So moys as well, we'll stick to you an them, well,
they all kind of He took jayde and Daniels off
the board here, But is there anybody got Brook the
easy way out?
Speaker 4 (24:53):
Man?
Speaker 1 (24:53):
He took the easy way out.
Speaker 3 (24:54):
Come on, son, So other than Jane Daniels, who do
you think is the most important player the Commanders back
healthier heading into the rest of the stretch.
Speaker 4 (25:02):
I just want to bring out a point to what
Linelle said right now, because he was asked during the
week regarding having his ribs wrapped and he answered that.
Speaker 1 (25:13):
You know, he did it because he wanted to stay warm.
Speaker 4 (25:15):
So I wonder how much all of this might have
with the fact that he's playing under different conditions.
Speaker 1 (25:21):
Probably now I used to playing the cold.
Speaker 4 (25:23):
That game versus the Philadelphia Eagles was a pretty cold game. Therefore,
he probably is still getting used to that type of
weather in the East Coast. Not sure if that's the case.
It's just an observation, so we're gonna have to wait
and see. But for me, if you ask me what
player might be a key, a key addition to Washington.
If he comes back, I would say Javante Jean.
Speaker 1 (25:46):
Baptize just because we saw what he did.
Speaker 4 (25:49):
And if he does come back, he would be returning
for the first time since we six when he faced
the Baltimore Ravens.
Speaker 1 (25:56):
He's a guy that, prior to that injury, had fourteen tackles,
one sack, one tackle for loss.
Speaker 4 (26:02):
And the most important thing of all that is the
fact that he did that coming off the bench when
he participated in thirty six percent of Washington's snaps, he
was trending in the right direction, kind of showing us
that he could be another key addition on defense.
Speaker 1 (26:19):
For the Commanders. And if he's able to come back,
I think he.
Speaker 4 (26:24):
Would be He would be a great, great ad for
this defense that needs all the help in the pass
rush right now. And he did get he did get
his twenty one day window activated, so he's not on
the active roster yet, but it seems like, you know,
he's a full participant on Wednesday.
Speaker 3 (26:40):
We'll see what he is for the rest of the week.
But if he does come back, you right, he would
add a lot more depth to past russ that has
performed pretty well right now. I think they're tired for
twelveth in sacks. But again, I think, you know, bring
there's anything wrong with bringing more pressure. I feel like
I should I should have a drum roll here for
for the last for the last little bit here. But
(27:02):
I think the winner I think has to be you Morses,
because I think you're right, like putting pressure on these
quarterbacks is going to be so important. And Javonte Jean
Baptiste has been has been has you know, he was
coming along really well and I think I think he's
gonna assuming he does get healthy, he's active, I think
he's going to be really really key.
Speaker 1 (27:18):
You know.
Speaker 3 (27:19):
To add more depth here, it looks like Lenelle dropped off.
But Morris is do you have any passing words of victory?
Speaker 1 (27:25):
He's a sore loser. He's mad. Now I think I
don't want people to take that bad. I think he
lost connection so he had to Yeah.
Speaker 4 (27:32):
Probably oh good, good one in one for this season,
So that's not bad at all. I think that it's
going to be a good game for the Washington Commanders
on Sunday. It's a good opportunity to bounce back to
show the rest of the Division that we mean business
is not a coincidence.
Speaker 1 (27:47):
This team of seven and four. Remember we have.
Speaker 4 (27:50):
To go back all the way to nineteen ninety six
to kind of feel that way of having that type
of winning record and the fact that we're here week twelve,
seven and full record, it's a good, good feeling for
Washington fans.
Speaker 3 (28:04):
And you know, to that point, I think people have
to have to realize that, you know, while this is
it's a tremendously successful, you know start for the Commanders.
People did not really expect like this out of this team.
They're performing at like a really good pace right now.
They're seven and four. They could double their wind total
with a win against the Cowboys three to one in
the division, which which would be the first time since
(28:25):
twenty twelve, which would just you know that that's a
phenomenal start to the first year of Adam Piers and
Dan Quinn leading this team. But we're gonna get off
here now. This is the end of the show. Hopefully
next time we're talking next week, we're gonna be talking
about the Commander being eight and four heading into a
matchup against the Tennessee Titans and then going into their
bye week be sure to rate, review and subscribed anywhere
(28:45):
you get your podcasts, and this has been the beatdown
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