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Washington Commanders Blowout Loss Raises Major Questions

Published by JP Finlay, NBC4 Sports Reporter

Updated 3 hours ago

Image: Greg Fiume/Getty Images

FEDEXFIELD — The Washington Commanders suffered a humiliating defeat on Thursday night when they were blown out by the Chicago Bears. This loss has raised significant concerns about the performance and readiness of the slumping Commanders team.

A One-Sided Affair

The game started disastrously for the Commanders as the Bears scored a touchdown within six plays of the opening kickoff. The Bears continued to dominate, scoring another 10 straight points to take a commanding 17-0 lead in the second quarter. Washington managed to respond with a field goal, but at halftime, the Bears were comfortably leading 27-3.

In the second half, Washington showed some signs of life on offense and made a few defensive stops, but it was too little, too late. Quarterback Sam Howell had a decent performance, but aside from that, there were few positive takeaways for the Commanders from this game.

Defensive Concerns

The most prominent question raised by this loss is about Washington’s defense. This is now the fourth consecutive game in which the Commanders have allowed their opponents to score at least 30 points. The team’s secondary looked particularly vulnerable, struggling with coverage and tackling throughout the contest. Rookie first-rounder Emmanuel Forbes even found himself benched in the second half.

Questionable Coaching Decisions

Another aspect of concern is the decision-making of head coach Ron Rivera. He made a series of questionable calls on fourth downs. Two notable instances were choosing to kick a field goal instead of going for it on crucial fourth-down situations. These decisions were not well-received by analytic models and added to the mounting criticism of Rivera’s coaching in this game.

Furthermore, kicker Joey Slye’s missed field goal in the fourth quarter, when the Commanders had a chance to cut the Bears’ lead to a touchdown, further exacerbated the team’s struggles.

Implications for Ownership

Since July, when Josh Harris became the new managing partner of the Washington Commanders, the team’s ownership group has experienced positive news and results consistently. However, this blowout loss to the previously winless Bears has abruptly shifted the conversation surrounding the team. The Commanders’ disappointing performance raises doubts about the remainder of the season and casts a shadow of uncertainty over the team’s future.

Editorial: A Time for Introspection

This commanding victory by the Bears over the Washington Commanders should serve as a wake-up call for the team. It has exposed significant shortcomings in both the offense and defense. The coaching staff must address these issues promptly if they want to salvage any hope for the rest of the season.

The defense needs immediate attention, with a focus on improving coverage and tackling. The secondary, in particular, must step up and play with a higher level of intensity and discipline. Additionally, the coaching staff must reevaluate their decision-making on fourth downs and ensure that their choices align with the team’s best interests.

Throughout this challenging period, it is crucial for the Commanders to rally together and maintain a unified front. Adversity can either break a team or bring them closer together. The leadership within the organization, from management to coaching, must foster a culture that instills resilience and determination in their players.

Advice for the Washington Commanders

The Commanders must use this blowout loss as a catalyst for improvement. They should treat this setback as a valuable learning experience and an opportunity to identify areas for growth. Self-reflection and introspection are essential during times of struggle.

On the field, the team needs to focus on refining their gameplay, tightening the defense, and developing a more cohesive offensive strategy. The coaching staff must emphasize discipline and attention to detail in all aspects of the game, from practice sessions to game-day execution.

Off the field, the Commanders’ organization should prioritize open communication and collaboration among all stakeholders. The coaching staff, players, and management should engage in constructive dialogue and work together towards the common goal of improving the team’s performance.

Remember, success in sports is not solely determined by the outcomes of individual games but by the resilience, determination, and growth demonstrated over time. The Commanders have an opportunity to turn this season around, but it will require a concerted effort from all parts of the organization.

It is crucial for the team and its fans to remain patient and supportive during this challenging period. With the right mindset and collective effort, the Washington Commanders can overcome their recent struggles and work towards a more successful future.