A small step forward, but a step forward nonetheless, was taken by the Washington defense in Week 2 against the Giants. They did just enough to help the team squeak by for the win. Though there was some progress, the performance still leaves much to be desired. The team still can’t contain star receivers and continues to get gashed by the run.
The Good: There’s progress. The team did play better, albeit against a less explosive offense. The Giants losing their kicker helped, too. However, even if Graham Gano had played, it wouldn’t have led to the Giants scoring much more than the 21 points they ended up with—possibly just the three extra points from Gano’s PATs.
The Bad: The secondary’s inability to even contain a star receiver. If Washington faces any wide receiver with an ounce of aggression and explosiveness, they will get theirs. It could be an explosive play, a touchdown, or a crippling third-down conversion. For the last twenty-six months, Washington has proven they cannot cover the position.
Oh… and why was Jamin Davis inactive? He needs to play as many downs as possible. Hopefully, this was an anomaly and not the norm.
Two Up ✌️
Benjamin St-Juste (PFF Grade - 66.5)
I told y’all not to give up on St-Juste just yet. He forced the only, and much-needed, turnover of the game with a fumble that halted New York from breaking the game open. He was also more solid in coverage. Regardless of how he does next week versus the Bengals, my stance on him will not waver. He’s a good CB2 and a borderline CB1.
Bobby Wagner (PFF Grade - 74.9)
The old guard is not only hanging in there but thriving. I can’t say I wasn’t expecting it, but it’s still unbelievable to see him balling at this age. I could’ve put Frankie Luvu here, too, but Wagner gets the nod this week because of his play last week as well. He’s been the most consistent defender so far in the 2024 season.
Two Down 👎
Jon Allen (PFF Grade - 58.2)
I think the fanbase may be out on the big man from Alabama. It’s a shame because I hoped with a new staff he would dominate, but he’s really looking like a shell of himself so far. It’s only two games, but remember, he had a down year in 2023 as well. He has to start playing like the highest-paid player on defense.
Michael Davis (PFF Grade - 31.1)
At this point, I’m starting to question why this man was even brought in. He’s buried on the depth chart and has looked lost on the field. That’s crazy, not only because he’s a vet, but because, again, he was brought in by the new regime. His play, however, makes him look like a Rivera pickup.
Season Progressive Grade:
Week 2 Grade: C-
Season Grade: D+
Defensive Rankings:
Total YPG: 348 (21st, Last Week: 26th)
Pass YPG: 227.5 (22nd, Last Week: 29th)
Run YPG: 120.5 (16th, Last Week: 16th)
3rd Down Conversion Rate: 61.90% (Last, Last Week: Last)
Things aren’t looking good for the defense heading into Cincinnati for Monday Night Football against Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and the Bengals. It could get ugly…
Photo credits: Commanders.com
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