"If you want to quibble about deficiencies in the Washington Commanders' Week 1 performance against the New York Giants, you could find a few things to harp on. Jayden Daniels wasn't as sharp as you'd like him to be. Josh Conerly Jr. showed he will go through some growing pains. Frankie Luvu didn't have a very good game. There was a punt deflection. When you balance that all out with the improvements the team showed, there are very few things to cause sleepless nights."
"If they commit sloppy and reckless penalties the way they did against the Giants, the Commanders are not going to be 2-0. The Commanders were the fifth most penalized team in 2024. In terms of yardage given up, they were fourth-worst. It was primarily a result of defensive penalties. Offense and special teams were generally in the middle of the pack in terms. The defense committed the second-most."
Washington's penalty problem threatens game outcomes and playoff chances. The team was among the most penalized in 2024, ranking fifth in penalties and fourth-worst in yards lost, driven mainly by defensive infractions. Offensive and special teams penalty rates remained average. Many defensive fouls stem from an aggressive philosophy under Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. that emphasizes attacking through the whistle. While aggressive defense can produce big plays, excessive or undisciplined penalties—including costly playoff encroachments—carry significant risks against stronger opponents like the Green Bay Packers. Washington must reduce penalties to convert improved performance into consistent wins.
Read at Riggo's Rag
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