The Washington Commanders went on the road to the Mile High City, a place that over recent years has not been kind to them. Washington had lost three straight to the Denver Broncos and hadn’t won in Colorado since Nov. 18, 2001.
In the first quarter and a half, it appeared that the losing streak would continue. The Washington found themselves facing an 18-point deficit. They were getting beaten in all three phases of the game.
After a critical strip-sack of Broncos quarterback Russell Willson late in the second quarter the offense would begin to gain a rhythm and cut the Broncos lead to 10 going into the half.
Running back Brian Robinson Jr produced key contributions in the first half. The former Alabama standout would end the half with three carries for 10 yards, three receptions for 24 yards, and a critical two-point conversion.
Washington had gained some ground heading into the half, but the question remained, who would be the spark the burgundy and gold so desperately needed in the second half?
The second-year running back would continue to be the spark that would set the offense ablaze.
Robinson showed his strength and physical running style along with his versatility in the passing game.
“Once he got it rolling, that’s what the young man’s capable of,” coach Ron Rivera said while speaking to team media after the game. “This is indicative of what he can be.”
On 18 carries, Robinson rushed for 87 yards and two touchdowns, the first of which put the Commanders ahead 28-24. Robinson also had 42 receiving yards on two catches, showing dual-
threat capability.
TD NO. 2 AND A MILE HIGH LEAP FOR @BrianR_4
📺 #WASvsDEN | CBS pic.twitter.com/OYLAwTKs2u
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) September 17, 2023
Washington’s screen game under offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy makes Robinson a big play waiting to happen.
The Tuscaloosa, Alabama native has sound vision and patience. He enjoys it when he gets opportunities in the passing game.
“Oh yeah, I enjoy any opportunity to get the ball in my hands,” Robinson said. “So, if I’m called on to receive a pass or take a handoff, I’m all for it. I just want the ball.”
Over the past two games, Robinson continues to grow in Bieniemy’s offense and looks to be the power back that Washington needs. The scary part for opponents is Robinson is a RB on the rise who’s gaining confidence by the week.
“Every week we are going to take another step,” Robinson said. “You know I expect to continue to take strides in the right direction and eventually, you will see the full potential in me.”
Luckily for Commanders fans, that potential is rising to the surface as the surprising start to the season is in full tilt.