Commanders vs. Eagles: 3 Key Things to Watch

Aaron Rodgers said it best back in 2015. “Relax, R-e-l-a-x.” Sam Howell did not cross the point of no return last week, the season is not lost, and the roster does not need to be blown up. A team beat the Washington Commanders everyone thought would beat them before the season started. The final score might have been uncomfortable but it was far from the disaster the Twitterverse made it out to be.

That being said, here’s what we need to watch this week.

1. Pass Blocking

Believe it or not, Washington’s pass blocking is considered average when compared to the rest of the league. Overall, it’s ranked 14th out of 32 teams. The problem is, that’s not good enough for a quarterback with four starts under his belt.

Everyone needs to help Sam Howell. The line needs to give him more time to throw, he’s been under pressure on almost 80% of his dropbacks this year, and offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy needs to call more slants, quick throws, and screens to slow down the rush. Howell has to get the ball out quicker, but that will be easier if he’s not constantly running for his life.

2. The Run Defense

Philadelphia does everything well so to have a chance, the defense needs to make the Eagles one dimensional.

The easiest way?

Stop the run.

It won’t be easy. Boston Scott and D’Andre Swift are playing at an all-pro level through three games. The defensive line’s first-round draft picks need to play a big-time game to keep the score down and give the offense a chance to grind out a good performance.

3. RB Brian Robinson Jr.

Speaking of grinding out a good performance, that job will fall to the second year back from Alabama.

Robinson averaged 7.1 yards a carry last week and he needs more work. A big dose of Robinson takes the pressure off Howell, the offensive line, and perhaps the entire team in a game where they are a big underdog in a hostile environment in Philadelphia.