It’s funny how the NFL works.
The Washington-Chicago game was circled on the calendar at the beginning of the season. It would be the first pick of the draft against the second pick of the draft.
Then Caleb Williams got off to a slow start, and the criticism was so over the top that the talk of this game had died down, but then Williams picked up his play, and it was back on because Daniels had been picking up his play since week two.
Now Daniels could be a game-time decision after a rib injury against the Carolina Panthers.
If Daniels can’t go, Marcus Mariota will get his first start of the season. Mariota’s performance against the Panthers was a checkmark for the front office, who pursued the veteran as a functional backup.
Whether it’s Daniels or Mariota, the Commanders’ running game will be the offense’s best friend. Brian Robinson Jr., Austin Ekeler, and Jeremy McNichols must compensate for Daniels, who will be less than 100%, or an older Mariota who doesn’t run like he used to. Washington will miss some impactful off-script running plays from the quarterback position.
A solid game will keep Kliff Kingsbury’s playbook open and give Washington the chance to attack a secondary that will be without safety Jaquan Brisker and cornerback Kyler Gordon.
After a rookie-like start, Williams’s play has picked up as he’s become more responsible with the ball. In the first three games of the season, Williams had four interceptions and two fumbles with two touchdown passes. In his last three games, he has one interception, one fumble, and seven touchdown passes.
DJ Moore has been Williams’ favorite target all season, and tight end Cole Kmet will have his opportunities against the Commanders’ linebackers.
Like Daniels, Williams has been a big part of the running game. Free agent acquisition D’Andre Swift has yet to get in a groove this season.
Keys for Washington:
Win the Turnover Battle: This game could have multiple turnovers by one or both teams. Washington can’t afford to help the Chicago offense by giving them a short field. Making Williams face long drives will increase the odds of making a crippling decision.
Big Play in the Passing Game: No matter the quarterback, Washington needs to stretch the field in the air. This is especially applicable if Mariota starts. If the Commanders fail to threaten the back of the Bears’ secondary, the defense can pin its ears back to stop the run.
Make Williams One Note: The Washington defense can have Williams make some plays with his arm or with his feet, but it can’t be both. When Williams is effective with his arm and feet, he can make game-impacting plays when he breaks the pocket.
