The Washington Commanders’ preseason debut wasn’t something to write home about.
The Commanders traveled to New England and left with a 48-18 beating, which included the special teams giving up a 100-yard touchdown on the opening kickoff.
Special teams coach Larry Izzo wasn’t the only one who had a rough night.
Quarterback Sam Hartman finished the night going 9-19 for 64 yards and an interception. Hartman is competing for a roster spot with veteran Josh Johnson.
It wasn’t all bad news for the burgundy and gold.
Seventh-round pick, Jacory Croskey-Merritt didn’t have the most yards rushing (7 carries, 24 yards), but he was the most impressive back. Croskey-Merritt demonstrated good vision and the ability to make the proper cut at the right time, even if he felt like he was moving too fast at times.
“I think I was moving a little too fast, but I think it’s going to take time,” said Croskey Merritt. “It was my first game.”
Rookie cornerback Terry Amos made the most out of his 13 snaps. Amos looked comfortable with the speed of the game. “After having that joint practice, everything calmed down,” said Amos. “During the game, everything felt like it was at my pace.”
On Monday night, the Commanders return home to face the Cincinnati Bengals.
Things to Watch For:
Can Hartman Rebound?:
As stated earlier, Hartman had a rough evening against the Patriots. Still, he should receive another chance to show the Commanders and the rest of the league that he’s a young quarterback worth investing in.
Receiving Opportunities:
With Terry McLaurin “sitting-in”, there is a golden opportunity for the wide receivers to show the coaching staff, and just as important, the organization that the wide receiving position room is more than just McLaurin.
Rookie undrafted free agent, Ja’Corey Brooks, is worth keeping an eye on. Brooks had five receptions for 59 yards, but could be the biggest beneficiary from better quarterback play.
Penalties:
It’s preseason, but 13 penalties, compared to two for the Patriots, is a rough start.
As the preseason progresses, the coaching staff won’t have patience with committed penalties and, for some players, it will be the difference between earning a roster spot and being released.
