The NFL season is finally back! Preseason, that is. Over the next few weeks, teams will be able to see how their players gel with each other, and what changes need to be made before their final cuts.
The Washington Commanders played their first preseason game this past Saturday against the Carolina Panthers. This was the first time Washington fans got to see Carson Wentz suited up in a real game. Overall, Wentz was in total control for much of the three drives he was out there for. He completed 10/13 passes for 73 yards and didn't turn the ball over. Other than an underthrown deep ball to Terry McLaurin on Washington's 3rd drive, Wentz looked very sharp for his first in-game action with the team.
Let's get into some positives, and negatives that I was able to take away from this game.
Positive: Great promise shown from Brian Robinson
Washington brought in Brian Robinson to fill the role of a "power back" for the team: what they were missing in the absence of Peyton Barber. Standing at 6' 1" and weighing 225 pounds, Robinson was effectively able to make his presence known, after stepping in for Antonio Gibson, who committed a fumble on Washington's second drive.
Robinson rushed for 26 yards and a touchdown on six carries: not a stat line that jumps off the page. However, it was Robinson's ability to get downhill and push the pile that caught my eye, which is exactly the skillset that Washington brought him in for. Robinson provides a change-up from the finesse-style of running that Antonio Gibson provides, and I think the two will complement each other well. If J.D. Mckissic continues his consistent play, Washington's backfield could become a scary three-headed monster.
Negative: Defense looked a step too slow vs. Baker Mayfield
Carolina's new starting QB only played one drive; however, he made his presence felt early. Baker Mayfield led his Carolina offense methodically down the field, in the process converting multiple third downs. While this drive ended in a field goal, it seemed all too familiar to many drives that took place in the 2021 season, where Washington would make a good play on 2nd down but give up a 3rd down conversion. I am hoping that Washington's defense was only shaking the rust off.
Positive: Return of Curtis Samuel
One of the things that Washington fans were most excited about leading into the 2022 season is finally getting a chance to see a healthy Curtis Samuel. While he only caught two balls for 13 yards, it was great to see him back, and we can all hope Samuel will fit right in with this offense that has top-10 potential.
Negative: Special Teams Issues (sort of)
This one may not be as big of a deal but seeing Joey Slye miss that extra point after Robinson's touchdown run gave me a feeling of "here we go again." After Washington's kicking struggles in years past, I would hate to see them have the same problems in the upcoming season.
All in all, there was a lot to be excited about with this preseason game. The biggest factor in Washington's success this year will once again come down to quarterback play. From Saturday's game, Carson Wentz showed precision and stable decision-making, and there is good reason for Washington fans to hope for a winning season. But only time will tell.
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