Can the Washington Commanders (2-3) snap their three-game losing streak against the Atlanta Falcons (3-2) in Week 6?
There are really no such things as must-win games in Week 6, but the Commanders, particularly head coach Ron Rivera, badly need a win on Sunday.
What must the Commanders do to come away with a win?
We’ve identified four keys to victory for the Commanders against the Falcons in Week 6.
Load the box, stop the run
No NFL team loves running the football more than the Atlanta Falcons. Atlanta’s team is built around a strong running game, led by an excellent pair of running backs, sensational rookie Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier. The Commanders have struggled to stop the run this year, especially last week against the Bears, who don’t have Atlanta’s ground game.
Washington loves the “Cinco” package with five defensive linemen. I expect we’ll see a lot of that, but the linebackers need to clean up behind them, limiting Atlanta’s damage in the run game. If the Falcons rush for 200 yards — or close — it’s an easy win for them. The Commander must make QB Desmond Ridder convert on third down in the passing game.
Tackle, tackle, tackle
The Commanders haven’t been the best tackling team through five weeks. That’s got to change. Robinson will destroy Washington if it misses tackles. The Falcons have size at running back, wide receiver and tight end, so the Commanders better bring the effort. I wouldn’t expect to see a lot of rookie cornerback Emmanuel Forbes on Sunday. Not because of his recent struggles in coverage but because of his size and sometimes lack of effort in coming up and making a tackle.
Keep Sam Howell upright
The Falcons aren’t a prolific pass-rushing team, with just five sacks on the season. But the Bears had two before they played Washington. While most of Chicago’s damage came late, with the game already decided, the Commanders still must protect Howell better. And Howell must help himself by not holding the ball. Atlanta has a good defense and will make the Commanders earn every yard. The quick passing game has worked well for the Commanders in terms of moving the chains and limiting the pass rush. We should see plenty of that on Sunday.
Involve Terry McLaurin early
Good things happen when the Commanders make a concerted effort to involve Terry McLaurin early. Not deep shots, but with bubble screens, slants, digs, etc., to get the ball in his hands because he’s outstanding after the catch. And in doing that, you open the possibility of a deep shot or two later. Also, if the Falcons shift some help toward McLaurin, it opens up one-on-one opportunities for Curtis Samuel and Jahan Dotson.
