Here are some first-half observations as the Commanders trail the Buccaneers 16-7 at the half.
Washington cornerbacks struggling against the Bucs
Buccaneers receivers are open again and again. The defensive backs, I am not sure if they contested a pass in the first half.
Missed tackles
Missed tackles have really hurt the Commanders in the first half, extending drives and leading to Buccaneers points.
Jayden Daniels
Jayden Daniels had a very nervous first play, missing badly on a ball that was only thrown ten yards from him. However, Daniels has avoided the Bucs’ pass rush, gaining 56 yards on seven carries. Daniels has also gotten down well on six of the seven runs. The one run he didn’t, he got hit, and his helmet went flying. I hope he learns from that play.
Not an ideal half for the WRs and TEs
Offensive stat of the first half? That’s easy. The Commanders’ wide receivers have only one reception and have gained 0 yards. Tight End Zack Ertz has a reception for 7 yards.
Ekeler has still got it
Running back Austin Ekeler had a nice explosive run after the catch for a 22-yard reception for a first down. If that is a sign of things to come in 2024, Ekeler still has explosiveness.
