The Washington Commanders sat 34 players ahead of their final preseason game on Sunday night against the New England Patriots. With so many players sitting, it’s no surprise that New England leads Washington 7-0 at halftime.
Third-string quarterback Jeff Driskel received the start at quarterback for the Commanders.
While Washington rested its starters, New England had most of its starters on the field for the first drive. Veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett got the start for the Patriots, and the goal was for him to play one or two drives. However, on the first drive, Commanders defensive end K.J. Henry takes advantage of a confused Patriots offensive line and drops Brissett to the ground. Brissett, who was with Washington last season, departed the game.
Rookie Drake Maye entered the game for the Patriots and looked fantastic on his first drive, completing several passes on an 11-play, 88-yard drive that he finished with a touchdown pass to running back Kevin Harris. Maye, the No. 3 overall pick — one pick behind Washington quarterback Jayden Daniels — finished the first half by completing 13 of 20 passes for 126 yards and a touchdown.
Driskel completed 12 of 18 passes for 73 yards for Washington but did throw an interception. Driskel was often under pressure in the first half. Wide receiver Mitchell Tinsley caught four passes for 37 yards. Tinsley is battling to earn one of the final spots on the roster.
Penalties were the first-half theme, with the two teams combining for 12 penalties for 90 yards.
