The Giants will look to pick up a divisional win when the Commanders come to MetLife Stadium in Week 9.
The two teams faced each other at Northwest Stadium in Week 2 in what turned out to be somewhat of a weird game. Graham Gano injured his hamstring on the opening kickoff, leaving the Giants without a kicker for the remainder of the game. The Giants ended up scoring three touchdowns while Washington settled for seven field goals, but the Commanders emerged with a 21-18 victory.
It's a short week for the Giants coming off their Monday night loss to the Steelers in Pittsburgh. Meanwhile, the Commanders moved to 6-2 with their last-second, Hail Mary victory over the Bears.
Here are five storylines to follow in the Week 9 NFC East matchup.
Control what you can control
The Giants dropped another close game this past week as they fell to the Pittsburgh Steelers, 26-18, on Monday Night Football. Of their six losses on the season, four of them were one-possession games late in the fourth quarter. After the game was over, several players expressed some frustration about losing another game that felt within their grasp, a sentiment that coach Brian Daboll shared with his players.
"Losing is frustrating. So, what we can do is control the things that we can control," Daboll told the media Tuesday. "You put everything you have into this each week. So, when you're having all those meetings and you're going through all those practices and you're giving everything you have on the field, everybody, and you don't get the results, certainly that is. So, particularly right after a game, that was a close game. That was a competitive game and nobody's happy with our record. I've said that before.
"So, we have to come in with the right mindset like we do each week and do everything we can do to put the best product on a field we can on Sunday and that's always the challenging part, but you're never happy after a loss. That's why you do this, to win."
The Giants will need to have a short memory as they face a quick turnaround before their Week 9 matchup. Daboll's squad has an opportunity to get some revenge for their Week 2 defeat as they face off against the division-leading Commanders for the second time on Sunday.
"You face things head on, things you got to fix," the head coach added on Wednesday. "Be consistent. You don't want to have downs, you're going to have them. But you got to remain consistent in the leadership part of it. Communicate well. Go through the things that you can improve and then really focus on the things that you need to do for this week. But these guys care a tremendous amount. They work well together. There's a lot of respect on both sides. I'd say the coaches and the players. Everybody's doing everything they can."
Get the offense going
While it wasn't a perfect performance Monday night, the Giants' offense did find some success moving the ball on the Steelers' top-ranked defense. Quarterback Daniel Jones threw for 264 yards, his second-highest yardage total of the season, and completed 63.2 percent of his passes, although he did turn the ball over twice late in the game. However, the deep shots were encouraging. Jones completed a deep pass to Darius Slayton for a 43-yard gain and also hit tight end Theo Johnson up the seam for 25 yards.
The Giants' run game was the most impressive part of the offense's outing in Pittsburgh, led by running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. The rookie carried the ball 20 times for a season-high 145 yards, good for an average of 7.3 yards per carry, and a touchdown. It marked the third time over the last four games, all of which he's been the starting running back, that Tracy topped 100 yards from scrimmage. The 24-year-old suffered a concussion late in the fourth quarter Monday and is currently in the early stages of the concussion protocol, Daboll told the media Wednesday.
The Giants hope Tracy can clear the protocol in time for Sunday's game, but if he is unable to, then Devin Singletary will step into the lead role in the backfield. The veteran had his best game of the season against the Commanders in Week 2, taking 16 carries for 95 yards (5.9 avg.) and a touchdown. Singletary proved difficult to take down that game as he registered a whopping 10 missed tackles forced. To put that into context, Singletary totaled 10 missed tackles forced combined in Weeks 1, 3 and 4.
The Commanders' defense has looked a lot better the last four weeks compared to the first four games of the season, although matchups against the Browns, Panthers, and Bears likely played a big role in the recent defensive success. Nonetheless, Washington enters this matchup ranking 10th in points and 13th in yards allowed on the year. The unit is allowing 5.1 yards per carry to opponents, which comes in as the fourth-highest in the NFL. The run defense has aided in the Commanders boasting the No. 29 ranked red zone defense this season.
Pass rush continues to roll
The Giants' pass rush has been a bright spot despite the team's record. The unit sacked Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson four times on Monday, adding to its league-leading sack total of 35, five more than any other team. Outside linebackers Azeez Ojulari (two) and Brian Burns (one) accounted for three of the sacks, while inside linebackers Bobby Okereke and Micah McFadden combined for the final one.
Despite Kayvon Thibodeaux landing on injured reserve ahead of Week 6, the pass rush has not missed a beat. Ojulari has at least one sack in each of the three games he has started since Thibodeaux's injury, with a total of five sacks during that span. Despite starting the season in a reserve role, Ojulari is currently tied for 10th in the NFL with his six sacks. Burns also extended his sack streak to four games with his takedown of Wilson on Monday, and has all five of his sacks over the last six games. Burns' five sacks have him tied for 14th in the league in sacks.
While defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence did not get credited with a sack against the Steelers, he deserves an assist for forcing Wilson out of the pocket and right into Burns' arms on his sack. Lawrence, who still leads the NFL with nine sacks on the year, proved to be unblockable on several occasions against the Steelers as he bulldozed his way through blockers like it was nothing.
The Giants got to Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels for five sacks in the first meeting between the two teams, although none came from Lawrence, Burns or Ojulari.
View photos from the all-time series between the New York Giants and the Washington Commanders.
Harry Carson of the New York Giants, left, runs with a fourth quarter intercept on of a Washington Redskins pass at Giants Stadium, Oct. 22, 1978 in East Rutherford, as Redskins quarterback Joe Theismann tries to make a tackle. The interception sealed the Giants' 17-6 upset win over the Redskins. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Washington Redskins running back Cliff Battles (20) against the New York Giants on Dec. 5, 1937 at the Polo Grounds. (AP Photo)
New York Giants fullback John Karcis plunges to score from the one foot line against the Washington Redskins at the Polo Grounds in New York City, Dec. 4, 1938. A crowd of 57,461 saw the Giants win, 36-0, to take the Eastern Division title. (AP Photo)
Ken Strong (30), kicking the 2nd of 3 field goals which scored for the New York Giants in their game against the Washington Redskins at the Polo Grounds in New York City, Dec. 3, 1939. The Giants Won 9-7. The ball is in the air just above Frank Filchock (30) of Redskins. The victory gave the Giants the Eastern Division Championship of the National Football League for the 2nd consecutive year. Redskins shown are Jim Barber (15) and Steve Slivinski (16). Giants are Tuffy Leemans (4), John "Bull" Karcis (11); Ed Widseth (50) and Nello "Flash" Falaschi (28). (AP Photo)
New York Giants end Bob Schnelker, (85), catches a pass in the end zone for a touchdown despite close guarding by Washington Redskins' safety man George Rosso, (20) in second quarter of game Oct. 24, 1954 at the Polo Grounds in New York City. Giant quarterback Charley Conerly fired the scoring pass from four-yard line. Giants won 24-7. (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
In this pile is John Karcis, Giant back, hugging the leather while an official flings up his arms to signal the Giants' first touchdown against the Washington Redskins at New York on Dec. 4, 1938. Giants went on to pile up a 36-0 score. (AP Photo)
End Charley Taylor, 42, of the Washington Redskins leaps in vain for pass from quarterback Sonny Jurgensen which goes out of reach in first quarter against New York Giants at Yankee Stadium on Sept. 29, 1968 in New York. Giants' defensive back Scott Eaton, 20, matches leaps with Taylor in a try to deflect the ball. (AP Photo)
Fullback Chuck Mercein of the New York Giants, 29, carries ball through what seems to be a wide opening in third quarter at New York's Yankee Stadium on Oct. 16, 1966. This play ended in no gain as Gregg Larson, 53, goes down and Washington Redskins back Sam Huff, 70, moves in to make the tackle. Other identifiable Redskin is end Carl Kammerer, 66. Giants took the game, 13-10. (AP Photo)
Charley Taylor of the Washington Redskins, takes to the air as he is hit by Clarence Childs of the New York Giants, in the second quarter of game on Oct. 2, 1967 in Washington. Taylor was stopped after catching a pass from quarterback Sonny Jurgensen and chalking up a five-yard gain. Other Giant players are: Ken Avery, 54, and Vince Costello, 57. Washington won 38-34. (AP Photo)
New York Giants Larry Czonka carried the ball Sept.12,1976 in game against the Redskins in Washington. The game marked Czonka"s return to the NFL where he played for the Miami Dolphins before a stint with the short- lived World Football League. (AP Photo/Charles Tasnadi)
Washington Redskins running back Charley Harraway (31) is held to a no gain by New York Giants Jim Files (58) during the first quarter at Yankee Stadium, Nov. 15, 1970, New York. Giants won, 35-33. The rest of the players are unidentified. (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
New York Giants middle line backer Jim Files intercepts pass from Washington Redskins quarterback Sonny Jorgensen intended for Redskins tight end Jerry Smith (87) at the Giants goal line during first quarter of game at New York's Yankee Stadium on Nov. 15, 1970. Files ran the ball back to the Redskin's 8 yard line. Giants won, 35-33. (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
New York Giant tacklers converge on Redskins; Larry Brown after he picked up a good gain during game on Sunday, Dec. 5, 1971 in Washington. Giant tacklers are Ron Hornsby (67) and Scott Eaton (20). Brown gained 129 yards to help Washington defeat the Giants 23-7. (AP Photo/HWG)
Quarterback Fran Tarkenton of the New York Giants is pressured by three Washington Redskins during third quarter action at Yankee Stadium in New York, Sept. 26, 1971. Grabbing Tarkenton's jersey is Chris Hanburger (55) and coming up to help are Manuel Sistrunk (64) and Verlon Biggs (89). Tarkenton was dumped for a ten-yard loss on the Giants' five yard line.(AP Photo/Harry Harris)
Washington Redskins running back John Riggins, right, fumbles the football when hit by the New York Giants Dan Lloyd (54) in the first quarter of their game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Nov. 25, 1979. The Giants recovered the fumble but were unable to score on the next series of downs. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
Washington Redskins running back John Riggins, left, is caught on a run by the New York Giants Mark Haynes in the first quarter of their game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Nov. 15, 1981. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
Washington Redskins quarterback Joe Thiesmann tries to evade a second quarter tackle by the New York Giants Byron Hunt, right, but was pulled down for a short gain in NFL game, Nov. 21, 1982 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
Washington Redskins running back John Riggins (44) is about to be tackled by New York Giants defensive end Phil Tabor (80) during first quarter action at RFK Memorial Stadium in Washington, Dec. 19, 1982. (AP Photo/Ron Edmonds)
Washington Redskins Joe Theismann looks downfield for a receiver as he is being pulled down from behind the New York Giants' Lawrence Taylor during the first quarter of their game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Nov. 13, 1983. Theismann was penalized for grounding the ball on the play. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants Joe Morris breaks away from Washington Redskins Alvin Walton as he runs with the ball during first quarter NFC championship action at Giants stadium in East Rutherford Sunday, Jan. 11, 1987. (AP Photo/David Fields)
Washington Redskins quarterback Jay Schroeder is blocked by New York Giants Elvis Patterson as he makes a vain attempt to recover the ball after a bad snap on a field goal attempt during first half NFC Championship action at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, Sunday, Jan. 11, 1987. At far right is Redskins Jess Atkinson. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)
New York Giants Joe Morris breaks past Washington Redskins Alvin Walton into the end zone for an one yard touchdown run in the NFC Championship game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Jan. 11, 1987. (AP Photo/Rusty Kennedy)
Washington Redskins quarterback Jay Schroeder (10) is grabbed by New York Giants Lawrence Taylor (56) as defensive end Leonard Marshall (70) moves in for the sack during fourth quarter action at RFK Stadium in Washington, Dec. 8, 1986. Redskins guard Raleigh McKenzie, right, can't prevent the sack. New York beat Washington 24-14 to take the lead in the NFC East. (AP Photo/Ron Edmonds)
Washington Redskins running back George Rogers (38) is brought down by New York Giants linebacker Carl Banks (58) and defensive end George Martin (75) after a yardage gain in the first quarter action at RFK Stadium in Washington, Dec. 7, 1986. The Giants and Redskins are battling out for the lead in the NFC East. (AP Photo/Ron Edmonds)
New York Giants' Lawrence Taylor, right, causes Washington Redskins' quarterback Mark Rypien to fumble the ball during first quarter action at RFK Stadium on Sunday, Oct. 2, 1988 in Washington. (AP Photo/Doug Mills)
Washington Redskins Gerald Riggs tries to break free from New York Giants' Greg Jackson, on ground, as Giants' Lawrence Taylor, right, moves in to cap the play during first quarter action at RFK Stadium in Washington, Sept. 11, 1989. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
Washington Redskins running back Earnest Byner (21) is tackled by New York Giants defenders Lawrence Taylor (56) and Pepper Johnson (52) during first quarter NFL action at RFK Stadium in Washington, D.C., Sunday, Oct. 14, 1990. (AP Photo/Doug Mills)
Washington Redskins' running back Earnest Byner (21) is stopped by New York Giants' defender Pepper Johnson (52) and Johnie Cooks (98) during first quarter action at RFK Stadium in Washington, Oct. 14, 1990. Everson Walls is in background right. (AP Photo/Doug Mills)
New Yorks Giants quarterback Phil Simms throws for a first down during the third quarter of the game against the Washington Redskins, October 10, 1993, at RFK Stadium in Washington, D.C. (AP Photo/Joe Marquette)
New York Giants wide receiver Mike Sherrad heads for the end zone to score as Washington Redskins' safety Tom Carter tries to make the stop during second quarter action Sunday Oct. 29, 1995 at RFK Stadium in Washington.(AP Photo/Denis Paquin)
New York Giants receiver Ed McCaffrey snares a 17-yard pass from quarterback Jeff Hostetler over Washington Redskins cornerback R. J. Johnson (47) during the second quarter of game at RFK Stadium in Washington, D.C., Nov. 1, 1992. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee)
New York Giants' Phillippi Sparkes holds his second interception of the night with teammates Tito Wooten (29) and Corey Widmer (90) during overtime aginst the Washington Redskins at Jack Kent Cooke Stadium in Landover, Md. Sunday Nov. 23, 1997. Sparks had two interceptions off of back-up quarterback Jeff Hostelter during his team's 7-7 tie with the Redskins. (AP/Doug Mills)
New York Giants quarterback Danny Kanell (13) is seen in action during an NFL game against the Washington Redskins, Saturday, Dec. 13, 1997, in East Rutherford, N.J. (Allen Kee via AP)
New York Giants running back Rodney Hampton (27) is seen in action during an NFL game against the Washington Redskins, Saturday, Dec. 13, 1997, in East Rutherford, N.J. (Allen Kee via AP)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) is seen in action during an NFL game against the Washington Redskins, Saturday, Dec. 13, 1997, in East Rutherford, N.J. (Allen Kee via AP)
New York Giants defensive end Lawrence Taylor (56) rushes the passer against the Washington Redskins at RFK Stadium, Oct. 10, 1993, during an NFL game. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
A pass from Washington Redskins' quarterback Brad Johnson falls incomplete as Redskins Stephen Alexander (90) is taken down by New York Giants' Ryan Phillips (91) in the second quarter Sunday, Sept. 19, 1999, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Giants Sam Garnes (20) tumbles over them. The Giants lost their home opener 50-21. (AP Photo/Ron Frehm)
New York Giants quarterback Kerry Collins (5) searches for a reciever downfield as he is pursued by Washington Redskins' Daryl Gardener (92) during the second quarter Sunday, Nov. 17, 2002, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Collins threw for 211 yards in the Giants 19-17 victory over the Redskins. (AP Photo/Tom Sperduto)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) is seen in action during an NFL Game against the Washington Redskins Sept. 24, 2000, in East Rutherford, N. J. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants' Matt Bryant (8) kicks the game-winning 29-yard field goal in overtime to beat the Washington Redskins 24-21 Sunday, Sept. 21, 2003, in Landover, Md. The holder is Jeff Feagles. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
New York Giants' Amani Toomer, foreground, pulls in a pass over Washington Redskins' Champ Bailey on a 54-yard touchdown pass play Sunday, Sept. 21, 2003, at FedEx Field in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) celebrates after sacking Washington Redskins quarterback Mark Brunell during the first quarter Sunday, Oct. 30, 2005 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants had five sacks as they beat the Redskins 36-0. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey, left, is tackled by Washington Redskins linebacker Jessie Armstead after gaining seven yards and picking up a first down during the first quarter Sunday, Nov. 17, 2002, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Shockey had 11 catches for 111 yards leading the Giants to a 19-17 win over the Redskins. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants Tiki Barber falls in for a third quarter touchdown after breaking free from the grasp of Washington Redskins Pierson Prioleau, Sunday, Oct. 30, 2005, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants shoutout the Redskins, 36-0. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) goes over guard David Diehl (66) as he blocks Washington Redskins linebacker Khary Campbell (50) to score a touchdown during the second quarter Sunday, Oct. 30, 2005 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 36-0.(AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Washington Redskins quarterback Mark Brunell hits the turf with New York Giants linebacker Antonio Pierce in the second quarter of the Giants' 36-0 shutout of Washington, Sunday, Oct. 30, 2005, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Washington Redskins linebacker Marcus Washington, right, dives for New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) during the third quarter of a NFL football game, Saturday, Dec. 24, 2005, at FedEx Field in Landover, Md. The Redskins won, 35-20.(AP Photo/Nick Wass)
New York Giants linebacker Chase Blackburn, right, runs past Washington Redskins quarterback Mark Brunell (8) for a touchdown after he intercepted a Brunell pass during the first quarter of a NFL football game, Saturday, Dec. 24, 2005, at FedEx Field in Landover, Md.(AP Photo/Nick Wass)
Washington Redskins' Mike Rumph tries to take down New York Giants' Amani Toomer (81) after a 44-yard reception during the first quarter of NFL football in East Rutherford, N.J. on Sunday, Oct. 8, 2006. (AP Photo/Tim Larsen)
New York Giants' Amani Toomer, center, makes a 22-yard reception between Washington Redskins' Carlos Rogers (22) and Reed Doughty (23) during the third quarter of NFL football in East Rutherford, N.J. on Sunday, Oct. 8, 2006. The giants won 19-3.(AP Photo/Tim Larsen)
New York Giants coach Tom Coughlin reacts during the fourth quarter of NFL football against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Oct. 8, 2006, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants beat the Redskins, 19-3. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Washington Redskins' quarterback Mark Brunell (8) is sacked by New York Giants' Osi Umenyiora (72) during the fourth quarter of NFL Football in East Rutherford, N.J. on Sunday, Oct. 8, 2006. Giants won 19-3. (AP Photo/Tim Larsen)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber, front right, drags Washington Redskins safety Sean Taylor into the end zone for a touchdown as Giants lineman Chris Snee, left, celebrates during the first half of an NFL football game Saturday, Dec. 30, 2006, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
Washington Redskins safety Sean Taylor (21) has words with New York Giants offensive linemen, from left, Shaun O'Hara, Grey Ruegamer, Kareem McKenzie and Chris Snee during the second half of an NFL football game Saturday, Dec. 30, 2006 in Landover, Md. The Giants won 34-28. (AP Photo/Chris Gardner)
New York Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress (17) runs on a 33-yard touchdown reception in the fourth quarter of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins in Landover, Md., Sunday, Sept. 23, 2007. The Giants won 24-17. Redskins' Barry Cofield (96) defends. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)
New York Giants' linebacker Mathias Kiwanuka (97), celebrates sacking Washington Redskins quarterback Jason Campbell, on the ground, during the fourth quarter of an NFL game at the Fedex Field in Landover, Md., Sunday, Sep. 23, 2007. Giants won, 24-17. Others are Gaints' Mitchell Kawika and Osi Umenyiora. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)
New York Giants' running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) carries the ball as he is chased by Washington Redskins' Leigh Torrence (29) during first quarter NFL football Sunday, Dec. 16, 2007 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Mel Evans)
New York Giants' Kevin Boss (89) runs with the ball during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday, Dec. 16, 2007 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Redskins won 22-10. (AP Photo/Mel Evans)
New York Giants' quarterback Eli Manning, left, dives for a touchdown past Washington Redskins' Rocky McIntosh during the first half of an NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Thursday, Sept. 4, 2008. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck, left, tackles Washington Redskins running back Clinton Portis during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Thursday night, Sept. 4, 2008, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 16-7. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) leaps towards the end zone for a touchdown as Washington Redskins linebacker Rocky McIntosh (52) defends during the third quarter of an NFL football game in the rain, Sunday, Nov. 30, 2008, in Landover, Md. The Giants won 23-7. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
New York Giants wide receiver Amani Toomer (81) is congratulated by fullback Madison Hedgecock, left, and, tight end Kevin Boss, center, after scoring a first-quarter touchdown against the Washington Redskins during an NFL football game in Landover, Md., Sunday, Nov. 30, 2008. The Giants won 23-7. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)
Washington Redskins running back Clinton Portis is tackled by New York Giants' Chris Canty (99), as Chase Blackburn (57), Mathias Kiwanuka (94), Rocky Bernard (95) and Kenny Phillips (21) converge during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 13, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 23-17. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Lawrence Tynes (9) reacts after hitting a 45-yard field goal as teammates Jeff Feagles (18) and Chris Canty (99) stand nearby during the fourth quarter against the Washington Redskins in an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 13, 2009, in East Rutherford, N.J. Tynes had three field goals as the Giants won 23-17. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Washington Redskins safety LaRon Landry (30) attempts to tackle New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) during the first half of an NFL football game between the New York Giants against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Sept. 13, 2009 in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Tim Larsen)
New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72) recovers a fumble and returns it for a touchdown against their NFC East rival Washington Redskins during a NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Sunday September 13, 2009 (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants coach Tom Coughlin, left, greets Washington Redskins coach Jim Zorn after the Giants' 45-12 win in an NFL football game, Monday, Dec. 21, 2009, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) scores after catching a pass against the Washington Redskins during the second half of an NFL football game Monday, Dec. 21, 2009, in Landover, Md. The Giants won 45-12. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
New York Giants wide receiver Steve Smith carries the ball during the NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Monday, Dec. 21, 2009, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning walks off the field after the NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Monday, Dec. 21, 2009, in Landover, Md. The New York Giants won 45 - 12. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
Washington Redskins quarterback Donovan McNabb (5) fumbles the ball during the third quarter of an NFL football as the New York Giants' Corey Webster (23) recovers and Giants' Dave Tollefson (71) looks on at New Meadowlands Stadium, Sunday, Dec. 5, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Redskins lost the game 31-7. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) scores a touchdown in the 1st half against the Washington Redskins in a week 13 NFL football game at the New Meadowlands Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Sunday December 5, 2010 (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) stretches the ball over the goal line on a touchdown run during the first quarter of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins at New Meadowlands Stadium, Sunday, Dec. 5, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quaterback Eli Manning (10) points out the coverage to his team mates against the Washington Redskins in a week 13 NFL football game at the New Meadowlands Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Sunday December 5, 2010 (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) deflects a pass thrown by Washington Redskins quarterback Rex Grossman (8) during the second half of an NFL football game on Sunday, Jan. 2, 2011, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)
New York Giants running back Peyton Hillis (44) pushes away Washington Redskins strong safety Brandon Meriweather (31), for a first down, during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 1, 2013, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III (10) is sacked by New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 1, 2013, in Landover, Md. The Giants won 24-17. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) catches a pass as Washington Redskins cornerback Josh Wilson (26) and Madieu Williams pursue him during the second half of an NFL football game on Sunday, Oct. 21, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won the game 27-23. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88), left, chats with Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III (10) after their NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 21, 2012 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won the game 27-23. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72) sacks Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III (10) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 21, 2012 in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants strong safety Antrel Rolle (26) runs the ball after an interception during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins at FedEx Field on Thursday, September 25, 2014 in Landover, Maryland. New York won 45-14. (AP Photo/Aaron M. Sprecher)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) talks with Washington Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins (8) following a week 3 Thursday Night NFL football game on September 24, 2015 at Met Life Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) heads toward the end zone for a touchdown on a keeper during the second half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins in Landover, Md., Thursday, Sept. 25, 2014. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants tight end Larry Donnell (84) heads to the turf in the end zone after pulling in a touchdown pass under pressure from Washington Redskins inside linebacker Perry Riley (56) during the first half of an NFL football game in Landover, Md., Thursday, Sept. 25, 2014. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants outside linebacker Devon Kennard (59) flexes during a week 17 NFL football game against the Washington Redskins on January 1, 2017 in Washington, D.C. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants running back Rashad Jennings (23) looks for running room in action against the Washington Redskins on Sunday January 1, 2017 at Fed Ex Field in Landover, Md. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP Images)
New York Giants wide receiver Dwayne Harris (17) pushes Washington Redskins linebacker Preston Smith (94) back during the second half of an NFL football game in Landover, Md., Sunday, Nov. 29, 2015. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
Washington Redskins defensive back Dashaun Phillips (35) tackles New York Giants' Sterling Shepard (87) as Shepard scores a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 25, 2016, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) passes the pass against the Washington Redskins during the first half of an NFL football game in Landover, Md., Sunday, Jan. 1, 2017. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
A look down the line of scrimmage as the New York Giants take on the Washington Redskins during a week 17 NFL football game on January 1, 2017 in Washington, D.C. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants running back Rashad Jennings (23) looks for running room in action against the Washington Redskins on Sunday January 1, 2017 at Fed Ex Field in Landover, Md. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP Images)
New York Giants running back Rashad Jennings (23) s stopped by Washington Redskins defensive end Trent Murphy (93) during the first half of an NFL football game in Landover, Md., Sunday, Jan. 1, 2017. (AP Photo/Mark Tenally)
Washington Redskins defensive back Greg Toler (20) wraps up New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) during the second half of an NFL football game in Landover, Md., Sunday, Jan. 1, 2017. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
A look down the line of scrimmage as the New York Giants take on the Washington Redskins during a week 17 NFL football game on January 1, 2017 in Washington, D.C. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants cornerback Trevin Wade (31) runs into the end zone for a touchdown after picking up a fumble during the second half of the team's NFL football game against the Washington Redskins in Landover, Md., Sunday, Jan. 1, 2017. The Giants defeated the Redskins 19-10. (AP Photo/Mark Tenally)
New York Giants running back Rashad Jennings (23) leaps over offensive guard Marshall Newhouse (73) and through the Washington Redskins defensive line during the first half of an NFL football game in Landover, Md., Sunday, Jan. 1, 2017. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
New York Giants tight end Will Tye (45) is stopped by Washington Redskins inside linebacker Mason Foster (54) during the first half of an NFL football game in Landover, Md., Sunday, Jan. 1, 2017. (AP Photo/Mark Tenally)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) passes the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins in Landover, Md., Thursday, Nov. 23, 2017. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
The Washington Redskins and New York Giants face off during the second half of an NFL football game in Landover, Md., Thursday, Nov. 23, 2017. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
A look down the line of scrimmage as the New York Giants take on the Washington Redskins during a NFL football game on Thursday, November 23, 2017 in Landover, MD.(Evan Pinkus via AP)
Washington Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins (8) talks with New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) after an NFL football game in Landover, Md., Friday, Nov. 24, 2017. The Redskins defeated the Giants 20-10. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) throws a pass over Washington Redskins' Matthew Ioannidis (98) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Rhett Ellison (85) is tackled by Washington Redskins' Zach Vigil (56) and D.J. Swearinger (36) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Washington Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins (8) greets New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) after an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) drops back to pass during a NFL football game against the Washington Redskins on Sunday December 31, 2017 in East Rutherford, N.J. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) throws against the Washington Redskins during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 28, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) runs after the catch during a week 8 NFL football game against the Washington Redskins on Sunday, Oct. 28, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. Washington won 20-13. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
The Washington Redskins prepare to snap the ball against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 28, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) in action against the Washington Redskins during an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 28, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Redskins won 20-13. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) in action against the Washington Redskins during an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 28, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Redskins won 20-13. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) in action against the Washington Redskins during an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 28, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Redskins won 20-13. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Washington Redskins quarterback Alex Smith (11) is hit while throwing by New York Giants linebacker Lorenzo Carter (59) during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 28, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) catches a touchdown pass during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 9, 2018, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) throws during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 9, 2018, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
Washington Redskins' Josh Norman, right, tries to stop New York Giants' Wayne Gallman during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
A look down the line of scrimmage as the New York Giants take on the Washington Redskins during an NFL football game Sunday September 29, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) itches a pass during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday September 29, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday September 29, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday September 29, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scrambles away from Washington Redskins defensive tackle Tim Settle (97) and linebacker Ryan Anderson (52) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
The Washington Redskins, left, line up against the New York Giants during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones passes during the second half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Sterling Shepard, top, is tackled by Washington Redskins' Fabian Moreau during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, second from left, runs the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Sterling Shepard, right, celebrates after a catch during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday December 22nd, 2019 in Landover, Md (Evan Pinkus via AP)
A look down the line of scrimmage as the New York Giants take on the Washington Redskins during an NFL football game Sunday December 22nd, 2019 in Landover, Md (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) drops back to pass during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday December 22nd, 2019 in Landover, Md (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones looks to pass against the Washington Redskins during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass against the Washington Redskins during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) falls into the end zone for a touchdown after making a catch on a pass from quarterback Daniel Jones, not visible, as Washington Redskins strong safety Landon Collins (20) tries to defend during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. Giants' Golden Tate (15) reacts on the play. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) in action during an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Oct. 18, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) in action during an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Oct. 18, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Daniel Jones (8)
Dexter Lawrence (97), Blake Martinez (54)
Riley Dixon (9), Graham Gano (5)
Sterling Shepard (87)
Sterling Shepard (87)
Sterling Shepard (87)
Sterling Shepard (87)
New York Giants linebacker Azeez Ojulari (51) during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
A look down the line of scrimmage during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
Darius Slayton (86)
New York Giants linebacker Azeez Ojulari (51) during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
Riley Dixon (9), Graham Gano (5)
79 Korey Cunningham
79 Korey Cunningham
79 Korey Cunningham
79 Korey Cunningham
New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) signals first down during a week 18 football game against the Washington Football Team on Sunday January 9th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Azeez Ojulari (51)
Azeez Ojulari (51)
Azeez Ojulari (51) Jason Pinnock (27)
New York Giants defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux (5) during a NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday December 4, 2022 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus\New York Giants )
Daniel Jones (8)
Azeez Ojulari (51)
New York Giants defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux (5) during a NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday December 4, 2022 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus\New York Giants )
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday December 4, 2022 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus\New York Giants )
New York Giants defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux (5) during a NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday December 4, 2022 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus\New York Giants )
Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
New York Giants tight end Daniel Bellinger (82) during a NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday December 4, 2022 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus\New York Giants )
New York Giants linebacker Azeez Ojulari (51) during a NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday December 4, 2022 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus\New York Giants )
New York Giants linebacker Azeez Ojulari (51) during a NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday December 4, 2022 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus\New York Giants )
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) during a NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday December 4, 2022 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus\New York Giants )
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday December 4, 2022 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus\New York Giants )
New York Giants linebacker Azeez Ojulari (51) during a NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday December 4, 2022 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus\New York Giants )
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) during a NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday December 18, 2022 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus\New York Giants )
New York Giants wide receiver Isaiah Hodgins (18) during a NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday December 18, 2022 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus\New York Giants )
Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
Dexter Lawrence (97)
Dexter Lawrence (97)
Dexter Lawrence (97)
Daniel Jones (8)
Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
Azeez Ojulari (51)
Daniel Jones (8)
Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
Darius Slayton (86)
Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
WR Darius Slayton (86)
CB Deonte Banks (25)
WR Wan'Dale Robinson (17)
DL Rakeem Nunez-Roches Sr (93)
WR Wan'Dale Robinson (17)
ILB Bobby Okereke (58)
WR Wan'Dale Robinson (17)
CB Deonte Banks (25)
S Dane Belton (24)
WR Jalin Hyatt (13)
ILB Micah McFadden (41)
New York Giants wide receiver Jalin Hyatt (13) during a week 7 NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, October 22, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton (86)
New York Giants cornerback Deonte Banks (25) intercepts a pass during a week 7 NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, October 22, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
New York Giants wide receiver Jalin Hyatt (13) during a week 7 NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, October 22, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
New York Giants linebacker Micah McFadden (41) during a week 7 NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, October 22, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
NT Dexter Lawrence II (97)
S/ILB Isaiah Simmons (19)
S/ILB Isaiah Simmons (19)
WR Darius Slayton (86)
WR Darius Slayton (86)
TE Daniel Bellinger (82)
S/ILB Isaiah Simmons (19)
OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
S/ILB Isaiah Simmons (19)
New York Giants linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux (5) during a week 11 NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, November 19, 2023 in Landover, Maryland. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux (5)
OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux (5), NT Dexter Lawrence II (97)
WR Wan'Dale Robinson (17)
New York Giants safety Isaiah Simmons (19) returns a pick 6 during a week 11 NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, November 19, 2023 in Landover, Maryland. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) during a week 11 NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, November 19, 2023 in Landover, Maryland. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
New York Giants linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux (5) during a week 11 NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, November 19, 2023 in Landover, Maryland. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
ILB Bobby Okereke (58)
RB Devin Singletary (26)
S Dane Belton (24)
C John Michael Schmitz Jr. (61), T Andrew Thomas (78), RB Devin Singletary (26), WR Darius Slayton (86)
OLB Azeez Ojulari (51)
RB Devin Singletary (26)
WR Malik Nabers (1)
WR Malik Nabers (1)
CB Deonte Banks (3), ILB Micah McFadden (41)
CB Dru Phillips (22)
Trying to slow down Daniels
Speaking of Daniels, the rookie quarterback has taken his game to another level since the first meeting. After going the first two games of the season without a passing touchdown, Daniels has thrown seven touchdowns over the last six games, along with an additional two scores on the ground. But even more impressive has been the No. 2 overall pick's efficiency.
In Week 3, Daniels completed a jaw-dropping 91.3 percent of his passes for 254 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions in a win over the Bengals. He followed that up by completing 86.7 percent of his passes for 233 yards, one touchdown and one interception in a Week 4 win over the Cardinals. The 23-year-old added a rushing touchdown in each of those dominant performances.
On the season, Daniels has completed 71.8 percent of his passes while averaging 217.0 passing yards per game. He has thrown seven touchdowns to just two interceptions, and has earned a passer rating of 104.3. Daniels is also averaging 5.7 yards per rush attempt and 53.0 rushing yards per game with four scores on the ground.
"He's one of the better quarterbacks in the league already," Daboll told the media Wednesday. "He's got great vision. He can throw the ball in any area he needs to throw it. He can throw it under pressure. He can escape and make plays with his feet. He can escape and make plays with his arm. He's got good command, which we knew. He was a smart guy when we spoke with him. He's playing really well, at a high level. You can tell there's a lot of confidence in him. He has a lot of yards per attempt. Eight and a half, which is really good. He makes good decisions. He does a lot of good things."
The Giants have gotten their league-leading 35 sacks this season despite blitzing only 30.7 percent of the time, which ranks 14th in the NFL. If the Giants do blitz on Sunday, the rest of the defense will have to keep their heads on a swivel. Daniels has completed 71.9 percent of his passes (4th in the NFL) and has averaged 10.1 yards per attempt (3rd) when blitzed this season. The completion percentage when blitzed would be the highest by a rookie quarterback since at least 2018. But perhaps more importantly, the rookie quarterback has scrambled a league-leading 14 times when blitzed. If he feels pressure, Daniels will not hesitate to tuck the ball and run, something the defense will have to be on the lookout for.
Scouting the rest of the Commanders
Daniels' performance this season has helped open things up for the Commanders' run game, starting with running back Brian Robinson Jr. The 25-year-old is off to the best start of his young NFL career with 461 rushing yards and an average of 4.6 yards per carry through seven games. His career-highs in those categories are 797 rushing yards and 4.1 yards per carry. Robinson has also already set a new career-best mark with six rushing touchdowns. 311 of his yards and five of his touchdowns this year have come on inside rushes, according to Next Gen Stats, which is an area the Giants' run defense has struggled with to start the season.
"I'd say tackling in the open field is something that you talk about and work on," Daboll said when asked how the run defense can improve. "You work on it in drills. You have to be able to finish it in the game. They hit a couple long ones, which usually leads to higher yards per attempt. Gap integrity… All the things that it takes to be a good run defense."
The biggest beneficiary of Daniels' success as a passer has been wide receiver Terry McLaurin. The veteran wideout leads the team with his 57 targets, 40 receptions, 579 receiving yards and four touchdowns, and is fresh off his best game of the season in which he brought in five passes for 125 yards in the win over the Bears. In the first game against the Giants, McLaurin was limited to just 22 yards on six receptions.
Daniels' second favorite target has easily been Zach Ertz. The veteran tight end ranks second on the team in targets (45), receptions (32), and receiving yards (345) while scoring one touchdown. Similar to McLaurin, Ertz is also coming off his best game of the season against the Bears, a game in which he was targeted 11 times and caught seven of them for 77 yards, all of which set new season-highs.
Moving over to the other side of the ball, the Commanders' defense has performed significantly better in recent weeks compared to the start of the season. From Weeks 4-8, the Commanders are second in the NFL in EPA (expected points added) per play allowed and fourth in points per game allowed. As mentioned earlier, the schedule factored into their recent success as the Commanders played the Cardinals, Browns, Ravens, Panthers, and Bears during that stretch, with only the Ravens having a highly-ranked offense.
Linebacker Dante Fowler has led the way in the pass rush with 4.5 sacks this season, while linebacker Frankie Luvu and defensive end Dorance Armstrong Jr. are right behind him with 4.0 sacks apiece. The unit suffered a tough blow a few weeks ago when veteran defensive lineman Jonathan Allen was lost for the season due to a torn pectoral muscle.
When it comes to the Commanders' defense, it's clear and obvious who serves as the anchor of the unit – linebacker Bobby Wagner. The nine-time Pro Bowler has racked up a team-high 69 total tackles, 20 more than anyone else on the defense, including six tackles for loss, which is also tied for the most on the team. Wagner has added two sacks on the year along with a forced fumble and five quarterback hits. Heading into last week's game, Wagner had just two missed tackles on the season, resulting in a 96.9 percent tackle efficiency rate. This ranked as the highest in the NFL through the first seven weeks of the season.
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