Washington Commanders: Overreactions to the preseason

Third downs and mobile QBs continue to plague the defense

There isn’t much that can drain a team’s spirits more than giving up third-down conversion after third-down conversion. And, that is exactly what Washington did last season.

In 2021, Washington had the second-highest opponent third-down conversion percentage at 48.47%.

There wasn’t much improvement in the pre-season either. Against the Panthers, the starting defense allowed Carolina to convert on 3-of-4 third downs. Against the Chiefs, it was even worse, with Kansas City going 5-for-5 on third down.

Yes, Patrick Mahomes is unlike many other quarterbacks in the league, but the fact that he was able to toy with the Commanders’ defense speaks volumes.

Before exiting the game, Mahomes led a 12-play 87-yard touchdown drive and a 12-play 82-yard touchdown drive. That’s unacceptable defense.