3 studs as Commanders pull off miracle upset of rival Eagles
By Mike Luciano
2. K Joey Slye
The Commanders wouldn’t have made a dent in Philly’s suddenly squishy defense if they didn’t have the reliable right leg of Slye to finish drives off. Putting up 32 on the road against an undefeated team in a game where Heinicke threw zero touchdowns is a sign that the kicking game was excellent.
Slye made all four of his field goals, including one from 55 yards and another from 58. Heinicke and the offense often had problems finishing drives off, but Slye was able to bail them out consistently with his powerful boots. Maintaining this performance is a real asset Washington can lean on.
Joey Slye was automatic for the Washington Commanders.
Commanders fans are almost used to all of the special teams tomfoolery that can derail promising wins, so it’s nice to Slye be so reliable. Pound for pound, Slye has one of the strongest legs in the league, and Washington could make very good use of that.
On the season, Slye has now made 13 of his 15 attempts and hit all his tries from 50 yards out or greater. Rivera’s strategy of pulling former Carolina Panthers to Washington hasn’t always worked out, but bringing in Slye has been worth it after clinching the victory here.