Instant reactions to the Commanders convincing win over the Texans
2. The offense was good…… enough.
Washington’s offense won’t ever be world-beaters. They have to walk a thin line weekly due to a shaky offensive line, and Heinicke’s inability to challenge the defense consistently with his arm. And today, they were fine. They were good enough to beat the Texans, but against others, that may not have been the case.
After the high point of the year with a win on Monday Night Football in Philly, the Taylor Heinicke experience went on a downslope today. From the jump, Heinicke seemed a tad off all day. He underthrew open receivers, was indecisive, and the offensive line did him no favors as well in pass protection.
QB Taylor Heinicke has helped the Commanders to four wins in five starts.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) November 20, 2022
Washington is now above .500 (6-5), in the NFC Wild Card chase and Heinicke has earned $500,000 in incentives for those 4 wins.
Pretty, pretty good.
Heinicke avoided the negative play (shoutout to Jalen Pitre). He has earned the starting job, rightfully so. His story, his hair-on-fire nature, and his accomplishments from being a backup in the XFL to being one of the 32 NFL starting QBs are nothing short of incredible. However, for him to take the team to the next step he will need to be more consistent.
The running game for Washington was the driving force for Washington today. They totaled over 150 yards on the ground, mixing in Curtis Samuel into the action, and were able to manufacture a few drives to methodically beat the Houston Texans.
They weren’t overly efficient again— averaging just 3.8 yards per carry. However, the Commanders are beginning to start to develop an identity on offense. A methodical operation that relies on wearing out its opponent and occasionally hits the big play.
Also, Logan Thomas had his best game of the year. He hauled in 5 catches for a team-leading 65 yards. Thomas looked spry and seems to be returning to old form. His presence will be a huge benefit down the stretch for Washington.
Washington’s passing attack has a few kinks in the armor and will need to be more consistent, however, there can’t be too much complaining. Washington took care of the ball, wore down the Texans, and made just enough plays through the air to never give Houston a chance.
The Commanders took care of business on Sunday.