5 Commanders reality checks for Week 15 against the NY Giants

The Washington Commanders enter Sunday’s contest at FedEx field against the New York Giants with more on the line than they have had in any other regular season home game in recent history. Amazingly, they can all but guarantee themselves a playoff spot with a win.

After spending the last two weeks unsure quite how to react to a tie, the Commanders have the opportunity to put that odd feeling behind themselves and start looking toward the playoffs if they can take advantage of the extra time to rest, rehab, and prepare, and put the Giants away in primetime on Sunday.

This is the game when you need your leaders to step up. This is the kind of game where guys cement their positions in the Pro Bowl. This is the kind of game where lasting memories are made.

As we all gear up for the weekend, here are this week’s Reality Checks for your Washington Commanders.

5 Commanders reality checks for Week 15 vs the NY Giants

5. The Reality Is, you can’t let Daniel Jones beat you.

With Saquon Barkley beaten up and looking a bit worn down, it’s really unlikely that he’ll have the kind of day that makes Washington nervous. The entirety of the Giants’ offense really runs through Daniel Jones — via his decision-making, running, and some timely deep shots.

Washington’s plan should be to use their “cinco” front all day (they used it sparingly in their first matchup) and spy Daniel Jones with either Jamin Davis or Kam Curl. Maybe Jack Del Rio has another plan. Either way, there’s no excuse to let Jones keep this team in the game in back-to-back contests.  If he doesn’t beat you with his feet in key situations, I don’t think they Giants can muster enough offense to win.

So don’t let him beat you with his feet. Period.

4. The Reality Is, Philly gave you the template.

Under Ron Rivera, the Commanders have often been way too conservative early in games and in key situations at the end of halves, leaving themselves either in deep holes or way too little margin after the first half of many games. In their domination of New York last week, Philadelphia gave Washington the template for the smoothest path to victory against the Giants: attack their secondary early and often.

Rivera’s group has gotten to the point of playoff contention via their commitment to ball-control offense. But knowing their particular opponent this week really wants to play that same kind of game due to their limitations offensively and in their secondary, Washington should find ways to maximize their advantage with their WR corps over the Giants’ secondary.

Utilizing slants and other quick-game routes will also help keep Heinicke in a rhythm. The Commanders should be coming into this game ready to hit New York in the mouth, not looking to avoid losing.