3 winners (and 4 losers) from Commanders' defeat at the Eagles in Week 11
By Dean Jones
Winner No. 1
Austin Ekeler - Commanders RB
There weren't many bright spots offensively for the Washington Commanders in Week 11. It was a lackluster outing for the most part, but Austin Ekeler was one of perhaps two individuals who emerged from the contest with credit.
It's hard to fathom how bad things would have been in the passing game had it not been for Ekeler providing security out of the backfield. He was the Commanders' one source of comfort amid the chaos. The veteran running back made his targets count. He also continued his outstanding contribution in the return game for good measure.
Ekeler brought in eight catches from nine targets for 89 receiving yards. He only got two carries on the ground despite being on the field plenty, which is something Kliff Kingsbury might want to have back considering he was the only player causing any problems to the Philadelphia Eagles defense.
Winning is all that matters to Ekeler. At the same time, this game represented another fine example of why the Commanders brought him into the fold. His role will be integral as Washington looks to get out of its current slump.
Loser No. 2
Kliff Kingsbury - Commanders OC
Kliff Kingsbury's left a hugely positive impression since his decision to spurn the Las Vegas Raiders in favor of the Commanders. The offensive coordinator is building up his reputation and was touted by many to be a potential head coaching candidate in 2025 if the same trend continues. This game was not his finest hour.
Kingsbury put the shackles on his offense with an approach that quickly became way too conservative. The innovation and progressive concepts that saw the Commanders come to life earlier in the campaign weren't utilized. Aside from the pony personnel increase - which is two running backs on the field - the creativity was sorely lacking.
The Commanders stuttered accordingly. Their third-down offense was abysmal and Kingsbury had no answers for what Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio was throwing at him. When they decided to go for the bold fourth-down call, the execution typified how things went during an underwhelming evening at the office.
This was extremely disappointing considering the high stakes attached. Kingsbury must regroup and find better solutions when the Dallas Cowboys come to town in Week 12. Because the Commanders cannot afford to drop another divisional game in their quest for the postseason.