Washington Commanders fans should be up bright and early today as the team takes on the Indianapolis Colts in an international game. But even though it's been refreshing to get a change of pace, this is still a business trip for head coach Dan Quinn's squad.
The Commanders have momentum after upsetting the Seattle Seahawks in Week 3. It will count for nothing if they cannot beat the Colts and their long-time nemesis, quarterback Daniel Jones.
While Jones' time with the New York Giants fizzled out, he frequently put up quality numbers against Washington. This is a different defense now, but things won't be easy for the Commanders without star quarterback Jayden Daniels and potentially wide receiver Terry McLaurin, who is touch-and-go with a hamstring problem.
The stakes are high, and the margin for error remains thin. Before the clash, here are four bold predictions for the Commanders in Week 4 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Bold predictions for the Washington Commanders in Week 4 against the Indianapolis Colts
Antonio Williams gains 100+ receiving yards
With Terry McLaurin probably missing the contest, someone will have to step up in the receiver room. All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner might turn his attention to four-time Pro Bowl wideout Stefon Diggs now, which could mean more is needed from third-round rookie Antonio Williams.
The former Clemson star has flashed some promise over the first three games. Williams also has some concentration issues that must be rectified before confidence in his capabilities increases. But if McLaurin misses time, he'll never have a better chance of breaking out.
Commanders' run defense holds Jonathan Taylor under 60 yards
Washington's run defense has been a breath of fresh air this season, ranking third league-wide in average yards allowed. Daronte Jones' 3-4 front is clogging space and making things difficult, while added edge speed is making it hard to gain yards on the outside.
This trend must continue against the Colts. There aren't many better running backs in the league than Jonathan Taylor, but if the Commanders can continue their good form, they'll have a chance.
Chig Okonkwo scores two touchdowns
The Commanders haven't gotten much production from their tight ends in the passing game, but Chig Okonkwo is back. He's missed the last two contests with a hamstring injury, and the Maryland product will be eager to make up for some lost time.
With McLaurin potentially out, veteran backup quarterback Marcus Mariota needs as much security over the middle and in the red zone as possible. Okonkwo's size and dynamism make him the perfect candidate for a big day at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Commanders gain three turnovers
The Commanders' defense came to life last weekend, and much of that came from their ability to generate turnovers. Daronte Jones will demand the same here, and even though Daniel Jones is a more decisive signal-caller these days, he can make mistakes when pressured.
This is something the Commanders look more than capable of. Whether it's fumbles or interceptions, winning the turnover battle will be crucial to Washington's hopes of getting back to .500 in London.
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