Loser No. 1
Michael Deiter - Commanders C
The Washington Commanders didn't have starting center Tyler Biadasz to call upon at the Dallas Cowboys after he was ruled out through injury. His presence was sorely missed once again.
Veteran free-agent signing Michael Deiter once again replaced Biadasz as the offensive line's anchor. He's not played much this season and it shows. The communication pre-snap is not in sync, there are times he becomes flustered in pass protection, and there isn't enough core strength to make a difference on running plays.
That's a dangerous combination that the Cowboys had no trouble taking advantage of. Micah Parsons spotted this weak link and exploited it accordingly. Deiter fared a little better in the second half, but his overall production left a lot to be desired.
The Commanders were erring on the side of caution with Biadasz. Hopefully, he can resume his place in the lineup at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Deiter goes to the sideline. Otherwise, it's going to be immensely difficult to counteract the supreme threat posed by stud nose tackle Vita Vea.
Winner No. 2
Mike Sainristil - Commanders CB
Jayden Daniels is gaining the lion's share of national media plaudits after a sensational campaign. The quarterback normally takes the limelight, but anyone who's followed the Commanders' progress closely this season knows another rookie is making significant waves.
The Commanders got a steal in Mike Sainristil. Nick Saban's assessment of the cornerback following the 2024 NFL Draft was right on the money. He punches well above his weight class and boasts the elite-level mentality to never back down from a challenge.
With Pro Bowl cornerback Marshon Lattimore once again missing, Sainristil needed to step up. The second-round pick answered the call, putting on one of his best coverage performances of the season. He also made his tackles count with supreme ferocity from start to finish.
This was another indication of what a special player the Commanders have on their hands. Sainristil transitioned from the slot to the boundary seamlessly. There are still times of struggle, but they are becoming less frequent. Considering how difficult it can be for cornerbacks to adjust, his early contribution is the best possible foundation from which to build.
Sainristil is a core foundational piece to build around. That's not up for discussion after a standout first season in the pros.