5 Commanders on the hot seat entering Week 12 vs. the Cowboys
By Dean Jones
Jayden Daniels - Commanders QB
Jayden Daniels is coming off the worst performance of his professional career on Thursday Night Football at the Philadelphia Eagles. Nobody is pressing the panic button where the rookie quarterback is concerned, but the need to bounce back accordingly is there for all to see this weekend at Northwest Stadium.
Daniels has been dealing with a rib issue, which many highlighted as a potential reason behind his struggles. The No. 2 pick wasn't looking for excuses, although offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury revealed to the media that his schematic approach changed to avoid further complications.
Everything seems fine now. The mini-bye did Daniels and everyone associated with the Washington Commanders good. There's more zip on his throws in practice and the steely determination in his demeanor has returned.
That's good news heading into Week 12, but Daniels can take nothing for granted versus a Dallas Cowboys defense that boasts some top-level weapons. Playing with confidence, commanding the huddle, and coming through in critical moments are essential in the pursuit of getting Washington back to winning ways.
Dan Quinn - Commanders HC
Attitude reflects leadership. Dan Quinn has been the embodiment of exactly that since becoming Commanders head coach, inspiring a sensational culture shift and dragging this perennial struggler to a potential playoff berth much sooner than expected.
This game will be an emotional affair for Quinn. He left the Cowboys earlier this year to take the top job in Washington. Keeping everything on an even keel and making sure his players do the same will be his primary objective throughout.
There will be pleasantries exchanged before and after the game. But for 60 minutes between the white lines, it should be all business for Quinn as he looks to break a two-game losing streak. Nothing else will do.
Quinn is professional and experienced enough to take everything in his stride. Becoming erratic and reactionary isn't in his mindset. Remaining composed and adjusting effectively to what's unfolding in front of him should be enough to secure bragging rights and pile more misery on his old employers.
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