5 Commanders players on the hot seat entering Week 11 at the Eagles
By Dean Jones
Frankie Luvu - Commanders LB
Much has been made about the Washington Commanders needing to restrict the Philadelphia Eagles' wide receiver tandem of A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. But that is not the bread and butter of this offense anymore.
The primary focus should be Saquon Barkley. He's been nothing short of sensational since joining the Eagles in free agency. The running back looks better than ever, displaying the physical explosiveness needed to take this offense to the next step.
Stopping Barkley at the contact point and identifying the running lanes quickly is crucial. Frankie Luvu will play an integral role in this as the player who can match the backfield threat in quick-twitch speed and ruthless aggression.
Barkley is going to make plays. That's almost a given looking at the way he's applied himself over the first half of 2024. Luvu's task - along with Bobby Wagner - will be to ensure he doesn't penetrate the defensive second level when he inevitably breaks the line of scrimmage.
It's a tough task - one Luvu must accomplish effectively for the Commanders to enhance their hopes.
Jayden Daniels - Commanders QB
Jayden Daniels has proven he's the man for the big occasion. This is undoubtedly the biggest of his fledgling NFL career so far.
Daniels has played in pivotal clashes in college and the pros. He also shone on the primetime stage earlier this season when the Commanders disposed of the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday Night Football, which is an experience that should serve him well in this one.
This is why the Commanders drafted Daniels at No. 2 overall. They knew he had the poise and composure to get the job done and inspire his team in crucial moments. It will be an intimidating atmosphere worthy of the NFL audience's undivided attention. He must deliver.
The Commanders believe they have a chance in any game with Daniels. When they look across the huddle in the highest stakes, there is a level of confidence only associated with the elite signal-callers around the league.
It's a lot to ask of someone still making their way. However, the former LSU phenom has the tools needed to spearhead Washington to a memorable road triumph.
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