Lucas Patrick - Commanders OL
The Washington Commanders feel comfortable enough moving forward with Lucas Patrick as their starting center. This doesn't reflect well on general manager Adam Peters' blind faith in Nick Allegretti, but it's their best option right now.
Patrick has been solid if unspectacular. That's all the Commanders really needed, especially after how much shakier things looked with Allegretti at the anchor. Having Jayden Daniels back and mobile will help, but Osa Odighizuwa poses another strong challenge in Santa Clara.
Odighizuwa is well known to head coach Dan Quinn. He worked closely with the defensive lineman during their time together with the Dallas Cowboys, so he'll know how best to counteract his skill set.
That's easier said than done.
While Odighizuwa is a physical force, his consistency can dip in and out. It'll be a challenge for Patrick, but he's got a shot at containing him if the early battles swing in his favor.
Odafe Oweh - Commanders OLB
Odafe Oweh has had an up-and-down start to life with the Commanders. The edge rusher has had some nice moments, but Washington is paying him like an elite performer, and he hasn't met those expectations yet.
Oweh was always going to have a transitional period. He's gone from a rotational pass-rushing presence to a focal point of opposing protection schemes. He's got 13 pressures through five games but only two sacks, so turning these chances into takedowns is the next challenge.
That will be difficult against the San Francisco 49ers.
The former Penn State star will be tasked with overcoming ex-Washington left tackle Trent Williams. He might be in his career twilight, but the blindside enforcer remains a stonewalling presence. And after how things unfolded with the Commanders, he always has a little extra saved for this occasion.
Oweh has the quickness to hold his own. But if Williams gains early momentum, it's over.
Commanders slot cornerbacks
This might not be a problem if returning cornerback Trey Amos is ready for a heavy workload after missing the best part of a year. However, that seems unlikely, so the Commanders have a problem coping with veteran tight end George Kittle.
The All-Pro made a quicker-than-expected return from a torn Achilles. Many wondered if there would be any performance regression, but those fears were quickly quashed. Kittle looked like his old self, delivering fearsome blocking and making his presence felt in the passing game, too.
The Commanders have to figure this out.
Who'll play the slot remains to be seen. Kittle is a physical presence, so the likely options are Amos or Rasul Douglas. Daronte Jones could also use Fabian Moreau, but that might be a recipe for disaster.
If they're desperate, Mike Sainristil is another option. That wouldn't be wise, so this is one of the trickiest conundrums for Jones to solve.
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