The Washington Commanders did remarkably well to reach the playoffs in Year 1 under this new regime. That doesn't mean there isn't pressure to perform well and potentially secure a win or two along the way.
Head coach Dan Quinn knows the Commanders are underdogs on the road at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He's using that as a source of motivation, ensuring his squad has an us-against-the-world mentality with the knockout rounds on the immediate horizon.
It'll take a collective effort. Everyone who's played well up to now must raise their performance levels. Those who haven't met expectations need to dust themselves off and dig deep to improve their fortunes.
Some will be counted upon more than others. There is a nice blend of youth and experience across the roster. Several have gone deep into the postseason elsewhere. Others have gone one step further and hoisted the Vince Lombardi Trophy. Having this previous knowledge is only going to serve Washington well.
The time for half measures is over. This is the moment everyone must reach or exceed their targets. Otherwise, it won't be long before the Commanders are heading on vacation.
With this in mind, here are five Commanders players who cannot flounder in the playoff pressure cooker. We'll start with veteran running back Austin Ekeler.
Commanders players who cannot flounder in the playoff pressure cooker
Austin Ekeler - Commanders RB
Seeing Austin Ekeler on the field in Week 18 at the Dallas Cowboys was a big boost. The Washington Commanders took their time with the running back, allocating just three carries and two targets in his direction. This was a bedding-in period before getting potentially more involvement in the wildcard round.
This was a big step in the right direction for Ekeler, who'd been out since suffering a serious concussion against the Cowboys in Week 12. Taking every possible precaution was the right call. With another week to rest and prepare, expect to see the dual-threat weapon get an increased workload if he's ready at Raymond James Stadium.
Ekeler's presence was sorely missed. The Commanders' ground game is too reliant on rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels to gain yards. Although the Buccaneers have struggled with mobile signal-callers this season, the running backs must also do their part.
The former undrafted free agent out of Western Colorado is an experienced figure who knows how to excel with the spotlight glaring. Ekeler's ability to be a useful asset in the passing game is only going to help, but much will depend on what the Commanders feel is acceptable usage.