This is a different Washington Commanders team. They are not the walkover of previous years. There's a newfound mentality and will to win that was sorely lacking under the previous regime.
Mike Sainristil is one of several players leading an impressive culture shift within the Washington Commanders. That was evident once again as the organization reached double-digit wins.
The rookie second-rounder is enjoying an outstanding first season in a professional environment. His accomplished coverage capabilities have been a welcome addition to the cornerback room. He's also right on the edge emotionally thanks to his fierce competitive spirit.
Mike Sainristil twists the knife after dramatic Commanders win
Another example of this arrived in Week 16. The Commanders came back from the brink to secure a priceless victory over the Philadelphia Eagles in their quest for the postseason. Sainristil didn't take long to let the visiting fans know about it, taunting them after the contest concluded.
Mike Sainristil mocking Eagles fans after Washington wins
— John Clark (@JClarkNBCS) December 22, 2024
Washington scored 22 points in the fourth quarter pic.twitter.com/CIndJaVA0W
Sainristil knows all about this rivalry. He also heard it from Philadelphia's fans at Lincoln Financial Field earlier in the season. The former Michigan standout didn't forget.
The defensive back had every right to clap back. That's all part of the game. However, there's a chance Sainristil and the Eagles' fanbase could reunite pretty soon.
If the Commanders hang onto the seventh seed, which looks entirely possible as things stand, they'll be making the trip to Philadelphia in the wildcard round. This will be hostile, intimidating, and everything in between. Sainristil just put a big bullseye on his back to get more heat than most.
That's just fine with him. Sainristil's fought against the odds through his football journey. He was seen as an undersized player who couldn't make it in college, least of all the pros. He's silenced every doubter with relentless commitment and outstanding instincts to punch well above his weight class. It's no surprise that this sort of player was someone the Commanders coveted heavily during the pre-draft process.
Sainristil is smart enough to know what might come next if Washington and Philadelphia meet in the knockout rounds. This was a heat-of-the-moment reaction when the adrenaline was pumping. It was perhaps ill-advised, but all is fair in love and war.
What's important for Sainristil is remaining composed if he does go to Philadelphia again. The Commanders are counting on the first-year pro to deliver the goods. This increases exponentially if Marshon Lattimore's fresh hamstring issue turns out to be something more concerning.
Talking trash is one thing. But Sainristil's proven on countless occasions this season that he can back it up almost every time.