Cody Barton - Commanders LB
The Washington Commanders' defense has a lot on their plate in Week 3 despite coming into the game in sensational form. Containing quarterback Josh Allen and a well-balanced, high-octane offense is an almost impossible task - something the Las Vegas Raiders found out to their cost last time out by shipping a whopping 38 points.
Discipline has been the keyword for head coach Ron Rivera this week. The Commanders have to generate a consistent pass rush while also maintaining gap integrity at all times, with the onus also on Washington's defensive backs to provide the assured coverage needed to avoid any big gains.
This makes Cody Barton's role crucial. The free-agent linebacker's endured a rough ride so far through two weeks, looking sluggish in coverage and slow to identify running lanes more often than not.
Barton came up with a big fumble recovery last weekend at the Denver Broncos, which should provide some confidence. But the player's anticipation must improve versus the Bills in pursuit of not becoming a weak link alongside Jamin Davis at the defensive second level.
Washington's defense is exceptional with gifted difference-makers everywhere you look. This obviously makes Barton's inconsistencies stand out even more, which won't have gone unnoticed by the Bills during their preparations for the clash in recent days.