3 players the Commanders must keep quiet at NY Jets in Week 16
By James Dudko
Which New York Jets players must the Washington Commanders keep quiet to win a matchup of struggling teams in Week 16?
Facing a New York Jets team dealing with a carousel at quarterback presents the Washington Commanders a great chance to halt their recent losing skid. Provided they can keep stud wide receiver Garrett Wilson under wraps and avoid two of the standout playmakers on a loaded defense.
Commanders need double coverage to contain Garrett Wilson
Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera, for the time being at least, seems to have an aversion to doubling marquee wide receivers. He didn't employ the strategy against Cooper Kupp and the Los Angeles Rams in Week 15. But there's more incentive to double up on Garrett Wilson.
The obvious reason for bracketing Wilson is that the New York Jets don't have another wideout the Commanders should truly fear. It was different against the Rams, with rookie sensation Puka Nacua also dominating Rivera's thoughts.
Wilson is more of a one-man band. The second-year pro has the speed and moves to make any secondary appear foolish.
The fact Wilson has still made 79 catches for 882 receiving yards in a season where Zach Wilson, Tim Boyle, and Trevor Siemian have all played quarterback, speaks volumes about No. 17's talent.
Rivera needs to keep it simple. Put his most effective cornerback - probably Benjamin St-Juste or Kendall Fuller - over Wilson in press coverage and leave a safety hanging over the top. That look will deter Siemian, who should start if Wilson's still dealing with a concussion, from looking the way of the Jets' most dynamic skill player.
Shutting down Wilson will give the Commanders' offense enough room to go and win this game. Only if the unit has the right plan against a tough Jets defense.