3 problems the Commanders must address before Week 4 at the Cardinals

Commanders' offense must game-plan for Budda Baker

In the same way that the Washington Commanders' defense has not yet faced a tight end the caliber of Trey McBride, rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels has not had to deal with a safety like Budda Baker.

The Arizona Cardinals defense has gotten solid production out of a rotating cast of front seven players this season. Dennis Gardeck and Zaven Collins have developed into quality pass rushers. But Kliff Kingsbury's growing offensive line and the signal-caller's outstanding mobility can counter that to a degree.

Baker is a different matter. He is the heart and soul of the Cardinals' defense and has been one of the best safeties in the league for the better part of the last decade. Though he is primarily known for his crushing hits and strong run support, he is a savvy player who will try to bait Daniels.

The No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft has seemed to get better with every play in his short career, but Daniels can still be slow in recognizing disguised defenses. It seems silly to suggest that he can be fooled after seeing how he dissected the Cincinnati Bengals' defense on Monday Night Football. But again, their safeties are not nearly as sharp and talented as Baker.

Baker also figures to be the Cardinals' primary spy should defensive coordinator Nick Rallis choose to use one in pursuit of counteracting Daniels' ability to generate yards on the ground. The defensive back is a smart player and a hard hitter. So the battle between Washington’s prize rookie and the Cardinals' savvy veteran could turn physical as well as cerebral.

Whoever wins that battle will go a long way toward helping his team win the game. Hopefully, Daniels can build on his positive recent momentum and cement his status as the overwhelming favorite for NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year along the way.

And if Washington does manage to go another entire game without having to punt, I’m buying Tress Way that recliner.

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