3 reasons the Washington Commanders will beat the Browns in Week 5

Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne join the party

Washington Commanders defensive tackles Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne finally appeared last weekend. The two have not only failed to play up to their former standard, but it seems that they may have regressed.

They are two players that can beat double teams, but neither of them has been doing much of that. They carry great responsibility as regards the Commanders' poor defense so far this season. But there were some encouraging signs at the Arizona Cardinals in Week 4.

It was a step in the right direction. However, the Cardinals still had a 100-yard rusher. That simply can't happen if the defense is going to step up and do their part to help this team.

Eventually, the offense is going to get stuffed, and Jayden Daniels is going to experience some rookie troubles. When that happens, the defense must shoulder the responsibility of keeping the Commanders competitive in games.

If the Commanders' defense is going to start rising the ranks, the trenches must raise performance levels. But the good thing about this for fans is that they already know what Allen and Payne are capable of. When the duo is playing to their potential, they are likely the best defensive tackle duo in the NFL.

Payne and Allen are two of the team's highest-paid players. They can set the tone when in the mood and completely change the landscape of a contest. That hasn't happened with enough frequency over the last fortnight, but the tide could be turning based on the final three-quarters last time out.

That's going to happen this weekend, most likely. With a rejuvenated fanbase showing up, showing out, and counting on them, one or both of them will be eager to make game-winning plays.

With the struggling Deshaun Watson under center for the Cleveland Browns, Allen and Payne should each get a sack. Maybe more if they manage to generate early momentum.