Bold predictions for the Washington Commanders as they search for their third win of the 2023 campaign against the Buffalo Bills.
After the most dramatic victory many will have ever associated with the Washington Commanders, it's time to turn the page and focus on the next big challenge. Fans have once again sold out FedEx Field for their upcoming clash against the Buffalo Bills, which is the biggest measuring stick yet for Ron Rivera's squad to see where they stack up among the NFL heavyweights.
The Commanders have already shown through two games that they aren't going to be a pushover this season. This team is resilient and a collective group, which is a dangerous combination when one considers the improved coaching and talent at their disposal.
Buffalo looked more like its old self during their rout of the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 2. Any team with Josh Allen under center deserves respect, but the Commanders are not without a chance despite being 6.5-point underdogs with most sportsbooks.
Looking ahead, here are four bold predictions for Washington's stiff test versus the Bills in Week 3.
Commanders CB Emmanuel Forbes gains 2 INTs
Josh Allen is one of the league's most dynamic quarterbacks. However, the former first-round selection has been turnover-prone throughout his NFL career - something the Washington Commanders could take full advantage of.
It wasn't perfect from the Commanders' secondary in Week 2, but they came through when it counted. Rookie cornerback Emmanuel Forbes got his first competitive interception at the Denver Broncos and he'll be relishing the prospect of picking off one of Allen's misjudged throws if given the chance.
For the Commanders to stand any chance of winning this game, it's imperative they win the turnover differential. When Forbes gets even the slightest chance for a takeaway, the first-round pick must capitalize.
Commanders RBs gain 140+ rushing yards
It's no secret that the Buffalo Bills are a tough proposition to overcome. Their defense is being overlooked without stud pass-rusher Von Miller, but they must not be underestimated by the Washington Commanders in Week 3.
Sean McDermott is a defensive-minded coach and a former trusted associate of Ron Rivera from their time together at the Carolina Panthers. He prides himself on restricting the opposition and making things easier for his high-octane offense, although it's evident they are missing the future Pro Football Hall of Famer flying off the edge despite Miller's advancing years.
If the Commanders want to attain success on offense, they must establish the run. Sam Howell proved last weekend that he's got enough in his arsenal to produce the goods from behind, but that's not a typical recipe for success against the more elite NFL teams when it's all said and done.
Keeping linebacker Matt Milano away from the football will be difficult, but Brian Robinson Jr. should be brimming with confidence after his two-touchdown outing in Week 2. The Bills are also giving up 113.5 yards per game on the ground, which the Commanders could easily reach if the offensive line lives up to their end of the bargain.
Antonio Gibson was better last week, so hopes are high for this rushing attack within Eric Bieniemy's much-improved scheme. Gaining 140-plus rushing yards in what is expected to be difficult conditions would make everyone's life easier in Week 3.
Commanders DL gains 6 sacks
It comes as no surprise to anyone who's followed the Washington Commanders closely to see their defensive front start the campaign off positively. This unit is loaded with exceptional talent and the return of Chase Young gave them a different dimension coming from the defensive end position.
Young was fantastic in his first game back after suffering a stinger in the preseason. He was explosive, looked hungry, and came up with some crucial moments in the clutch that played a significant role in the Commanders' epic comeback triumph.
He was ably assisted on the opposite side by fellow defensive end Montez Sweat. The pair combined for three sacks and the team gained seven overall, which is the highest bar to maintain moving forward heading into Week 3 versus the Buffalo Bills.
The Bills are giving up 3.5 sacks per game over the opening fortnight. This seems like a lot when one considers how mobile quarterback Josh Allen is, which won't go unnoticed by Washington's defensive line during their preparations.
Containing the Commanders' front seven is a pick-your-poison situation. If the Bills focus their attention on preventing the two edge rushers, then space immediately opens up for Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne to cause severe complications on the interior.
With a sold-out crowd cheering them on, expect another display of complete dominance to what's arguably the best defensive front four in football.
Commanders win and move to 3-0
Ron Rivera has not had momentum like this since becoming Washington Commanders head coach. But that hasn't stopped sportsbooks from across the country from writing off his team in Week 3.
The Commanders are 6.5-point underdogs at FedEx Field. When one considers the 3.0-point leeway those on home soil normally receive, Vegas expects this to be a mini-blowout based on the odds.
As we all know, football isn't played on paper. The Commanders are reinvigorated under new ownership, boast a rabid fanbase who are fully behind the team without Dan Snyder, and have enough talent to more than match the Buffalo Bills if everyone plays up to the level expected.
They also have a quarterback in Sam Howell with the fearless mentality needed to go toe-to-toe with Josh Allen. He might not have the accomplishments or experience, but there's one thing the former fifth-round pick has that others don't…
Eric Bieniemy.
It won't be easy and it won't be a great shock to some should the Commanders get brought back down to earth. However, there is also nothing to suggest Rivera's squad cannot keep things close at the very least.
And who knows, maybe Washington's long-suffering support can give the players an extra sense of motivation to win and put the entire NFL on notice.