4 Commanders on the hot seat entering Week 12 at Cowboys

Ron Rivera - Commanders HC

Could this be the last time we place Ron Rivera on this particular weekly list?

If the Washington Commanders get a thumping on national television against the Dallas Cowboys, all bets are off.

There is a growing belief Rivera is living on borrowed time. The head coach remains focused and is taking things one game at a time, but a dismal defeat at home to the lowly New York Giants was yet another example of how far this team is from legitimately contending.

Many are now resigned to the fact Rivera will be removed at some stage. When Josh Harris' ownership group pulls the trigger is the new hot topic of discussion.

Another embarrassment during a game that typically draws one of the highest TV ratings of the season on Thanksgiving afternoon might be enough. After their home game against the Miami Dolphins in Week 13 is another possibility. Or Harris' normally patient approach might result in giving Rivera the rest of the season.

Either way, Rivera's seat went from hot to boiling after Sunday's debacle. Although the figurehead won't say it publicly, he knows things are almost beyond the point of no return having experienced something similar when David Tepper bought the Carolina Panthers.

Rivera is a proud man who's carried himself with dignity throughout his Commanders' tenure. But when it's all said and done, the results haven't been good enough and new ownership won't tolerate mediocrity as part of their ambitious plans.