4 exciting traits head coach Dan Quinn brings to the Commanders
By James Dudko
Defensive scheme built for turnovers
Some defenses are bend-don't-break, but Dan Quinn's units can better be described as boom or bust. When everything's clicking, his unit is arguably the most exciting in the NFL because of a knack for generating splash plays and binging on turnovers.
The Dallas Cowboys topped the league with 93 takeaways on Quinn's watch, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. Contrast that eye-catching number with the Washington Commanders snatching just eight interceptions this season, tied for third-fewest in football. They also forced 10 fumbles, 12 fewer than the league-high.
Dan Quinn served as Dallas' defensive coordinator the past three seasons. The Cowboys ranked a combined fifth in points and seventh in yards. Under Quinn, the Cowboys lead the NFL with 93 forced turnovers.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 1, 2024
Quinn also compiled a 43-42 record in five-plus seasons as the Falcons’… https://t.co/jOOnXfLOPg
Those numbers will jump now Quinn and ex-Cowboys assistant Joe Whitt Jr. run the defense in Washington. They'll bring some of the X's and O's magic Darius Butler highlighted for NFL Matchup on ESPN back in October.
The Cowboys have been takeaway artists since Dan Quinn took over.
— Darius Butler (@DariusJButler) October 8, 2023
They will have to win the turnover battle tonight to get the W!
🎥 @NFLMatchup pic.twitter.com/PcbYq1CIGL
The single-high man coverage, three-deep zone shells, and rotating personnel Butler highlighted lead nicely to the next reason why the Commanders should be excited about Quinn's arrival.