5 bold predictions for Commanders QB Jayden Daniels in Week 3 at Bengals

Jayden Daniels doubles intended air yards number

Kliff Kingsbury has taken things slowly with Jayden Daniels during his initial transition to the NFL. The Washington Commanders' offensive coordinator isn't asking his signal-caller to be Superman or putting too much on his plate early. He's keeping things simple while also providing the quarterback with an extra sense of freedom to be creative when things aren't developing downfield as anticipated.

Kingsbury will open things up offensively as Daniels accumulates more experience. The play-caller might not have a choice on Monday Night Football at the Cincinnati Bengals, especially if they get prolific wide receiver Tee Higgins back from injury to pair with Ja'Marr Chase.

The Bengals have frailties, but they can put up points in a hurry when in the mood. This is something Washington's offense must be ready for and adjust to accordingly. Kingsbury will have a strategy in place, but he must also trust Daniels to go toe-to-toe with fellow LSU Heisman Trophy winner Joe Burrow if needed.

Daniels' intended air yards per pass attempt stands at 4.5 through two weeks. This might need to be doubled if the Commanders are chasing the game in the second half.

Jayden Daniels gets three pass-catchers over 60 yards

The Commanders' passing game hasn't got going fully as yet. That's not uncommon considering there is a new system, new blocking concepts, new faces, and a new franchise quarterback all coming together. There were encouraging signs in Week 2, especially on the game's final drive. This needs to be turned up exponentially against the Cincinnati Bengals looking at their firepower.

This is going to be difficult. For all the Bengals' faults, their pass defense has been impressive this season. They are conceding 128.5 yards per game through the air, which is No. 2 league-wide thanks to strong coverage and an exceptional pass rush led by stud defensive end Trey Hendrickson. If the same trend continues on Monday Night Football, the Commanders might be in for a rough evening.

Jayden Daniels has to take this contest by the scruff of the neck. It is something he managed countless times in college at LSU and Arizona State. He'll need more help in the pros to gain similar success.

Washington's pass-catchers need to stand up and be counted in the face of high-quality opposition. If Daniels can get three of them - whether it be wide receivers, tight ends, or running backs - over 60 receiving yards, that should give the Commanders a fighting chance.