5 winners and losers from the Commanders embarrassing loss vs. Bears in Week 5
By Dean Jones
Who were the big winners and losers from an embarrassing loss for the Washington Commanders versus the Chicago Bears in Week 5?
The Washington Commanders were heavily favored to get themselves back to winning ways on primetime against the Chicago Bears. But the sportsbooks and analysts got it wrong as Ron Rivera's men were steamrolled in front of a sold-out crowd at FedEx Field.
This was an absolute disaster almost from start to finish. Washington's offense galvanized everyone after the half-time break, but a missed Joey Slye field goal and yet more defensive failure put pay to any slim hope the Commanders had of salvaging something from the clash.
Some extreme soul-searching is needed as the Commanders now embark on their mini-bye week. Big changes could be coming and the pressure is increasing on Rivera to get things right in pursuit of seeing out his contract under Josh Harris' ownership group.
It was a difficult watch, for the most part. But who were the big winners and losers from Washington's torrid defeat against the Bears in Week 5?
Loser No. 1
Joey Slye - Carolina Panthers K
As previously stated, it looked like the Washington Commanders were on course to make it a one-possession game in the second half. Sam Howell and Eric Bieniemy had figured things out and moved the ball impressively, but their newfound momentum was brought to a complete halt by kicker Joey Slye.
The inconsistent veteran missed a critical field goal attempt that sapped the life out of FedEx Field. It also breathed new life into the Chicago Bears, who pulled away soon after to put the result beyond all doubt.
This has been the tale for Slye from the moment he stepped onto an NFL field. Ron Rivera's loyalty to the player stemming from their time together on the Carolina Panthers is commendable, but this might be the final straw.