7 bold Washington Commanders predictions at the Buccaneers in Week 1
By Dean Jones
The Washington Commanders are about to embark on one of the most fascinating seasons in the franchise's illustrious history. Josh Harris' ownership group, general manager Adam Peters, and head coach Dan Quinn implemented wholesale changes across the organization this offseason. Hope is slowly being restored among the fanbase, so making the necessary progress in 2024 is crucial.
Nobody is anticipating the Commanders to win the NFC East or perhaps even make the postseason. There was a monumental mess for Peters to clean up. This might be a slow burn rather than an explosion into relevancy, but Washington isn't the laughingstock of years past anymore.
First up for Quinn and his new-look roster is a trip to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. They are the defending NFC South champions and brought almost everyone of note back this offseason. There is continuity on their side, but the unknowns from Washington's standpoint might work in their favor when push comes to shove.
Football is back and we couldn't be happier. With this in mind, we made seven bold predictions for the Commanders in Week 1 at Raymond James Stadium.
Bold Commanders predictions in Week 1 at the Buccaneers
Commanders tight end duo secures 100 yards and one touchdown
The Washington Commanders didn't get nearly enough from their tight end unit throughout Ron Rivera's time as head coach. Logan Thomas was solid if not spectacular, but the fact he didn't catch on anywhere else following his release speaks volumes.
Bigger things are anticipated from the duo of Ben Sinnott and Zach Ertz from a pass-catching standpoint. John Bates is still around to focus on blocking. Kliff Kingsbury's system also demands much more from the position group, especially on the road.
If the duo of Sinnott and Ertz can provide more stability and give Jayden Daniels a security blanket in key situations, the Commanders might be onto something. It's also worth remembering that both are considered supreme red-zone threats capable of turning targets into touchdowns.
Fans should adopt a wait-and-see approach given Ertz's age and Sinnott's inexperience in the pros. That said, going over 100 receiving yards with a touchdown thrown in for good measure represents an exceptional foundation from which to build.