Commanders News: Emmanuel Forbes, Sam Howell, power rankings and OL growth
By Dean Jones
Which Washington Commanders news stories are hitting the headlines as attention firmly turns to Week 10 at the Seattle Seahawks?
After head coach Ron Rivera gave his players a well-deserved Victory Tuesday off after their win at the New England Patriots, everyone will get back down to football business today. Another big game awaits the Washington Commanders this weekend, but there's just no telling what another triumph would do for this team's confidence before a daunting run of fixtures to conclude the campaign.
Things are finely balanced, so there's just no telling how it'll go. Until then, the stories causing conversation include Washington's offensive line improvements, Sam Howell keeping a level head, Emmanuel Forbes' resilience, and where the Commanders stand in ESPN's weekly power rankings.
Let's delve into each topic in more detail.
Commanders OL growth
After a torrid start to the campaign, the offensive line has come to life over the last fortnight. To say this was welcome would be an understatement - something that's also enabled Sam Howell to avoid consistent punishment and go through his progressions with far more efficiency.
Schematic alterations from play-caller Eric Bieniemy haven't hurt, either. But the introduction of Chris Paul and Tyler Larsen was thanks in no small part to size and experience (in the latter's case) based on Ron Rivera's comments via USA Today Sports.
"I think the biggest change with him and Chris Paul is, first of all, there’s probably about 60 pounds. They’re both 330 [pounds]. There’s a lot of girth between our two guards and our center. I think that’s been a big part. They’re very stout. Then secondly, I think the big part of it, too, has really been how veteran Tyler is. His experience, his understanding, and feel for what we’re doing and how we’re doing it."
- Ron Rivera via USA Today Sports
Whatever the reasons, it's worked up to now. Things aren't perfect by any stretch, but the last two outings have represented a huge step in the right direction.