Commanders News: Eric Bieniemy, Ron Rivera, Sam Howell and Jacoby Brissett
By Dean Jones
Which Washington Commanders news stories are hitting the headlines as preparations become finalized for their Week 16 game at the New York Jets?
There are far more questions than answers where the Washington Commanders stand right now. There's a sense of insecurity and uncertainty across the board. Big changes are coming, it's just a case of plowing through the team's regular-season commitments and seeing what comes next.
Until then, the stories causing debate include Ron Rivera on facing a difficult New York Jets' pass defense this weekend, Sam Howell focusing on the now, Eric Bieniemy's methods in the wake of his quarterback being benched, and Jacoby Brissett already linked with another team a few months before free agency.
Let's delve into each topic in more detail.
Ron Rivera on the Jets' pass defense
The New York Jets are going through complications offensively. Aaron Rodgers tearing his Achilles after just four snaps this season completely shifted their ambitions. Had it not been for their defense, things would look even worse.
Gang Green currently ranks No. 2 in passing yards allowed league-wide. This hasn't gone unnoticed by head coach Ron Rivera, who is expecting a tough challenge for the Washington Commanders in Week 16 based on comments via Sports Illustrated.
"First, I think it starts a lot with their pass rush and then how physical they're at the line of scrimmage. They've got tall long corners, guys that are very physical with their hands. You've got to be able to get off clean and get into your routes quickly, and you just can't win off the line because they come back at you. You got to win on your second release downfield when you're getting ready to make your break and you get the top end."
- Ron Rivera via Sports Illustrated
Washington's passing attack hasn't exactly been firing on all cylinders of late. Any further regression in this one could result in another long afternoon.