Predicting the Commanders next four games after 3-3 start in 2023
By Dean Jones
Commanders at Patriots - Week 9
The Washington Commanders would be at the midseason point with a .500 record in this scenario, so the margin for error is incredibly slim. The walls are closing in on Ron Rivera as Josh Harris' ownership group makes plans for the future, but the head coach won't be going down without a fight that's for sure.
The New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium is on the Week 9 schedule. This is not the daunting task of old.
Bill Belichick's men are a long way from the dynasty that spanned almost two decades. Their 1-5 record currently reflects how things are transpiring for a figurehead that's under a significant amount of pressure for the first time.
This is something the Commanders can take advantage of. They have the superior quarterback, better offensive weapons, and a defense that can make life extremely difficult for signal-caller Mac Jones provided the former first-round pick is still under center by this point.
Going on the road is never easy in the NFL, no matter the opposition. But again, the Commanders have absolutely nothing to fear in this one and might even be favored for the clash depending on what happens in the coming fortnight.
Prediction: Win (5-4)
It would be a body blow if the Commanders couldn't win this one. Considering their extra sense of urgency and how the Patriots are performing this season, they can pile more misery on Belichick if complacency doesn't become an issue.