Predicting the Commanders' next four games after 2-1 start in 2024
By Dean Jones
Commanders vs. Panthers - Week 7
- Date: Sunday, October 20
- Time: 4.05 p.m. ET
- Venue: Northwest Stadium
This was seen by many as a guaranteed win just a few short days ago. That's not the case anymore.
The Carolina Panthers took the difficult decision to bench quarterback Bryce Young after just two games. His disastrous start to the campaign and rookie struggles in difficult circumstances left his confidence in tatters. New head coach Dave Canales couldn't let things go on with the locker room becoming increasingly frustrated.
Andy Dalton got the start in Week 3 at the Las Vegas Raiders and the improvements were immediate. The Panthers were nothing short of phenomenal throughout. The offense hummed and scored points at will. Carolina's defense looked a lot better with less time on the field. It's only one win, but Canales' decision to take the No. 1 overall selection in the 2023 NFL Draft out of the firing line was vindicated.
What the future holds for Young is anyone's guess. That will be of no concern to the Washington Commanders, who won't want to fall foul of complacency in front of their expectant fanbase once again. Staying focused and not taking the opposition lightly is the only correct approach.
Jayden Daniels needs to be ready for anything. Ejiro Evero is one of the league's shrewdest defensive minds and will have a plan to limit his contribution considerably. The Panthers are missing stud defensive lineman Derrick Brown after the Pro Bowler suffered a torn meniscus in Week 1. Striking up the gut with a formidable rushing attack is the best place to start.
Brian Robinson Jr., Austin Ekeler, and Daniels look more than capable of churning up yards on the ground. Whether the Commanders' defense is capable of coping with a much-improved offensive operation in Carolina is another matter.
- Prediction: Win (5-2)
Carolina might not be the walkover most anticipated. However, it would be a real disappointment if the Commanders couldn't emerge with another win. Something that could alter general manager Adam Peters' approach at the trade deadline for good measure.
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