Ron Rivera Appeared Unaware of Commanders’ Possible Playoff Elimination

Washington lost 24–10 to the Browns on Sunday, endangering their postseason hopes.

Commanders coach Ron Rivera appeared to reveal that he didn’t know the team could be eliminated from playoff contention on Sunday until a reporter mentioned it in the team’s postgame press conference.

Washington lost to the Browns, 24-10, in the early window of games on Sunday. If the Packers beat the Vikings in the late-afternoon (ET) window of games, the Commanders will officially be eliminated from the playoffs.

NBC Sports Washington’s Grant Paulsen asked Rivera if he would consider playing third-string quarterback Sam Howell against the Cowboys next week. Rivera looked confused and asked, “We can be eliminated?”

When the reporter clarified the situation to Rivera, he seemed surprised when saying, “Ah, sorry.”

Here is the video. I wanted to know if Howell is in consideration for next week. Turns out Rivera coached the entire day not knowing that WSH could be eliminated by night’s end.pic.twitter.com/3K2108VKYY.

— Grant Paulsen (@granthpaulsen) January 1, 2023

Rivera clarified his comments after the conference, noting to ESPN’s John Keim that he hadn’t thought of the playoff scenario if the Commanders lost to the Browns because he was focused on the team winning. So, he said he was “frustrated” by the reporter’s question.

Ron Rivera clarified his postgame remark about not knowing they could be eliminated. Said he was frustrated by the question; said he didn't know they could be eliminated because he thought they would win & only focused on what would happen IF they won. Didn't consider alternative

— John Keim (@john_keim) January 1, 2023

The Commanders dropped to 7–8–1 with Sunday’s loss. They will indeed be eliminated from the postseason if the Packers (7-8) beat the Vikings (12-3).