Commanders Overcome Turnover Issues, Win First Game Under New Ownership
The Washington Commanders are starting the season in the win column, as they were able to fend off a gritty performance by the Arizona Cardinals to win 20-16.
To say it was a pretty win would be an absolute farce. The Commanders turned the ball over three times in the first half, with two of those turnovers leading to points on the board by the Cardinals. The third and final turnover of the half led to the Cardinals taking their first lead of the game, as Sam Howell fumbled the ball and it was scooped and scored on.
Even despite the disregard for ball security by the offense, the Washington defense came up clutch all game long.
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The defense had multiple stops that led to the Cardinals having to settle for field goals, and Montez Sweat's strip-sack of Josh Dobbs in the fourth quarter set up the offense to score a game-winner. The defense also recovered another Arizona fumble with less than five minutes.
The new ownership headlined by Laker legend Magic Johnson was treated to a victory nonetheless. However, the turnover issues and the fact that the Cardinals who are widely regarded as the worst team in the league, were able to keep it as close as they were should be a wakeup call. Especially when you consider Dobbs has been on the team for about two weeks now, after they cut Colt McCoy and traded for him.
Howell had bright moments in the game despite the pick and fumbling, as he did throw for over 200 yards and a touchdown and showed the ability to push the ball down the field. He also added a rushing touchdown showcasing his athleticism.
The Commanders will need to fix their turnover issues, and also protect Howell better as the second-year quarterback was sacked six times.
On the bright side, to play as poorly as they did and still win is something to hang their hat on.
