Commanders Coach Ron Rivera Still Positive Despite Losing Streak
A once-promising season has flipped on its head for the Washington Commanders, as they've lost five straight games and have already been eliminated from playoff contention with three games left in the season.
Despite the struggles, Commanders (4-10) head coach Ron Rivera has emphasized staying positive and taking advantage of the opportunities that are out there for his players.
Ron Rivera yelling at a referee vs. the New York Giants on Oct. 22 at MetLife Stadium.
© Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
“I think it's about getting the opportunity to go out and play more than anything else," Rivera said. "I mean, this really is about wanting to be out there, wanting to play this game. And again, you also appeal to their side as professionals. As a professional, you play for what's out there for you and for these guys, yes, it's the opportunity to go out and play and just go out there and want to play, first and foremost. That is what we'll continue to emphasize.”
After a 2-0 start to the season, Washington has lost 10 of its last 12 games. Of those 10 losses, five have been by at least 12 points. The defense, which was expected to be the strength of the team, has allowed the most points per game in the leagues (30.2).
In a season that likely determined Rivera's future with the franchise, they've already matched the most losses in his tenure with the Commanders and will miss the playoffs for the third straight season.
With three games left to play, Washington will have a chance to get back on track against the Aaron Rodgers-less New York Jets (5-9) and to play spoiler to the top two teams in the NFC in the San Francisco 49ers (11-3) and Dallas Cowboys (10-4).
If the Commanders could find a way to take two out of their final three games, it'd be something to build on heading into next season. And even if things don't pan out, they'll be positioned to land a prospect in the 2024 NFL Draft who can help turn their franchise around.
The Commanders face the Jets on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET at MetLife Stadium.
