New England Patriots vs. Washington Commanders: 5 Key Questions
The Washington Commanders (3-5) are set to face off against the New England Patriots (2-6) on Sunday at 1 p.m. from Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Mass.
Washington is one of 10 teams that New England is undefeated against at home at Gillette Stadium in regular season play with a 2-0 record. The Patriots enter this week with four straight wins against the Commanders.
In anticipation of this Week 9 showdown, Patriots Country ‘crossed the streams’ with Commander Country (CC) to provide some interesting insight from behind enemy lines.
1.) How are the Commanders reacting to the trades of both Montez Sweat and Chase Young and what type of effect will it have on them this weekend?
CC: The Commanders are adopting a "next man up" mentality. That's what defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio has been stressing and the team has depth at that position, which is why they felt okay trading both of them as opposed to one. However, they are two very talented pass rushers, so it has to have some type of effect.
The Patriots offensive line may have a bit of an easier time, but they will still have to deal with Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne, the two anchors on the defensive line.
New England Patriots QB Mac Jones
Brian Fluharty/USA Today Images
2.) With Curtis Samuel out for the game with a toe injury, greater focus will be on receiver Terry McLaurin. However, who is another player on offense that the Patriots should be mindful of this Sunday?
CC: I would expect Jahan Dotson to have another big game. He's struggled this year a bit but had his best game of the year last week against the Eagles, totaling over 100 yards.
A big reason behind Dotson's "sophomore slump" has been the emergence of Curtis Samuel, who wasn't always healthy last year. So with Samuel out, I'd expect Dotson to step into that production role.
3.) The Commanders defense has had its difficulties in stopping the run. How might they look to stop Rhamondre Stevenson and Ezekiel Elliott?
CC: It's all about getting those early down stops. Force Mac Jones to play quarterback and go third-and-long. Stevenson is definitely the likelier "breakout" player over Elliott, so limiting him would be key in order for the Commanders to win.
4.) If the Commanders are to be victorious, what is their one key (or must-have) to win?
CC: Protect Sam Howell. This guy has more sacks than a school cafeteria. The offensive line was better last week than it had been in recent weeks, but it can still improve. Howell has proven that he can do a lot with a little bit of time, so if he has it, Washington can succeed on Sunday.
5.) What is your game prediction?
CC: New England 24, Washington 17
Patriots Country also provided Pats insight on Sunday’s game for Commander Counrty. The second part of this joint interview may be found HERE.
