Commanders reserves flunk first test
New England wins opener over Washington, 48-18
It was only a test. If this had been an actual emergency . . . well, then the Washington Commanders would be staring at another bad season.
The New England Patriots taught Washington a little humility in the 48-18 victory on Friday. If anyone thought this season would be easy after reaching the NFC Championship last season, they don’t know football.
Sure, it was only rookies and reserves as 30 veterans didn’t play. But, it takes a village and many reserves will gain prominent roles throughout the season. Last year, the team saw 20 new players after opening day to fill injuries so there’s no blowing off a bad effort. I guarantee coach Dan Quinn and GM Adam Peters aren’t.
A few thoughts:
Special teams was a disaster from allowing the opening kickoff for a 100-yard touchdown to a missed field goal. Kicker Matt Gay has struggled lately, but made a shorter field goal. Still, it wouldn’t be surprising to see another kicker in camp.
Quarterback Sam Hartman didn’t win the No. 3 quarterback off that effort. He was 9 of 19, but receivers dropped several passes. Still, it was the same uneven effort that has plagued Hartman throughout the summer. Either he beats Josh Johnson for the third passer or the team should just move on from him.
The defensive line reserves were knocked back way too often. These guys play about one third of the snaps so it was a disheartening effort as the Patriots ran at will. Johnny Newton’s strip sack was impressive, though.
Running back “Bill” Croskey-Merritt made some nice runs. Not enough for the seventh-ronder to unseat starter Brian Robinson, but he’s worth watching. ‘
Jeremy Reaves and Percy Butler balled out on defense.
Luke McCaffrey left the game with an illness. Injuries would be released until Sunday when the team resumes practice.
First-rounder Josh Conerly and second-rounder Trey Amos were solid. They should both start come opening day.
Quote I like
“I missed it, man. We missed it tonight by a lot. All three phases. So what I'm looking for over the next 10 days is like really good improvement.”
Coach Dan Quinn
Pizza review
What’s football without pizza? I don’t travel to road games anymore (but do attend home games) so I tried a frozen Chicken Alfredo pie. I’m known for pizza reviews so take a minute to watch.
Halftime chat
More than 250 watched my quickie halftime chat on YouTube so I’ll do it during the regular season. I can’t do it for home games because of live broadcasting rules at stadiums, but will from my couch for road games.
Over the weekend
If you’re cooking outdoors, try my Secrets of Caveman Cookbook. Just $10 signed and shipped.
Or, if you want to drink like a president, order my Presidential Pours.
And, as a reward for still reading, you’re the first to know my Jayden Daniels - Smooth Operator book will be released Sept. 9. Pre-orders will begin soon.
Seeya soon.