This game was a nail-biter for Washington fans. Watching Jayden Daniels leave in the first quarter with a rib injury brought back flashbacks of RGIII. Thankfully, the injury doesn’t seem too serious—he’s listed as week-to-week. If Daniels is downgraded, Marcus Mariota is expected to start in Week 7.
Mariota looked very comfortable in Kliff Kingsbury’s offense. Against Carolina, he delivered an impressive performance with 239 total yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions. He spread the ball effectively, guiding the offense to another critical NFC win.
It was great to see Brian Robinson back from injury, finding the end zone again. Terry McLaurin and Zach Ertz continue to lead the receiving corps, though the battle for a consistent third option is still open, with Olamide Zaccheaus, Dyami Brown, and Austin Ekeler all vying for that role.
The defense was dominant. Donte Fowler had a pick-six, Mike Sainristil seemed to be everywhere, and Daron Payne, Bobby Wagner, Frankie Luvu, and Jeremy Chinn made their presence felt. Even Emmanuel Forbes, who has faced criticism, stepped up with an interception.
Games against struggling teams like Carolina should look like this—Washington played with character and gave fans a glimpse of a potential contender in the making. However, Washington released former first-round pick Jamin Davis earlier this week, a decision that reflects poorly on Ron Rivera’s draft history here. Emmanuel Forbes is the only remaining first-rounder from Rivera’s tenure, and his future remains uncertain.
Next up, Washington hosts Chicago for a marquee matchup featuring the top two picks of the 2024 NFL Draft: Caleb Williams vs. Jayden Daniels. Chicago’s defense can keep games close, and their offense has solid pieces. However, Washington appears more complete and a step further in its rebuilding process. Daniels’ availability will be pivotal, but I feel confident in Mariota if he has to step in. My pick: Washington Commanders.
WASHINGTON 40 — PANTHERS 7
Rod Rioja 