The Washington Commanders are facing a challenging Week 11 matchup against the Miami Dolphins with a disappointing record of 3-7. The team’s struggles this season have been largely attributed to injuries, with key players like Jayden Daniels, Dorance Armstrong, Terry McLaurin, and Sam Cosmi missing significant time. However, the defense’s lackluster performance has arguably been a more pressing issue.
Currently, the Commanders rank among the worst in the league in terms of points allowed, with only three teams conceding more points per game. In recent weeks, their defensive woes have escalated, as only the Cincinnati Bengals have allowed more points over the last three games. Additionally, the team stands 31st in passing yards allowed per game, a significant drop from last season’s performance.
In response to these issues, head coach Dan Quinn has decided to assume defensive play-calling responsibilities from Joe Whitt Jr. Whitt, who was brought in as the defensive coordinator ahead of the 2024 season, underscored his understanding of the situation. “I’ve been in this business long enough, and at the end of the day, it’s about winning,” he stated, acknowledging the need for improvement.
Whitt, who has a history of collaboration with Quinn from their time together with the Atlanta Falcons and the Dallas Cowboys, expressed a commitment to overcoming the current challenges. When asked about the demotion, Whitt remarked, “It doesn’t matter if it’s hard to accept or not… The performance was not what it needed to be, and we’re not winning.”
As the Commanders prepare for their matchup against the Dolphins in Spain, there is a sense of urgency to turn things around. This change in leadership on the defensive side may serve as a turning point for the team as they strive to improve their performance and secure much-needed victories. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if these adjustments lead to a revitalized effort on the field.