The Washington Commanders kicked their way to victory, defeating the New York Giants on Sunday. Although the Commanders scored no touchdowns, the team managed to fuel up enough momentum to come out on top 21-18.
Here are the top three takeaways from The Washington Commanders’ week two performance against the New York Giants.
- Commanders Finally Signed A New Kicker
The search for a new starting kicker has finally come to a close for the Washington Commanders. After releasing Brandon McManus in June and Cade York last week after facing the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Washington has finally signed Austin Seibert.
Before Sunday’s defeat, Seibert hadn’t played in a regular season game since Week 2 of the 2023 season. The home division battle against the New York Giants was the ultimate test for him. He indeed passed with flying colors, moving his kicker resume into Washington’s starting lineup.
Seibert executed 7-of-7 field goal attempts against the Giants setting the single-game record in Commanders franchise history.
“The story of the game certainly goes to Austin. To have a franchise record in your very first game, that’s a big deal,” said Head Coach Dan Quinn. “[It’s] not easy going into a new locker room without all the time and chemistry.”
- The Offense Enhances The Run Game
Washington’s offense dominated the run game leaving the Giants defense dreadless in week two Commanders running backs Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler are fueling up a new vision for a promising future for Washington’s offense.
Robinson Jr. had a career-high game, rushing 133 yards on 17 attempts. The Giants defense struggled every time Robinson touched the ball. Robinson moved swiftly past and over the Giants back seven, moving the Commanders forward.
Austin Ekeler joined the dominant run game adding 38 yards on eight rushes. As a receiver who did a great deal of destruction this past Sunday, Ekeler caught three passes for 47 yards, which included one in the fourth quarter that really sparked fans’ excitement.
The thrilling Commanders performance discussion would not be complete with talking about quarterback Jayden Daniels. Daniels continues to be a standout for Washington, running for 44 yards against the Giants. The quarterback will continue to be a crucial part of the Commanders offense as he continues to progress in field efficiency and strong athleticism.
- Penalties Are Still A Setback For The Commanders
Penalties still pose as a major issue for the Commanders, which set them back in touchdown scoring this past Sunday.
The Commanders approached red zone territory six times without scoring any touchdowns. The referees called five procedural penalties against Washington which affected their scoring ability, forcing Seibert to command the field.
Although the Commanders were still able to dominate offensively, touchdowns are still a crucial part of the game of football. The Commanders moving forward must improve in executing first-down and situational football when scoring in the red zone.
The Washington Commanders managed to finish the week improving their overall record 1-1, placing no. 4 in the NFC conference and no.1 in the NFC East Division.
Washington will hit the road next for Monday’s matchup on Sept. 23 against the Cincinnati Bengals.