5 Things We Learned About the Commanders in the NFC Championship

The Commanders Are Not a Top-Tier Team

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This offseason, Washington fans will need to digest this hard truth: This iteration of the Commanders is not a top-tier team.

Granted, Washington went on a run to the NFC Championship Game. However, as we saw, they don't have a sustainable path to another 12-win season or championship berth. Their defense was ineffective, and their offense lacked a running game. More concerningly, Dan Quinn still hasn't found a way to out-coach his competitors. 

With a few minor changes, this team could emerge as a top Super Bowl threat. But if things remain unchanged, the Commanders are destined for more heartbreaking playoff exits.

An Adequate Running Back Would Transform the Commanders' Offense

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As good as Jayden Daniels was this season, the Commanders' offense was lacking in some departments. Washington was without a quality running back, severely limiting their play-calling options.

Sunday's loss to the Eagles is a prime example of what was wrong with the Commanders' attack. Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler combined for a paltry 51 yards on 19 carries, equaling 2.7 yards per carry. Sadly, that was reminiscent of most of their efforts over the latter part of the campaign. 

Washington can avoid the same pitfalls they encountered with RGIII by investing in an adequate running back. As they've recently found out, insulating their quarterback is the best way to protect Daniels's longevity.

The Commanders Defense is Atrocious

Anyone holding a Commanders' +6.5 position probably ripped up their ticket on the Eagles' first offensive play of the game. From there, things only got worse. Washington validated all of the concerns that hampered their outlook all season -- their defense is atrocious. 

Philadelphia put up 459 yards of total offense, with the Commanders giving up 7.7 yards per play. While that was 2.0 yards higher than their season average, Washington still finished among the seventh-worst teams in opponents yards per play. 

The Commanders breathed life into the Eagles' passing game while abandoning their defensive responsibilities on the ground. Surely, these issues will be addressed in the offseason.

Terry McLaurin Needs to be Protected at All Costs

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All of the laudation this season was heaped on other wide receivers. Mike Evans deservingly received praise for his accomplishments. Ja'Marr Chase cemented his position as the top pass-catcher in the game. But it's time to give Terry McLaurin his due. 

The Commanders' wideout wrapped up his fifth-straight 1,000-yard season, finding a new gear in the playoffs. Despite facing a stiff challenge in breaking through the Eagles' secondary, McLaurin still managed 51 yards on three receptions, recording the Commanders' only passing touchdown.

Wide receivers are the most integral position on offense. As McLaurin goes, so do the Commanders. Washington needs to protect its man at all costs.

The Commanders Are Not a Top-Tier Team

Stay ahead of the game and elevate your sports betting experience with SportsGrid.

This offseason, Washington fans will need to digest this hard truth: This iteration of the Commanders is not a top-tier team.

Granted, Washington went on a run to the NFC Championship Game. However, as we saw, they don't have a sustainable path to another 12-win season or championship berth. Their defense was ineffective, and their offense lacked a running game. More concerningly, Dan Quinn still hasn't found a way to out-coach his competitors. 

With a few minor changes, this team could emerge as a top Super Bowl threat. But if things remain unchanged, the Commanders are destined for more heartbreaking playoff exits.