Commanders Deliver in All Three Phases

Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn addressed the media after his team’s emphatic 41-24 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, and his message centered on resilience, complementary football, and execution. Quinn said the team answered the challenge he issued following last week’s disappointing loss to Green Bay.

“After last game, we spoke about complementary football and where we missed some opportunities,” Quinn said in his opening statement. “This week, we didn’t miss on those chances, and that’s really important to pass the baton to the next group.”

Special teams set the tone early, as wide receiver Jaylin Lane scored on a punt return and Deebo Samuel Sr. produced a long kick return that resulted in another touchdown. Quinn credited those explosive plays for shifting momentum. “When you can capitalize and win on field position, those are winning football moments,” Quinn said. “When you do it, the results almost write themselves.”

Quinn also laughed off a sideline collision that left him momentarily shaken. “We all had a good laugh about it for sure,” he joked. Doctors evaluated him at halftime, but he quickly returned to the sideline. “They had too many people around. I said, go take care of the guys,” he added.

Mariota Leads, Depth Players Shine

The veteran quarterback’s performance impressed his head coach. “I was pleased,” Quinn said of Marcus Mariota. “He felt very much in control. Aggressive run, pass stuff, scrambling, being aggressive. He’s just so steady. I was super proud of him.” Mariota responded to an early fumble by remaining calm and delivering a clean, balanced game.

Quinn highlighted the contributions of depth players and young talent. Running back Jeremy McNichols broke free for a long touchdown run, while Jacory ‘Bill’ Croskey-Merritt delivered a critical blitz pickup that Quinn said “takes confidence to go and be there.” The coach praised the team’s roster depth, noting that several players stepped in after not playing in Week 2.

He emphasized competition as a core value when discussing the decision to sit guard Brandon Coleman. “Competition’s part of who we are in all ways,” Quinn explained. “This is what we’re doing right today, and we’ll keep digging.”

Defense Played Big and Created Pressure

On defense, Quinn praised the Commanders’ ability to pressure Raiders quarterback Geno Smith. “We had to get the pressure on this guy,” Quinn said. “He can absolutely rip the ball, but I was pleased to see the group’s effort and mindset.”

Quinn also spoke highly of linebacker Bobby Wagner’s leadership, saying, “How would you not want to go fight for guys like him? He’s one of a kind.”

Quinn closed his presser by stressing the importance of complementary football and the confidence the victory instills moving forward. “We weren’t happy after last week,” he said. “But we made the adjustments. That energy and resilience carried over from the opening play. This team is proving it can deliver in all three phases when it matters.”

The Commanders now stand at 2-1, with their Week 3 win showcasing the depth, discipline, and competitive mindset Quinn has worked to instill. Fans can expect that same aggressive, opportunistic style as Washington prepares for its next challenge.

Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us.

This article was originally published on Heavy Sports

The post Commanders Deliver in All Three Phases appeared first on Heavy Sports.