Is the Commanders Offense Getting the Respect It Deserves?

As their winning streak grows, Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury is unbothered by whether opposing defenses are starting to respect the offense.
Oct 6, 2024; Landover, Maryland, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) runs with the ball past Cleveland Browns defensive end Ogbo Okoronkwo (54) during the second quarter at NorthWest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
Oct 6, 2024; Landover, Maryland, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) runs with the ball past Cleveland Browns defensive end Ogbo Okoronkwo (54) during the second quarter at NorthWest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images / Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
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With the Week 6 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens looming, all eyes are the Washington Commanders to see if they can keep their winning streak alive. As the weeks pass, the Commanders offense has steadily built momentum. But one question hangs in the air: are opposing defenses finally starting to respect their ability on the ground?

When asked if he feels that respect is finally coming for his offense, Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury shared some candid thoughts. “Yeah, I’m not sure,” he said. “That’s never really been what we’ve been trying to be about. It’s more just maximize that week, what we can do offensively to score the most points.”

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels
Oct 6, 2024; Landover, Maryland, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) runs with the ball past Cleveland Browns defensive end Ogbo Okoronkwo (54) during the second quarter at NorthWest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images / Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Washington strategy has been simple. It’s not about proving anything to anyone but finding the best way to put points on the board, whether running or airing it out in the passing game. “So, if we got to run it every play, we will. If we got to throw it, we’ll throw it,” Kingsbury added, showcasing a flexibility that speaks volumes about their growth this season.

And let’s be honest having a playmaker like Jayden Daniels in the backfield only increases their chances. “Our guys have done a nice job. It helps when Jayden’s adding those type of yards of his own.” Daniels ability to extend plays and contribute to the rushing stats has become a game-changer.

But the challenge ahead is clear, especially with a defense like the Ravens on the horizon. As Kingsbury noted, “That Baltimore rushing attack is vaunted right now when I watch their offense every week and what they’re doing. So, we’d have a long way to go to kind of reach that level.”

As game day approaches, it’s evident that the Commanders are ready to showcase their evolution as an offense. Whether running the ball or throwing it, they’re focused on one mission—maximizing every opportunity to score. Let’s see if they bring that same energy to the field against Baltimore.


More Washington Commanders News

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• Commanders Coach Pleased with Defensive Progress

• Can Commanders Stop Ravens RB Derrick Henry?


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Joane Coley
JOANNE COLEY

Joanne Coley, from Prince George’s County, MD, is a communications professional passionate about storytelling and sports. She holds a bachelor’s in Communications from Kent State University and a Master’s in Communications/Public Relations from Southern New Hampshire University. Since 2018, she has served as Communications Manager at the Council of the Great City Schools. A foodie and traveler, Joanne is also a former state champion in high school shotput and standout athlete in softball.