Commanders Coach Ron Rivera Praises 'Competitive' NFC East

“I think it's very good," Washington Commanders coach Ron Rivera said on the NFC East. "This is as competitive as I've seen it in a while."

The Washington Commanders are beginning their divisional schedule this week when they visit the Philadelphia Eagles.

The Commanders come into the week with a 2-1 record, which would have them tied for the lead in over half of the divisions in football. But with the Eagles at 3-0, the Commanders are tied for second alongside the Dallas Cowboys.

“I think it's very good," coach Ron Rivera said. "This is as competitive as I've seen it in a while. I remember back in the day when you had to worry about Washington and you had to worry about Philadelphia and you had to worry about New York and Dallas. There was a time when all four were just constantly vying for the division. It's kind of cool to see it kind of spark back up and come back to life and hopefully we can maintain our part of the bargain.” 

Washington Commanders running back Brian Robinson Jr. carries the ball against the Philadelphia Eagles / Eric Hartline, USA Today

As the only team in the NFC East to not win a playoff game last season, the Commanders have to prove themselves a little more in the division. Washington has a talented roster, but the team has work to do if it wants to reach the top.

The Commanders went 2-3-1 in the division last year and even won their road test in Philly in the middle of the season. That win gave the Commanders a fighting chance to make the playoffs, but they squandered it down the stretch.

A win on Sunday would give the Commanders hope that they can hang with the big boys in the NFC East.