Daronte Jones has helped improve the Washington Commanders’ defense.
The Commanders’ first-year defensive coordinator has overseen the progress of the unit, which is not as susceptible to big plays as it was earlier in the season. Head coach Dan Quinn was asked Tuesday in his press conference about Jones and his defense in the last few games.
"From the group, I’ve liked the tackling,” expressed Quinn. “I think that’s improved. I’ve liked where the explosives are being limited. That’s their communication, their leverage to go."
Indeed, the Commanders in games two through four gave up 30 or more points in each (37, 31, 30). In their last four games, the Commanders have limited their opponents to under 30 in each of those games: (Giants 27, 49ers
23, Eagles 10, Rams 20).
Quinn also took time to point out that he really likes Jones as his coordinator and how Jones is going about his job. “I always admire him as the teacher to go. But recognizing if there is to be a layer or two out right now, let’s do that. And I felt that. I felt that from the second half of San Francisco into the next, into the next."
Yes, the week prior to the 49ers, the Commanders found themselves up 27-13 in the second half, and the defense then allowed two long Giants touchdown drives tying the game, sending it to halftime. The defense held the 49ers scoreless from the middle of the third quarter, kept the Eagles scoreless in the second half, and limited the Rams to 20 points, which was the lowest for a team defeating Washington this season.
“I’m looking to see us build upon that. It’s difficult with both the big guys inside, (now) out. So I like seeing their consistency.” The Commanders defense gets another shot at the Giants on Thursday Night Football on Amazon Prime. If the Commanders can get another lead this time, Jones' defense needs to shut the door on the Giants.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Commanders' Dan Quinn sees improvement in Washington's defense
