The Los Angeles Rams are set to play the Washington Commanders this week, and if the Rams wish to achieve a winning record for the first time this season, they will need to deal with a team that refuses to capitulate. Here are three lessons the Rams can learn about the Commanders from their first seven games this season.
Washington may not win, but it won't be for a lack of trying
Washington's effort level this season has been unreal, and for a team that has been struggling, there's a reason why head coach Dan Quinn's seat isn't as hot as others in the NFL. The Commanders play with a passion and an attitude that goes above and beyond. It feels like there's a real belief within the organization behind what they're about, and if they can clean up their on-field operation – especially with penalties – they could
turn the corner.
They do get sloppy at times, and their list of injured players doesn't help. Wins may be hard to find in the nation's capital, but that doesn't mean the organization is packing it in. They play with a fire, especially at home, where this game will be taking place.
Diggs leads the way
Stefon Diggs has been a godsend for the Washington Commanders offense, especially now that Terry McLaurin is out for the season. Despite being one of the last big-name free agents left on the board this offseason, primarily due to legal issues that Diggs squashed this summer, his production is the only thing keeping Washington in the hunt for the postseason.
He has 27 receptions for 252 yards and five touchdowns through six games played, and he was on the field for their only two wins of the season. Due to his elbow injury and how that has impacted his play, quarterback Jayden Daniels is no longer the biggest threat within Washington's offense. Diggs is.
P's and Q's
There isn't anything special about Washington's operation, and that's why they're 2-4-1 this season. They should be 3-4, if we're being honest, but we need to dive deeper beyond the record. They had some struggles early, but they beat the Seattle Seahawks and played the San Francisco 49ers close.
They are really well coached and are outperforming the expectations that their roster provides. They do the little things well enough to drag games into deep water, and they're finding their footing. The Rams can ill-afford to come up short on the details. Primarily, executing early offensively, maintaining solid pass-rushing lanes that prohibit Daniels from stepping up into space, and avoiding turnovers/special teams letdowns.
If the Rams try to be too exotic in their overall approach, Washington has the ability to make teams pay for their oversights.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: 3 things for the Rams to know about the Commanders
