The Washington Commanders are entering their Week 11 matchup against the Miami Dolphins with a disappointing 3-7 record. Injuries have undoubtedly played a significant role in the team’s struggles this season. Key players such as Jayden Daniels, Dorance Armstrong, Terry McLaurin, and Sam Cosmi have all missed time, impacting the team’s overall performance.
However, even when accounting for injuries, the defense has been a major concern—arguably even more so. The Commanders rank among the worst defenses in the league, with only three teams allowing more points per game. Over the last three games, only the Cincinnati Bengals have surrendered more points. Additionally, Washington’s defense sits 31st in passing yards allowed per game, marking a steep decline from their strong performance last season.
In response to these struggles, head coach Dan Quinn recently announced a significant change: he will take over defensive play-calling duties from defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr.
When asked about the adjustment on Friday, Whitt expressed understanding. In an interview with P. Finlay of NBC Sports, he said, “It wasn’t anything that I was necessarily shocked by.” Whitt joined the Commanders as defensive coordinator ahead of the 2024 season. He and Quinn have a history, having worked together with the Atlanta Falcons in 2020 and later with the Dallas Cowboys from 2021 to 2023. This familiarity likely helps ease the transition.
When questioned if the demotion was hard to accept, Whitt responded frankly: “It doesn’t matter if it’s hard to accept or not. It’s the reality of what it is. The performance was not what it needed to be, and we’re not winning, so, doesn’t matter if it’s hard or not, it is what it is.”
Whitt recognizes that the defense has not lived up to expectations, and head coach Quinn seems willing to do whatever it takes to get the Commanders back on track.
The next test for Washington comes in Week 11, when they face the Miami Dolphins in Spain. The team will look to improve their record and defensive performance as they continue their season.
https://sports.yahoo.com/article/commanders-joe-whitt-responds-demotion-090208696.html
