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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Ivan Lambert

5 worst losses of the Ron Rivera era for the Commanders

On Friday, Commanders Wire offered the top-5 wins of the Ron Rivera era in Washington.

Now we ask, what were the top 5 worst losses of the Rivera era in Washington?

A couple were horrible but didn’t make our top-5 list.

For instance, on Dec. 26, 2021, Washington went to Dallas and was embarrassed and humiliated by the Cowboys 56-14. In addition, on Oct. 31, 2021, at Denver, Washington had numerous chances to do something, but Scott Turner’s offense repeatedly was ineffective in a 17-10 loss.

Here are the top-5 worst losses for Ron Rivera during his Washington era.

 

5. Dec. 12, 2021: Dallas 27, Washington 20

Washington Football Team quarterback Taylor Heinicke (4) fumbles the ball while being hit by Dallas Cowboys outside linebacker Micah Parsons (11). Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

At FedEx Field, Washington was riding a four-game winning streak, evening their record at 6-6. The game was billed as a playoff-caliber showdown. However, the Washington offense was slower and manhandled, trailing 24-0 at the half.

4. Dec. 18, 2022: New York Giants 20, Washington 12

New York Giants defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux (5) takes Washington Commanders quarterback Taylor Heinicke (4). Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

Both teams entered with a 7-5-1 record in playoff position. But Washington, though at FedEx, was outplayed and trailed 14-3 at the half before falling 20-12 in a Sunday Night National TV game.

3. Oct 22, 2023: NY Giants 14, Commanders 7

Dexter Lawrence II #97 and Kayvon Thibodeaux #5 of the New York Giants sack Sam Howell #14 of the Washington Commanders. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)

The Giants defense completely confused and manhandled the Commanders offense. At the half, the Giants led 14-0 as the Commander’s eight first-half possessions ended with seven punts and an interception. Washington managed only 46 total yards in the half.

2. Jan. 1, 2023: Cleveland Browns 24, Commanders 10

Washington Commanders quarterback Carson Wentz (11) is hit after throwing a pass by Cleveland Browns linebacker Jermaine Carter (40). Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Ron Rivera was determined to give the start to Carson Wentz over Taylor Henicke and the team showed up uninspired, and Wentz himself experienced a hugely disappointing performance. falling to the Browns 24-10. In the post-game press conference, Rivera revealed he was unaware the Commanders could be eliminated from the playoffs that day, and indeed they were.

1. Oct. 5, 2023: Chicago Bears 40, Commanders 20

Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet (85) celebrates after catching a touchdown pass against the Washington Commanders. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

The Commanders (2-2) were a touchdown favorite over the winless Bears (0-4). Yet, the Commanders were absolutely embarrassed and blown out, trailing 27-3 at the half. The Commanders were so outplayed, unprepared and uninspired. This game determined the end of the Ron Rivera era.

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