The 8-3 Miami Dolphins are being hosted by the 4-8 Washington Commanders at FedEx Field for their third game against the NFC East of the 2023 season.
Miami has shown some real bright flashes on both sides of the ball this year. However, they haven’t really been able to get both the offense and the defense playing at their best at the same time. This game gives them a great chance to accomplish that feat.
Ron Rivera’s team has lost three in a row, which has led to the firing of their defensive coordinator. Now, Rivera’s expected to lead the unit, so it will be interesting to see what changes come with that.
As we continue our previews for this weekend’s game, we spoke to Commanders Wire managing editor Bryan Manning to learn some things about Washington.
What's the general feeling on Sam Howell? Is he the guy for the Commanders?
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“There is a ton of excitement around Sam Howell and for good reason. There have been the typical ups and downs for a young quarterback, but he’s shown far more good than bad. The most encouraging part is he’s improving as the season wears on. Some of the mistakes he made in Week 4, he’s cut them way down. The pass protection is an issue. Howell himself has done a better job of speeding up his internal clock, too. We don’t know how a new regime will view Howell, but he’s already proven he’s an NFL starter. The arrow is pointing up for Howell.” — BM
What was the biggest issue with the defense under Jack Del Rio? Should that be fixed now?
“I don’t know that Washington’s defense can be fixed this year. Del Rio’s coverage concepts were always a nightmare. The Commanders miss former DB coach Chris Harris, who departed after last season. There are talented players on the defense, but I have never seen one team have as many mental lapses as this one. The pieces were there for a top-10 defense again in 2023 and it didn’t happen. Coaching is a major issue here. Jack was rarely creative on defense with pressure either.
Back to that last question, Del Rio promoted an assistant DB coach who was his son’s HS coach to secondary coach. The only NFL jobs the former secondary coach had were both under Del Rio.” — BM
How hot is Ron Rivera's seat?
“It’s beyond hot. He’s done. I think even if Rivera had a good season there was always going to be a change. Ron Rivera, the personnel man, failed Ron Rivera, the head coach. Rivera has so many bad decisions with the draft and free agency and you see it taking place on the field now. He’ll be out. Rivera’s leadership was badly needed from 2020-22, and he should be commended for that. However, he’s not done a good job with coaching this team.” — BM
If you could add any former player from Washington's history to give them the best shot to win this matchup, who would you take?
“I love this question. Washington has so many historic players that this is tough. If I had to choose one player, knowing the Commanders need to beat Miami, I am going with the defensive side of the ball. And that player is Sean Taylor. Taylor’s physical presence would be huge against a superior Dolphins squad. Not only would Taylor intimidate wide receivers and tight ends, but he also had unbelievable range. He’s the one player I would choose.” — BM
Who wins this battle and why?
“Dolphins win this because they are so much better. Do I think Washington can turn things around quickly next year? Yes, I do. But that’s next year. Right now, the Commanders stink. And they know the season is over and changes are coming. Miami is playing for a championship and will show that on Sunday. I think Miami wins, something like 38-17.” — BM
