Jeremy McNichols made a huge play Monday night in the win against the Bengals.
However, the television announcers did not make mention of McNichols making the play. Probably most of the sports television analysts the next day only talked of Terry McLaurin and Jayden Daniels, but watch the replay again.
Commanders RB Jeremy McNichols
Pass pro isn’t passive.#RaiseHail #NFL pic.twitter.com/DM13RnClRB
— Last of the Fullbacks (@TheLastFullback) September 26, 2024
The Bengals brought eight on the blitz, the Commanders only had seven blockers. McNichols (running back) stepped up to an inside blitzer, leaving the outside blitzer to come and hit Daniels just after he released the ball. McNichols taking out the inside blitzer, provided Daniels the time needed to throw the deep touchdown to McLaurin.
“There’s a lot of things that come to mind with him (McNichols),” said Dan Quinn. “Humility, and the other one is trust. He’s somebody that when called upon, man, does he deliver.” Quinn then referred to that particular protection by McNichols.
With Austin Ekeler out with a concussion this week, McNichols will be asked to protect Daniels, receive passes, and run the ball.
“Whatever role he’s asked, he usually delivers, because of that mindset, whether its dirty work, like going to pick up a blitz, or covering kicks. That’s why I thought it fitting for him to be a captain for this game.”
In 2024, McNichols has only one carry and no targets, but with Ekeler out, McNichols moves up to share the load at running back with Brian Robinson Jr. Sunday against the Cardinals.