Commanders Vs. Patriots (Preseason Game Three) – Studs and Duds

Washington’s final preseason game against the Patriots was a tale of two halves. The Commanders put up goose eggs in the first and second quarters, but got on the board in the third quarter with a Cade York field goal, and erupted with two touchdowns and another field goal in the fourth to secure the win.

The win was great, but this game was marred by penalties, and at times was almost unwatchable. New England had a staggering 10 accepted penalties for 157 yards, while Washington had nine for 53 yards. I bet the officials all have sore arms this morning as they threw flags as often as the quarterbacks threw passes.

Below are my Studs and Duds of the game followed by some notes.

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Studs:

Trace McSorley – McSorley looked like a little kid on the playground Sunday night against the Patriots. He was slinging the ball all over and using his legs to run over, around and through defenders. He was really fun to watch in this preseason finale.

Michael Wiley – This rookie has opened some eyes with his patience, vision and burst. He had a nice touchdown where he bounced out to the left, tiptoed the sideline and dove for the pylon.

K.J. Henry – Henry was a menace all night collecting a sack, a quarterback hit and multiple pressures.

John Ridgeway – The big man was virtually unblockable during the game. I don’t think he was on the roster bubble to begin with, but if there was any doubt, he shut the door quickly.

Phidarian Mathis – In a game where he needed to play well, Mathis did just that. He generated a ton of pressure and had a pass batted down.

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Duds:

Jeff Driskel – Driskel had a rather pedestrian game. He was checking down short on many of his attempts and threw a bad interception.

Noah Igbinoghene – Igbinoghene had a really rough game. He gave up a handful of big plays in coverage and whiffed on some tackles. This may have put him on the outside looking in.

Cole Turner – Turner did have a really nice grab over the middle of the field in the second half, but it wasn’t enough to cover up his dropped pass and penalties earlier. I think he’s left off the 53-man roster.

The Officials – 19 accepted penalties in the preseason finale!!!!!

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Notes:

• Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint had a nice game, hauling in four passes for 35 yards, including this acrobatic catch.

• Martavis Bryant showed well against the Patriots back-ups. He had three catches for 20 yards and a touchdown. He also drew a pass interference on a deep ball.

• Mitchell Tinsley was a go-to early on for Driskel. He was targeted five times, catching four of those for 37 yards.

• Brycen Tremayne pulled a disappearing act in a game he really needed to show up in. I originally had in on the 53 but my thoughts have since changed.

• Javontae Jean-Baptiste keeps popping on tape. He led the team in tackles against the Patriots (six, five solo – with one for a loss. He’s made a case to make the 53.

• Overall, the backup offensive line did ok. There were a few rough plays (as in the case in every game),

• Cade York hit both FG attempts – something fans should be excited about!