You can always count on Washington Commanders defensive tackle Jonathan Allen to tell you the truth. The Pro Bowler and longtime team captain talked to reports after Washington’s embarrassing 40-20 loss to the previously winless Chicago Bears and was blunt in his assessment of the Commanders.
“Defense just played like s–t,” Allen said. “We’re not a good defense right now. We got to own that, and we got to take that and be better. That’s what’s costing us these games right now.
Allen is right. After giving up 40 points to the Bears, Washington opponents are now averaging 32 points per game against the Commanders through five weeks.
Inexcusable, particularly when you consider the investments made on that side of the ball.
The Commanders allowed 27 points and 301 yards — in the first half. For the game, Washington allowed 40 points and 441 total yards. The Bears averaged 5.6 yards per rushing attempt, and receivers were running free through the secondary.
“Defensively, we’re not executing; we got to be better,” Allen said.
When asked about Washington’s defense not playing to its talent level, here’s his response.
“Everybody’s talented in the NFL. It doesn’t matter how talented you are; it’s about how well you play together on any given Sunday…….To give up 40 points on Thursday night that’s just not acceptable.”
Next up for Washington is the Atlanta Falcons. While the Falcons struggle to pass the football, they have an elite rushing offense and will make the Commanders pay for any defensive mistakes.
Will every defensive player take a long, hard look in the mirror, as Allen suggested? They should, and so should the coaching staff.
You can always count on Allen to give you the truth and not point fingers. It’s about accountability.
Jonathan Allen on tonight’s 40-20 loss to the Bears:
“Defense just played like sh**, we’re not a good defense right now”@JPFinlayNBCS @Gio_Delfa @nbcwashington#HTTC #Commanders pic.twitter.com/9VSGxjJKRl— NBC4 Sports (@NBC4Sports) October 6, 2023