Commanders Defense Shines in Win over ATL

The Commanders had given up 33 points or more in four straight games entering Sunday’s game against Atlanta.

Washington finally had a good defensive performance, allowing just 16 points while forcing three turnovers and clamping down late in a huge 24-16 win to get back to .500 on the year at 3-3 overall.

Head Coach Ron Rivera called it an “ugly road win,” which is exactly what this team needed after losing three straight games entering Sunday.

Ugly it was.

The Commanders were outgained in the game 402-193, but forced 3 second half turnovers to hold on to the victory.

Washington quarterback Sam Howell threw for just 151 yards but tossed 3 touchdowns, one to each of his running backs, Antonio Gibson and Brian Robinson, and another to Curtis Samuel.

With Washington leading 17-10 at the half, the Commanders opened the second half by forcing an interception of Atlanta QB Desmond Ridder and turning it into a touchdown to take a two possession lead.

After allowing a touchdown early in the 4th quarter to make it a one possession game, the Commanders defense put the clamps down, shutting out the Falcons for their next three possessions while forcing two turnovers along the way.

With 34 seconds to go and Atlanta at the Washington 34 yard line, Ridder’s pass was intercepted by Jamin Davis to seal the Commanders victory.

The win snaps a three game losing streak and gets Washington back to .500 with a 3-3 overall record.

Up next, the Commanders look to get back above .500 with a road trip to New York to take on the Giants. They return home October 29 when they host Philadelphia.