Takeaways for Commanders-Chiefs: The third-down defense issue again results in loss

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Ron Rivera wanted all his starters to participate in the entire preseason match against Kansas City Chiefs. The Commanders’ coach decided to go a different path, as three of Washington’s five expected starting offensive linemen were missing.

Quarterback Carson Wentz and the first team played just three series in the Commanders’ 24-14 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, the same number of drives the unit played last week against the Carolina Panthers.

On Saturday, Wentz (6 of 9 for 64 yards) was able to move the ball, but Washington’s offense stalled in key moments — none more so than when the quarterback took an inopportune sack on third-and-10 to knock the Commanders out of field goal range. Washington cannot afford this type of play in the upcoming season.

But, wentz wasn’t high on Washington’s list against Chiefs — if that is possible.

The Commanders were again disappointed by poor third-down defense and weak returning. Let’s look at the key takeaways:

Third down defense: The defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio stated Wednesday that he didn’t enjoy how his team performed last Saturday in Washington’s preseason opening. After seeing the performance of his Commanders this season, he won’t likely be happier.

The Chiefs converted on six straight third-down opportunities to start the game, getting off to a 14-0 lead in the process. These conversions were not solely due to Patrick Mahomes’s brilliant play. The Commanders suffered from breakdowns in their secondary, and the pass rush was not in sync with Mahomes’ exploiting flaw after flaw.

The worst arguably came when Mahomes hit wideout Justin Watson for a 39-yard gain on third-and-10 in the first quarter. The pass moved Kansas City inside Washington’s 10-yard line and the Chiefs scored just two plays later.

The Chiefs finished the game 9 of 15 on third down, a week after the Panthers went 11 of 18.

Poor return: Washington’s kick-returners failed again for the second consecutive game. The Commanders actually started the contest with running back Antonio Gibson — more on him soon — fielding the first kick-off, but his lone return was for 17 yards to the 23-yard line.

Elsewhere, veteran Alex Erickson didn’t get past the 20 as he returned a kick for 17 yards, while Kyric McGowan’s return went for 13 yards, Washington is searching for a new returner after DeAndre Carter signed with the Los Angeles Chargers in free agency.

Washington might consider attempting a touchback.

New running back starter? : The Commanders weren’t disappointed. Brian Robinson, a rookie running back, impressed again with another impressive performance. He ran for 31 yards in eight carries. Although these numbers are not extraordinary, Robinson’s running style is exceptional. The 23-year-old was able to move the chains, converting three first downs.

Not surprisingly, Robinson was given the chance to run back last year over Gibson. Gibson’s fumbling problems led to this change. Will that be permanent? Rivera will likely ride the hothand — at this point, it belongs to Robinson.

Gibson uneven: As for Gibson, the 24-year-old seemed to respond to the role change. Gibson’s top moments came by making plays in space, hauling in three catches for 37 yards — one of which went for 22 yards. Gibson, a college wide receiver, shouldn’t be surprised by the playmaking.

However, Gibson did not do him any favours by rushing from the backfield. Gibson only ran three yards in two runs, despite getting some reps on the first team. Washington’s coaches allowed Gibson to continue playing with the second team for at most one more drive after the starters had been pulled.

Fourth Receiver Thoughts: Thanks to Cam Sims. After taking a serious hit during the first quarter, Sims returned just a few plays later to score a 9-yard touchdown against a defender. Sims could be Washington’s fourth wideout, the role currently held in Washington by Dyami Brown (2021 third rounder). Sims, at 6’5″ and 5 inches tall could be a valuable asset to Wentz when it comes to the red zone.

At the very least, Sims has nice chemistry with backup Taylor Heinicke — who also had a strong game with 83 yards on 9 of 12 passing.

Offensive Line Stout Three starters had been lost by the Commanders, with right tackle Charles Leno and left guard Andrew Norwell out. The backups were able to hold their own. Wentz appeared to have gotten the lone sack. Third-stringer Sam Howell got sacked two times. However, Wentz’s footwork and work in progress likely played a role.

The Commanders created Corneilus Lucas and Saahdiq Char, Chase Roullier, Aaron Monteiro, and Sam Cosmi. However, only Roullier is Washington’s usual starter.