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Despite Javon Kinlaw and Daron Payne not being in the game, the Washington Commanders defense had a historic night against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday Night Football with a season-high in pressures and one of the best performances using the blitz of any defense in the NFL this season.
Washington held Philadelphia to just 10 points, the Eagles’ second-fewest points in a game this season. That was also the first time this season the Commanders have held an opponent under 20 points. Their defense finished the game with a total of five sacks and held quarterback Tanner McKee to just 212 passing yards. They also contained running back Saquon Barkley, who only had 30 rushing yards.
The defense’s performance allowed Washington to run away with this game in the second half as the Eagles did not score after the first quarter. In fact, Philadelphia did not have a drive that lasted more than 60 yards until the end of the game, when they had a 34-yard completion as time expired.
Washington’s defense will need to be just as dominant this coming Sunday against the Los Angeles Rams. The Rams are dealing with injury issues of their own, especially on defense, which should open things up for the Commanders offense. However, Washington’s secondary will still have to contend with All-Pro receiver Puka Nacua, who has 19 receptions for 148 yards and two touchdowns in the past two games.