Three matchups to watch for the Washington Commanders as they get a real test against the Bengals in crucial preseason game
The Commanders can get answers in these three matchups.
The Washington Commanders are getting ready for the second preseason game against the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday night, and it’s a more important matchup than anticipated for a lot of reasons. This is the only in-game look the Commanders will get with a majority of the starters expected to play at least a drive for the first, and likely last time before the season.
The regular season is right around the corner, and the Commanders can’t afford to have a slow start this year. There are a lot of matchups to watch to get a good idea of what the team could look like in Week 1, and what else needs to be fixed before then.
Commanders Corners vs Bengals Wide Receivers
The Commanders have completely turned around the cornerback room with the additions of Mike Sainristil and Marshon Lattimore last season, and rookie Trey Amos this offseason. All three corners have flashed in training camp, and they get a massive test against Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins.
The Bengals have been playing their starters longer than usual, and it’s a perfect opportunity for the Commanders. I’m sure it’ll only be a series or two, but seeing Sainristil in the slot and seeing how healthy Lattimore is can set the tone for the defense. Amos will likely be matched against Higgins, and that’s a real welcome to the league test.
Commanders’ Wide Receiver Depth vs Bengals Secondary
The first preseason game showed that the Commanders’ depth in the wide receiver room can be a real issue. Terry McLaurin and Noah Brown are still out, and Deebo Samuel will make his debut with the Commanders, but we need to see life from someone else on Monday night. The Bengals’ secondary has been a weak point, but it looks like it’ll be an improved unit this season.
Jordan Battle at safety, and Cam Taylor-Britt at corner can provide a real test against Jaylin Lane, Luke McCaffrey, and Chris Moore. The Bengals also have a young depth piece in Josh Newton, who can cause fits, and probably plays in DJ Turner II’s place. Roster spots in the wide receiver room can be shaken up on Monday night.
Commanders Offensive Line vs Bengals Defensive Line
The Commanders have a lot of offensive linemen out with injuries or rest, and they’re expected to be without left tackle Laremy Tunsil and left guard Brandon Coleman. Right guard Sam Cosmi is still on the PUP list. It’ll be vital to see how the depth players step in with their absence against some key players for the Bengals.
We will likely see Josh Conerly Jr. at right tackle and Andrew Wylie at left tackle to start, and one of them will face rookie Shemar Stewart. Trey Hendrickson is still not playing, and Myles Murphy is also out, so maybe Stewart will get more playing time. The Bengals also have B.J. Hill and Kris Jenkins in the interior to test whoever steps in at left and right guard on Monday.
The Commanders still have a lot of roster questions that can be answered against the Bengals, and some may lead to changes as well. Will we finally see someone in the wide receiver room make the most of their opportunity? Is the offensive line a concern like Dan Quinn said it was? And just how good will the corner room be this season? We will find out Monday night.
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