NFC Rankings and Obituaries: Week 10 Update

The NFL’s 2023 season has witnessed significant changes and surprises as teams navigate Week 10. This update focuses on NFC rankings and the notable decline of the Washington Commanders, who are now facing a challenging rebuild.

NFC Rankings: Week 10 Overview

The top NFC teams have made their mark with varied performances this season. Here’s a quick rundown of the current rankings:

• 1. Philadelphia Eagles (6-2): The Eagles maintain a commanding lead in the NFC East with three games ahead of their closest rival.
• 2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-2): Emerging from a bye week, the Bucs will face challenging opponents with a combined record of 19-6.
• 3. Los Angeles Rams (6-2): The Rams have been resilient, allowing only 20 points in their last three games against weaker foes.
• 4. Seattle Seahawks (6-2): Sam Darnold’s impressive first half against the Commanders shows the team’s offensive potential.
• 5. Detroit Lions (5-3): The Lions struggle with offensive consistency despite early season successes.
• 6. Green Bay Packers (5-2-1): The youngest team in the league faces significant injury setbacks, impacting their playoff hopes.
• 7. San Francisco 49ers (6-3): Despite injuries, the 49ers continue to perform well in most games.
• 8. Chicago Bears (5-3): The Bears are surprisingly competitive in the NFC North.
• 9. Carolina Panthers (5-4): This team’s record is misleading considering their negative point differential.
• 10. Dallas Cowboys (3-5-1): The Cowboys’ explosive offense is overshadowed by defensive struggles.
• 11. Atlanta Falcons (3-5): They face critical management decisions as consistency eludes them.
• 12. Washington Commanders (3-6): A dislocated elbow for Jayden Daniels adds to the team’s woes.

Washington Commanders: A Season in Decline

The Washington Commanders’ season has become increasingly disappointing, culminating in their obituary this week. The team currently stands at 3-6, with a critical injury to quarterback Jayden Daniels likely ending his season.

Key Issues Faced by the Commanders

There are several strategic missteps and inconsistencies that have contributed to the Commanders’ struggles:

• Inconsistent Performance: The team has regressed from a 12-win season last year, already exceeding last year’s loss total.
• Poor Trades and Signings: Acquiring veterans such as Laremy Tunsil, Deebo Samuel, and Marshon Lattimore failed to yield the expected results, with many players now injured or underperforming.
• Aging Roster: With a concentrated number of older players, the team lacks agility and depth, leading to significant injury problems.
• Defensive Struggles: Ranking 29th in pass defense, the Commanders lack a strong pass rush and have failed to improve their run defense from last season.
• Coaching Decisions: Head coach Dan Quinn’s decisions have raised questions, especially regarding player safety during games.

Looking Ahead

The challenges faced by the Washington Commanders suggest a need for a major roster overhaul. With only two picks in the first four rounds of the upcoming draft, they are positioned for a rebuilding phase.

In conclusion, as Week 10 unfolds, the NFC landscape reveals both emerging contenders and falling teams. The Washington Commanders’ struggles are a cautionary tale, illustrating the importance of strategic planning and player management in the NFL.