In fairness to offensive tackle Andrew Wylie, his performances have improved slightly over the last fortnight after a difficult opening to the campaign. The Washington Commanders are giving up way too many sacks and hits, but that’s also due to quarterback Sam Howell’s tendency to hold on to the ball too long when pressure comes.
Wylie’s overall contribution through six games could have been better. Although the Commanders are unlikely to abandon their starting offensive tackle tandem for their important matchup against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium, Cornelius Lucas’ performance with the Atlanta Falcons increases pressure to perform in unequivocal terms.
Lucas filled in admirably for Charles Leno Jr. after his devastating news in Week 6. This presents the Commanders with a dilemma on what to do on both sides this weekend. Still, head coach Ron Rivera can at least relax knowing he has a reliable swing option if the starters mentioned above can’t live up to expectations.
The Commanders allocated decent money to Wylie in hopes he can solidify things opposite Leno in Howell’s first season at center. He’ll need to call on all his experience against a Giants pass rush loaded with productive performers who have no trouble stifling weaknesses and exploiting them accordingly.
If ever there was a time for Wylie to engage in statement play, this is it.
