How does Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera view things as speculation mounts about his long-term future?
Any hope the Washington Commanders might have of reaching the wild card spots in 2023 is quickly fading. Their 2-0 start gave delusions of grandeur to certain sections of the team’s fan base, which was quickly followed by four out of five losses to bring things back down to earth.
Josh Harris and his wealthy team of investor-owners clearly evaluate everything associated with the franchise from top to bottom. While the billionaire is known for his patient approachMagic Johnson takes a more proactive mindset to building a winner – something he’s achieved almost everywhere he’s been as a basketball legend and business mogul.
Either way, it’s hard to watch Rivera’s the future with some optimism unless there is a spectacular turnaround. This seems unlikely given Washington’s decision the strength of the schedule throughout the sequencebut there is enough talent in the locker room for a surprise or two if everyone starts to improve.
Rivera’s seat was hot before the season even started. It’s absolutely chastising now, but the head coach remains steady while everything around him seems to be falling apart because of the comments. via Sports Illustrated.
“They are all important. They really are. This is the most important one we will have so far because this is the one we are going to play. This is the approach we have to have and this is what that we’re talking about. It’s a big game for us. Next week will be the next big game for us, but we’re focused on Philadelphia and we’re just trying to prepare for it, understanding what’s at stake and like you said, 0-2 in the division. , you obviously get a win in the division, that’s big. It’s a win in the conference, which is just as big. We have to go out there and play good football.
– Ron Rivera via Sports Illustrated
Having the Philadelphia Eagles come to town after such a torrid loss to the New York Giants wouldn’t top Rivera’s list of favorite bounce-back games. Their NFC East rival has already beaten the Commanders this season – albeit in overtime – and currently sits 6-1 in the standings as another bold playoff run awaits.
Rivera said he’s considering other changes in hopes it creates a spark. But it all depends on how much fight is left in the locker room and within the head coach himself, in all honesty.
We are already beginning to hear whispers of trouble. Defensive tackle Jonathan Allen expressed his feelings clearly after Sunday’s embarrassment, a sentiment most other players probably agree with even if they haven’t said it publicly.
Again, this is unlikely to go unnoticed by new owners.
Rivera is right in the sense that the next game is always the most important. This is a weekly league and while things currently look bleak for the Commanders, it will take a shock win this weekend over the Eagles and another triumph over the New England Patriots in Week 9 to deliver a little optimism.
Easier said than done, obviously. But Rivera’s determination and even-keeled demeanor suggest he’s far from ready to throw in the towel just yet.
