Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson scores a touchdown against Washington Commanders cornerback Mike Sainristil. Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

Commanders defense should receive criticism after Falcons loss

Originally posted on Washington Commanders on SI
By Jeremy Brener | Last updated Sep 29, 2025 8:00 AM ET

The Washington Commanders are going back to the drawing board after losing 34-27 to the Atlanta Falcons in Week 4 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Commanders cornerback Mike Sainristil expressed the frustrations of the loss, but is keeping his head held high with a long season ahead.

“I mean, you never want to go out there and not play good, you know what I mean? But, as far as frustration, like, it's a long season, you know what I mean? So, it's very early. We have a lot of things to clean up. Whether it’s a win or loss, there's always room for improvement. I think right now we're just going to focus on improvement and what areas can we improve, how can we be better, how can we keep gelling as a team. That's all that matters.”

Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Commanders eye improvement after loss

Sainristil and the Commanders defense have allowed 21 points or more in each of the last three weeks, so they need to find a way to keep offenses at bay.

“I think we've just got to get better with our keys, just make sure we're always focused when we're out there communicating at a high level. That's when we're at our best is when we're all back there talking. Other than that, no, I think it's very easy to beat a defense that you know isn't out there focused and communicating the right way," Sainristil.

Week 5 brings on a tough challenge in the Los Angeles Chargers, who are 3-1 so far this season. Sainristil hopes the defense can stay focused going into the matchup.

“Yeah, I think you’ve just got to stay focused. We’ve got to learn from our mistakes. We’ve got to watch film tonight, the players, and then make our corrections tomorrow," Sainristil said. "We’ve got to have a short memory. Like you said, a short week, so probably leaving Thursday or Friday, whatever it is. Another great opportunity next week to go to L.A. They've got a great team over there, a great system. So just, you know, shift the focus.”