Commanders' hidden gem from Week 1 triumph is quietly taking over

After giving up 980 yards in its last two playoff games last season, the Washington Commanders showed it had made major strides on defense in their comfortable Week 1 win over the New York Giants.

Despite being plagued with penalties throughout the game, the Commanders' defense held New York to only 231 total yards and no touchdowns. It was the first time Washington had not allowed a trip to the end zone at home to the Giants and won the game in 46 years.

Quan Martin, who was burned early in the game in one-on-one coverage by Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers, recovered to prove he is an underrated building block for the Commanders.

Quan Martin breakout buzz grew louder after Commanders' win in Week 1

Head Coach Dan Quinn already mentioned Martin as a key standout after the preseason and said, "I feel like he's one player that I think is really about to go big."

The young safety was tied for the most defensive snaps on the team, highlighting the staff's confidence in him. Martin did not disappoint, making his presence felt with five tackles, one quarterback hit, and a would-be interception that was wiped out by a questionable pass interference call.

Martin, along with the entire Commanders' defense, prevented the Giants from scoring a touchdown twice, despite New York getting inside Washington's five-yard line. The defense held quarterback Russell Wilson to 2-for-9 for 12 passing yards and a 39.6 passer rating in the red zone.

The Illinois product also blew up the veteran signal-caller, nearly adding a sack to his stat sheet. It was a strong effort from the defensive back, who is projected by many to have a genuine breakout year and potentially get a long-term extension ahead of time when the campaign concludes.

After the game, Martin talked about how the focus has been on playing as one on defense. The 2023 second-round pick also highlighted how everyone did what they needed to do to secure the victory at Northwest Stadium.

I think the standard is set. I think we know what we can do as a unit. Now, it's just continuing to build, continuing to get better, fixing little mistakes, and just keep playing.Quan Martin via 7News DC