Commanders' overlooked danger in Week 1 is staring them in the face

After finishing 3-0 in the preseason and signing veteran quarterback Russell Wilson, the New York Giants are hoping to make some noise in the NFC East this year. The Washington Commanders won't want to become their first scalp to begin the campaign.

Despite finishing 3-14 last season, the Giants did pose a challenge in their two games against the Commanders. Washington needed a game-ending field goal to win in Week 2, before a five-point margin of victory in Week 9.

Adding Abdul Carter to an already stacked Giants defense will present a real challenge for the Commanders. However, quarterback Jayden Daniels’ ability to extend plays outside the pocket, along with Laremy Tunsil and rookie Josh Conerly Jr. anchoring the offensive line, should give Washington some stability up front.

Commanders need a concise plan to limit Tyrone Tracy Jr.'s dual-threat prowess

The bigger issue remains on the other side of the ball. Washington’s struggles to stop the run were exposed in both matchups against New York. It was also an Achilles heel throughout their memorable playoff run.

In Week 2 last year, the Commanders allowed Devin Singletary to average 5.9 yards per carry before allowing Tyrone Tracy Jr. to average 4.1 yards per carry in Week 9.

Tracy, a converted wide receiver, took over the Giants' backfield last season, finishing with 1,123 yards from scrimmage and six touchdowns. His dual-threat abilities could pose a challenge for the Commanders' defense.

Last season, the Commanders finished with the second-worst rush defense, allowing 143.4 yards per game. During their deep playoff run, Washington allowed 6.32 yards per carry to opponents, encapsulated by Saquon Barkley's 118 rushing yards and three scores in the NFC Championship game.

Tracy is no Barkley, but his rookie campaign made it clear that he’s no slouch. With only one full-time year of college reps at running back before joining the Giants, he’s already seeing his game evolve as he sets his sights on an even stronger sophomore season.

I think my IQ, just the way that I think about football in general, is higher than it was last year. I think my confidence level, the way I carry myself on the football field, is different than it was last year...It's a different type of energy, a different type of confidence that I'm carrying myself with this year. Also, last year, it was a little bit of, 'Am I good enough to play at this level?' This year, I have the reassurance and the confidence to know that I can do this.Tyrone Tracy Jr. via Giants.com

Tracy’s 2025 target: 2,000 all-purpose yards, 1,500 rushing yards, and 10 touchdowns. Standing in his way in Week 1 is the Commanders' defense.

Can Washington improve its run defense from last year, thwarting Tracy's plan and clearing the way for rookie Cam Skattebo to get more touches in the Giants' backfield? If not, it could be a long day for the Commanders.

We'll have our answer this weekend.