newsweek
During ESPN's Get Up on Tuesday, former NFL receiver Steve Smith Sr. raised doubts about whether Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn is more effective as a defensive coordinator than as a head coach. Smith's remarks came two days after the Commanders fell 20-13 to the Los Angeles Rams, dropping their record to 2-5-1.
Washington had opportunities to tie the game late but once again failed to convert a competitive effort into a win. For Quinn and quarterback Jayden Daniels, the next chance to rectify things comes quickly: the Commanders visit the New York Giants on Thursday night, leaving minimal time to address the inconsistencies that have plagued the first half of their season.
Smith's critique zeroed in on Quinn's capacity to oversee the entire team. "Dan Quinn really has to ask himself," Smith said, "is he fit to be a head coach or a permanent coordinator?" The question targets Quinn's ability to manage all facets of the game, not just his defensive expertise.
Sunday's loss provided another example of Washington's inability to sustain early success. The Commanders scored on their first two possessions, but their final two drives ended with a turnover on downs and a fumble on a last-play lateral attempt. Washington finished with 313 yards, 157 of which came on its first three possessions. On the other side, Rams receiver Puka Nacua accounted for 150 of Matthew Stafford's 228 passing yards. The Commanders forced two turnovers but still allowed Los Angeles to take the lead twice after halftime.
Quinn acknowledged Monday that he is tired of repeating the need for four consistent quarters. He also stated that the offensive line had not met the team's standard against the Rams, while backing the offensive system and calling for better execution. "I like the system," Quinn said. "I like what we can be capable of."
Key Analysis
The distinction Smith raised carries weight given Quinn's coaching history. He coordinated Seattle's defense during consecutive Super Bowl appearances and later earned the Associated Press Assistant Coach of the Year award for his work with Dallas in 2021. Quinn has also won as a head coach: he took Atlanta to Super Bowl LI and led Washington to a 12-5 regular season and an NFC Championship Game appearance in 2024, his first year with the franchise. Those results provide context for a criticism centered on the team's current struggles.
Now in his third season in Washington, Quinn faces the immediate task of getting his team to finish games. He acknowledged Monday how badly the Commanders need a win against the division-leading Giants. Thursday offers a chance to answer Smith's criticism with a more complete performance.
Originally reported by newsweek.