From The Banner · Kevin Reynolds · · 1m 10s
Commanders vs. Seahawks: Marcus Mariota's new approach
Veteran backup Marcus Mariota simplifies play to replace Jayden Daniels.
In brief
Veteran backup Marcus Mariota simplifies play to replace Jayden Daniels. Marcus Mariota focuses on playing within the system after replacing Jayden Daniels as Washington's quarterback. Originally reported by The Banner.
Marcus Mariota's new approach
Veteran backup Marcus Mariota takes over for franchise star Jayden Daniels this season.
“I was kinda looking back on it and reflecting and I thought, '[Don’t] overstress and like, hey, go and play within the system'”
Simplifying play this season
Mariota focuses on playing within the system after throwing seven interceptions to 10 touchdowns last year.
“I was coming in trying to just make a play and I was kind of putting on this Superman cape”
Different offensive approach
Washington built offense around Daniels' unique running and passing ability this offseason.
“Part of the backup role is you kinda fill the needs [of the offense]”
Short-handed offense
Starting right guard Sam Cosmi in concussion protocol and tight end Chig Okonkwo out since Week 1.
“We’re not reflecting on what we don’t have right now. There’s no time for that”
Stopping deep passes
Commanders' secondary struggled with long passing plays against Cowboys and Eagles.
“Cowboys star CeeDee Lamb went for over 150 yards and two touchdowns last Sunday”
Jaxon Smith-Njigba challenge
All-Pro Jaxon Smith-Njigba torched Arizona for 155 yards and three touchdowns.
“It was an amazing run for him last year, and to see some of the same things already taking place for him this year”
Terry McLaurin's role
Washington hasn't seen Terry McLaurin's usual output with 44 receptions and 1,127 yards.
“We continue to do right longer and he will reap the harvest of continuing to be detailed”
What happens next
Commanders aim to simplify offense and fix communication to beat Seattle Seahawks.
“We are certainly gonna do everything we can to put our guys in the best position possible to beat Seattle”
The bottom line
Marcus Mariota focuses on playing within the system after replacing Jayden Daniels as Washington's quarterback.
