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Standig Room Only: A show about the Washington Commanders and D.C. sports

Standig Room Only: A show about the Washington Commanders and D.C. sports

474 episodes — Page 2 of 10

Josh Harris, Adam Peters and Dan Quinn walk into an NFL owner meeting...

The Athletic's Ben Standig is live from the NFL owners' meeting in Orlando, which is where the Washington Commanders' top three figures spent time answering questions from local and national media members. Ben and JP Finlay (106.7 The Fan) recapped all three sessions from Adam Peters and Dan Quinn on the QB search, plans at two, and free agency to Josh Harris' updates on the stadium search. Then The Athletic's Vikings insider, Alec Lewis, and Ben ponder Minnesota trading up into the top-4 picks for a quarterback and which passers are in play. Ben also discusses his new first-round mock draft, J.J. McCarthy buzz, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 27, 202451 min

Commanders hit the pro day circuit

The Athletic's Ben Standig is here talking Commanders at college pro days, fact or fiction about free agency choices and more with Nicki Jhabvala. Ben opens the episode with what matters and what doesn't on the pro day circuit as Washington QB search makes stops at USC and Michigan this week, with UNC and LSU coming up. Then Nicki joins the chat. What does the Vikings trade for a second first-round pick say, if anything, about the Commanders' plans? Did Washington goof with Kam Curl? Favorite signings (and the most curious)? Also, is Maryland engaging with Ted Leonsis about an arena while talking with the Commander about a new stadium? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 20, 202455 min

Bruce Feldman on QB at 2; Austin Ekeler on Commanders

The Athletic's Ben Standig is here talking about Austin Ekeler and the Commanders' free agency, and the NFL draft with college football insider Bruce Feldman (The Athletic). Ben opens the show with a rundown of Washington's 19 transactions since last week, the latest on QBs at two and a new home for Chase Young. Then, Bruce drops knowledge on Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels' rise, Drake Maye's future, and J.J. McCarthy's popularity and highlights DE, WR, OL, and other prospects from his "Freaks" list (19:32). Ben closes the episode with highlights from Ekeler's intro press conference. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 19, 20241h 3m

Sam Howell traded; Curl, Fuller, Samuel gone

The Athletic's Ben Standig is here for another eventful day as the Commanders trade QB Sam Howell to Seattle and see Kam Curl, Kendall Fuller, and Curtis Samuel sign elsewhere. Al Galdi (The Al Galdi podcast) joins the show (before the Howell/vets news) for a position-by-position breakdown of what Washington did over the opening three days of free agency and what remains. Jahan Dotson, Marcus Mariota, Frankie Luvu, and the TE room are among the topics. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 15, 20241h 16m

What's the Commanders' name tag budget?

The Athletic's Ben Standig is assessing the Washington Commanders' free agency haul -- 15 agreements! -- with former NFL general manager Randy Mueller and 106.7 The Fan's Grant Paulsen.After day two of free agency, Ben and Randy (The Athletic) talked. Randy is a Frankie Luvu fan and sees the upside in Austin Ekeler. Plus, thoughts on Marcus Mariota and Sam Howell, Jeremy Chinn, the new defensive end rotation, and Adam Peters's plan.Then, after day three, Grant joined to discuss six-time All-Pro linebacker Bobby Wagner reuniting with Dan Quinn, Washington re-signing its first internal free agents, next moves, and whether the Commanders have made major strides toward 2024 success or are mainly setting the table for future moves. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 14, 20241h 28m

Commanders got some new guys

The Athletic's Ben Standig wraps up a busy quasi-first day of NFL free agency as the Washington Commanders agreed to terms with six free agents, including LB Frankie Luvu, C Tyler Biadish -- and a kicker. As for RB Austin Ekeler, Chargers insider Daniel Popper stops by to share his thoughts on the signing and why the doubters should tread lightly before writing Ekeler off. Ben also explains how he assesses the first batch of signings and what it means that Jacoby Brissett and Antonio Gibson signed with New England. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 12, 202434 min

Commanders' free agency primer

The Athletic's Ben Standig and Pro Football Focus's Brad Spielberger dive into free agency ahead of next week's start. The marketplace for Kam Curl and Kendall Fuller, and do they have futures in Washington? If the Commanders spend good money on a free agent, which position and player? Free agents discussed include Bryce Huff, Christian Wilkins, Curtis Samuel, Noah Brown, Tyler Boyd, Marquise Brown, Jacoby Brissett, Dorance Armstrong, and Zach Moss. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 8, 202449 min

Film review, fake trades, free agent signing

The Athletic's Ben Standig discusses Jayden Daniels and Drake Maye's film reviews, Zach Ertz's signing with the Commanders, and the cost of acquiring a second first-round pick.Ben opens with thoughts on Ertz replacing Logan Thomas before welcoming back The Athletic's film analyst, Ted Ngyuen, to discuss his new article about the pros and cons of each QB at 2. A conclusion is reached. J.J. McCarthy mentions included.Then, in conjunction with Ben's Commanders-only mock draft, Mike Smeltz is back with various levels of trade-up options from 36, depending on how frisky Washington is about acquiring a lineman or another playmaker for the quarterback. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 7, 20241h 23m

Commanders' Venn diagram

The Athletic's Ben Standig is here to talk at the intersection of the NFL draft and free agency with guests Nick Baumgardner (The Athletic) and Mike Florio (Pro Football Talk).Ben opens the episode with an array of post-Combine thoughts, including Drake Maye vs. Jayden Daniels, J.J. McCarthy hype, and trading down from 2. The releases of Charles Leno and Logan Thomas mean what? Targeted free agency spending.Brief chat with Mike about Caleb Williams and Josh Harris sitting in QB meetings.Then Nick shares his draft insight on the Maye/Daniels debate, Adam Peters' lessons from the Trey Lance trade, Lance Newmark's hiring, and day 2 pass rushers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 5, 20241h 5m

Commanders, Caleb and the Combine

The Athletic's Ben Standig is podcasting from the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. Topics galore. Senior NFL writer Kalyn Kahler shared insight into USC QB Caleb Williams following her investigative story for The Athletic on what the presumed No. 1 overall pick and his team seek upon entering the league and what it means for the Commanders. Ben opens the show with takeaways from comments by Adam Peters (QB search) and Dan Quinn (edge rusher plan). Renaming the current stadium and progress for the RFK Site. Signing Kam Curl, trading Sam Howell and more the Combine. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 29, 202452 min

NFL Combine and mock draft prep

The Athletic's Ben Standig is in Indianapolis for this week's NFL Scouting Combine and talking about prospects with guest analyst Danny Kelly (The Ringer). Ben opens the episode with notes on Eric Bieniemy and Charles Leno before going through his initial draft of a mock draft. Thoughts on options at 2, but also the Commanders at 36, 40, and 67, and what to track leading to those slots. Then Ben and Danny discuss Day Two prospects, positional strengths (OL, WR) and weaknesses (edge, TE), and the quarterbacks in play for Washington's first-round selection. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 26, 20241h 3m

Who is two and where is Kam Curl?

The Athletic's Ben Standig is here for an action-packed episode talking Commanders. Guests: Former NFL GM Randy Mueller, Washington Post columnist Barry Svruluga, Washington assistant coaches Brian Johnson, Ryan Kerrigan and Ken Norton Jr.Segment 1 - Ben's takeaways from Wednesday's meet-the-assistant day in AshburnSegment 2 - Ben and Randy banter about which of the QB prospects the GM likes best; Where Washington players rank (or not!) on Randy's top 150 NFL free agent list; Dan Quinn and Adam Peters seeking staff cohesion; new assistant GM Lance NewmarkSegment 3 - Barry on where the Commanders stadium talk fits in with Monumental Sports's push for a new arenaSegment 4 - Hear from the three assistants on Quinn, their roles with the new staff, 2024 hopes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 22, 20241h 27m

Randomness with Kevin Sheehan

The Athletic's Ben Standig is here for an impromptu episode with Kevin Sheehan (Team 980/Kevin Sheehan podcast). The fellas, of course, discussed various Commanders' topics, including which free agents' should be re-signed, but this episode bounces around. What the failing NBA All-Star game says about viewer habits and the evolution of competition. Consuming more sports and stuff after the Super Bowl. TV shows they're watching and those that nailed the landing. More randomness. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 20, 20241h 11m

Do the numbers add up for the Dan Quinn staff?

The Athletic's Ben Standig is here talking Commanders' coordinators and Washington's new situation from an analytics angle with Ben Baldwin. The usual Ben opens the episode with first impressions from the Kliff Kingsbury ("Air Raid," Caleb Williams) and Joe Whitt Jr. (football aggression, avoiding groupthink) press conferences plus other notes. Then Ben Baldwin enters for what data says about the Dan Quinn hire, Kingsbury's scheme, and why Washington's wide receivers struggled to get open. Also, what does he know about the Commanders' analytics lead, Eugene Shen? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 19, 20241h 1m

Take down the help wanted sign

The Athletic's Ben Standig is here to share conversations about the Commanders' new assistant GM, former Chargers head coach Anthony Lynn coming to Washington, and more with Nicki Jhabvala (Washington Post) and Al Galdi. Ben and Nicki open the show with thoughts on the addition of former Lions exec Lance Newmark, new titles for Martin Mayhew and Marty Hurney, how the big-name offensive hires will mesh, the Kliff Kingsbury/Caleb Williams relationship, Usher and more. Then Al enters (40:25) for more on the coaching staff, free agency, the fallacy with Washington salary cap situation Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 15, 20241h 16m

Commanders' hires and Super Bowl takeaways

The Athletic's Ben Standig is here talking about the Commnders' latest assistant coaching hires, Super Bowl takeaways, drafting Caleb Willams and more with Mike Smeltz (The Athletic). Ben opens the episode with thoughts on coaching changes at OL and special teams. Then Mike joins to discuss Adam Peters' path to assembling a Super Bowl roster, Patrick Mahomes' greatness, Tony Romo's gaffes, Kyle Shanahan's reputation, booing Taylor Swift along with the coach hires and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 12, 20241h 5m

What about that Kliff KIngsbury offense?

The Athletic's Ben Standig is here talking about Kliff Kingsbury, Drake Maye, and the Commanders filling out their coaching staff. Ben opens with some notes before interviewing Wisconsin offensive coordinator Phil Longo (10:32). Why Phil? He and his friend, Kingsbury, run a version of the Air Raid offense. That's also the scheme Longo used at North Carolina when he coached Sam Howell and Maye, the possible no. 2 selection in April's draft. Then Ben reacts to the reaction to his story on The Athletic about the head coach search winding through Ben Johnson before landing on Dan Quinn (28:18). Then some news about three assistants joining the staff, including one holdover (59:58) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 9, 20241h 6m

'Doing hard $hit with good people'

The Athletic's Ben Standig is here with colleagues David Aldridge and Cowboys insider Jon Machota to discuss new Commanders' head coach Dan Quinn, his coordinator hirings and the exit of Eric Bieniemy. Ben and David start with first impressions of Quinn at the introductory press conference. His energy (see the title of this episode), Quinn's working relationship with GM Adam Peters, new OC Kliff Kingsbury replacing Bieniemy, "recalibrating," and no expected front-office changes (for now). Then Jon shares insight into Dan Quinn the coach and personality, along with thoughts on new DC Joe Whitt Jr. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 6, 20241h 14m

The Mighty Quinn?

The Athletic's Ben Standig is here for a rambling solo pod about the Washington Commanders hiring Dan Quinn as the team's new head coach. Numerous league sources are fans of adding the ex-Cowboys defensive coordinator, but did Josh Harris and Adam Peters settle for someone who wasn't their top choice? Thoughts on the Ben Johnson situation, possible coordinator targets and your mailbag questions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 2, 202448 min

Go time for Commanders

The Athletic's Ben Standig sets the stage for this pivotal week as the Washington Commanders prepare to hire a new head coach (and, far down the list, attend the Senior Bowl). Ben shares the latest intel on the remaining interview schedule, whether Ben Johnson is destined to become the hire, why the Seahawks' search process adds a curious variable for Washington and the championship round games. Then Denton Day (Team 980, Sirius) joins Ben to discuss their stances on the no. 2 pick and prospects at the Senior Bowl. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 29, 202451 min

The waiting game

The Athletic's Ben Standig is talking about the NFL head coaching search, Ben Johnson's options, Commanders vs. NFC East, brainiac hire or leader of men, and a little bit about the Wizards making a coaching change. Guests: Cowboys insider Jon Machota (The Athletic) and Joe House (The Ringer). Is it time to lock in Johnson or Washington's HC position? Why isn't Mike Vrabel getting any mention, and is Dan Quinn getting too much? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 26, 20241h 18m

What the tape reveals about Ben Johnson, Mike Macdonald

The Athletic's Ben Standig is still talking about the Commanders' coaching search, but this time from the film breakdown perspective with his teammate Ted Nguyen. Ted is one of the top film analysts in the game and was kind enough to share details on Lions OC Ben Johnson's offense, what makes Ravens' DC Mike Macdonald's defense formidable, and Eric Bieniemy's first season with the Commanders (20:35). Ben opened the show with the buzz on the coach search, Bieniemy's HC interview reaction to Mel Kiper Jr.'s mock draft selection for Washington. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 24, 202450 min

Round two: Commanders and the candidates

The Athletic's Ben Standig is talking about the Commanders lining up second interviews with head-coach candidates, CEO vs play-caller, Lions OC Ben Johnson's presence, and more with the Washington Post's Nicki Jhabvala. Also, thoughts on Ron Rivera's job interview with the Eagles and lessons learned from the Chiefs beyond Patrick Mahomes's awesomeness. (FWIW, we recorded before the Titans hired Brian Callahan as their next HC.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 23, 202447 min

Why bad ideas could lead Commanders to the right ones

The Athletic's Ben Standig and Mike Smeltz banter about the head coach search and thought-provoking ideas involving the Commanders. Ben opens with the latest on what he's heard about the candidates, including Ben Johnson's buzz and other options lurking. Then Mike enters for outside-the-box on Washington topics involving Caleb Williams and Dak Prescott, whether this coming season might be as bad as 2023 or worse, and ... is Adam Peters is too handsome? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 19, 20241h 8m

Adam Peters speaks -- and so does Jay Gruden

The Athletic's Ben Standig is here to recap highlights from new GM Adam Peters' introductory press conference and chat with former Washington head coach Jay Gruden. After opening with Peters' comments on joining the franchise, the head coach search and more, Ben welcomes in Jay (11:45). They discuss playoff showcases for HC candidates Ben Johnson and Bobby Slowik, the tricky transition from coordinator to head coach -- and Jay's wild 24 hours on social media involving back-and-forths with Robert Griffin III and Brian Mitchell. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 17, 202439 min

Who joins Adam Peters with the Commanders?

The Athletic's Ben Standig is talking about Adam Peters being officially hired, the ins and outs of the coaching search carousel, and expectations for a rookie QB with Al Galdi. Ben opens the show with a breakdown of the seven head coach openings and how they relate to the Commanders. Also, Martin Mayhew's future. Then Al joins. They discuss how coaching candidates fared in the playoffs, where playoff performances affect long-term plans, and QB at 2. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 16, 20241h 16m

The plan is Peters

The Athletic's Ben Standig reacts to Friday's news that the Washington Commanders have agreed to terms with 49ers' Adam Peters to become the team's new general manager. Why Peters? What next? What happens to Martin Mayhew and Marty Hurney? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 13, 202419 min

Who gets Ben Johnson?

The Athletic's Ben Standig is talking about the Commanders shrinking their football ops candidates down to two -- Adam Peters and Ian Cunningham -- and where Lions OC Ben Johnson lands. Guest: Chargers insider Daniel Popper, who is also covering an HC and FO search. Ben opens with notes on Peters, Cunningham and the process. Then Daniel joins as the fellas present pro/con arguments for Johnson and their respective while pondering the overall landscape. Ben wraps up the episode with wild card weekend predictions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 12, 20241h 1m

The Commanders' new process

The Athletics' Ben Standig is talking about the Commanders' starting the front-office interview process, Josh Harris' urgency, Ron Rivera and free agents to re-sign with Nicki Jhabvala from the Washington Post. Ben also shares his insight into 49ers assistant GM Adam Peters and the hierarchy of the front office candidates. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 10, 202453 min

Ron Rivera out... Bob Myers in?

The Athletic' Ben Standig is joined by 106.7 The Fan's Grant Paulsen to discuss a seismic day for the Washington Commanders. Ron Rivera is officially out as head coach after four years. Owner Josh Harris spoke on the change and the next phase, which includes former Golden State Warriors GM Bob Myers becoming an advisor to Harris for big-picture matters, including the next coach and front office. Washington also quickly requested interviews with candidates, including Lions OC Ben Johnson, Cowboys DC Dan Quinn, 49ers assistant GM Adam Peters, and Bears assistant GM Ian Cunningham. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 9, 202451 min

Has Ron Rivera left the franchise better than when he arrived?

The Athletic's Ben Standig and Al Galdi consider Commanders head coach Ron Rivera's comments about leaving the franchise better than he arrived. The fellas compare and contrast aspects of the 2020 roster with the one a likely new coach and GM would inherit. Ben also shares a quick roster update ahead of the regular-season finale against the Cowboys. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 5, 202458 min

Choose your own Commanders' coach/GM adventure

The Athletic's Ben Standig and PFF's Brad Speilberger are here to discuss potential GM and coach candidates for the Washington Commanders. After Ben opens with the news of the day- Sam Howell will remain the starting QB in Week 18- Brad enters. The fellas pick their top target from the projected headliners, an under-the-radar name, and a go-bold option. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 3, 202443 min

GM candidates; Commanders picking 2nd?

The Athletic's Ben Standig is talking GM candidates, Sam Howell's start, the no. 2 pick and another Washington Commanders loss with Michael Phillips. Ben opens with a detailed recap of the GM candidates article he published on The Athletic after speaking with league sources. Names to watch league-wide, their connections, and why the Commanders might fit. Then Michael joins from FedEx Field for thoughts on Washington's draft position k with one week remaining in the regular season and likely the Ron Rivera era. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 1, 202457 min

QB switch, Chase Young returns an who is Adam Peters

The Athletic's Ben Standig is talking about Sam Howell sitting, Chase Young returning and possible candidates for an expected GM and head coach opening. Ben opens the show with a practice update and his objection to the idea of sitting Howell for the sake of the other 52 players. Then 49ers insider Matt Barrows provides insight on Young's work post-trade ahead of this weekend's return home, along with a dossier on 49ers assistant GM Adam Peters and Texans OC Bobby Slowik Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 29, 202336 min

Fred Smoot on Sam Howell's present and future

The Athletic's Ben Standig and Fred Smoot have a lively chat about what Ron Rivera should do at quarterback in Week 17 and how the organization should proceed with Sam Howell entering 2024. Fred also shares his insight on Emmanuel Forbes' rookie season and offenses targeting Benjamin St-Juste. He also plays Ben's game about the Commanders' needs by using the 49ers' roster. Ben also offers a QB plan for Washington in 2024 that doesn't make any changes to the depth chart. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 27, 202353 min

Commanders living in limbo -- but not for long

The Athletic's Ben Standig and Al Galdi tackle all things Commanders with three games remaining in the season and likely in the Ron Rivera era. Is there a sound rationale for benching Sam Howell for a play, drive or game? Why did Jacoby Brissett sit for weeks despite giving Washington the best chance for immediate success? How does the Wizards/Capitals arena news affect the Commanders' stadium pursuit? Also, roster review, Jets and much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 21, 20231h 12m

Takeaways from LaLa Land

The Athletic's Ben Standig wraps up his trip out west with big-picture takeaways from the Commanders' loss to the Rams with Jerry Brewer (Washington Post), plus a cameo from The Athletic's Jourdan Rodrigue. Thoughts on Josh Harris' latest fact-finding trip and Sam Howell sits in the 4Q. Camaraon Cheeseman got bounced after we recorded, but you could tell what was coming. More defensive breakdowns. How the Wiz/Caps arena plans affect the Commanders' stadium search. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 18, 202350 min

Logan Paulsen; search process

The Athletic's Ben Standig welcomes Commanders analyst Logan Paulsen back to the podcast. Ben opens the show with thoughts on the coach/GM search process and injury updates (Jamin Davis for the 2023 season). Then Logan enters. Topics include a thorough review of the defensive collapse and what it means for 2024, Sam Howell narratives, and the challenge of keeping players engaged when the season is spiraling. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 12, 202345 min

Kevin Sheehan and Grant Paulsen

The Athletic's Ben Standig takes advantage of the bye week for a deep dive into the Washington Commanders' future with Kevin Sheehan (Team 980) and Grant Paulsen (106.7). Top priorities with new GM and coach hires. What's the QB plan: Sam Howell or that potential top-5 pick? Lots of roster talk. How many 2024 starters are in place? Are you re-signing Curtis Samuel, Kam Curl or any other free agent? How does Josh Harris woo the remaining fan holdouts, or is the answer change the name -- and win? Lastly, the fellas made way-too-early 2024 choices at GM, coach and QB. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 6, 20231h 30m

The Ron Rivera conundrum

The Athletic's Ben Standig and Michael Phillips (Washington Times) ignored the notion that if you have nothing nice to say, say nothing because podcasts require talking. But nothing was positive from the Commanders' 45-15 loss to the high-octane Miami dolphins. The fellas discussed Ron Rivera's fate with Washington, Miami's explosive start that effectively ended the competitive portion of the game, Terry McLaurin's zero catches, Sam Howell and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 4, 202327 min

Is Mike McDaniel the template for future coaching hires?

The Athletic's Ben Standig discusses Commanders' future (coaching search?) and present (player evaluations) with the Miami Herald's Daniel Oyefusi and the Washington Post's Sam Fortier. Ben and Daniel begin with whether Dolphins' coach Mike McDaniel represents the new era head coach Washington should target if Ron Rivera is gone. What about Miami OC Frank Smith? Biggest concerns for Sunday? Then Sam enters for thoughts on the Commanders' roster, what matters over the remaining games and whether anyone here is Pro Bowl viable. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 30, 202352 min

The meaning of (Commanders) life

The Athletic's Ben Standig and former Washington head coach Jay Gruden begin the process of looking forward -- and for meaning in the Commanders' final five regular-season games beyond QB Sam Howell. Speaking of Howell, what happens to him if Washington finishes with a top-5 draft pick? They also discuss the timing of Jack Del Rio's firing, meddlesome owners (and why Josh Harris doesn't appear like one), current building blocks, blitzing Jamin Davis, and more. Ben also shares the latest on Emmanuel Forbes' status and Ron Rivera's plan as the new defensive play-caller. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 27, 202346 min

Winter came for Jack Del Rio

The Athletic's Ben Standig and Grant Paulsen (106.7 The Fan) join forces to discuss a seismic 24 hours in Washington Commanders land. First came a 45-10 Thanksgiving day loss to the Cowboys. Then, defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio and defensive backs coach Brent Vieselmeyer were fired. We know why the latter occurred -- dreadful defense this season -- but how did Washington get here? What now with Rivera? How do we look back at Del Rio's four seasons? Has any part of the roster overachieved? Lots to discuss. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 25, 202342 min

Now what?

The Athletic's Ben Standig and guests Al Galdi and Doc Walker consider the state of the 4-7 Washington Commanders, what led to this low moment and where things go from here. Ben opens with updates from Ashburn and considers the secondary's struggles. Then Al enters to discuss how the season has fallen short, which changes perhaps accelerated the dip, Sam Howell and more. From there, Doc offers thoughts on how Washington can return to glory, playmakers need to make more plays, and whether an "interim" coach Eric Bieniemy is worth exploring (Some rougher audio in the Doc interview. Apologies!) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 21, 20231h 4m

Rock bottom goes lower for Commanders

The Athletic's Ben Standig talks about Washsington's latest low point with the Voice of the Commanders, Bram Weinstein. They really lost to a Giants team that started inexperienced Tommy DeVito, whom the defense sacked nine times. Committing six turnovers didn't help. Neither did Washington's lack of a baseline strength to fall back upon. Now what? Time for significant changes? Are there even young players to use more over the final six games? As to no hot water post-game for showers, that's a stinker. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 20, 202346 min

Is Sam Howell 'him?'

The Athletic's Ben Standig is diving into all the Sam Howell thoughts with Commanders' film analyst Mark Bullock. Mark's season-long assessment of the QB. Are the fellas ready to claim they see Howell as the long-term answer? They also ponder how the final games might shape off-season plans for helping the defense. Ben also shares the latest injury updates, and Josh Harris speaks about stadium homework. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 16, 202347 min

Winless in Seattle

The Athletic's Ben Standig dashes through his recap of the Commanders' 29-26 last-second loss at the Seahawks on Sunday. After another sterling effort, Sam Howell remains the best part of Washington's season. Is that good enough for now? The pass rush and run-pass balance could use some tweaking for sure. Thoughts on the running back as pass catchers, BSJ, the playoff picture and plenty more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 13, 202321 min

Sam Howell evaluation and Seahawks preview

The Athletic's Ben Standig is talking about all things Sam Howell with Jay Gruden, and previewing Sunday's (must-win?) game at Seattle. Ben opens with notes on why the Seahawks' red-zone offense, the Commanders' pass rush, slowing down edge rusher Boye Mafe and Howell's demeanor are keys for Week 10. Curtis Samuel playing? Then Jay enters for a mid-season look at Howell's unique/positive traits, Eric Bieniemy's guidance, and next steps. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 9, 202337 min

First look at the Commanders' second half

The Athletic's Ben Standig and podcast star Al Galdi explore what's coming up for the Washington Commanders. Yes, we must discuss playoff chances and why this week's game at Seattle is legitimately pivotal. The reality of Sam Howell as 2024 QB1. Intrigue with Emmanuel Forbes as a match-up with D. K. Metcalf looms. Stats for Jon Allen and Daron Payne. Those Chase Young comments from San Francisco, and much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 7, 202358 min

Sam Howell and friends outlast Bill Belichick

The Athletic's Ben Standig is solo to discuss a total team effort by the Washington Commanders in their 20-17 win over the New England Patriots. Is Sam Howell the QB answer? More data is required, but he keeps piling up impressive outings, leading Jonathan Allen postgame to proclaim he is that guy. Plenty of others helped in the first game after those trades, including Emmanuel Forbess and all active members of the rookie class. More on the kids, the OL, the concerns and whether we should start talking playoffs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 6, 202320 min