The Washington Commanders' recent embarrassing defeat at the hands of the Miami Dolphins in Week 13 has intensified the scrutiny on head coach Ron Rivera's tenure. It's become abundantly clear that the team's struggles are not a mere hiccup but indicative of deeper systemic issues that have hampered any sort of progress and now demand immediate attention if this franchise is to ever become relevant again.
The time for change has arrived, and the Commanders must seriously consider parting ways with Rivera.
Ron Rivera has yet to have a winning season with the Commanders
One glaring concern is Rivera's inability to lead the Commanders to a winning record since his last successful season in 2017 with the Panthers, where he finished 11-5. Since taking the reins in Washington in 2020, he has failed to orchestrate a winning season, with last year's 8-8 standing being the pinnacle of his achievements. The current season, with a dismal 4-9 record, marks yet another disappointing chapter in Rivera's coaching tenure, with it likely getting worse before it gets better.
Defensive-minded Ron Rivera can't fix Commanders defensive woes
The defensive woes under Rivera's leadership have been especially glaring. Despite firing defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio in a desperate attempt to address the team's defensive struggles, the results have been far from satisfactory. Washington entered Week 13 against the Dolphins with the dubious honor of allowing a league-worst 29.2 points per game. Rivera's return to calling defensive plays did little fix that either, as the team suffered a humiliating 45-15 defeat against Miami.
The defensive meltdown is not an isolated incident. The Commanders have allowed 45 or more points in consecutive games for only the second time in team history, the last occurrence dating back to 1954, according to CBS Sports. The secondary has been a significant liability all season, conceding seven passing touchdowns of 50 yards or longer, tying a record for the most in the last 30 seasons.
Ron Rivera's tenure has lacked reliable quarterback play
Offensively, the struggles are equally alarming. Quarterback Sam Howell's performance has been pretty much abysmal, throwing a pick-6 in three consecutive games — which is one away from tying Matt Schaub's four straight in 2013, according to USA Today's Touchdown Wire. Star receiver Terry McLaurin, considered the team's best player, was virtually ignored in the recent debacle against the Dolphins, finishing the game without a single catch. The offense's inability to generate momentum has only added to the team's woes.
Rivera's tenure has been marred by inconsistent quarterback play, ranging from Dwayne Haskins to Alex Smith, Kyle Allen, Taylor Heinicke, Garrett Gilbert, Ryan Fitzpatrick, and the current starter, Sam Howell. The constant flux in the quarterback position has undoubtedly hindered the team's ability to establish a cohesive and successful offensive strategy.
The Commanders need a change
The looming question is whether Rivera is the right leader to navigate the Commanders through these turbulent times. With a coaching record of 26-36-1 and no winning season in sight, the evidence suggests otherwise. The recent back-to-back losses, especially the humiliating 45-15 defeat against the Dolphins, should serve as a catalyst for change.
The Commanders need a fresh start, and with a new ownership group in place, the decision to part ways with Ron Rivera seems inevitable. The team deserves a leader who can not only weather the storm but guide them to victory. As the losses continue to mount and the frustration builds, the front office must make the difficult but necessary decision to chart a new course for the Washington Commanders. The time for change is now, and it begins with a departure from the Rivera era.
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