Who is the Guy?

Terry McLaurin is a problem for opponents with or without Jayden Daniels in the lineup. The Pro Bowler has amassed five 1,000-yard seasons in his six-year career with a revolving door of quarterbacks throwing him the rock. His consistent production speaks to his ability to win against any coverage or defensive tactic. Though his 2025 campaign is off to a slow start (seven catches, 75 yards), McLaurin is the No. 1 option on an offense with explosive potential.

Know His Name

Deebo Samuel's arrival adds a dimension to the Commanders offense. As a "wing back" who can make his mark as a runner or receiver on traditional plays or gadgets, the former Pro Bowler's whereabouts must be monitored at all times. Given the Commanders' need to manufacture points without their QB1 on the field, Samuel could take on a bigger role this week as a multi-faceted offensive playmaker.

Don't Sleep On...

Dorance Armstrong has emerged as the Commanders' pass-rushing threat with a pair of sacks and 10 total tackles through two games. As a high motor defender with heavy hands and a relentless approach, the veteran outworks and outlasts blockers on the edges. For a defense that takes pride in his effort pursuing the ball and tracking down quarterbacks, Armstrong is the tip of the spear for Commanders defense.

Under Pressure

Marcus Mariota is an accomplished player in this league, but he is tasked with replacing a superstar at the position. Though the Commanders do not need the veteran to make the spectacular plays that helped Daniels secure the 2024 Offensive Rookie of the Year award, he must manage the game effectively and keep the offense on schedule against an active Raiders defense.

Matchup to Watch

Bobby Wagner vs. Ashton Jeanty

The future gold jacket defender will spend the majority of the game with his eyes on the Raiders' rookie runner. As the centerpiece of the Commanders defense, he will track Jeanty's movements to ensure the rookie doesn't have a breakout game in Week 3. If he successfully neutralizes the Raiders' RB1, the Commanders could force the Raiders offense into a one-dimensional approach that exposes Geno Smith's flaws by game's end.

Offensive Scheme

Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury wants to utilize a balance attack that keeps constant pressure on the defense. Whether working sideline to sideline to various screens and swings or pushing the ball down the field on designated shots, the Commanders will test the discipline of the defense with a diverse aerial attack. Additionally, he will give Jacory Croskey-Merritt enough to carries to control the flow of the game and create big play opportunities off play-action passes.

Defensive scheme

Dan Quinn and defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. will feature a "see ball, get ball" scheme that enables defenders to play fast and free on the perimeter. They will keep the scheme simplistic to minimize mental mistakes and force opponents to win through flawless execution over 60 minutes. Considering how well the Commanders have adapted to the philosophy, the Raiders must exhibit tremendous patience and discipline to knock off an NFC powerhouse this week.