Commanders' Lamar Jackson Plan Revealed: 'Run as One'

Few quarterbacks can test an opposing defense like Lamar Jackson. 

The Washington Commanders' defense is quickly realizing that at joint practices with the Baltimore Ravens. Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne noted the difficulty of containing a mobile quarterback like Jackson and what it takes to slow him down. 

“Just being able to see him in the pocket and have awareness of him," Payne said. "Just knowing that the D-line we got to rush as one, as a unit and all contain them and not be on our own mission. We gotta all be together.”

Facing Jackson in two joint practices will only help Washington's defense. His mobility will also help prepare the Commanders for the New York Giants and Philadelphia Eagles, who have two of the best running quarterbacks in football, Daniel Jones and Jalen Hurts, respectively. 

Hurts was No. 4 among quarterbacks with 760 rushing yards and No. 1 in touchdowns with 13 last season. Jones was No. 5, running for 708 yards and tied for third in rushing touchdowns with seven. Jackson was No. 2, running for 764 yards in just 12 games. 

Though most of Washington's starting defense only played for one series against the Cleveland Browns on Aug. 11, one area of concern was quarterback Deshaun Watson's ability to break contain. Watson ran for 20 yards on three carries in his only series of the game. 

In facing Jackson, who also has an improved receiving corps with Odell Beckham Jr. and Zay Flowers, the Commanders defense is getting valuable reps as they prepare for the regular season. If Washington can hold its own and keep Jackson contain, it may mean that an already strong defense can be even better this season. 

The Commanders host the Ravens on Monday Night Football at 8 p.m. 

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