3 things we learned from Commanders big win over the Jaguars
By Hunter Noll
Safety Darrick Forrest has that dog in him
Wooo boy was Darrick Forrest everywhere on Sunday. Two of my friends (hi Todd and Harry) absolutely love Forrest. I’m pretty sure it had something to do with Madden last year, but I can’t be 100% certain. Either way, this led to multiple texts from them during the game hyping up Forrest. And neither of them are even Washington fans (Baltimore Ravens and Chicago Bears).
Forrest isn’t even meant to be a starter. The only reason he was on the field so much is that starter Kam Curl was hurt and didn’t suit up. And Forrest (a fifth-round pick from the 2021 draft) made the absolute most out of it.
The safety ended the game with five tackles, two pass deflections, one forced fumble, and one interception (to clinch the win at the end of the game). That forced fumble came on one of the best hits I’ve seen in a while. It was completely clean, but still, one that makes you make a weird face when you hear the crack of the pads. Beautiful.
Forrest did also get a flag for an “illegal” hit. But it wasn’t a dirty play or anything. He lowered himself for a tackle around the midsection, but the ball carrier lowered himself at the same time. This led to some helmet-on-helmet contact. Even the announcers were a little confused though, stating that the ball carrier went low as well, which is what created the contact.
Overall, Forrest looked comfortable in his big role. He was flying all over the field, and never really looked out-of-place or like he didn’t belong. It was the type of game that’s definitely going to earn him some more playing time, even if Curl is back for next week.
Every football player needs intensity. But for some reason safety is one of those positions where it hits different. Having that guy that can make plays while still playing sound defense is so big. Forrest proved in Week 1 that he might be that guy. He has that dog in him. One play he’ll give you good coverage, the next he’s hitting someone with a spear that would make Goldberg blush.
Don’t look now, but the Washington Commanders might have found a safety.