The Ron Rivera Era: Commanding a New Direction for Washington Football

### Lack of Identity and Purpose

The Washington Commanders are currently sitting at a 2-3 record for the season, which may not seem terrible on the surface. However, a closer look reveals a team that is struggling to find its identity and purpose. The organization, which was hoping for a fresh start in 2023, finds itself sleepwalking through the season with a sense of inconsistency. And the worst part is that head coach Ron Rivera is repeating history in all the wrong ways.

### Riverboat Ron’s Downfall

Ron Rivera is undeniably one of the nicest men in the NFL. He greets everyone with warmth and shows genuine interest in those around him. However, his niceness may be his downfall in the cutthroat world of football. Rivera‘s approach to the game, although admirable, may not be suited for the NFL, where toughness and aggression are often necessary.

### A Disappointing Loss

The Commanders’ recent loss to the Chicago Bears perfectly encapsulates the team’s struggles. The expectation was that Rivera‘s team would dominate the Bears, who have been performing poorly themselves. Instead, the Commanders allowed Justin Fields and D.J. Moore to dismantle their defense without much resistance. Questions arise about why the team couldn’t contain Moore, the only receiving threat for Chicago, and why they struggled to pressure the quarterback. Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson, two of the Commanders’ key offensive players, also had a minimal impact on the game against one of the worst pass defenses in the league.

### Rivera‘s Old Habits

Rivera‘s response to the loss echoes his career trajectory. He takes a traditional, old-school approach to football, believing in keeping problems in-house, avoiding blaming anyone publicly, and being tight-lipped about internal issues. While this might be noble, it doesn’t instill confidence in fans and fails to address the underlying problems. This is a recurring pattern from Rivera‘s time with the Carolina Panthers, where many of the same issues persisted.

### Passivity and Mediocrity

Rivera‘s propensity for hesitancy in making mid-season personnel changes, even when the team is struggling, is detrimental. He is too protective of his friends within the organization, such as defensive coordinator Jack del Rio, and is unwilling to hold them accountable. Rivera‘s risk-averse coaching style and passivity hinder the team’s progress and motivation. Players who aren’t driven by their own ambition or motivated by Rivera‘s leadership may become complacent, comfortable with mediocrity, knowing that the coach won’t bench them.

### The Need for Change

While it may seem premature to consider a coaching change in just Week 5 of the season, it is evident that the Commanders need a shakeup. Although new owner Josh Harris may not be ready to fire Rivera yet, it is essential to recognize that Eric Bieniemy, the team’s offensive coordinator, is a coaching talent that deserves consideration. Bieniemy has brought life to the team’s offense and maximized the skills of quarterback Sam Howell. He has a history of demanding accountability from players and could inject the Commanders with a breath of fresh air.

### Time for Reflection and Action

As difficult as it may be to discuss firing a coach as respected and well-liked as Rivera, there comes a point where honesty is necessary. Rivera must be willing to acknowledge that his approach to football has contributed to the team’s lack of fire and drive. While he may not be solely responsible for the team’s current struggles, his coaching philosophy has allowed a sense of passivity and complacency to permeate the organization. The Commanders need a new coach who can inspire and lead the team with a sense of passion and urgency.

### Conclusion

The Washington Commanders find themselves at a crossroads. The lack of identity and purpose, combined with Ron Rivera‘s passive coaching style, has left the team searching for answers. It is crucial for the organization to consider a coaching change, potentially giving Eric Bieniemy the opportunity to lead the team in a new direction. The Commanders cannot afford to let passivity and complacency take hold. It’s time for a fresh approach and a new era for football in Washington.