Commanders rally behind resilient Mariota as he seeks redemption against former Falcons teammates in Week 4 showdown
Mariota steps up as Commanders’ starter
The Washington Commanders are once again placing their faith in quarterback Marcus Mariota, who is set to start for the second consecutive week. This decision comes as rookie Jayden Daniels continues to recover from a knee sprain. In the lead-up to the Week 4 clash against the Atlanta Falcons, Commanders head coach Dan Quinn expressed his unwavering confidence in Mariota’s abilities.
Quinn shared insights into Mariota’s leadership qualities, highlighting his thoughtful approach to the game. “I think I’ve learned about leading from him, when to lean in, when to watch, and when to give support,” Quinn explained. He emphasized that Mariota possesses a rare balance of knowing when to assert himself and when to allow others to step forward. “The work ethic and perseverance are what I’ve learned about him. He’s dealt with injuries and setbacks, but his consistent attitude is something I really respect,” Quinn added.
Facing a familiar foe
This matchup with the Falcons holds special significance for Mariota, as it marks his second consecutive game against a former team. Last week, he faced the Las Vegas Raiders, a team he played for in 2020, and emerged victorious. Now, he turns his focus to Atlanta, where he spent the 2022 season.
Quinn acknowledged the importance of Mariota’s mindset heading into the game. “You have to go through those spaces and lean into it. The discussions we had were about being yourself; that’s more than enough,” he said. Quinn commended Mariota for his ability to share insights and perspectives with teammates, a quality that can have a profound impact on team dynamics.
A career marked by resilience
Drafted second overall in the 2015 NFL Draft by the Tennessee Titans, Mariota entered the league with high expectations as a Heisman Trophy winner. However, his tenure with the Titans was marked by struggles, leading to his departure after five seasons. Since then, Mariota has navigated a winding path through the NFL, playing for the Raiders, Falcons, and Eagles before landing with the Commanders.
Despite his past challenges, Mariota remains focused on the present and the opportunity to lead the Commanders to victory against the Falcons. With his experience and a newfound support system, he aims to turn the page on past disappointments and carve out a successful future in Washington.
Looking ahead
As the Commanders prepare for their Week 4 showdown, all eyes will be on Mariota as he seeks redemption against the Falcons. With the backing of his coach and teammates, he is poised to make a significant impact on the field. The resilience he has demonstrated throughout his career could be a key factor in the outcome of this pivotal game.
