Commanders’ run defense became hidden engine behind stunning Seahawks win

The Washington Commanders secured an upset victory over the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks in Week 3 at Northwest Stadium. Washington's improved run defense played a critical role in shutting down Seattle's ground game, repeatedly halting early downs to force returning quarterback Sam Darnold into five third-and-long situations of eight or more yards.

Defensive coordinator Daronte Jones utilized pressure schemes to disrupt Seattle's passing attack behind strong interior line play. Outside linebacker Odafe Oweh helped set the edge, contributing to a defensive effort that held Seattle to two or fewer yards on 58 percent of run plays and limited them to one or fewer yards on eight of 17 attempts.