Dan Quinn Takes Command
The Washington Commanders ended their coaching search Thursday morning, settling on Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Dan Quinn.
Quinn was the Falcons Head Coach for six seasons, ending with a record of 43-42 and a Superbowl appearance. That appearance is infamous for being on the wrong side of the biggest comeback in NFL history, as the Falcons were leading 28-3 before inevitably blowing the lead. Nevertheless, he was hired as a defensive coordinator for Dallas, finding success. This past season, the Cowboys boasted the fifth-ranked passing defense, while having the 16th run defense. In comparison, the Commanders had the 32nd-ranked pass defense and 27th-run defense, a substantial dropoff. While it’s important to remember the difference in quality of personnel between Dallas and Washington, Quinn will undoubtedly attempt to transform this defense.Β
Quinn wasnβt viewed as the top coaching candidate by most teams, especially after the Cowboy’s failure in the playoffs against the Jordan Love-led Packers. This is evident as Quinn was the last coach hired, with every other team going in a different direction. Quinnβs defense allowed 48 points and 415 total yards to the Packers, being dominated on the ground and through the air. This performance left a sour taste in fans’ mouths, which is why many didnβt want Washington to hire him. Even still, Quinn is the coach who will try to lead Washington to success in the playoffs, with the 2nd overall pick and over $70m in cap space to help the continued rebuild.
