The Washington Football Team is 2-2 on the season after Sunday’s thrilling 34-30 win over the Atlanta Falcons.
A big reason for Washington’s offensive success is the play of quarterback Taylor Heinicke. Heinicke returned to his home state of Georgia on Sunday and completed 23 of 33 passes for 290 yards and three touchdowns. He saved his best work for the fourth quarter — again.
It was Heinicke’s heroics in Week 2 that led Washington to its first win over the Giants. After the game, head coach Ron Rivera praised his quarterback.
“I think that’s really important that our guys understand we’re never out of the game,” Rivera said, per Ethan Cadeaux of NBC Sports Washington. “Offensively, I think the guys look at it with a guy like Taylor, we aren’t. We always have a chance to win.”
That’s the ultimate praise from a head coach. Heinicke has limitations, such as his arm strength and willingness to put the ball in danger at times. However, it’s that style of play that makes him most effective. If you try and make Heinicke a game manager, you take away what he does best.
“Taylor is just one of those dynamic players who knows how to make plays. As I said, nothing is ever done with him. He’s just going to continue to work,” Rivera said.
Washington has won two games because of Heinicke. He never gives up on a play, and it’s clear he has the full support of his teammates. How long has it been since Washington had a quarterback who could make a play late in the game?
Now isn’t the time to debate if Heinicke is Washington’s long-term guy or not. We can have that talk in the offseason. Meanwhile, Washington should realize how fortunate it is to have Heinicke under center.
