The Washington Commanders have been one of the worst organizations in the entire NFL over the last two decades. One could argue it's been longer than that.
They have won two playoff games in the 21st century. It was also responsible for the slipping away into hibernation for one of the great fanbases in the NFL.
The days of Joe Gibbs, John Riggins, Art Monk, and the Hogs are so far in the past that a large chunk of football fans nowadays don't know just how dominant Washington used to be. But this sleeping giant is waking up.
The Commanders went into the bye at 8-5, riding high off dismantling the Tennessee Titans. But the work isn't done.
They will be going to the New Orleans Saints this weekend, followed by a revenge game at home against the Philadelphia Eagles before ending the season with contests versus the Atlanta Falcons and Dallas Cowboys. The Commanders are in a position to make the playoffs. It would be devastating for them not to.
It's important for the future of this franchise that they make the postseason this season. Especially considering they started the campaign 7-2 and far exceeded expectations.
With all of that said, what is actually within the realm of possibility this season? Here are three attainable post-bye objectives the Commanders can attain.
Secure double-digit wins
Ten wins are normally enough to make the playoffs. That's not always the case, but recent history suggests those who attain double-digit victories would be extremely unlucky not to secure a place in the knockout rounds.
The Washington Commanders looked like a shoo-in to reach this target earlier in the campaign. Their recent slump before beating the Titans placed that under threat. But if they play .500 football the rest of the way, 10 triumphs are achievable.
Dan Quinn urged his players to take things one game at a time and focus on what they can control. If they heed their head coach's advice and perform as they're capable of, the results should take care of themselves.