Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - AUGUST 10: Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury and head coach Dan Quinn of the Washington Commanders look on against the New York Jets in the first half of the preseason game against at MetLife Stadium on August 10, 2024 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Jets defeated the Commanders 20-17. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
Washington Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury is no stranger to facing tough defenses, but the New York Giants‘ front seven has earned his highest respect. As his team prepares for its Week 1 matchup, Kingsbury acknowledged the test awaiting his offense in what he expects to be one of the most physical games of the season.
“Yeah, it’s as good as we’ll see, I have a feeling,” Kingsbury said when asked about the Giants. “With those guys, they’ve invested a lot in that group and rightfully so, and they’re very good. I think Dexter Lawrence is one of the premier defensive players in the league. There’s no doubt. I mean, he’s a game wrecker if you don’t have a plan for him each and every snap.”
Lawrence, a two-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle, anchors the interior of the Giants’ defense. His power and disruption can collapse a pocket before plays develop, making life difficult for both quarterbacks and offensive lines. For Washington, containing him will be one of the top priorities in designing the offensive game plan.
Kingsbury also pointed to New York’s edge rushers as difference makers. “The edge guys, I’ve always had a tremendous amount of respect for Brian Burns and his style of play and kind of the relentless effort he plays with. And then Thibodeaux, a top pick, and Abdul Carter now. So, the front seven is as challenging as we’ll face,” Kingsbury explained.
Commanders’ Offensive Line Faces a Crucial Battle
The Commanders’ offensive line, revamped to protect quarterback Jayden Daniels and establish a consistent run game, will face an immediate test against New York’s pass rush. Burns brings speed and technique off the edge, Thibodeaux adds athleticism and power, and Carter is quickly trying to build a reputation as a rising rookie linebacker capable of wreaking havoc.
Kingsbury understands that protecting Daniels will require discipline, communication, and a physical mindset. “We’re going to have to be prepared and know it’s going to be a knockdown, drag-out type game just like they were last year,” Kingsbury said. “It came down to the wire in both games last year, and our team understands that.”
Washington swept New York in 2024, winning both matchups in tight, hard-fought contests. Those battles showed the Commanders can compete with the Giants’ defensive front, but Kingsbury knows the challenge only grows as New York continues to invest in its defensive talent.
The offensive coordinator’s respect for the Giants’ defense highlights the importance of execution in the trenches. If Washington’s offensive line can neutralize Lawrence in the middle and slow down the edge rushers, the Commanders can establish balance and allow Daniels to make plays downfield. If not, the Giants have the tools to control the game and keep Washington’s offense off rhythm.
A Statement Opportunity in Week One
The season opener against New York is more than just another divisional matchup; it is a measuring stick for Washington’s offensive growth. Kingsbury has emphasized speed and efficiency in his system, and facing an elite defensive front right out of the gate provides the perfect chance to test those principles.
The Commanders know that every snap will matter. The offensive line must hold its ground, the backs must find lanes against a physical front, and Daniels must stay poised under pressure. If Washington can execute, the team not only starts the season with a crucial divisional win but also sends a message that its offense is ready to thrive against the league’s toughest defenses.
With stars like Lawrence, Burns, Kayvon Thibodeaux, and Carter on the other side, Washington’s preparation will determine the outcome. For Kingsbury, that preparation is already underway, and his confidence in his group is clear. Week One promises fireworks, and the Commanders’ offense is eager to prove it can meet the challenge head-on.