It would be easy for the Washington Commanders to get ahead of themselves after a phenomenal start to the season. Their miracle win over the Chicago Bears in Week 8 was a testament to how this team fights until the end. And for the first time in decades, the football gods are shining on this sleeping giant.
The euphoria of such a monumental triumph in dramatic circumstances can be harmful to any team's overall outlook. This unbelievable moment cannot become the pinnacle of Washington's campaign. Coming down from their high professionally and keeping the same mentality is crucial. One win, no matter how exciting or emotionally draining, counts the same as any other.
Thankfully, this is a different Commanders' outfit than in years past. There's a strong bond in the locker room. The cultural shift is undeniable. There's also the right blend of youth and experience - both on the playing side and across Dan Quinn's coaching staff - to ensure everyone stays on an even keel.
Commanders WR Luke McCaffrey lauds locker room shift from Week 8 emotion
This was brought up by rookie wide receiver Luke McCaffrey during his media availability this week. The third-round pick said getting back down to business was something everyone relished. He added there's a self-policing attitude among the players. Nothing needs to be said. Everyone knows the job isn't finished and is staying on the right path to prosperity.
We did a great job of celebrating, having fun, and building energy in our locker room after the game, into Monday even. And today [Wednesday] was such a good time to start on the focus and preparation for this week. Recalibrating and just getting focused. I think it comes from all around. I think it just comes from the attitude and demeanor walking in. I don't know if there's always something that needs to be said, or just how it's approached or how it's taken by every person in this locker room and every coach.Luke McCaffrey
It's been a long time since the Commanders had this sort of collective mindset. Ron Rivera was proud of the culture he established, but it was a far cry from this.
Nobody gets complacent. Nobody takes anything for granted. Everyone is keeping each other grounded, focused on the next challenge, and nothing more.
There is no looking back. There is no looking forward further than the upcoming game. Anything else won't be tolerated by veteran leaders or fledgling professionals such as McCaffrey alike.
It's a revelation. The Commanders are ahead of where most anticipated at 6-2 with aspirations growing rapidly among the fanbase. It counts for nothing if they cannot continue this positivity surge, which could result in a postseason berth or perhaps even winning the NFC East in Year 1 of Quinn's head coaching tenure.
That's the message being relayed and policed in the locker room. There's also complete trust from Quinn that the relationships forged throughout the offseason and during the campaign can continue to provide a supreme sense of steadiness amid the ongoing adulation.
This has been a recipe for success so far. If the same trend continues, there's just no telling what this team could potentially accomplish.
