With their season on the line, the Washington Commanders turned back to Carson Wentz in Week 17. It didn’t take long for that move to completely backfire.
Wentz threw an interception on the Commanders’ third offensive play. Wentz was looking for Terry McLaurin on the throw, but Cleveland Browns cornerback Denzel Ward undercut the route a snagged an easy pick.
Washington fans didn’t appreciate that. They not only booed Wentz off the field, they also started chanting for backup Taylor Heinicke to enter the game.
Then, Wentz did it again. With 13:14 left in the second quarter, Wentz underthrew a deep pass that was picked off by Grant Delpit. The stands once again erupted in chants for Heincke.
That can’t feel good for Wentz or Commanders head coach Ron Rivera.
Wentz opened the season as the team’s starter and led the team to a 2-4 record before getting injured in Week 6. Wentz missed multiple weeks after undergoing finger surgery, allowing Heinicke to step in as the starter. Heinicke led the team to wins in three of his first four starts, but was benched against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 16.
Wentz came on in relief and then was re-installed as the Commanders’ starter ahead of Week 17.
The Commanders entered the contest with the No. 7 seed — the final playoff spot — in the NFC. If the team can win in both Weeks 17 and 18, it is in the playoffs. If not, Wentz might have to leave town before the team leaves the stadium on Sunday.
