The bright lights of Monday Night Football await the Washington Commanders in Week 3 when they travel to face the Cincinnati Bengals. Some will wilt under the glare of the national spotlight. Others will thrive. Let’s hope Washington has more of the latter.

Cincinnati looks capable of going deep in the postseason in 2024. They have a true franchise quarterback in Joe Burrow, an elite wide receiver in Ja’Marr Chase, and a talented young defense all rising together. That combination should scare teams across the league, so the Commanders are in for a big challenge.

Prediction: Defeat (1-2)

That might be a step too far for the Commanders this early in the season. A result in front of the entire NFL world would make everyone sit up and take notice. Even if Washington can keep things exciting late in the game, that should be considered progress.

This game will mean more to Washington offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury than most. Before he was fired, he was the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals, so the playmaker could be forgiven for having an extra incentive to outdo his old employer in Week 4.

The Cardinals are a tough team to evaluate early in the season. Their offense should be productive with players like Kyler Murray, Marvin Harrison Jr., Trey McBride and James Conner carrying the load. However, their defense has holes that could be exploited if Kingsbury plans things effectively enough.

Prediction: Win (2-2)

If the Commanders can go all out here and get a road win, it would be a huge confidence boost at a crucial moment, but that depends on whether Washington’s cornerbacks can handle the inevitable barrage of shots that will come their way in this game.

After two straight away games, the Commanders are relieved to be back on home soil. Unfortunately, they face a daunting challenge as the Cleveland Browns come to town.

The Browns have one of the most impressive defenses in the league. This promises to be a tough challenge for the offensive line and especially for rookie left tackle Brandon Coleman. His job will be to keep edge rusher Myles Garrett from dominating, which is easier said than done for even the best players in the league.

Prediction: Defeat (2-3)

Washington will have to physically challenge its opponents to have any chance of winning. If much-maligned quarterback Deshaun Watson returns to form, it will be even more difficult for the Commanders, regardless of whether running back Nick Chubb plays or not.