‘There’s plenty to clean up’ for a Commanders team with big expectations

For the first time in years, the best word to describe the Washington Commanders locker room after the season opener was self-assured. The players weren’t mad or boastful or surprised. They weren’t dreaming of breaking through. They weren’t popping balloons after preseason hope met grim reality. They were pleased — they’d just beaten a division rival by double digits — and they spoke matter-of-factly about needing to play better.

“We’re always happy that we won,” wide receiver Terry McLaurin said after the 21-6 victory over the New York Giants. “But we also know that we didn’t play our best ball — and that’s exciting too. We have a chance to play even better.”