Brady Critiques Commanders’ Two-Point Call in Blough’s Coordinator Debut

David Blough’s first game calling plays as an NFL offensive coordinator ended in heartbreak — and in a lesson delivered by one of the game’s all-time greats.

The 31-year-old former quarterback, just three years into his coaching career, opened the season on the road against the Philadelphia Eagles and defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, whose front features Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis. Washington’s offense sputtered for three quarters but stayed within reach, then rallied late behind quarterback Jayden Daniels, who completed 9 of 11 passes for 100 yards and two touchdowns in the fourth quarter.

With just over a minute remaining, Daniels connected with rookie receiver Antonio Williams for a score that trimmed the deficit to 24-22. A successful two-point conversion would have forced overtime against the defending NFC East champions.

Blough dialed up a pass, with tight end John Bates among the primary reads. Center Nick Allegretti was beaten off the snap, and Eagles tackle Moro Ojomo spun free to hit Bates almost immediately after he caught a shovel pass, sealing the win for Philadelphia.

The call has drawn sharp criticism, though some former players and coaches have defended it, arguing the design would have worked had the blocking held. Tom Brady, who called the game for Fox Corporation‘s broadcast arm, was not among the defenders. On replay review, he questioned why the ball wasn’t targeted toward Washington’s top weapons.

“Whether it’s Terry McLaurin or Stefon Diggs, are you really thinking John Bates in that situation?” Brady said. He clarified he meant no disrespect to Bates, a respected blocking tight end, but argued the ball belongs with the best playmakers — or in Daniels’ hands via a run-pass option.

“In big-time moments, you gotta think about players, not plays,” Brady said. “I’m not thinking Bates.”

Fox, whose entertainment-focused business spans cable network programming and television, continues its high-profile NFL booth investment with Brady in his broadcast role. For Blough, the loss marks a tough debut, but the early-season setback came against one of the league’s most respected defensive minds.

Blough is scheduled to meet with reporters on Thursday, where he will likely face questions about the final play design and what he would do differently.

What to watch

• Blough’s Thursday media availability and his explanation of the two-point call
• How Washington’s offense evolves in Week 2 under its new coordinator
• Whether the Commanders continue to feature Bates or shift late-game targets toward McLaurin, Diggs, and Daniels

Source: original release