Dan Quinn must be happy with the reaction he got from his players during the destruction of the Carolina Panthers in Week 7. This was a complete team effort. They were once again comfortably dealing with one of the bottom players in the league. It was yet another sign that the Washington Commanders were moving in the right direction under the new regime.

The Panthers aren’t exactly world beaters, and that’s being kind. Still, the way Quinn kept his team focused and in control, despite being heavily favored and struggling with injuries, was hugely pleasing.

Washington is hoping for good news about Jayden Daniels’ rib injury. Brandon Coleman also adds his name to the growing list of health complications Quinn is dealing with. However, the professionalism and improved culture installed by those in power are having the desired effect much sooner than expected.

With this in mind, here are five surprising highlights from Washington’s impressive success against the Panthers at Northwest Stadium in Week 7.

Emmanuel Forbes Jr. – Commanders CB

Credit where it’s due.

Just a week removed from being a healthy scratch with the Baltimore Ravens, cornerback Emmanuel Forbes Jr. 67 percent of defensive snaps in Week 7 against the Carolina Panthers. The Washington Commanders had won the game before halftime, which helped, but the former first-round pick produced a satisfying effort nonetheless.

Forbes even took action when things were relatively competitive. The undersized defensive back came down with an interception – Andy Dalton’s second of the afternoon – to put the exclamation point on proceedings. This was undoubtedly a big boost to the player’s confidence after a difficult campaign so far.

The commanders are not ready to give up on Forbes. They’re taking it easy on the Mississippi State product, but it won’t take long for opinions to change as he builds on perhaps the best performance of his professional career to date.