But it doesn’t erase the inability of the offense to sustain success beyond the first quarter. Offensive coordinator Drew Petzing has scripted four flawless starts for the Cardinals offense, scoring on their first drive in every game this year.
After that, the lack of production in the second half came back to haunt the Cardinals.
“I think just player execution because at the end of the day, that’s what it comes down to,” Harrison said. “It’s 11-on-11. You’ve got to win your one-on-one as a player in the run game and the pass games. That’s really what it comes down to.”
Similar to Week 1 against the Bills, Harrison recognized the Commanders began to play more cloud coverage on his side of the field. It showed in his production. Harrison went a long stretch — from late in the first quarter to late in the third quarter — without a target.
“When we’re doing good, you feel that,” Murray said. “You feel like, ‘OK. The playmakers are making plays, and everything’s flowing.’ But when it’s stagnant and you’re going three-and-out … you can’t get in rhythm and you’re off the field. Everybody’s stats are going to look like that.”
Gannon said there were moments when Harrison was open, but the ball didn’t find him. Both the coach and quarterback agree the ball needs to be in No. 18’s hands.
It’s all a part of the process as Murray and Harrison develop their chemistry. The hope is that the chemistry extends beyond the first quarter.
“I’m definitely getting more comfortable out there. I guess that’s the positive of (Sunday) for me,” Harrison said. “Other than that, I’ve got to continue to do my job and help the team win.”
