The Washington Commanders are facing the Miami Dolphins in Madrid, Spain, this Sunday in the NFL’s debut in the country.

Both teams are 3-7, but the Commanders are on a five-game losing streak, while the Dolphins have won two of their last five. The Dolphins will have their starting quarterback on the field, and while the Commanders are fielding a backup, Marcus Mariota isn’t your typical backup quarterback.

Let’s take a look at three reasons for optimism heading into the Commanders’ international matchup with the Dolphins in Week 11.

Marcus Mariota’s efficiency

Mariota is a veteran quarterback who could be a starter on a number of other teams. But he’s in Washington, and the Commanders are thankful for it. He’s coming off a strong Week 10 performance where he completed 16-of-22 passes for 213 yards and two touchdowns, plus 22 rushing yards. His dual-threat ability could challenge a Dolphins’ defense that struggles with mobile quarterbacks.

Even with Terry McLaurin and Treylon Burks ruled out for this week, Mariota still has Deebo Samuel and Zach Ertz. Both Ertz and Samuel have stepped up in McLaurin’s absence, and their veteran experience is capable of exploiting the Dolphins’ linebacker coverage gaps.

Miami’s international struggles

The Dolphins have played in seven total international games, going 2-5 when abroad prior to 2025. Travel and time-zone changes have historically disrupted their rhythm. Considering this is the NFL’s first-ever regular-season game in Spain, there is mounting pressure on both teams to perform at a high level.

Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota and linebacker Bobby Wagner have spoken about the significance of playing abroad, which could boost morale and focus for the burgundy and gold. The Commanders haven’t appeared in an international game in a decade, and they’re ready for the task at hand.

Interior defensive line stability

Even with Daron Payne sidelined by suspension, the Commanders still have Javon Kinlaw and Jer’Zhan Newton anchoring the middle of the line. De’Von Achane torched the Buffalo Bills last week for 174 yards, but having these two remain on the inside gives the rest of the defense a better chance at helping to slow him down.

Now, the offense has to do its part. In all of Miami’s losses, they’ve allowed 27 or more points. So, if they can keep it close, they can capitalize on Miami’s volatility. Then, the defense can force mistakes from Tua Tagovailoa, who threw two interceptions last week. The Commanders’ defense hasn’t played well this season, which led to Dan Quinn taking over the defensive play-calling. The stability of the interior defensive line plays a huge part in how plays will be called, so expect Quinn to take full advantage of that.

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders vs. Miami Dolphins: 3 reasons for optimism