Cardale Jones to keep starting job despite 1st-quarter benching

Cardale Jones will remain the DC Defenders' starting quarterback despite being benched Sunday after throwing a first-quarter interception against the St. Louis BattleHawks.

Tyree Jackson replaced Jones after he committed his fifth interception over the last three games. Head coach Pep Hamilton said after the contest that he planned to insert Jackson for the third series regardless of how the first two panned out, according to Tom Schad of USA TODAY Sports.

The Defenders prevailed 15-6 despite Jones failing to complete either of his two pass attempts.

Jackson took care of business on his first possession in the saddle, leading DC on a five-play, 45-yard touchdown drive.

Jackson finished the tilt 9-for-14 for 64 yards and a touchdown, adding 32 rushing yards on seven carries.

The Defenders improved to 3-2 with the victory.