The Philadelphia Eagles are set to face the Washington Commanders at Northwest Stadium on Sunday at 1:00 PM ET. The Eagles are in a strong position to clinch the NFC East title, while the Commanders are fighting to secure a playoff spot. This game carries significant weight for both teams as they prepare for the postseason.
Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles (12-2) are riding a ten-game winning streak and have their sights set on the top seed in the NFC playoffs. A win this week would lock up the division title. In their last meeting with Washington, Jalen Hurts led the Eagles to a 26-18 victory with a fourth-quarter rushing touchdown.
Philadelphia’s offensive line has been a key factor in their success, paving the way for Saquon Barkley and protecting Hurts throughout the season. The team ranks first in rushing yards per game, and that strength will be vital against a Washington defense that struggles against the run.
Philadelphia’s defense is among the league’s best, allowing the fewest yards per game and tied for the fewest points allowed. Saquon Barkley will aim to bounce back after a quiet game against Pittsburgh, where he was limited to 65 yards.
Injury concerns include Jalen Hurts, who has been dealing with a finger issue but is expected to play. Several other starters, including A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, are listed as resting or managing minor injuries. The team’s depth has been instrumental in overcoming challenges throughout the year.
Washington Commanders
The Commanders (9-5) are coming off a narrow 20-19 win against the Saints, marking their second straight victory. They remain in the wild-card hunt but need a strong finish to guarantee a playoff berth. Washington is aiming to end Philadelphia’s winning streak and strengthen their playoff chances.
Jayden Daniels and the offense face a tough challenge against Philadelphia’s defense. Marshon Lattimore’s addition to the secondary gives Washington a boost, as he was impactful in his debut last week. The Commanders will look to their running game, led by Brian Robinson, to create balance and keep the Eagles’ defense guessing.
Washington’s run defense, ranked 25th in the league, will need to contain Barkley and the Eagles’ rushing attack. Injuries to key players like Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne could impact their ability to stop the run. The team will also lean on veteran linebacker Bobby Wagner to provide leadership in this high-stakes matchup.
The Commanders were competitive in their earlier game against the Eagles, keeping it close into the fourth quarter. Their ability to convert on key downs and limit turnovers will determine their success in this critical divisional game.
Prediction
The Eagles have dominated this matchup in recent seasons and bring a more complete team into this game. Expect their defense to limit Washington’s scoring opportunities and their rushing attack to control the clock. Philadelphia’s ability to execute in the red zone and force turnovers should be the difference.
While Washington has shown resilience in recent weeks, the Eagles’ depth and consistency on both sides of the ball make them a difficult opponent. The Commanders will need a near-flawless performance to pull off the upset.
- Pick: Eagles 27, Commanders 17
