The Washington Commanders (12-5) head to Ford Field to take on the Detroit Lions (15-2) on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 8:00 PM ET in the NFC Divisional Playoffs. Detroit earned the NFC’s top seed for the first time in franchise history and is coming off a first-round bye. Washington advanced by defeating the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 23-20 in the Wild Card round.
This marks the fourth playoff meeting between these teams, with Washington leading the series 3-0. Their last postseason matchup came in 1991 when Washington defeated Detroit in the NFC Championship. The Lions, led by quarterback Jared Goff, enter as favorites, while the Commanders rely on rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, who has led them to a surprising playoff run.
Washington Commanders Preview – Rookie QB Leads the Way
Jayden Daniels has been impressive in his rookie season, completing 68.6% of his passes for 268 yards and two touchdowns in last week’s win over Tampa Bay. Daniels has displayed poise under pressure, leading five fourth-quarter comebacks this season. Terry McLaurin remains his top target, providing consistency in clutch moments.
Washington’s defense, led by Bobby Wagner, will face a tough task against the Lions’ top-ranked offense. Wagner, who has 17 career playoff appearances, returned to limited practice after injuring his ankle in the Wild Card round. The Commanders’ pass rush, anchored by Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne, must disrupt Jared Goff to give Washington a chance.
The Commanders rank third in rushing offense, averaging 150.1 yards per game. Brian Robinson and Antonio Gibson form a dynamic backfield duo that will test Detroit’s run defense, which has been solid all year. Converting on fourth downs has been a key part of Washington’s strategy, and they led the league with a 87% success rate.
Detroit Lions Preview – Offense Aims to Dominate
The Lions boast the NFL’s highest-scoring offense, averaging 33.2 points per game. Jared Goff has been efficient, throwing 37 touchdowns with a 72.4% completion rate during the regular season. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs adds explosiveness, while the return of David Montgomery provides balance and physicality to Detroit’s ground attack.
Amon-Ra St. Brown leads the receiving corps with 115 receptions, 1,263 yards, and 12 touchdowns. Tight end Sam LaPorta has emerged as a reliable option in the red zone. The Lions’ offensive line, anchored by Frank Ragnow, has been key to their success, though they’ll be without guard Kevin Zeitler, who is sidelined with a hamstring injury.
Defensively, the Lions excel on third downs, finishing the regular season as the league leader in third-down defense. Despite injuries to key players, Detroit has maintained an aggressive approach under coordinator Aaron Glenn. Cornerbacks Terrion Arnold and Amik Robertson will be tasked with limiting McLaurin and the Commanders’ passing game.
Betting Prediction
The Lions are 9-point favorites, with the total set at 55.5. Detroit’s high-powered offense gives them the edge, but Washington’s ability to control the clock and convert fourth downs could keep the game close. Expect a high-scoring affair where the Lions’ efficiency on both sides of the ball proves decisive.
Projected final score: Lions 34, Commanders 24. The Lions should cover the spread, and the total likely goes over, given both teams’ offensive capabilities and playoff intensity.
Pick: Lions -9, Over 55.5
