The Washington Commanders (12-5) travel to Lincoln Financial Field to face the top-seeded Philadelphia Eagles (14-3) on Sunday, January 26, 2025, at 3:00 PM ET. The winner of this NFC Championship game will punch their ticket to the Super Bowl. This marks the third meeting between these NFC East rivals this season, with each team claiming a win in the prior matchups.
Washington enters the game as the No. 6 seed, fresh off two road playoff victories, including a 45-31 win over the Detroit Lions. The Eagles, the defending NFC champions, aim to return to the Super Bowl after defeating the Rams 28-22 in the Divisional Round. Both teams are highly motivated, with dynamic quarterbacks Jayden Daniels and Jalen Hurts leading their respective offenses.
Washington Commanders Preview – Riding Momentum
The Commanders have exceeded expectations this postseason, becoming the first team in franchise history to secure two road playoff wins in the same postseason. Led by rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, Washington has been efficient on offense, averaging 34 points per game in the playoffs. Daniels has excelled under pressure, leading the NFL in completions and touchdowns against the blitz during the regular season.
Wide receiver Terry McLaurin remains a key playmaker, providing Daniels with a reliable target in critical situations. However, Washington faces a challenge on the offensive line with injuries to guard Sam Cosmi and others, leaving them vulnerable to Philadelphia’s dominant defensive front. The Commanders’ defense, led by Bobby Wagner and Jeremy Chinn, has been opportunistic with six takeaways in two playoff games.
Washington’s ability to protect Daniels and sustain long drives will be critical against Philadelphia’s top-ranked defense. The Commanders are appearing in their first NFC Championship game since 1991 and are aiming for their first Super Bowl appearance in over three decades.
Philadelphia Eagles Preview – Defending Their Title
The Eagles, who finished with the NFC’s best record, are hosting the conference championship game for the second consecutive year. Jalen Hurts, dealing with a minor knee injury, has continued to lead Philadelphia’s offense with efficiency. Running back Saquon Barkley has been a standout performer, totaling 296 rushing yards and four touchdowns in two games against Washington this season.
Philadelphia’s defense, anchored by All-Pro defensive tackle Jalen Carter, ranks first in the NFL in both yards allowed and passing yards allowed. Carter dominated in the Divisional Round with two sacks and five QB pressures. Linebackers Nolan Smith and Zack Baun have combined for six sacks in the playoffs, making life difficult for opposing quarterbacks.
The Eagles’ offensive line remains one of their strengths, though injuries to Dallas Goedert and Cam Jurgens could test their depth. Philadelphia’s balanced attack, paired with a relentless defense, positions them as the favorites to advance to their third Super Bowl in six years.
Betting Prediction
The Eagles are favored by 6.5 points, with the total set at 47.5. Philadelphia’s dominant defense and home-field advantage make them the safer pick. Washington’s high-scoring offense will need to overcome injuries and an elite Eagles defense to keep the game close.
Projected final score: Philadelphia 27, Washington 20. Expect the Eagles to cover the spread, with the total finishing slightly under due to the strength of both defenses.
Pick: Philadelphia -6.5, Under 47.5
