The Washington Commanders have a chance to make another big statement this weekend when the Los Angeles Rams visit Northwest Stadium. If head coach Dan Quinn's squad pulls off an upset, it could push general manager Adam Peters to adopt a more aggressive approach before the 2026 trade deadline.
That will be easier said than done.
The Rams have started to find some form over recent games. All-Pro defensive end Myles Garrett is back, and their offense looks much more balanced now that the ground game has improved.
Washington will have its work cut out for it, especially with so many injuries to key personnel. However, with quarterback Jayden Daniels under center, this might be more competitive than people think.
Another fascinating afternoon awaits. Before then, here are four bold Commanders predictions against the Rams.
Bold predictions for the Washington Commanders in Week 9 against the Los Angeles Rams
Johnny Newton gains a return sack
The Commanders may have lost Daron Payne and Javon Kinlaw for the season, but they are getting Johnny Newton back in the trenches. He hasn't played this season because of a torn pectoral, and while expecting miracles wouldn't be fair, he should have opportunities to flourish.
Newton will likely be brought along gradually, potentially as an interior pass-rushing option when the situation dictates. And if he can mark his long-awaited return to health with a sack, that will be a positive step in the right direction.
Antonio Williams gains 10 receptions
Treylon Burks and Dyami Brown are unavailable in Week 9. This further depletes the Commanders' receiving corps, placing more pressure on third-round rookie Antonio Williams to come through when it matters most.
Williams has caught the eye in recent weeks as he takes on more responsibility. The Rams are dealing with some cornerback issues, with Jaylen Watson missing and Trent McDuffie not practicing all week with a back complication. The Commanders should capitalize on this, and if the volume is there, the Clemson product can make things happen.
Nick Cross gains 12+ tackles
The Commanders' objective will be to stop the Rams' prolific yards-after-contact. Making their tackles count is imperative, and versatile safety Nick Cross' performance will be a key factor throughout.
Cross was a tremendous addition to the Commanders this offseason. The former Maryland star is making his presence felt against the run while also being used in a variety of ways across the second and third levels of the field. His role in marshaling the middle will be critical, and a big tackling day would be welcome.
Commanders stun the Rams in Week 9 thriller
While the Rams have a lot of talent, they have not yet lived up to their preseason expectations. At 4-4, they have underachieved, and coming cross-country for a 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time start can be complicated for West Coast teams.
The Commanders are underdogs. Their backs are against the wall, and things are still hanging precariously at 2-4-1.
However, having fewer expectations on their shoulders should help them relax a little bit. And if they can keep the crowd engaged, they might just have a shot.
It would easily go the other way, of course. But our final bold prediction is that the Commanders will pull off a huge upset.
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