What a journey it's been for the Washington Commanders this season. For those within the building, the hard work is far from over.
There is immense hope for the future, but nothing is guaranteed in the NFL. An opportunity like this might not come along again. After all, it's been more than three decades since Washington was last in the NFC Championship game.
Fans are savoring the moment. They've grown in confidence and belief that anything is possible. Dan Quinn, his staff, and the players have earned that trust following a campaign to remember.
The Commanders are one game away from the Super Bowl. It's a surreal feeling for the team's long-suffering fanbase. The players are taking everything in their stride, focusing on the next challenge and nothing more. Quinn is ensuring everyone is avoiding outside distractions and keeping their foot on the pedal.
This is also a fierce division rivalry to further enhance intrigue. The Philadelphia Eagles are confident they can win their rubber match on home soil after splitting the regular-season series with Washington. They should also be aware that the Commanders are not going to roll over and accept their underdog tag.
A fascinating battle awaits. Before then, here are five bold Commanders' predictions this weekend at Lincoln Financial Field.
Bold predictions for the Commanders in NFC Championship game at the Eagles
Jeremy Chinn gains 12+ tackles
The Washington Commanders' decision regarding Jeremy Chinn's future is becoming pretty simple. His improvements are notable and the safety's influence is growing. When the postseason arrived, the former second-round selection took things up a notch.
Chinn leads all players in tackles during the playoffs. He's a dynamic force capable of being impactful in all three phases. However, his presence will be needed at the defensive second level frequently in this one.
It's all hands on deck for the Commanders in their quest to thwart running back Saquon Barkley. Washington has done a better job than most of containing him. They started well in the first game before he broke off two big runs late. Joe Whitt Jr.'s unit began slowly against the Penn State product at Northwest Stadium but adjusted well in the second half.
Putting it all together for four quarters is a different challenge entirely. Chinn will be at the heart of that, providing instinctive playmaking to identify running lanes and explosiveness at the contact point.
If Chinn gains 12 or more tackles and most are closer to the line of scrimmage than not, it'll be a massive boost.