The Washington Commanders' rivalry with the Dallas Cowboys goes back decades. It has plenty of history and memorable moments. But this time, both clubs are trying to avoid starting the season 0-2.
Dan Quinn returns to his old stomping ground after leaving his role as Dallas' defensive coordinator to become Washington's head coach in 2024. But given the Cowboys' expectations this season, they won't be doing him any favors.
The Commanders showed some fighting qualities against the Philadelphia Eagles, narrowly failing to tie the game despite a late rally. That was comforting, but in Dallas, the result matters most. And it must be positive with the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks up next.
Another tense, heated afternoon awaits. Before then, here are five bold predictions for the Commanders' Week 2 game at AT&T Stadium.
Bold predictions for the Washington Commanders in Week 2 against the Dallas Cowboys
Daron Payne gains three tackles for loss
With Javon Kinlaw listed as questionable, the Commanders will need Daron Payne more than ever. The defensive lineman played well to start the campaign in Week 1, but finishing off plays with more conviction can help him take the next step.
Kinlaw will probably suit up, but he won't be 100 percent with a back issue. Payne has the talent to pick up the slack, and if he can capitalize on a Cowboys interior offensive line without Tyler Smith, a productive day awaits.
Terry McLaurin secures 120+ receiving yards
The Eagles always do a good job of blanketing wide receiver Terry McLaurin, and last weekend was no different. With two catches for 14 receiving yards in Washington's opener, the Ohio State product will be hoping for much better fortunes against the Cowboys.
McLaurin is still the top dog, and he's come into the season with some added motivation after a frustrating 2025 campaign. Dallas has some talent, but they don't have a true lockdown corner. The two-time Pro Bowler can take advantage of that with a big day.
K'Lavon Chaisson notches two sacks
The Commanders generated pressure against the Eagles. This was a real positive, especially considering the strength of Philadelphia's offensive line. And even though he didn't fill up the stat sheet, free-agent signing K'Lavon Chaisson was a big reason why.
Chaisson looked explosive. He looked like he could make a difference as the season goes on, and if he can secure a couple of sacks versus Dallas, Washington's chances of earning a victory will improve.
Jayden Daniels finished with 75% completion success
Jayden Daniels took time to find his groove in Week 1. Given the quarterback missed so much football last year, barely played in the preseason, and is working within a new offensive scheme under David Blough, this wasn't surprising. But his fourth-quarter efforts were more in keeping with what fans expected.
Daniels finished the game at Lincoln Financial Field with a 52.9 percent completion success rate. Dallas' defense is less formidable, and with New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart completing 79.3% of his passes, the No. 2 pick in 2024 should get this number much higher.
Commanders steamroll the Cowboys for a dominant win
Washington has a lot of unknowns and concerns entering Week 2. But if the Commanders play as they did in the fourth quarter against the Eagles right from the outset, they have a shot.
Containing the Cowboys' high-powered offense will be difficult, especially if some underperformers in the secondary cannot turn things around. But this is also a good time to play Dallas' defense, which had no answers for the Giants on Sunday Night Football.
It won't be easy, and everyone must be at their best. But if they are, Washington can pile more misery onto the Cowboys to get their campaign up and running.
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