Things are still hanging precariously for the Washington Commanders. Narrowly holding onto victory at the New Orleans Saints kept their playoff hopes alive. Even so, a lot could change over the next three games before their eventual fate is confirmed.
The Commanders know what they have to do. Destiny is in their hands. That might not be for much longer if head coach Dan Quinn's men don't keep their foot on the gas.
There is a huge challenge awaiting Quinn and his squad this weekend. The Philadelphia Eagles can secure the NFC East division crown with success at Northwest Stadium. They are on a 10-game winning streak and looked back to their ruthless best in Week 15 to dispose of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Form often goes out of the window in games like this. Philadelphia's late surge was enough to beat the Commanders on primetime earlier this season. They'll be confident of doing the same again, so Washington must match their intensity and adjust accordingly in pursuit of what would be a priceless triumph.
With that being said, we made five bold predictions for the Commanders' game against the Eagles in Week 16.
Bold predictions for the Commanders in Week 16 vs. Eagles
Bobby Wagner gains 15+ tackles
If the Washington Commanders want to stand any chance of beating the Philadelphia Eagles, they must keep Saquon Barkley quiet. The running back has more than 1,600 rushing yards already and is firmly in the NFL MVP conversation. Finding a way to contain the dynamic force is the biggest priority above all else.
The Commanders did a relatively good job of that in Week 11. Barkley got his fill in the end, breaking off two huge runs in the fourth quarter to put Philadelphia in the driving seat. That cannot happen again if Washington wants to reverse fortunes with its division rival.
Bobby Wagner's role will be integral. The veteran linebacker must get everyone lined up effectively and react to various motions pre-snap. He needs to be around Barkley consistently and meet him with aggression when he inevitably gets to the defensive second level.
That's not the easiest task. But it's what the Commanders need from Wagner to prevent Barkley from dictating proceedings.