Terry McLaurin gains 120+ yards and 2 touchdowns
The Washington Commanders offense is depleted. They are missing some key personnel at the worst possible time. This piles even more pressure on wide receiver Terry McLaurin to produce the goods.
McLaurin's been in sensational form this season. The former third-round selection was always regarded as one of the league's most underrated wideouts. Now that he's got a franchise-caliber presence under center, the Pro Bowl pass-catcher is gaining national plaudits.
His 11 receiving touchdowns are comfortably a career-high and ranks second league-wide behind only Ja'Marr Chase of the Cincinnati Bengals. McLaurin is firmly in the All-Pro conversation. A big performance against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 16 will go a long way to cementing his claims.
The Eagles know what McLaurin can do if afforded enough space. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio should also be aware of the lack of talent elsewhere in Washington's receiving room. That makes it relatively easy to key in on the Ohio State product and keep his influence to a minimum.
If Kliff Kingsbury does a better job of scheming McLaurin open versus a gifted defense, his momentum suggests another productive day could be in the offing.
Ben Sinnott secures 5+ receptions
It doesn't appear as if the Commanders will have veteran tight end Zach Ertz available this weekend. The Pro Bowler is dealing with a concussion suffered at the New Orleans Saints and is unlikely to feature. His absence could provide more opportunities in the passing game for Ben Sinnott.
Sinnot was the No. 53 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft. The Commanders thought he could become the complete tight end with some extra refinement. He's flashed considerable promise as a blocker, but there's been almost no involvement in the passing game.
That's largely down to Ertz's resurgence more than anything else. However, the Commanders need Sinnott to step up in an increased role if the veteran cannot go as expected.
Kliff Kingsbury's allocated just five targets in Sinnott's direction this season — all of which he's brought in for 28 receiving yards and one touchdown. John Bates isn't the most dependable catching the football, so the Commanders have no choice other than to get the Kansas State product more involved.
Perhaps getting Sinnott a couple of early looks to see how fares will be considered. If the player seizes the moment and gains confidence, he could be a surprise the Eagles don't see coming.