5 bold Washington Commanders predictions at the Saints in Week 15
By Dean Jones
Marshon Lattimore secures a debut interception
Marshon Lattimore is set to make his long-awaited debut for the Washington Commanders this weekend. It's been weeks since the cornerback was acquired via trade before the deadline. After showing significant progress in his recovery from a hamstring issue, all signs point to the former first-round pick taking the field.
The Commanders might ease Lattimore into action considering how long he's been away from the gridiron. His first Washington appearance also happens to be at the New Orleans Saints, the team that traded him away.
It'll be an emotional occasion for Lattimore. He's experienced and competitive enough to put his feelings to one side and do whatever it takes to get one over on his old employers. Introducing a legitimate shutdown presence at this late stage is a significant tool for the Commanders' defense to have in their arsenal.
The Saints know how good Lattimore is. They might not test him too often, but the Ohio State product can make a massive statement by bringing in an interception to formally announce himself to the Washington faithful.
Commanders hold Alvin Kamara under 80 combined yards
Regardless of whether veteran quarterback Derek Carr is on the field or not, the New Orleans Saints offense runs through Alvin Kamara. He's the key that makes everything go. Stopping him will be the biggest objective above all else for the Washington Commanders this weekend.
Kamara is still performing at an extremely high level despite New Orleans' struggles overall. The running back is one of the league's most prolific dual threats, boasting a rare blend of size, speed, and patience to take over any game when firing on all cylinders.
Restricting Kamara has been a tough task for most this season. He's averaging 109.46 yards from scrimmage from 13 games. The former third-round pick has gone over the 100-yard milestone eight times in 2024 — including 215 against the Carolina Panthers. Washington's improving defense cannot let the player dictate proceedings.
They need to be around Kamara consistently and make him the focal point of their strategy. Keeping him contained at the contact point and plugging rushing lanes can frustrate the Tennessee product enough for the Commanders to attain success.