Pressure is building on the Washington Commanders. That's what comes when expectations increase - something head coach Dan Quinn must navigate effectively against the Tennessee Titans in Week 13.
The Commanders are on a three-game losing run. Confidence is rapidly disintegrating among the media about this team's chances in 2024. Postseason dreams are hanging by a thread, so picking up a priceless home victory before the bye week is essential.
This is not the sure-fire success it appeared once upon a time. The Titans are a dangerous outfit playing with the freedom normally associated with teams fighting for very little. Their defense can cause untold issues when in the mood, so the Commanders must bounce back positively to get their campaign back on track.
One positive is the unaltered mindset in the locker room. This is a cohesive squad who are still pulling in the same direction. They are striving with everything to put things right. But this is a new experience for many in the group after going through significant issues during the Ron Rivera years.
With that being said, here are five bold predictions for the Commanders in Week 13 at Northwest Stadium.
Bold predictions for the Commanders in Week 13 vs. Titans
Jeremy McNichols gains 75+ rushing yards
When the Washington Commanders' run game is firing on all cylinders, they are a very difficult offense to stop. Unfortunately, this backfield unit hasn't been nearly as influential over the last month and the entire team is suffering as a result.
Things look even more complicated this weekend. Austin Ekeler won't feature as he goes through the NFL's concussion protocol. Brian Robinson Jr. might suit up, but he's nowhere close to 100 percent thanks to an ankle sprain.
This puts unheralded veteran Jeremy McNichols firmly under the spotlight. The free-agent signing this offseason is averaging 4.9 yards per carry during limited involvement this season. Washington might need more from him in Week 13. He must deliver.
If McNichols can ensure the offense remains balanced and keeps Tennessee's defensive unit honest, that'll be all the Commanders are looking for. Washington's offensive line must also play its part, but opportunities should be there to have the best output of the campaign by a considerable margin.