The Washington Commanders saved their season by beating the Philadelphia Eagles. If they can beat the Los Angeles Rams this weekend, it could potentially change the entire outlook for head coach Dan Quinn over the second half of 2026.
That will be easier said than done.
The Rams might not have met their lofty Super Bowl expectations so far at 4-4, but they remain a formidable adversary. Head coach Sean McVay's squad has playmakers at every level on both sides of the football, and they have started to find some form after a rough start.
It'll be difficult, and the Commanders are underdogs for a reason. But with the Rams coming cross-country for a 1:00 p.m. ET start, this could be a lot closer than people think.
Obviously, the Commanders are dealing with some injuries. That's not ideal, but it's also nothing they aren't used to.
It's next man up for Washington, and if Quinn wants to keep building positivity, this has to be a collective effort versus one of the league's legitimate heavyweights.
And even though everyone is under pressure to perform at Northwest Stadium, that bears special significance for these seven Commanders players this weekend.
Washington Commanders players on the hot seat entering Week 9 game against the Rams
Rachaad White - Commanders RB
Trade rumors persist that the Commanders could make a move for another running back before the 2026 deadline. General manager Adam Petters hasn't confirmed anything, but his aggression may depend on whether Washington can pull off an upset against the Rams.
This makes it a big game for Rachaad White, in more ways than one.
He's the lead back once again with Jacory Croskey-Merritt on injured reserve. The free-agent signing finished last weekend's game well, but something is still lacking in conviction and in quickly identifying gaps.
The Commanders need a complete game from White. They also have Austin Ekeler and recent returnee Robert Henry Jr. to call upon, but the veteran is the No. 1 option. Unfortunately, the Rams have allowed an average of only 77.3 yards on the ground over their last three contests, further complicating matters.
White's performance will be crucial. If the Commanders win and he doesn't play well, that might be the excuse Peters needs to go bold with a trade. And the former Arizona State standout will have nobody to blame but himself.
This is the chance White has been waiting for. His performance could have a big say not only in the result, but also in what Peters does before the trade deadline.
High stakes, indeed.
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