The Washington Commanders and Dallas Cowboys add another chapter to their storied rivalry to close out the 2024 regular season. One team will be going a step further into the postseason.
And for once, it's not 'America's Team'.
Dan Quinn's men are the ones who cemented their playoff place after a memorable campaign. They made hard work of it against the Atlanta Falcons, but rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels came through in the clutch to get his team over the line.
That's not enough for Quinn and his staff to feel a sense of accomplishment. The head coach wants to build additional momentum and lock up the sixth seed with success versus his old employers. Dallas is playing the role of spoiler, but how much resolve remains in this squad is up for debate looking at their capitulation versus the Philadelphia Eagles last time out.
We'll find out more about the true locker room feelings toward Mike McCarthy in this one. This could be the head coach's final game in charge with his contract expiring. Waving the white flag would tell owner/general manager Jerry Jones everything he needs to know. If it goes the other way, his chances of an extension improve.
The Commanders will be worrying about themselves and nothing more. It'll be an emotional return for Quinn, but it will be a satisfying feeling to know that he'll be participating in the postseason while Dallas — who scapegoated him after another shocking playoff loss last season — is embarking on yet another uncertain offseason.
Commanders vs. Cowboys game details
- Date: Sunday, January 5
- Time: 1.00 p.m. ET
- Venue: AT&T Stadium
- TV channel: FOX
Who are the announcers for Commanders vs. Cowboys in Week 18?
This weekend's divisional battle between the Commanders and Cowboys will be shown live on FOX. It doesn't carry the significance many anticipated before the campaign, which is reflected in the announcing team being deployed to AT&T Stadium for the encounter.
Adam Amin will be tasked with play-by-play duties. Former first-round quarterback Mark Sanchez is set to be on hand with expert analysis of the big moments as they happen.
Kristina Pink will be working the sidelines, getting interviews with the two head coaches, and keeping fans up to date with any injuries that could occur. Hopefully, for the Commanders, they'll be few and far between with the wildcard round upcoming.
Who is the referee for Commanders vs. Cowboys in Week 18?
Clete Blakeman and his officiating team will be in charge of proceedings at AT&T Stadium. Let's hope the contest has no contentious incidents, the game has a decent flow, and the Commanders can do what's required to confirm the sixth spot in the NFC playoff standings.