This is what Washington Commanders fans have been craving for years. Meaningful football in December is something the previous regimes over the last two decades didn't accomplish effectively enough. It's a new experience, but one they must embrace fully in pursuit of the postseason.
The Commanders take on the Philadelphia Eagles knowing victory will all but cement their playoff claims. It's a daunting challenge considering they've won the last 10 games and have the NFC East title firmly in sight. Couple this with the long-standing rivalry and the feisty atmosphere at Northwest Stadium, and it's not hard to see why this could be a mouth-watering encounter.
Dan Quinn's been keen to play down the significance of this fixture. He's taking things one game at a time and is trying to provide a sense of calm amid the playoff-chasing chaos. That won't stop the players from feeling the pressure. How they cope will go a long way to determining whether they can overcome the odds.
A rousing effort is needed from everyone. The staff must implement a sound game plan. The players need to execute it effectively. Fans in the stands must do everything in their power to spur on the team.
Sounds like a recipe for success, right? But reality might be a different story unless the Commanders learn some lessons from their Thursday Night Football loss to the Eagles in Week 11.
Eagles vs. Commanders game details
- Date: Sunday, December 22
- Time: 1.00 p.m. ET
- Venue: Northwest Stadium
- TV channel: FOX
Who are the announcers for Eagles vs. Commanders in Week 16?
Sunday's clash is being shown live on FOX. The network is giving it the proper respect in the prime spot in their early window slate, which will be shown throughout most of the country to further raise anticipation.
Joe Davis will be handling play-by-play duties with his typical aplomb. Greg Olsen, a former NFL tight end with three Pro Bowls and 60 touchdown catches throughout a glittering career, is on hand to provide expert analysis of the big-time moments as they happen.
Pam Oliver will be on sideline duties. The respected reporter will conduct interviews with the two head coaches and keep viewers informed of any injury developments that might occur.
Who is the referee for Eagles vs. Commanders in Week 16?
Shawn Smith and his officiating team will be in charge of proceedings at Northwest Stadium in Week 16. Let's hope tempers don't flare too much, they can keep control of the heated divisional battle, and the Commanders defy the odds to secure a pivotal success in pursuit of the playoffs.