Getting to the playoffs in Year 1 of this complete franchise overhaul was a tremendous achievement for the Washington Commanders. Head coach Dan Quinn is striving to ensure this isn't the end of their incredible journey.
The Commanders want to go further. They aren't looking too far ahead. Preparing effectively and beating the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on the road is the next objective and nothing more.
Washington is playing with house money to a certain extent. Reaching the knockout rounds was a bonus. Now, they can operate with a sense of freedom and hope that's enough to oust the NFC South division champions from postseason involvement.
This is a new, yet exciting pressure for Quinn's squad. The playing personnel is unrecognizable from the team Ron Rivera left behind. General manager Adam Peters did an exceptional job of finding the right blend of youth and experience. They'll need all that and more to go one step more and into the divisional round next weekend.
Can the Commanders dig deep under the bright lights of primetime to advance? Or will the Buccaneers make it a double over Washington after defeating them in Week 1?
Commanders at Buccaneers game details
- Date: Sunday, January 12
- Time: 8.00 p.m. ET
- Venue: Raymond James Stadium
- TV channel: NBC
Commanders at Buccaneers early odds for wildcard game
According to the latest odds from FanDuel Sportsbook, the Commanders are 3.0-point underdogs at the Buccaneers. Considering home teams typically get a three-point cushion, Vegas sees this as a pick 'em game until further notice.
- Washington +3.0 points: -115 (bet $115 to win $100)
- Tampa Bay -3.0 points: -105 (bet $105 to win $100)
Anyone wishing to wager the Commanders' money line can get odds of +138 currently (bet $100 to win $138). The Buccaneers are favored to take advantage of home comforts and reach the divisional round at -166 (bet $166 to win $100).
FanDuel Sportsbook is anticipating a shootout between the NFC adversaries with the over/under set at 50.5 points for the contest.
- Over 50.5 points: -105 (bet $105 to win $100)
- Under 50.5 points: -115 (bet $115 to win $100)
Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.
Commanders at Buccaneers prediction for wildcard game
This is a tight one to call. Both teams are in good form and will fancy their chances. It's a high-pressure situation on the national stage. Who handles the heat better will emerge victorious.
The Commanders have a good track record in close contests this season. They are never out of the fight and always seem to thrive in the biggest moments. From the Hail Mary miracle against the Chicago Bears to the last-gasp wins over the Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles, there is no moment too big for this revamped squad.
Doing this in the regular season is one thing. Accomplishing the same in the postseason is a different matter entirely.
The margins get finer. Players get tight in a win-or-go-home environment. The Buccaneers have more experience and boast a dominant rushing attack that needs to be thwarted, but the Commanders aren't without a chance that's for sure.
- Prediction: Commanders win
Washington has been riding on the crest of a wave this season. It won't be easy, not by any stretch of the imagination. However, don't be surprised if this fairytale run continues with another landmark achievement for Quinn's ever-growing collection.