There's more apprehension surrounding the Washington Commanders than at any stage throughout the season. An embarrassing loss against the Dallas Cowboys represented another dent to their playoff hopes. Things are hanging precariously for Dan Quinn's men heading into this weekend's home clash with the Tennessee Titans.
Quinn's been around the block a few times. The Commanders identified him as the leader this rebuilding project needed. That's exactly what this squad desires right now on the back of their most concerning run of results under his guidance.
The Titans aren't exactly setting the world alight either. However, they are competing with a new sense of freedom without having much to play for other than pride. They'll also fancy their chances of upsetting the apple cart and playing spoiler for the second straight week versus a Washington team rapidly losing confidence.
This is a time for big characters and elite mindsets. The Commanders' culture shift under Quinn should serve them well. Whether it's enough to halt the slide is another matter.
Commanders vs. Titans early odds for Week 13
According to the latest odds from FanDuel Sportsbook, the Commanders are 5.5-point favorites at home to the Titans in Week 13.
- Washington -5.5 points: -115 (bet $115 to win $100)
- Tennessee +5.5 points: -105 (bet $105 to win $100)
Anyone confident that Quinn's men will show the right resolve and get back to winning ways can bet the Commanders' money line at -255 currently (bet $255 to win $100). The Titans are underdogs despite their impressive victory over the Houston Texans last time out at +215 (bet $100 to win $215).
FanDuel Sportsbook is not anticipating the highest-scoring game imaginable with the over/under set at 44.5 points for the clash.
- Over 44.5 points: -115 (bet $115 to win $100)
- Under 44.5 points: -105 (bet $105 to win $100)
Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.
Commanders vs. Titans prediction for Week 13
This is a must-win game in no uncertain terms for the Commanders. They cannot afford to lose four straight going into the bye. They have to dig deep and show the character to avoid all their hard work earlier in the campaign going to waste.
That's the message Quinn must relay to his players throughout their preparations for the contest. The head coach is experienced enough to handle this concerning predicament effectively. There are a lot of young players on this squad, so veterans like Bobby Wagner and Terry McLaurin will also play an influential role in bouncing back.
The result of this one seemed like a foregone conclusion a few short weeks ago. That's not the case anymore. Even so, the Commanders have more than enough talent to send their fans home happy.
If the Commanders can restrict stud defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons and make quarterback Will Levis uncomfortable, they've got a good chance. Much will also depend on whether rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels and the offense can execute effectively after regressing over the last month.
- Prediction: Commanders win
Washington is in a slump, but this team is not out completely yet. They can win if the coaching staff finds ways to counteract the potential absences of running backs Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler.