The Washington Commanders did remarkably well to reach this point. One more rousing effort stands between them and the Super Bowl.
Head coach Dan Quinn knows what an opportunity this is. He wants his players to seize the moment. The Commanders won't be going down without a fight, but the Philadelphia Eagles represent a formidable adversary to overcome.
The Eagles have been among the Super Bowl favorites throughout the campaign. Their defense is outstanding and running back Saquon Barkley is nothing short of phenomenal. That's without counting for their wide receiver duo, prolific tight end, dominant offensive line, and standout quarterback Jalen Hurts.
Washington's backs are against the wall — not for the first time this season. They've shocked the NFL world and captivated the imagination of fans along the way. That is the objective once again in the face of a historic division rival.
Everyone needs to step up. There is no room for passengers. Each player and coach needs to rise to the occasion and handle the pressure cooker effectively. Nothing else will do.
With this in mind, here are six Commanders players on the hot seat during their NFC Championship game at the Eagles. We'll start with experienced offensive lineman Nick Allegretti.
Commanders players on the hot seat entering NFC Championship game at the Eagles
Nick Allegretti - Commanders OL
The Washington Commanders haven't played this late into the playoffs for three decades. That's not the case for Nick Allegretti.
He was thrust into the starting spotlight last season in the AFC Championship game. Joe Thuney's injury forced the Kansas City Chiefs into a change. Allegretti answered the call with two polished performances to secure yet another Super Bowl for Andy Reid's men.
The Commanders will be relying on this experience. However, Allegretti has a sizable task on his hands this weekend versus the Philadelphia Eagles' exceptional 3-4 defensive front.
Jalen Carter is among the league's best interior forces. Milton Williams is vastly underrated opposite him. Jordan Davis is an immovable nose tackle capable of clogging up space for others to do damage.
Not having Sam Cosmi piles even more pressure on Allegretti and others. Nobody can handle Carter one-on-one, so finding the correct blocking mechanisms together with tight-end help for the edge threats is the best way to nullify the Eagles' threat. If the Commanders want to win, they have to hold their own in the trenches.
Allegretti is under the heat more than most. Fortunately for the Commanders, he's got proven credentials to step up in the biggest moments.