Commanders final game-by-game predictions for the 2024 season
By Dean Jones
After a whirlwind offseason, the Washington Commanders are about to embark on a collective journey into the unknown. Adam Peters and his front office staff gave this once-proud franchise a chance to be more competitive this season by decimating the roster left by previous head coach Ron Rivera. Dan Quinn and his staff have left a positive impression so far, but the acid test is quickly upcoming.
The 2024 season is just a few short days away. Washington's improved infrastructure and playing personnel leave reasons for encouragement regarding their fortunes in Year 1 of a monumental rebuild. However, anyone expecting this to be smooth sailing is kidding themselves.
Quinn is looking to maximize his second head coach opportunity and remind the world why he's such a highly respected leader of men. It would be extremely disappointing if the Commanders didn't make instant strides under the new regime. At the same time, tempering expectations would be wise from a fan perspective until we get a good look at the football product through a tricky-looking first few weeks of the campaign.
The excitement is palpable among the team's long-suffering support with some significant dark clouds lifted from the organization. With that being said, here are our final game-by-game predictions for the 2024 season.
Commanders final game-by-game predictions for the 2024 season
Commanders at Buccaneers - Week 1
The Washington Commanders face three road games in their opening four contests to start the season. That's not ideal, but it should provide Dan Quinn and his staff with a solid measuring stick regarding where this roster is and what they could potentially accomplish in 2024.
First up is the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who decided to run it back with those who helped them win the NFC South once again last time around. Baker Mayfield got paid handsomely after resurrecting his career. However, he won't have Dave Canales to steer him on the right path after he became head coach of the Carolina Panthers.
Prediction: Loss (0-1)
Tampa Bay has strength across almost every position group, so this promises to be a stiff task for the Commanders right out of the gate. They aren't without a chance, but it's hard to predict anything other than a Buccaneers victory given their familiarity after very few alterations this offseason.
Commanders vs. NY Giants - Week 2
The Washington Commanders begin their home slate with a divisional battle against the New York Giants at the newly named Northwest Stadium following a major sponsorship agreement. This is a chance to make a statement within the NFC East and prove they are no longer the doormat of years past.
New York made a huge splash this offseason by trading for edge rusher Brian Burns. They also boast a dynamic young playmaker in first-round wide receiver Malik Nabers. As always, their biggest potential stumbling block comes with erratic quarterback Daniel Jones.
Prediction: Win (1-1)
This is a good opportunity for the Commanders to build some early momentum and send their fans home happy. Anything less would be extremely disappointing, leaving them facing an uphill battle for the remainder of 2024.