Commanders final game-by-game predictions for the 2024 season
By Dean Jones
Commanders at Bengals - Week 3 (MNF)
The bright lights of Monday Night Football await the Washington Commanders in Week 3 when they travel to the Cincinnati Bengals. Some will wilt with the national spotlight glaring. OIthers will thrive. Let's hope Washington has more of the latter.
Cincinnati looks capable of going on a deep postseason run in 2024. They have a legitimate franchise quarterback in Joe Burrow, an elite wide receiver in Ja'Marr Chase, and a talented young defense who are all ascending together. That's a combination that should strike fear into teams around the league, so a huge test awaits the Commanders.
Prediction: Loss (1-2)
This might be a step too far for the Commanders at such an early stage of the season. Getting a result with the entire NFL world watching would put everyone on notice. Even if Washington can keep things interesting until late in the game, that should be considered progress.
Commanders at Cardinals - Week 4
This game will mean more to Washington's offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury than most. He was head coach of the Arizona Cardinals before being fired, so one could forgive the play-caller for having some extra incentive to get one over on his old employers in Week 4.
The Cardinals are a tricky evaluation heading into the campaign. Their offense should be productive with the likes of Kyler Murray, Marvin Harrison Jr., Trey McBride, and James Conner shouldering the load. That said, their defense does have holes that could be exploited if Kingsbury's schemes things effectively enough.
Prediction: Win (2-2)
If the Commanders can dig deep and get themselves a road win here, it'll be a major confidence boost at an important time. However, this is dependent on whether Washington's cornerbacks can cope with the inevitable barrage of shots downfield coming their way in this one.
Commanders vs. Browns - Week 5
Getting back on home soil will be a welcome relief for the Commanders after two straight road fixtures. Unfortunately, what awaits them is a daunting challenge with the Cleveland Browns coming to town.
The Browns have one of the league's most imposing defenses. This promises to be a tough challenge for the offensive line and rookie left tackle Brandon Coleman, in particular. He'll be tasked with keeping stud edge rusher Myles Garrett from dominating, which is easier said than done for even the most accomplished performers around the league.
Prediction: Loss (2-3)
Washington will need to match their opponents physically to stand any chance of walking away from this one victorious. If much-maligned quarterback Deshaun Watson returns to the form of old, it makes things even more difficult for the Commanders regardless of whether running back Nick Chubb is suiting up or not.