Commanders final game-by-game predictions for the 2024 season
By Dean Jones
Commanders at NY Giants - Week 9
The Washington Commanders could do with picking up a road victory against divisional opposition at some stage during the 2024 campaign. Dan Quinn must make his presence felt within the NFC East. That's the key to a successful campaign whether his team makes the postseason or not.
Arguably the best chance to do this will be at the New York Giants, who come into the campaign with head coach Brian Daboll on the hot seat and quarterback Daniel Jones' long-term prospects hanging by a thread. This is something the Commanders can capitalize on if they are at their best.
Prediction: Win (5-4)
There will be some added incentive to get over .500 in this scenario, too. That will be a significant confidence boost for the players midway through the season. It'll be difficult considering their lack of success at MetLife Stadium in recent years, but it's not impossible if everyone rises to the occasion in a pressurized setting.
Commanders vs. Steelers - Week 10
The Commanders would be riding on the rest of a wave in this scenario going into their game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Northwest Stadium. Three straight victories and sitting above .500 in the standings would guarantee an electrifying atmosphere for the clash, although the opposition's fanbase is renowned for being the league's best travelers and should have a strong contingent in the stands.
Mike Tomlin's never had a losing record during his time as head coach. He's a leader of men who commands instant respect. Much will depend on how things go over the first few weeks, but the quarterback dynamic is something to monitor between veteran starter Russell Wilson and hopeful Justin Fields.
Prediction: Win (6-4)
The Steelers won't be pushovers. However, if the Commanders can match them physically and Dan Quinn holds his own against Tomlin from an in-game situational management standpoint, Washington can pick up its fourth triumph in succession.
Commanders at Eagles - Week 11 (TNF)
If the Commanders won four straight heading onto their national showdown with the Philadelphia Eagles, the hype for this contest would be through the roof. This is slated to be Washington's final primetime game of the season on Thursday Night Football, although there's time for that to change depending on how things look at the business end of the season.
The Eagles are the favorites to win the NFC East again and rightfully so. They are strong and boast some outstanding playmakers capable of making things difficult. Their secondary looks inexperienced - something the Commanders might look to take advantage of.
Prediction: Loss (6-5)
This game has some added spice attached after the Commanders sent wide receiver Jahan Dotson to Philadelphia via trade before their final roster cuts. Washington could push the Eagles close - they did it twice last season before faltering late - but it might not be enough looking at how things stand currently.