How could the Washington Commanders fare during the 2023 season as the NFL released its full schedule ahead of the upcoming campaign?
After what seemed like an age, the NFL finally released its full schedule for the 2023 season. For the Washington Commanders, it's one step closer to what is sure to be a make-or-break campaign for head coach Ron Rivera and his staff.
While the ownership group led by Josh Harris faces a fight to purchase the Commanders based on recent reports, that does not detract from how vital the 2023 season is for the franchise. The NFC East is expected to be highly competitive once again, which makes postseason football harder than ever with the projected eighth-toughest set of fixtures.
Here is the Commanders' schedule for 2023:
- Week 1: vs. Cardinals
- Week 2: at Broncos
- Week 3: vs. Bills
- Week 4: at Eagles
- Week 5: vs. Bears
- Week 6: at Falcons
- Week 7: at NY Giants
- Week 8: vs. Eagles
- Week 9: at Patriots
- Week 10: at Seahawks
- Week 11: vs. NY Giants
- Week 12: at Cowboys
- Week 13: vs. Dolphins
- Week 14: BYE
- Week 15: at LA Rams
- Week 16: at NY Jets
- Week 17: vs. 49ers
- Week 18: vs. Cowboys
It'll be tough, there's no getting away from that. With this in mind, we predicted how things might unfold game-by-game given the current state of affairs.
Week 1
Commanders vs. Cardinals - Week 1
This would have been a tricky proposition once upon a time. But after a season of underachievement in 2022 coupled with a concerning knee injury to star quarterback Kyler Murray, that's no longer the case.
The Arizona Cardinals will be competitive and still have a ton of talent. However, their fate rests on when Murray comes back and if he's able to hit the ground running.
Prediction: Win (1-0)
There's no doubt that the Washington Commanders' defensive front will be relishing this contest whether Murray is on the field or not. If the offense meets modest expectations in this one, it should be enough to come away with a much-needed win.
Commanders at Broncos - Week 2
Among the most intriguing teams are the Denver Broncos. Their bold trade for quarterback Russell Wilson went spectacularly wrong in 2022, which ownership is hoping was down to Nathaniel Hackett's inept coaching rather than the veteran falling off a cliff.
We'll find out one way or another during the upcoming campaign after the Broncos hired Sean Payton, one of the most respected offensive head coaches in the business. There is also an abundance of talent at the skill positions for the Commanders to worry about.
Prediction: Loss (1-1)
This interesting dynamic coupled with the altitude in Denver might be difficult for Washington to overcome. Although it wouldn't be the greatest shock if Ron Rivera's men secured the victory, either.
Commanders vs. Bills - Week 3
After a few close calls over the last three playoffs, the window of opportunity doesn't seem to be closing for the Buffalo Bills. In fact, it might have enhanced thanks to some outstanding free-agent acquisitions and a decent-looking draft class overall.
Of course, having a difference-maker under center in Josh Allen always helps. Something the Commanders will be hoping Sam Howell evolves into sooner rather than later.
Prediction: Loss (1-2)
Until the Commanders prove capable of putting up points consistently against the top outfits around the league - which is entirely possible considering the presence of Eric Bieniemy - it's hard to envisage a scenario where they can keep up with Buffalo. So the defensive side of things must be absolutely on point in games like this next season.
Commanders at Eagles - Week 4
Lincoln Financial Field hasn't been a happy hunting ground for the Commanders in recent years. Considering how the Philadelphia Eagles performed last season en route to an NFC Conference Championship, it's going to be another tough challenge in front of a rabid fanbase.
There is no love lost between the two teams, which only adds fuel to the fire. Sam Howell won't have played in many more intimidating places than this, so how the signal-caller copes will be absolutely critical.
Prediction: Loss (1-3)
It would be a bombshell of epic proportions if the Commanders came away from Philadelphia with bragging rights. Although it's unlikely, having no expectations from those on the outside looking in could ensure they play with a level of freedom within a pressure-cooker-type atmosphere.
Commanders vs. Bears - Week 5 (TNF)
Expectations have increased exponentially for the Chicago Bears this offseason. They were one of the biggest spenders in free agency, acquired wide receiver D.J. Moore in their trade down from No. 1 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, and spent their extra picks wisely for good measure.
This has given quarterback Justin Fields everything needed to make significant strides forward next season. He won't have things easy against the Commanders' defense, which is loaded across the board aside from some depth concerns at the second level.
Prediction: Win (2-3)
Again, this is going to be a hard-fought, physical battle. One that the Commanders can win if everything comes together on primetime.
Commanders at Falcons - Week 6
Looking at the games on Washington's away slate, this looks like one of the more winnable. But underestimating the Atlanta Falcons after the offseason they've had would be extremely foolish.
The Falcons strengthened all areas and have a potential NFL star in the form of first-round pick Bijan Robinson. Much will depend on how quarterback Desmond Ridder copes with starting responsibilities, but former Commanders' signal-caller Taylor Heinicke represents a decent backup option that can step in if things don't go according to plan.
Prediction: Win (3-3)
Heinicke's intel might be useful for the Falcons. Even if the offense is going to look far different with Eric Bieniemy calling plays.
Commanders at NY Giants - Week 7
How Washington fares versus its divisional foes will be the difference between success and failure in 2023. The NFC East went from the league's worst to the most competitive in the blink of an eye, with the Commanders finishing last at 8-8-1 and becoming the only team in the division to miss the postseason as a result.
The New York Giants have momentum on their side. Brian Daboll has completely shifted the culture and if this is the start of an ongoing trend, it represents a big complication for the Commanders.
Prediction: Loss (3-4)
One anticipates two close games between the Commanders and Giants next season. Who emerges on top will probably have the upper hand in pursuit of the postseason.
Commanders vs. Eagles - Week 8
It's been a case of retooling this offseason for the Philadelphia Eagles. Their salary-cap constraints indicated they'd lose a few stars, but the team did a remarkable job in terms of recruitment that sees them as a legitimate Super Bowl challenger once again.
This would be a major statement triumph for the Commanders. One that wouldn't go unnoticed by Josh Harris and his ownership group provided they can acquire league approval regarding the tentative sale agreement with Dan Snyder.
Prediction: Loss (3-5)
It's hard to predict anything but a loss, even if the Commanders are at home. The Eagles are too strong and athletic, with quarterback Jalen Hurts also giving them a true franchise player at the position following an exceptional leap forward in 2022.
Commanders at Patriots - Week 9
The build-up to this one will center around two young cornerbacks taken back-to-back in the 2023 NFL Draft. Despite Christian Gonzalez falling to the Commanders at No. 16 overall, they stuck to their guns and took Emmanuel Forbes - leaving Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots free to take one of the top prospects on their board.
Bill O'Brien's introduction as the offensive coordinator should help a woeful unit last season make improvements. But the Commanders have an ace up their sleeve in the form of Eric Bieniemy, who gets the chance to prove beyond all doubt he can become a future head coach down the line.
Prediction: Win (4-5)
There's every chance Belichick devises a game plan that can restrict Washington's offense. But we'll take the Commanders' defensive front to cause Mac Jones endless nightmares ahead of a critical campaign for the former first-round selection.
Commanders at Seahawks - Week 10
Going to the Seattle Seahawks isn't the easiest proposition at the best of times given how loud their fanbase can be. They are called The 12th Man for a reason, which promises to be a hostile environment for second-year quarterback Sam Howell all things considered.
Couple this with another strong offseason for the Seahawks on the back of becoming one of the NFL's biggest surprise packages in 2022, and this represents a tough challenge for the Commanders - one they would do well to get anything out of.
Prediction: Loss (4-6)
This game will come down to the two quarterbacks. Howell's inexperience leaves more questions than answers, but the Commanders' defensive front could rattle Geno Smith enough for the veteran to fall back into old habits such as rash decision-making.
Commanders vs. NY Giants - Week 11
After the New York Giants surprisingly made the playoffs in their first season under head coach Brian Daboll, fans will be expecting something similar in 2023. Especially considering they signed quarterback Daniel Jones to a long-term deal, placed the franchise tag on Saquon Barkley, and also secured the services of stud tight end Darren Waller via trade from the Las Vegas Raiders.
Waller, in particular, is a matchup nightmare for the Commanders. Although they did pick a physical slot presence who could assist in the form of second-round selection Quan Martin.
Prediction: Win (5-6)
Finding ways to win at home is going to determine Washington's fortunes in 2023. The Giants are a formidable divisional adversary these days, but the Commanders and head coach Ron Rivera have absolutely nothing to fear.
Commanders at Cowboys - Week 12
The Dallas Cowboys are a different animal on home soil. Especially on Thanksgiving if they manage to generate early momentum that allows their gifted young defense to pile on considerable pressure.
This is something the Commanders will be looking to avoid by leaning heavily on their running back tandem of Brian Robinson Jr. and Antonio Gibson - two players who'll be crucial to their chances on the road throughout the season.
Prediction: Loss (5-7)
Division games are often hard to predict given the animosity residing in the NFC East. However, the Commanders might be on the wrong side of things in this particular clash when it's all said and done.
Commanders vs. Dolphins - Week 13
There are some questions to answer regarding Tua Tagovailoa's health after concussion difficulties last season. If the quarterback alleviates these by remaining healthy, expect the Miami Dolphins to make a strong postseason push next time around.
This promises to be a fascinating matchup. The Commanders bolstered their secondary with three potential starters this offseason, but coping with the electrifying speed Miami possesses at the skill positions is a monumental ask.
Prediction: Win (6-7)
This one is likely to be decided by fine margins. If the Commanders' defensive front piles enough pressure on Tagovailoa, they might emerge victorious.
Commanders at LA Rams - Week 15
Going to the Los Angeles Rams is not the daunting proposition it once was. While they still have talent on both sides of the football, it's been an offseason of cost-cutting and recouping capital for the organization after going all in for their Super Bowl triumph in 2021.
Matthew Stafford remains a threat under center and there's the obvious force of Aaron Donald on the defensive front. However, the Commanders look more than a match for Sean McVay's men if everyone performs to the level expected.
Prediction: Win (7-7)
Getting off to a fast start at SoFi Stadium is important. But there's a lot to like about Washington's chances in the California sunshine against a team that might be in flux next season.
Commanders at NY Jets - Week 16
Once considered the NFL's laughing stock, the New York Jets have rapidly emerged as dark horse Super Bowl challengers thanks in no small part to their eye-popping trade to acquire Aaron Rodgers from the Green Bay Packers. The legendary signal-caller instantly legitimizes what head coach Robert Saleh is trying to build and might be the final piece of their blossoming puzzle.
The Jets already have an elite young defense led by Quinnen Williams and stud cornerback Sauce Gardner. If Rodgers can elevate the offense as expected with some outstanding weapons at his disposal, they'll make noise.
Prediction: Loss (7-8)
It would be a major shock if the Commanders came away from MetLife Stadium with a win in this one. It cannot be ruled out entirely, obviously, but having Rodgers under center could be the big difference in clutch situations they haven't had in some time.
Commanders vs. 49ers - Week 17
Two of the NFL's most storied franchises lock horns for what should be a physical encounter. The San Francisco 49ers have some concerns at quarterback with no confirmed starter between Brock Purdy, Sam Darnold, and Trey Lance as yet, but Kyle Shanahan has already proven more than capable of leading his team into the postseason no matter who is under center.
Washington's offense is going to have its work cut out against San Francisco's defense, which is now led by Steve Wilks. They are absolutely loaded across the board and if the offensive line cannot come together effectively, the Commanders have no chance.
Prediction: Loss (7-9)
The Niners are too strong on defense to suggest any other result right now. If Sam Howell provides more consistency under center and the protection makes strides, it might be a different story.
Commanders vs. Cowboys - Week 18
Getting an advantage over their NFC East rivals is of paramount importance if the Washington Commanders are to reach the postseason. They can take great heart from their Week 18 victory over the Dallas Cowboys last time around, even though Mike McCarthy's squad probably had half an eye on their wildcard contest, one suspects.
With that being said, Dallas still warrants respect. Their roster is deep and there should be a fresh injection of energy after letting some underperforming veterans such as Ezekiel Elliot go this offseason.
Prediction: Win (8-9)
We'll go with the glass-half-full approach in this one. With the home fans set to return in their numbers once Dan Snyder sells the team, they might be enough to get Washington over the line.