Commanders schedule 2024: Game-by-game predictions for upcoming season
By Dean Jones
It's an exciting new dawn for the Washington Commanders. We now know the structure of their 2024 regular season after the NFL formally revealed their schedule for the upcoming campaign, which was a source of great excitement once again as fans renew optimism for what will hopefully be better days ahead.
Adam Peters' roster overhaul coupled with the re-energized coaching staff led by Dan Quinn leave reasons for hope. The Commanders might not immediately become a playoff challenger, but they are guaranteed to be more competitive after things became increasingly stagnant under Ron Rivera before he was shown the door.
Looking at their opponents during the upcoming campaign, the Commanders' fortunes could go either way. Getting off to a fast start will be crucial - something that can hopefully provide enough momentum to steer them through tougher challenges as the grueling season goes on. Anything less could bring unnecessary complications following one of the most profitable offseasons in decades.
With this in mind, we took a look and gave early game-by-game predictions for the Commanders' 2024 season.
Commanders at Buccaneers - Week 1
First up for the Washington Commanders is a trip down south to take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Todd Bowles' men reached the postseason last time out, but their veteran stars aren't getting any younger and there hasn't been much player movement to strengthen the ranks throughout the offseason.
Instead of targeting high-priced reinforcements, the Buccaneers opted to tie down those who've already proven their worth. These include quarterback Baker Mayfield, who was rewarded handsomely for galvanizing his career under offense coordinator Dave Canales. But he is no longer around after winning the Carolina Panthers head coaching race.
Prediction: Win (1-0)
This is a tentative selection with so many unknowns surrounding the Commanders. Much will depend on whether Washington's secondary can counteract the supreme threat posed by Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, but this looks like a good chance for Dan Quinn to hit the ground running if everything goes well throughout the preparation period.
Commanders vs. NY Giants - Week 2
The newly-named Commanders Field is sure to be rocking for the first home game under the new regime. It's also a mouth-watering divisional clash against the New York Giants, which always adds an extra sense of intrigue and spark.
Despite examining other options, the Giants opted to keep faith with quarterback Daniels Jones. This represents a gamble that could cost some their jobs if it doesn't pan out, but it's also worth remembering that the former first-round pick out of Duke has performed well against the Commanders more often than not.
Prediction: Win (2-0)
Dan Quinn should have a better handle on how to cope with Jones' dual-threat capabilities. If the Commanders' offensive line keeps New York's defensive front - which acquired explosive pass-rusher Brian Burns this offseason - out of Jayden Daniels' pocket consistently, they have an opportunity to get their home slate off to the best possible start.