Commanders at Cowboys - Week 17
- Date: Thursday, December 25
- Time: 1.00 p.m. ET
- Venue: AT&T Stadium
- Channel: Netflix
The Washington Commanders' sensational surge to the NFC Championship game last season got them back onto the national stage. That left their schedule with no genuine routine whatsoever, an overlooked stumbling block this team hasn't overcome effectively enough.
This also includes a Christmas Day game at the Dallas Cowboys. One could argue the benefits of showing so much football on the holiday, but the Commanders have to roll up their sleeves and show some fight against their most hated rival.
Dallas beat the Commanders earlier this season. They are also making the improvements needed to finish the season strongly. Their offense has been performing at an elite level from the outset. Still, the blockbuster addition of defensive lineman Quinnen Williams before the 2025 trade deadline brought immediate improvements on that side of the football.
Securing a dramatic comeback victory over the Philadelphia Eagles was another encouraging sign for Dallas, just at the right time. This hasn't been a happy hunting ground for the Commanders in recent years, but all the pressure will be on the Cowboys as they look to sneak into the postseason.
- Prediction: Commanders loss (5-11)
Keeping up with the Cowboys' high-octane offense was difficult when Washington gave up 44 points in Week 7. Don't be surprised if the same fate befalls head coach Dan Quinn.
Commanders at Eagles - Week 18
- Date: TBD
- Time: TBD
- Venue: Lincoln Financial Field
- Channel: TBD
If the Commanders are 5-11 entering the regular season finale against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field, which looks entirely possible in their current state, head coach Dan Quinn could decide to throw in the towel by leaving several established stars on the sidelines. It's a fine line, and there will be some loyalty to those set to depart this offseason, but keeping the bigger picture in mind is key.
This could be the final time fans get to see the likes of Bobby Wagner, Zach Ertz, Deebo Samuel Sr., and Von Miller in a Washington uniform. But for the likes of Jayden Daniels, Terry McLaurin, and others who'll be part of the team's plans next year, they might get the day off.
That depends on how much is at stake for the Eagles. They'll probably have the division wrapped up by this point. If they are out of contention for the NFC's top seed, head coach Nick Sirianni might also limit reps for some of his main men before the playoffs. There are many unknowns, which make this division rivalry even more complicated to predict.
- Prediction: Commanders loss (5-12)
If the Commanders lose, they'll end the season at 5-12 in this scenario. And attention will immediately turn to one of the most critical offseasons in recent memory for the franchise.