The Washington Commanders did what they had to in Week 1 against the New York Giants. It wasn't perfect, but no NFL team is at peak performance to kick off the campaign. Getting a positive result is all that mattered, which head coach Dan Quinn's squad managed to accomplish with minimal fuss.
Washington was never in any real danger. They controlled proceedings throughout, showcasing major improvements on defense to make things extremely uncomfortable for Giants quarterback Russell Wilson. It was disjointed at times from an offensive standpoint, but Jayden Daniels made the plays needed to succeed behind a stout rushing attack.
This was a solid enough platform from which to build. However, bigger challenges are upcoming for the Commanders. Emerging from them relatively unscathed could make a massive difference in their quest to go deep into the playoffs once again.
The talent is there. Everyone is brimming with confidence. What's important for Quinn is maintaining these high standards and keeping everyone on even keel through the good times and the bad.
With this in mind, we took a look at how Washington could fare in the coming weeks after the team's 1-0 start to the 2025 campaign.
Predicting the Commanders' next five games after 1-0 start in 2025
Commanders at Packers — Week 2
- Date: Thursday, September 11
- Time: 8.15 p.m. ET
- Venue: Lambeau Field
- Channel: Amazon Prime
If the Washington Commanders' first game was a foregone conclusion from early on, this promises to be much tougher. A quick turnaround awaits Dan Quinn's men in Week 2. And they'll be on the primetime stage against the Green Bay Packers.
Traveling to Lambeau Field for Thursday Night Football is something the Commanders should relish. The atmosphere will be incredible in one of the league's most historic venues. It's a mouth-watering clash between two clubs who should be right in the thick of this year's NFC championship race, so it's a good chance for Washington to lay down an early marker.
Easier said than done. The Packers easily overcame the Detroit Lions to begin their 2025 exploits. Jordan Love and the offense looked polished, and the defense looks dynamic. Although All-Pro edge rusher Micah Parsons didn't get his usual workload, he left no doubt as to his potential influence when he gets back into proper football shape.
- Prediction: Loss (1-1)
The Commanders cannot put a foot wrong if they want to secure yet another memorable win with the national spotlight glaring. Keeping Daniels free of pressure is key. But this might come down to who performs best between Washington's cornerbacks and Green Bay's explosive receiving core.