Commanders at Chiefs - Week 8
- Date: Monday, October 27
- Time: 8.15 p.m. ET
- Venue: Arrowhead Stadium
- Channel: ESPN
Another game on Monday Night Football. This time, the Washington Commanders face a daunting trip to take on the Kansas City Chiefs for a mouth-watering clash between two teams who still harbor playoff ambitions.
The Chiefs started slower than usual, but they can never be counted out completely with future Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Patrick Mahomes under center. This was further reflected with their convincing victory over the Baltimore Ravens, where Kansas City looked like a legitimate force for the first time in 2025.
Mahomes is getting some of his primary weapons back into the fold. Their offense looked well-balanced versus the Ravens, and it's also worth remembering that the Chiefs will have Rashee Rice available after his suspension by this point. That magnifies the Commanders' potential issues, and there is also a formidable defense led by mastermind Steve Spagnuolo to factor into the equation.
It's a grave test of Washington's credentials. It should also provide fans with a better insight into where things stand and how the Commanders stack up regarding their postseason aspirations.
- Prediction: Loss (4-4)
Looking at how the two clubs performed in Week 4, although this is a long way from then, it's hard to envisage anything other than a fourth defeat of the campaign in this scenario.
Commanders vs. Seahawks - Week 9
- Date: Sunday, November 2
- Time: 8.20 p.m. ET
- Venue: Northwest Stadium
- Channel: NBC
A turbulent schedule with no real routine continues for the Commanders when they host the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday Night Football. And if they are 4-4 or worse by this point, it represents a must-win game in no uncertain terms.
The Seahawks look strong once again. They are operating somewhat under the radar compared to other postseason challengers. Still, they are currently on a three-game winning streak and in contention within a highly competitive NFC West.
Sam Darnold is playing solid football after his big-money move in free agency. The Seahawks' defense looks assured, and wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba is the latest former Ohio State wide receiver earning superstar status. They are not an easy out, so the Commanders need to be at the top of their game to send the home fans away from the game with smiles on their faces.
Pressuring Darnold is key. The signal-caller can do real damage when given time in the pocket. But if he's forced off his spot and becomes flustered, that's when mistakes will arrive.
- Prediction: Win (5-4)
If the Commanders can force a turnover or two, and Jayden Daniels can get the better of Michael Macdonald's defense, Washington should be celebrating a much-needed victory.