Commanders at Dolphins - Week 11
- Date: Sunday, November 16
- Time: 9.30 a.m. ET
- Venue: Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
- Channel: NFL Network
Being at 3-7 through 10 games would be an unmitigated disaster. The Washington Commanders managed to generate significant momentum to emerge as the league's most heartwarming story last season. That would evaporate completely if head coach Dan Quinn's squad had just three wins from their efforts before an international contest in Madrid, Spain.
Sometimes, a change of scenery works wonders. The Commanders have almost no genuine routine on their schedule this year. But getting out of the country, spending more time together, and embracing a different culture is something everyone in the franchise should be looking forward to.
As for the opposition? There are very few teams in a worse state than the Dolphins right now. An embarrassing loss to the Cleveland Browns saw head coach Mike McDaniel's hot seat melt, but insider reports suggest that Miami isn't going to make a change.
Whether that'll be the case by the time their game against Washington gets here is anyone's guess. Tua Tagovailoa is losing the locker room through his actions in the media and his performances on the field. The team seemed to quit in Week 7, so the tipping point is very near.
- Prediction: Commanders win (4-7)
The Commanders should win. Nothing is guaranteed these days, but they have more than enough to dispose of this bottom-feeder.
Commanders vs. Broncos - Week 12
- Date: Sunday, November 30
- Time: 8.20 p.m. ET
- Venue: Northwest Stadium
- Channel: NBC
After a much-needed bye week to refresh and refocus, the Washington Commanders once again head to primetime for a Sunday Night Football showdown against the Denver Broncos. And they will need to be at their best to get the better of Sean Payton's squad.
The Broncos looked down and out versus the New York Giants in Week 7. They came back from the brink, racking up 33 points in the fourth quarter to secure victory when defeat seemed inevitable. And maybe, just maybe, that is a sign that something special could be happening in Denver.
Denver's defense can wreak havoc. However, they struggled with rookie Jaxson Dart's ability to create plays out of structure. This is something the Commanders could take advantage of if Jayden Daniels is firing on all cylinders.
Offensively, the Broncos are well-balanced. They have a solid quarterback in Bo Nix. They have a strong rushing attack led by J.K. Dobbins and RJ Harvey. They also have some prolific playmakers in the passing game, including Courtland Sutton.
- Prediction: Commanders win (5-7)
It won't be easy; not by any stretch of the imagination. Even so, an extended period of rest, coupled with extra preparation time, might be enough to send fans home happy and keep their hopes alive.