Predicting the Commanders' next four games after 7-3 start in 2024
By Dean Jones
Commanders vs. Cowboys - Week 12
- Date: Sunday, November 24
- Time: 1.00 p.m. ET
- Venue: Northwest Stadium
The Washington Commanders' storied rivalry with the Dallas Cowboys has been pretty one-sided in recent years. That might be about to change.
As the Commanders quickly emerged into the league's surprise package, the Cowboys floundered. This team always gets hyped up beyond comprehension before faltering when it counts. Unfortunately for head coach Mike McCarthy, they are spiraling out of control much sooner than anticipated this time around.
It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say the Cowboys have imploded. They are 3-6 following another home capitulation against the Philadelphia Eagles. Quarterback Dak Prescott is out for the season, leaving Dallas with Cooper Rush under center.
Judging by Rush's performance in Week 10, it won't be much longer before Trey Lance is given a shot. The former No. 3 overall selection remains an enigma of sorts, but the Cowboys have nothing to lose considering their current trajectory.
Motivation also seems low. The finger-pointing has already begun between players and staff. It's going to be a long road back to respectability. But in all honesty, that ship has already sailed.
This is something the Commanders should take advantage of. They are on home soil and the superior outfit. Head coach Dan Quinn will also know plenty about how to counteract Dallas' threats during his time as defensive coordinator with the franchise.
After two straight defeats in this scenario, the Commanders can utilize this as a get-right game. They need to be professional and take nothing for granted - especially in a division clash where form typically goes out of the window - but every player should be striving hard to get Quinn a victory versus his old employers.
- Prediction: Commanders win (8-4)
If the Commanders handle their assignments with conviction and gain some early momentum, there's nothing to suggest this cannot become a comfortable afternoon at the office for Quinn's squad. Fans will be demanding nothing less looking at the way things have unfolded for the two teams in 2024 so far.