This Washington Commanders team never knows when they're beaten. Their stunning fightback to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat against the Philadelphia Eagles was another example of how far they've come in a relatively short timeframe.
It was an astonishing game that had everything. The Commanders conceded five turnovers but still won at the death. An improved defensive plan for Saquon Barkley and quarterback Jayden Daniels coming through in the biggest moments spearheaded a critical triumph.
This was a monumental win for Dan Quinn's squad. They were clinging onto the seventh playoff seed in the NFC. Those chasing them probably fancied their chances of closing the gap considering Philadelphia came into the contest having won their last 10 games.
The Commanders had other ideas.
Their win against the Eagles was significant in more ways than one. It gave Quinn a landmark triumph and proved they can get over the hump versus one of the league's heavyweights. It also enhanced their postseason credentials considerably, which is a remarkable accomplishment in Year 1 of an extensive rebuild across the organization.
Washington has playoff destiny in its hands. Nobody expected the Commanders to be in this position so early into Quinn's tenure. At the same time, it was essential they seized the moment and grasped the opportunity in front of them.
It's almost mission accomplished in that regard. One look at the current playoff standings with two games remaining is proof of that.
Commanders playoff standing after incredible Week 16 win over the Eagles
- Detroit Lions (13-2)
- Philadelphia Eagles (12-3)
- Los Angeles Rams (9-6)
- Atlanta Falcons (8-7)
- Minnesota Vikings (13-2)
- Green Bay Packers (11-4)
- Washington Commanders (10-5)
In the hunt:
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-7)
- Seattle Seahawks (8-7)
Potential playoff games as things stand:
- Washington Commanders vs. Philadelphia Eagles
- Green Bay Packers vs. Los Angeles Rams
- Minnesota Vikings vs. Atlanta Falcons
- Detroit Lions (first-round bye)
The Commanders did their part. They got some help from the Minnesota Vikings after they held on at the Seattle Seahawks. The NFC South leadership also changed with the Atlanta Falcons seizing the initiative at the expense of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Washington's triumph eliminated the Dallas Cowboys contention, which made it all the sweeter. The Arizona Cardinals also blew their playoff hopes after suffering an overtime loss to the Carolina Panthers.
If the Commanders beat the Falcons on Sunday Night Football in Week 17, they'll be in the knockout rounds. It's that simple, but Atlanta has plenty on the line too after easily disposing of the lowly New York Giants.
The Falcons could potentially clinch the NFC South and get a home playoff game with success at Northwest Stadium. It's a high-stakes situation for both, but the Commanders should be brimming with confidence after beating their fierce division rival.
Here are the other games that could impact Washington's postseason push in Week 17.
- Seattle Seahawks at Chicago Bears
- Los Angeles Rams vs. Arizona Cardinals
- Green Bay Packers at Minnesota Vikings
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers
- Philadelphia Eagles vs. Dallas Cowboys