The Washington Commanders (9-5) host the Philadelphia Eagles (12-2) in an NFC East showdown. Philadelphia defeated Washington 26-18 in Week 11, but the Commanders led for much of that game. The defense dominated the Eagles through three quarters before falling apart in the fourth quarter. Washington's offense struggled, failing to take advantage, and Saquon Barkley made them pay over the final 15 minutes.
Technically, the Commanders are still alive in the NFC East race, but it's a long shot. Philly holds a three-game advantage with three games remaining. Winners of 10 games in a row, it's doubtful the Eagles will lose three in a row. For Washington, Sunday's game is about playoff positioning. Currently the No. 7 seed, the Commanders are one game out of the sixth seed.
Here are five key matchups Washington must win to take down the Eagles on Sunday.
This is why the Commanders acquired Marshon Lattimore, not specifically for this game but for games like this one. Washington needed a top cornerback to lock down one side of the field. In his debut, Lattimore did that, but this assignment is much more difficult. Brown is coming off his best game in two months. However, Lattimore has enjoyed success matched up with Brown before. This is a huge matchup that the Commanders feel much better about.
This is not necessarily Wagner vs. Barkley, but Washington's defensive leader against a legitimate MVP candidate. The Commanders cannot allow Barkley to rush for 146 yards and two touchdowns again. If he does, their defense will struggle to get off the field, allowing the Eagles to wear down the defense again.
The Commanders' interior offensive line, led by center Tyler Biadasz, must limit Jalen Carter's impact. Carter was excellent in the first meeting and Washington's offense never got going. Biadasz missed last week's game against the Saints, and his absence was noticeable. The Saints defensive line controlled the line of scrimmage. Biadasz is the MVP of Washington's offensive line.
The Commanders must find a way to create pressure on Jalen Hurts. Last time, Washington did a good job of disrupting Hurts, even if it didn't equal sacks. They need to create negative plays, whether it is sacks, fumbles, or interceptions. Of course, making plays against Mailata and Johnson is difficult for anyone, but Washington must find a way.
Much was made over McLaurin's stat line against Mitchell and the Eagles five weeks ago. Yes, Mitchell was phenomenal, but he had help over the top. Why? Because Philadelphia DC Vic Fangio doesn't respect Washington's other receivers enough. McLaurin is having a career year, but he can expect the same type of treatment on Sunday. Washington OC Kliff Kingsbury must find a way to get McLaurin involved early. Also, other Commanders' receivers must also step up.