It’s been expected in the last few weeks that the winner of the NFC East would come down to the Eagles vs Commanders. After the walloping of the Dallas Cowboys, the Eagles are hosting the Washington Commanders this week in a crucial divisional matchup. This will be the first real test for the Eagles since before their bye week.
The Commanders are coming off a close loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Despite that, the Commanders are still a dangerous team coming to Philly with great confidence. There are a few different keys to this game, but in a short week, physicality will be the biggest factor in this Eagles vs Commanders matchup.
A Battle for the East: Eagles vs Commanders Picks
The Onus is on the Eagles Defensive Line
The Eagles defensive front struggled early in the year, but since the bye week, they have picked it up tremendously. However, they have not played the toughest opponents in the last five games. This week the defensive line will be challenged to a different degree in handling rookie Jayden Daniels and the Commanders run game.
Most teams who have been able to run the ball, have succeeded this year, including the Eagles. The Commanders also fall into this category as one of the best running teams in football, and it helps open everything for their offense. They boast a big offensive line that can get downhill and move defenses backward.
The rush lane integrity, of the Eagles will also be challenged. Jayden Daniels’ fantastic year has been emphasized by his ability to escape the pocket and extend plays or run himself. It’s a tough challenge for any team and defensive front, but it’s an important aspect one needs to figure out to stop Washington’s offense.
The Impact of the Commanders Run Game
As for any team running the ball, it is going to open the entire offensive playbook, but for the Commanders they beat teams because of how many options they have offensively. Teams not only have to stop the run, contain Daniels, and stop their short to intermediate passing game. They also must worry about getting beat deep, where Daniels and receiver Terry McLaurin have excelled this year. Aside from the Cowboys game, the Eagles have struggled to get turnovers on defense, and the Commanders have not turned the ball over much.
Terry McLaurin has tied his career season-high with four 100+ yard receiving games.
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Luckily, the Eagles have the secondary to match up with any team in the league. It would be awesome if the Eagles could line up in Fangio’s two high safety defense and stop the run. However, it will be something they must prove they can do on gameday. More likely, the Eagles will have to drop a safety into the box and run more five-man fronts. It will not only help in the run game but also keep Daniels in check.
Eagles vs Commanders Picks
Eagles Win 38-34
This game could go either way but will come down to who wins the physical battle up front. The Eagles offense should find success as they always do, but only if Hurts takes care of the ball. However, since the Commanders are on short rest after a physical game with the Steelers, the Eagles should be able to hold on at home.
Other Eagles vs Commanders Picks:
Jalen Hurts Any Time Touchdown Scorer
A.J. Brown Any Time Touchdown Scorer
Both Teams to Score 20+ Points
Main Image: Tim Heitman – USA Today Sports
