Eagles vs. Commanders Preview: Here’s what actually matters heading into the weekend

The 9–5 Eagles head to Washington on Saturday for a matchup that looks friendly on paper and should be exactly that if they handle their business. It’s another trip to the worst stadium in the NFL to face a 4–10 Commanders team that are dead men walking.

Run Saquon, Run

Nothing has changed here. The Eagles have absolutely abused Washington on the ground over the past two seasons, and the numbers are comical.

In their last three meaningful meetings, including the NFC Championship Game, the Eagles ran the ball 115 times for 668 yards and 12 touchdowns.

This year’s Eagles run game hasn’t been as dominant as last season’s, but Washington’s run defense is still bad. They rank near the bottom of the league in rushing yards allowed, yards per carry, and rush attempts faced.

Their big offseason splash was Javon Kinlaw, who somehow got $45 million and has responded with zero sacks and very little impact. The edges are thin, multiple defenders are on IR, and the linebacker group has serious issues against physical run games.

If the Eagles want to reestablish themselves on the ground, this is the opponent to do it against. Running straight at Frankie Luvu, who piles up missed tackles and disappears when the game gets physical, should absolutely be part of the plan.

The Commanders’ pass defense is just as vulnerable

Washington’s linebacker coverage has been a disaster. Luvu has allowed receptions on nearly every target thrown his way, while Bobby Wagner has lost a step and gives up plenty of yards despite still being instinctive. Tight ends have crushed this defense all year, which sets up nicely for Dallas Goedert.

The cornerback situation is also a mess. Marshon Lattimore and Trey Amos are both out, leaving Washington deep into their depth chart. On paper, their corners should not be able to hold up against A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, especially with no real pass rush to help them out.

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Point Being: Washington can’t stop the run, can’t cover the middle of the field, and can’t consistently pressure the quarterback. That’s a bad recipe against this offense.

Another backup quarterback, another opportunity

For the second straight week, the Eagles will face a backup quarterback. Marcus Mariota gets the start again with Jayden Daniels shut down for the season.

Mariota is a professional, he can run, and he can make the occasional play, but he’s not someone who should be beating a good defense.

The key is discipline. Mariota’s legs are his biggest weapon, so the Eagles need to keep him in the pocket and force him to throw 25 or more times. Washington wants to run the ball at a high rate, even as a 4–10 team, because it hides their quarterback situation.

The Eagles can’t let this turn into one of those annoying games where they get pushed around up front.

Washington’s offensive line is better than what the Eagles just saw against the Raiders, but it’s still flawed. Josh Conerly has struggled as a rookie, penalties are an issue, and if Laremy Tunsil can’t go or is limited, things get even shakier.

This is a game the Eagles should control.

They have advantages in the trenches, better weapons, and a defense that should be able to dictate terms if it plays disciplined football. Shut down the run, make Mariota beat you with his arm, and lean into Washington’s weaknesses.

Handle the Commanders, keep stacking wins, and don’t make a straightforward game harder than it needs to be.

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