The Washington Commanders are gearing up for a crucial Thursday Night Football matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles, with the NFC East lead on the line. After holding the top spot for much of the season, Washington fell behind following a Week 10 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, while Philadelphia surged ahead with a decisive win over the Dallas Cowboys. Now, the Commanders face a pivotal challenge: slowing down Eagles running back Saquon Barkley to reclaim first place. Washington’s season has been energized by rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, whose dual-threat skills have reinvigorated their offense. However, the Steelers limited Daniels to just five rushing yards on three carries, forcing him into a pass-heavy game. This week, he’ll face another strong defense in the Eagles, who have won five of their last six games against Washington, including recent close contests with scores of 38-31 and 34-31. Despite this, Washington maintains an all-time series edge of 89-84-5, dating back to their first matchup in 1934 when the Boston Redskins defeated the Eagles 6-0 at Fenway Park.
Containing Barkley will be crucial for Washington. Ranked 28th in run defense, the Commanders are surrendering an average of 142.7 rushing yards per game, which the Eagles will likely try to exploit with Barkley. Barkley has had an impressive season, racking up 991 rushing yards, including four 100-yard games, and averages 88.2 rushing yards and nearly a touchdown per game in nine meetings with Washington. Commanders head coach Dan Quinn, formerly the Cowboys’ defensive coordinator, may consider implementing some of Dallas’s recent defensive strategies that held Barkley to just 66 yards. As both teams battle for position in the NFC East, Thursday’s game is a chance for Washington to reclaim the division lead, while the Eagles aim to solidify theirs. The Commanders’ success will hinge on their ability to contain Barkley and ignite Daniels’ playmaking under the prime-time lights.
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