Inspired by quarterback Jayden Daniels and one of the most impressive rookie seasons in NFL history, the Commanders have exceeded expectations and reached the NFC Championship Game.
The question everyone is asking is whether Daniels can continue to defy the odds and lead his team to victory in what should be an epic clash between two NFC East division rivals.
DAZN News breaks down three key factors which could prove decisive in the matchup.
Jayden Daniels, Terry McLaurin and Dyami Brown vs. the Eagles’ secondary
Alika Jenner/Getty Images
Daniels’ ability as a runner is a major reason for the Commanders’ resurgence in 2024 and will undoubtedly feature as part of Washington’s game plan against the Eagles.
However, the Commanders' success in this game will also depend on Daniels’ proficiency as a passer, and the connection he has forged with wide receivers Terry McLaurin and Dyami Brown could prove decisive.
McLaurin has weathered sub-par quarterbacks to produce at a high level in each of the last six seasons. The veteran wideout was always going to play a key role in the new-look Commanders’ offense led by Daniels.
Brown appeared set to produce another underwhelming season until just two games ago when he erupted for a season-high 89 yards and a touchdown in the Commanders’ Wild Card win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Eager to prove that performance was no fluke, the former third-round pick followed up with an equally impressive six-catch 98-yard effort against Detroit in the Divisional Round.
As impressive as the Commanders’ aerial attack has been, they appear set to meet their match against this Eagles’ secondary.
Reinvigorated by talented rookies such as cornerbacks Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean, the Eagles have stifled opponents’ passing games this season.
The unit, led by veteran cornerback Darius Slay, has allowed the second-fewest passing yards in 2024.
Saquon Barkley and the Eagles’ offensive line vs. the Commanders’ defense
Greg Fiume/Getty Images
Everyone knew Barkley was supremely talented before he set foot in the NFL. Still, after watching him toil for years behind a dreadful New York Giants offensive line, many assumed we might never see him reach his potential.
The Giants’ decision to allow Barkley to test free agency has proven to be a huge gain for the Eagles, literally and figuratively speaking.
Barkley amassed 2,005 rushing yards in 2024, becoming only the tenth running back to do so in the history of the NFL.
His ability to take over a game has continued into the playoffs, and finding a way to contain him must be the primary focus for a Commanders’ defense which struggled to stop the run in 2024.
The responsibility for stopping Barkley falls on the whole Commanders’ defense, and it starts with winning the battle in the trenches.
The Eagles also have a distinct advantage in that respect, and they proved that point by allowing Barkley to run for four touchdowns and just shy of 300 yards combined in their two earlier-season games.
Eagles’ pass rush vs. Commanders’ pass blocking
Kyle Ross/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Expectations were high for the Eagles’ pass rush in 2024, even after trading away Haason Reddick, their 2023 sack leader.
Philadelphia’s defensive line still had several players capable of disrupting opposition offensive lines, including defensive Jalen Carter, who looked set to become a force in his second season.
The results were underwhelming, and they ended the regular season ranked 15th among all teams with only 41 sacks following poor play from edge rusher Bryce Huff in particular.
However, the unit showed signs of life in their Divisional Round win over the Los Angeles Rams, sacking quarterback Matthew Stafford seven times.
A repeat performance here is unlikely, but if Carter can play to his potential and edge rusher Nolan Smith can maintain his late-season form, the Eagles have the personnel to make life uncomfortable for the Commanders’ aerial attack.
Sam Cosmi provides some hope as one of the most talented pass blockers on the Commanders’ offensive line.
Still, the Eagles will be eager to take advantage of favourable matchups against left tackle Brandon Coleman and left guard Nick Allegretti
Conclusion
Washington’s postseason performances have dazzled many, but they must elevate their game even further to beat the Eagles and advance to the Super Bowl.
Daniels has demonstrated his composure in overcoming even the most difficult challenges. Still, the Eagles have the defensive talent to limit Washington’s aerial attack while also containing their ground game.
If Bobby Wagner and co. can find a way to limit the Eagles’ ground game, which will consist of both Barkley and quarterback Jalen Hurts, the odds will become much more even.
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