The Philadelphia Eagles are poised to secure their first NFC East title in nearly two decades as they face the Washington Commanders on December 16, 2023, in Landover, Maryland. With a current record of 9-5, the Eagles need just one win in their final three games or a loss by the Dallas Cowboys (6-7-1) to clinch the division.
This matchup follows a significant victory for Philadelphia, which ended a three-game losing streak by defeating the Las Vegas Raiders 31-0 last weekend. The Commanders, on the other hand, broke an eight-game losing streak by edging out the New York Giants 29-21 on the road.
The last encounter between these teams was notably one-sided, with the Eagles dominating the Commanders 55-23 in the NFC Championship game last January, before ultimately winning Super Bowl LIX. As both teams enter this weekend’s game with renewed momentum, the stakes could not be higher for Philadelphia.
In a setback for the Commanders, quarterback Jayden Daniels will not be participating in Saturday’s game as he continues to recover from an elbow injury. Coach Dan Quinn confirmed that Daniels will focus on healing for the 2026 season. “I’ll be out there practicing whatever they need me to do,” Daniels stated, emphasizing his commitment to support his teammates.
The Commanders will rely on veteran quarterback Marcus Mariota, who is making his eighth start this season. Mariota has thrown for 1,600 yards, with 10 touchdowns and 7 interceptions. In contrast, Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts aims to build on a strong performance against the Raiders, where he passed for 175 yards and 3 touchdowns without any interceptions. Hurts previously struggled with four interceptions in a loss to the Los Angeles Chargers.
The Philadelphia offense, despite its ups and downs, has managed to position the team favorably. “We’ve been able to get to this point and to be playing in big-time games,” Hurts noted. “I think it’s encouraging to be able to build off of something positive.”
The Eagles’ defense will face a Commanders team that has struggled significantly, ranking 31st in the NFL by allowing 382.6 yards per game. Washington’s turnover issues have also been a concern, as they have committed at least two turnovers in seven of their last nine games.
In terms of player availability, the Eagles will be without defensive tackle Jalen Carter (shoulder) and offensive lineman Lane Johnson (foot) for this game. Additionally, tight end Cameron Latu (stinger) and offensive tackle Cameron Williams (shoulder) are listed as questionable.
For the Commanders, left tackle Laremy Tunsil (oblique), defensive tackle Eddie Goldman (concussion), and tight end Colson Yankoff (ankle) are ruled out. Cornerback Jonathan Jones (rib) and defensive tackle Jer’Zhan Newton (illness) are also questionable after missing practice on Thursday.
As the Eagles look to solidify their spot at the top of the NFC East, they will also face the Commanders again in Philadelphia to conclude the regular season. The upcoming matches could prove pivotal for both teams as they navigate the final stretch of the season.
