This could be a battle of backup quarterbacks here. The Commanders are definitely set to start QB2 Marcus Mariota in place of injured Jayden Daniels (dislocated non-throwing elbow), while the Seahawks may have the option of sticking with hot-hand Drew Lock or reverting to Sam Darnold, who seems close to returning from the glute injury he suffered in the Sept. 9 opener.
Considerations behind center aside? This has all the makings of a decisive mismatch, which it also was 11 months ago, when Darnold torched Washington for 330 yards and four touchdowns through the air in a 38-14 rout in prime time – a stage that also served as the first in Daniels' series of elbow injuries.
Seattle's 'Dark Side” defense is presently operating as it has been for some
time, allowing the fewest points (8.5) and yards (214.0) per game among NFC units. That probably doesn't bode well for a Washington offense being run by rookie coordinator David Blough and resorting to Mariota, who's won just two of eight starts in his two-plus seasons as Daniels' backup, as its starter for the first time in the current setup.
As for a Commanders defense that's surrendered a league-high seven TD passes and was freshly torched by Dallas' Dak Prescott? Probably not a great week to encounter 2025 Offensive Player of the Year Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who's playing at an even higher level than that through two weeks, four TD receptions already to his credit.
Commanders vs Seahawks odds, moneyline, over/under
Opening lines:
- Spread: Seahawks -3.5
- Moneyline: Seahawks -185; Commanders +154
- Total: 46.5
Get the edge with our exclusive NFL betting picks
Seahawks at Commanders score predictions
Adam Kaufman: Seahawks 27, Commanders 13
The Seahawks have won 12 consecutive games dating to last season. Get ready for No. 13. After dismantling Arizona behind three Jaxon Smith-Njigba touchdowns, Seattle now faces a struggling secondary and a Washington defense that hasn't generated enough pressure to compensate for its coverage breakdowns. Whether Sam Darnold returns or Seattle continues riding Drew Lock's hot hand, it shouldn't matter. Marcus Mariota is once again stepping in for Jayden Daniels, and the Commanders' offense hasn't functioned consistently even with its franchise quarterback available. Now Washington must contend with one of the NFL's premier defenses behind an injury-hit offensive line. Seattle can pressure from multiple levels, disguise its coverages and force Mariota into the turnovers that have followed him throughout his career. This could get ugly.
Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz: Seahawks 23, Commanders 9
The Seahawks are absolutely smothering all downfield passing attempts against them. What chance do Marcus Mariota and Washington really have here? Seattle can continue to allow Jaxon Smith-Njigba to do the heavy lifting on offense and stay unblemished without having to stray too far from the team's comfort zone. And watching Washington try to keep the Seahawks' front in check might be an ugly sight.
Nate Davis: Seahawks 30, Commanders 16
So, Mariota is going to try and run what could become a very predictable attack – one now lacking the surprise element of Daniels' dynamic running ability – behind a vulnerable offensive line … Against THIS defense? Got it. And if you need more convincing, the Seahawks have lost one road game in the past 24 months and just two since Mike Macdonald became the head coach in 2024.
Richard Morin: Seahawks 28, Commanders 16
It won't be a soft landing for the Commanders as they try to stay afloat in the wake of Jayden Daniels' elbow injury. The Seahawks are 2-0, boast a suffocating defense and look comfortable in all phases of the game. Washington will get the home-field advantage, which is why the spread is only hovering around a touchdown, but I don't see the score being that close. The result is much more likely to be decided by two scores, possibly even three. How far can Marcus Mariota take the Commanders?
Where to watch Seahawks at Commanders
- Matchup: Commanders vs. Seahawks
- Date: Sept. 27
- Time: 1:00 p.m.
- Venue: Northwest Stadium
- Location: Landover, Maryland
- TV: Fox
NFL Week 3 picks and predictions
- Falcons at Packers
- Chargers at Bills
- Raiders at Saints
- Patriots at Jaguars
- Texans at Colts
- Seahawks at Commanders
- Chiefs at Dolphins
- Jets at Lions
- Bengals at Steelers
- Vikings at Buccaneers
- Titans at Giants
- Cardinals at 49ers
- Panthers at Browns
- Ravens at Cowboys
- Rams at Broncos
- Eagles at Bears
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Seahawks at Commanders: Predictions, picks and odds for NFL Week 3 game
Advertiser disclosure: USA TODAY may earn a commission when you sign up through links on this page. Commissions never influence our editorial coverage or rankings. Offers and odds were accurate at publication and are subject to change; terms apply — see the operator’s site. This is general information, not betting, legal or financial advice. To the fullest extent permitted by law, USA TODAY is not liable for losses arising from your use of it.
Must be 21+ (18+ where permitted). Sports betting and casino gaming are not legal everywhere; complying with the laws where you are located is your responsibility. Gamble only with funds you can afford to lose. Gambling problem? Help is available 24/7 — call or text 1-800-GAMBLER, or call the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-MY-RESET. State helplines and responsible gaming resources.
