The Washington Commanders are preparing to kick off their 2026 season against the Philadelphia Eagles this weekend.
This is a big matchup that could end up having postseason implications. The game will also be a nice litmus test for the Commanders, who feel like they’re much improved from last season. These two division rivals split the season series last year, and the Eagles have won three of the last four matchups in Philadelphia.
Most expect the Eagles to be a serious contender again in the NFC this year, so this won’t be an easy test for the Commanders. Today, let’s identify the four main things Washington needs to do to escape with a win.
Protect Jayden Daniels
Jayden Daniels is coming off an injury-marred 2025 campaign, so keeping him protected is crucial. The
Eagles picked up 42 sacks as a team last year, and they have some real pass rushers like Jalyx Hunt, Nolan Smith Jr., and Jalen Carter.
It will also be interesting to see how the Commanders deal without Laremy Tunsil. Tunsil has been an elite blindside blocker, so the Eagles could look to take advantage of his absence. If the Commanders can get the ball out of Daniels’ hands quickly and give him clean pockets, he can do some damage. If Daniels is running for his life and taking hits, it’s hard to imagine the offense being able to keep up, and it risks another injury.
Establish the ground game
The Commanders were not good enough on the ground in 2025. Of course, Daniels being out was a big part of that, but the team has to find ways to balance the offense more efficiently in 2026. Last year, the Eagles were able to be run on, as they allowed an average of 124 rushing yards per game.
It will be interesting to see how the Commanders distribute running back snaps. Bill Croskey-Merritt had flashes as a rookie, but veteran addition Rachaad White has been a capable starter in the past. No matter who gets more touches, the Commanders have to make the Eagles fear their ground game.
Make Jalen Hurts throw the ball
The Eagles’ offense is going to look different without star wide receiver A.J. Brown. The team could emphasize the run even more than usual, so the Commanders need to be prepared. If the Eagles have to pass and force the ball to DeVonta Smith, that could work out in the Commanders’ favor.
The Eagles are at their best when they control the clock and slow the game down. If Hurts and Saquon Barkley are able to get chunk yardage, it could be hard for the Commanders to keep up. Forcing Hurts to throw the ball and taking away his running lanes is the best course of action.
Win the turnover battle
Jayden Daniels only has 12 interceptions in 24 career regular-season games. When the quarterback is healthy and the offense is flowing, turnovers haven’t been a major problem. However, last year, with all the injuries, the Commanders had the second-worst turnover differential in the league.
It’s safe to say you won’t win a lot of games if you consistently lose the turnover battle. The Eagles are the type of team that will make you pay if you turn the ball over, and they typically don’t turn it over themselves.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: 4 keys to a Commanders' Week 1 victory over the Eagles
