The Philadelphia Eaglesand Washington Commanders rarely make it easy on each other, and Sunday's NFC East matchup should be no different. Philadelphia has plenty to clean up, especially on defense, but this is a chance to show progress against a Washington team that has had its share of struggles.
The Eagles don't need a flawless performance to leave with a win. They do, however, need more urgency, better execution, and a few players to make their presence felt. Here are five bold predictions for Sunday's game, along with a final score that ought to make you smile.
The Eagles record three sacks
Washington quarterbacks have been sacked 14 times this season, averaging two per game. Philadelphia has managed just eight sacks, so the pass rush has some catching up to do.
This defense
has enough talent to play more aggressively. The Eagles need to play with urgency and make life uncomfortable for the Commanders' quarterback. They reach Washington's average and add one more, finishing with three sacks.
Barkley scores a rushing touchdown against Washington's depleted interior defensive line
Jayden Daniels has carried a substantial share of Washington's rushing responsibility, ranking third on the team with 25 attempts and second with 213 yards.Saquon Barkley is expected to play, and even if he isn't completely healthy, his presence gives Philadelphia another important option.
The Eagles should have enough available in the backfield to establish a more productive ground game. Prediction: Philadelphia gets two rushing touchdowns while Washington manages one.
Eagles linebackers combine for 20 tackles; Mukuba adds seven
Philadelphia's linebackers will have to be active against a Washington offense that can create problems with Daniels' mobility. Zack Baun and Jeremiah Trotter Jr. combine for 20 tackles, with Andrew Mukuba contributing seven more from the secondary.
It won't necessarily be a clean afternoon in coverage, but the tackling production should help limit Washington's ability to turn short gains into bigger plays.
The Eagles' defense improves but allows two touchdown passes from Daniels
This prediction comes with a little contradiction: Philadelphia's defense plays better without completely shutting down Washington's passing attack. Daniels throws two touchdown passes, but the Eagles generate more pressure, tackle more consistently, and make enough stops to avoid another defensive disappointment.
Still, they've never been able to shut down Washington completely, regardless of who's available
The Eagles win by seven points or fewer
This matchup has the makings of another NFC East grind, with enough momentum swings to keep both fan bases uneasy. Washington should make Philadelphia work for every possession, but the Eagles have the edge in a game that could come down to execution late. The prediction: Philadelphia escapes with a 24-20 victory.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: 5 bold predictions for Eagles vs. Commanders on Sunday Night Football
