The Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Commanders enter Week 1 with playoff aspirations, though one seems in a better position to qualify than the other. Still, games aren't won on paper. They're won on the football field, andmany of the questions we have about both sideswon't be answered until the lights come on.
These two proud organizations have been at it since 1934, through name changes and the Boston Braves' eventual move from Beantown to the nation's capital in 1937. Washington leads the all-time series by a 91-87-5 margin.
Philadelphia remains one of the NFC's most talented teams, while the Commanders hope Jayden Daniels can elevate a roster that continues to evolve around him. Here are six matchups that could determine the outcome of an important
early divisional showdown.
Washington's wide receivers vs. Philadelphia's secondary
Washington has assembled one of the more intriguing receiving groups in the NFC. Terry McLaurin remains the reliable veteran and emotional leader of the room. The Commanders added Stefon Diggs in free agency and used a premium draft pick on Antonio Williams in hopes of giving Daniels another explosive playmaker.
That trio draws a difficult assignment in Week 1. Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean are already among the NFL's emerging stars, while Riq Woolen gives Philadelphia another long, athletic corner capable of matching up with bigger receivers. If the Eagles' secondary lives up to expectations, Daniels may be forced to look elsewhere for answers.
Zack Baun vs. Jayden Daniels
Every defense needs a quarterback of its own. For Philadelphia, that player is Zack Baun. The All-Pro linebacker serves as the defensive signal-caller and will be responsible for helping coordinate the Eagles' response to one of the NFL's most dangerous dual-threat quarterbacks.
Daniels can beat defenses with his arm, but his ability to extend plays and create explosive runs is what often separates him from other young quarterbacks. Baun's discipline, communication, and instincts will be tested from the opening snap.
Sean Mannion vs. Daronte Jones
The chess match between the coordinators could be one of the game's most fascinating storylines. Washington handed defensive coordinator Daronte Jones significant authority to install and operate his system.
Philadelphia made a similar commitment when Sean Mannion was elevated to offensive coordinator. Both men enter the season with plenty to prove. Mannion is expected to expand the Eagles' offense and continue the evolution of Jalen Hurts' game. At the same time, Jones is tasked with building a defense capable of slowing one of the league's most talented rosters. Their adjustments throughout the afternoon could ultimately decide the winner.
Odafe Oweh and K'Lavon Chaisson vs. Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson
Washington's revamped edge-rushing tandem gets thrown directly into the deep end. Odafe Oweh and K'Lavon Chaisson are expected to start on the edge, but their first meaningful test comes against arguably the NFL's best tackle duo.
Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson have been setting the standard at their positions for years. Both remain critical to everything the Eagles want to accomplish offensively.
New Eagles offensive line coach Chris Kuper and first-year Commanders outside linebackers coach John Pagano will each be watching closely. If Washington can't generate pressure from the edge, Hurts could have all day to attack downfield.
Makai Lemon vs. a potentially evolving Commanders defensive plan
This matchup is less about one defender and more about how the Commanders choose to account for Philadelphia's newest weapon. Makai Lemon lost valuable practice time during training camp because of injury, but the Eagles have a distinct advantage. No one is 100 percent certain of how Washington deploys the rookie.
This could be an evolving storyline throughout the game. While many expect Lemon to operate primarily from the slot, Philadelphia has already shown hints of a larger plan. During the team's open practice, Lemon lined up in the backfield on several occasions, suggesting Sean Mannion may have a package of creative touches designed specifically for the rookie.
Whether that means snaps against slot corner Amik Robertson, carries from the backfield, or motion-heavy concepts remains to be seen. Whatever the plan is, Washington will have to be prepared for it.
Saquon Barkley vs. Washington's defensive front
No matchup may have a greater impact on the game's flow. Washington's front features plenty of size and physicality with names such as Daron Payne, Javon Kinlaw, Tim Settle, and Charles Omenihu. Their mission will be simple. Prevent Saquon Barkley from taking over the game.
Philadelphia believes a healthy Cam Jurgens and Landon Dickerson will help stabilize the interior offensive line. At the same time, Tyler Steen enters the season hoping to establish himself as a long-term starter.
The obvious question is whether the Eagles can create rushing lanes. The more interesting one might be whether Barkley becomes a bigger factor as a receiver. If Mannion expands Barkley's role in the passing game, Washington's linebackers could be forced into some difficult decisions.
Final thought
Week 1 often comes down to execution rather than scheme, but this game features several battles that could shape the outcome long before the fourth quarter arrives. If the Eagles win most of these individual matchups, they'll have a strong chance of opening the season with a statement victory over a division rival.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Eagles vs. Commanders: Week 1 matchups to watch
