Commanders vs. Eagles Thursday Night Football Picks: Can Washington Compete?

Washington’s Close Loss Against Pittsburgh

Washington saw a 24-14 lead slip away, falling 28-27 at home to the Steelers on Sunday. The Commanders were aiming for an 8-2 record for the first time since 1986 and hoping to remain unbeaten at home at 5-0, a feat last accomplished in 1991 during their Super Bowl-winning season under coach Joe Gibbs.

Jayden Daniels, the No. 2 overall draft pick and standout for rookie head coach Dan Quinn, completed 17 of 34 passes for 202 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions. He also had three carries for five yards, marking his lowest rushing total as a professional.

Terry McLaurin was a bright spot for Washington, hauling in five catches for 113 yards. Austin Ekeler contributed with two short rushing touchdowns for a team that had won three consecutive games, rebounding strongly from last year’s 4-13 finish under Ron Rivera.

Philadelphia Crushed Dallas

Jalen Hurts powered the Eagles to a 34-6 rout over the struggling Cowboys, who were playing their first game without Dak Prescott after he suffered a torn hamstring. Hurts completed 14 of 20 passes for 202 yards, throwing two touchdowns and one interception, while adding 56 rushing yards and two touchdowns on seven carries.

Saquon Barkley added 66 rushing yards on 14 carries, and A.J. Brown recorded five receptions for 109 yards.

Hurts overcame two sacks by Micah Parsons, who was making his return from injury, and connected with Dallas Goedert for one of his touchdown passes. Goedert had been sidelined for three games due to a hamstring injury.

Key Matchups

This clash will test Washington’s resilience and the Eagles’ consistency as they push deeper into the season. Turnovers and special teams could prove pivotal, with the Eagles showing they can capitalize on opponents’ mistakes to gain the upper hand.

Jayden Daniels vs. Philadelphia’s Defense

Daniels has been solid for Washington, but the offense has yet to reach its full potential. Daniel’s ability to stay composed and move the chains will be critical, especially under pressure from Philadelphia’s pass rush.

Daniels’ mobility might need to play a larger role if Washington’s offensive line struggles to protect him.

Washington’s Receiving Corps vs. Philadelphia’s Secondary

Terry McLaurin continues to be the standout target for the Commanders, amassing 113 yards on five receptions against Pittsburgh. McLaurin will need to maintain that level of performance and exploit any soft spots in Philadelphia’s secondary.

The Eagles, however, demonstrated their ability to limit explosive plays against Dallas and will look to contain McLaurin while forcing Daniels to spread the ball elsewhere.

Jalen Hurts vs. Washington’s Pass Defense

Hurts is coming off a near-flawless performance, throwing for 202 yards and two touchdowns while also running for 56 yards and two scores. His dual-threat capability makes him a constant challenge, particularly for a Washington defense that struggled to hold onto a lead against the Steelers.

If Hurts is able to mix his passing game with designed runs and scramble effectively, the Commanders could be in for a long day trying to keep him contained.

Rushing Attack Comparison

Ekeler’s two short touchdowns highlighted Washington’s ground game on Sunday, but the team will need to find consistent production to balance the offense. Having Brian Robinson Jr. back after missing his last two games because of a hamstring injury would help a lot in this game.

Philadelphia, on the other hand, has proven they can mix it up effectively, with Hurts adding another dimension to their rushing strategy. Barkley can help chew up clock when necessary, putting added pressure on Washington’s front seven to step up.

Special Teams and Turnovers

In close matchups like this, field position and ball security are vital. The Eagles’ ability to capitalize on turnovers, as they did in their blowout win over Dallas, could be the X-factor. Washington’s defense, while showing flashes of strong play, will need to force Hurts into mistakes to shift momentum.

Daniels’ ball security and decision-making will also be under scrutiny, as any lapse could swing the game in Philadelphia’s favor.

The Pick

This game should be competitive, with both teams having standout playmakers capable of tilting the balance. Philadelphia’s proven ability to adapt and Hurts’ dynamic playmaking will be hard to counter for a full four quarters. The Commanders will need to strike early and sustain drives to keep the game within reach. I’ll take a chance on Washington to cover.

NFL Pick: Commanders +3.5 (-115) at Bookmaker

Commanders +3.5 (-115)

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