Who could have predicted this NFC Conference Final matchup before the start of the season?
Few people, undoubtedly! Perhaps no one at all! In any case, it’s the Philadelphia Eagles and the Washington Commanders who will face off on the field this Sunday in the NFC Conference Final. The objective is simple: win to secure a spot in Super Bowl LIX and face the winner of the game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Buffalo Bills.
A massive stakes game for what promises to be an explosive showdown!
Let’s dive in our Commanders vs Eagles predictions for this NFL NFC Championship game.
• Date: Sunday, Jan. 26th
• Time: 3:00 pm ET
• Venue: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PA
• Broadcast: Fox
The 2024 season didn’t start on the best note for the Philadelphia Eagles. Early in the regular season, the Pennsylvania franchise seemed to struggle to find its rhythm, alternating between strong performances and lackluster outings. Ultimately, it turned out that the 2024 Eagles were simply a diesel engine — slow to start but unstoppable once in motion.
After finding their groove, the team, led by head coach Nick Sirianni, won 12 of their last 13 games to secure another NFC East Division title.
The Eagles’ journey through the NFL playoffs wasn’t without challenges. In the Wild Card round, Jalen Hurts and his teammates defeated the Green Bay Packers in a game that took time to find its pace. In the Divisional Round, the Eagles faced the Los Angeles Rams, a matchup that proved to be more challenging than expected.
The Rams had an opportunity to reclaim the lead in the final two minutes, but a missed chance sent the Eagles through to the NFC Conference Final.
The Washington Commanders didn’t enter the 2024 NFL season with expectations of reaching the NFC Conference Final. With a new head coach, Dan Quinn, and a new quarterback leading the team, their primary goal was simply to improve on their 2023 campaign. They far exceeded those expectations, finishing the regular season with a 12-5 record, the second-best in their division.
Even more impressive, they closed out the season with five straight wins, building a wealth of confidence heading into the postseason.
For the first time since the 2020 season, the Commanders made it to the NFL playoffs. Entering as underdogs, Terry McLaurin and his teammates pulled off a thrilling last-minute victory against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the Wild Card round.
They followed that up with a stunning performance against the Detroit Lions in the Divisional Round, scoring 45 points and dismantling Detroit’s formidable defense. This incredible feat secured the Commanders their first NFC Conference Final appearance since 1991.
The Philadelphia Eagles approach the NFC Conference Final as clear favorites. As division champions with considerable playoff experience, they are undoubtedly the team to beat. Head coach Nick Sirianni has a squad packed with the tools needed to push even further this season.
One of the key strengths of the Eagles is undoubtedly Saquon Barkley. The former New York Giants running back had an outstanding 2024 season, coming tantalizingly close to breaking the single-season rushing yardage record. What’s more, Barkley has carried his exceptional form into the playoffs. In the Divisional Round, he ran for 205 yards and scored two touchdowns in snowy conditions. During the two regular-season games against the Commanders, Barkley recorded 146 and 150 rushing yards, finding the end zone four times in total.
It’s clear the Eagles will once again rely heavily on Barkley to make the difference in this NFC Conference Final. With Barkley in top form and the Commanders fielding one of the league’s weakest run defenses, the matchup seems to favor Philadelphia. Beyond Barkley, the Eagles boast a solid and opportunistic defense, making them one of the most well-rounded and formidable teams heading into this crucial game.
Can the Washington Commanders Pull Off Another Upset?
The Washington Commanders also have their strengths and will look to capitalize on them in hopes of causing another surprise in this NFC Conference Final.
The spotlight shines brightly on Jayden Daniels. The former Heisman Trophy winner has delivered a stellar rookie season. Playing with remarkable poise, the No. 2 overall draft pick has demonstrated accuracy and decisiveness, both in passing and rushing, even excelling in critical fourth-down situations. Daniels’ mobility could pose a significant challenge for the Eagles’ defense, which has been less effective against the run compared to the pass this season. His connection with star receiver Terry McLaurin could also prove to be a game-changer in this matchup.
Another key factor for Washington is their solid pass defense. Bolstered by the late-season acquisition of Marshon Lattimore, the Commanders’ secondary was instrumental in their win over the Detroit Lions, recording four interceptions in the Divisional Round. This unit has allowed an average of just 196 passing yards per game with a 68% completion rate, placing them among the league’s top five pass defenses.
For the Commanders to prevail, their strategy will likely hinge on forcing Jalen Hurts to rely on his arm rather than his legs. However, that’s much easier said than done.
PICK 1 – Dallas Goedert Anytime Touchdown (+310)
PICK 2 – Commanders +6 (-105)
Photo Credit : Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
