The Washington Commanders [7-5-1] face the New York Giants [7-5-1] Sunday in a game with major playoff implications.
When was the last time these old rivals faced one another with so much on the line? Well, it was actually two weeks ago when Washington and New York ended in a 20-20 tie. But before the Week 13 game, late-season games between the Commanders and Giants often involve who will own the highest pick in the NFL draft.
Not this time around.
The mathematical odds have determined that Sunday’s winner has around a 90% chance of making the playoffs.
We’ve picked four matchups that could determine the outcome of Sunday’s battle between the longtime NFC East foes.
Daniel Jones #8 of the New York Giants runs with the ball against the Washington Commanders. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
We identified Jamin Davis here because he is at the second level of Washington’s defense. You could insert safeties Darrick Forrest or Kam Curl here. Regardless, whoever is at the second level must bring Jones down immediately. The Commanders did an outstanding job of frustrating Jones and keeping him in the pocket in the second half two weeks ago. Far too often in the first half, though, Jones broke several runs to pick up critical first downs. This is a big test for Davis, who must trust his eyes against the Giants. If you limit Jones’ ability to run the football, you have taken away New York’s second-best offensive weapon behind running back Saquon Barkley.
Taylor Heinicke #4 of the Washington Commanders reacts after getting sacked on the goal line during overtime in a game against the New York Giants . (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
Taylor Heinicke was hit more in the Week 13 game than he has at any other time this season. Washington struggled in pass protection. On more than one occasion, the Commanders allowed a free rusher straight to Heinicke. Wink Martindale is an aggressive coach and loves sending pressure. After seeing what his defense did two weeks ago, he will do much of the same Sunday. Heinicke must call the correct protections, particularly with the Commanders breaking in a new center again. How Heinicke handles the pressure will play a large role in the outcome of Sunday’s game.
Terry McLaurin #17 of the Washington Commanders scores a touchdown in the first quarter of a game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty…
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