Here we go …

A trip to New Orleans comes down to this one game between two NFC East rivals (for the first time since 1986 that this has happened). This time, it runs through Philly At Lincoln Financial Field. Who will prevail? We give our thoughts…

Sean Selby

I am expecting an intense game, at least for most of it, with a very heavy dose of Saquon Barkley. The Commanders have allowed 151 yards on the ground this postseason, so all signs point to that trend continuing. With Jalen Hurts possibly favoring his knee injury, the Commanders may try to stack the box and force the passing game to take control, but there have been very few times that such a game plan has worked for the opposition. If the Eagles are forced to throw, I have a feeling that Devonta Smith could be the beneficiary from it. AJ Brown has been slowed with an injury of his own and will be matched up against Marcus Lattimore.

On the other side of the ball, the Eagles must do all they can to contain Jayden Daniels between the hash marks and force him into rush throws. The Eagles secondary is good enough to slow the Commanders WR group, but if Daniels is able to run around, allowing separation, it could be a nightmare scenario.

My money is on Vic Fangio to adopt a plan that works in the Eagles favor. This game is close for a while before the running attack takes over and the Eagles punch their ticket to Super Bowl 59.

Eagles 34, Commanders 17

Pat Mulranen

A lot of thoughts are rushing through my mind heading into this matchup. The Eagles are just the better team, well, on paper. But this game is going to come down to defense. Can the Eagles stop rookie sensation Jayden Daniels? The last time the Eagles played him, Daniels scored three touchdowns in the fourth quarter en route to a comeback victory. He was one of the best QBs this season in the fourth quarter. He has become better and better each week. He hardly has made any mistakes in the last few weeks. He’s not to be taken lightly. The Eagles defense has a tough task, but they should get the job done, like they usually do. 

With Jalen Hurts not being 100%, I am nervous. His ability as a rusher as well as a passer is what makes him special. But he is a warrior and I expect him to give everything he has. The Eagles just need to dial up some quick passes, as to not let Hurts get hit and make the injury worse. Saquon Barkley, who has 196 rushing yards with four TDs against Washington this season, needs to be heavily involved. As long as they stick to that physical and explosive run game, which has been the recipe to their success this season and Hurts doesn’t hold onto the ball too long and gets quick passes out, the Eagles should win. I do think it’ll be another close one 

Eagles 27, Commanders 23

Ryan Shead: Eagles 27, Commanders 23

Mike Sliwinski: Eagles 28, Commanders 23

Gary Shead: Eagles 22, Commanders 17