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As playoff ambitions collide, the Atlanta Falcons are set to face the Washington Commanders this Sunday night in Washington, D.C. The Falcons, currently boasting an 8-7 record, have a chance to clinch the NFC South Division title if they can secure victories in their final two games. Meanwhile, the Commanders, with a record of 10-5, need just one more win to guarantee themselves a playoff spot under the leadership of rookie head coach Dan Quinn. Fans can expect kickoff at 8:20 pm EST.
For insights on the Falcons versus Commanders matchup, continue reading.
Falcons Face Pressure to Win
The Atlanta Falcons kept their postseason dreams alive last week with a decisive victory over the struggling New York Giants, where rookie quarterback Michael Penix made his much-anticipated NFL debut. The defense shone brightly, contributing two pick-six touchdowns to help the Falcons secure a 34-7 win.
“It’s the game I’ve been playing since I was 5 years old,” said Penix, the 24-year-old rookie. “Obviously, it’s different, it’s at a higher level, but you know it’s the same game. I’ve just got to go out there and execute. Once we hit the field, I was good.”
In a remarkable defensive performance, Jessie Bates and Matthew Judon each scored on interception returns, solidifying the Falcons’ advantage. The Falcons managed to restrict the Giants to a mere 234 total yards, including just 189 yards passing. Penix’s debut featured 18 completions on 27 attempts for 202 yards, despite one interception. The Falcons’ ground game also thrived, accumulating 127 rushing yards, highlighted by two touchdowns from standout running back Bijan Robinson. Overall, Atlanta amassed 329 yards of offense while converting 8-of-14 third downs.
With their playoff fate in their hands, the Falcons will look to maintain momentum in the final stretch. Having already bested the Buccaneers twice this season, they can clinch the division title with two consecutive wins. Currently, Atlanta ranks 19th in scoring offense, 16th in rushing, and 6th in passing. However, they struggle in the red zone, sitting at 28th in efficiency, and have the 9th best record for sacks allowed. Defensively, the Falcons are 20th in points allowed but excel against the run, ranking 9th in that category. The pressure is on for Atlanta, which has faced challenges in consistently pressuring opposing quarterbacks, ranking last in the NFL in sacks per game.
Key Injuries: TE Ross Dwelley, WR Drake London, WR KhaDarel Hodge, DE Zach Harrison, and LB Lorenzo Carter are all listed as questionable.
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Commanders on the Cusp of the Playoffs
Meanwhile, the Washington Commanders experienced a rollercoaster of emotions last week against the NFC East-leading Philadelphia Eagles. After committing five turnovers and falling behind, rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels orchestrated a stunning comeback, leading the Commanders to a thrilling 36-33 victory. They now stand just one win away from clinching a playoff berth.
“I always believe that we can win the game no matter what,” Daniels stated confidently. “The game’s never over till the clock hits zero.”
Daniels showcased his prowess by throwing five touchdown passes, marking the first time a Commanders quarterback has achieved this feat since Mark Rypien in 1991. Overcoming a 13-point deficit in the fourth quarter, Daniels capped off the comeback with a touchdown pass to Jamison Crowder just six seconds before the game concluded. He completed 24 of 39 passes for a total of 258 yards, along with two interceptions and 81 rushing yards on nine carries, leading the team in both passing and rushing. The Commanders’ defense made critical adjustments, allowing only 12 points in the second half after conceding a 21-point lead in the first quarter.
As they head into this matchup, the Commanders are riding a wave of confidence with a 10-5 record. They are currently ranked 4th in the NFL in scoring offense, 5th in rushing, and 16th in passing. Additionally, they excel in the red zone with a 7th place ranking. Despite some defensive shortcomings, ranking 19th in scoring defense and 29th against the run, the Commanders have the 10th best sack rate in the league. Their ability to capitalize on turnovers will be key as they push for a playoff spot.
Key Injuries: DT Jonathan Allen is out, while DE Clelin Ferrell, WR Dyami Brown, WR Terry McLaurin, and CB Marshon Lattimore are all questionable.
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