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.
Giants QB Daniel Jones vs. Commanders LB Jamin Davis
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.
Commanders QB Taylor Heinicke vs. Giants DC Wink Martindale
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.
Commanders WR Terry McLaurin vs. Giants CB Fabian Moreau
Washington wide receiver Terry McLaurin had his way with former teammate Fabian Moreau two weeks ago. He wasn’t the only one. Washington’s wide receivers have a clear advantage over the New York secondary but so much depends on the pass protection. How much time will Heinicke have? If Heinicke has enough time to throw the ball, the Commanders could have a big day from their wideouts. McLaurin, Jahan Dotson and Curtis Samuel all had good games two weeks ago. The Commanders will make every attempt to get their star wide receivers involved early in the game.
Commanders DTs Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne vs. Giants offensive line
Every game they play, Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne are a critical matchup for the opposition. The duo combined for three sacks two weeks ago and wrecked New York’s running game in the second half. New York’s interior offensive line isn’t exactly a team strength. If the Commanders live in the backfield for Sunday’s game, that’s good news. Allen and Payne’s presence inside also opens up more opportunities for Montez Sweat. And this sounds like the week where Chase Young could make his long-awaited return.
