The Washington Commanders are back in the playoffs for the first time since 2020, as they face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday Night Football.
Washington finished the season on a five-game winning streak, but the Buccaneers will present a difficult challenge. The two teams met in Week 1, with the Bucs winning 37-20. On that day, quarterback Baker Mayfield completed 80% of his passes for 280 yards and four touchdowns.
Much has changed for the Commanders since Week 1. Rookie cornerback Mike Sainristil looks on the verge of stardom, while Emmanuel Forbes is no longer on the roster, and Benjamin St-Juste is a backup. At the NFL trade deadline, the Commanders acquired four-time Pro Bowl cornerback Marshon Lattimore from the Saints. Unfortunately, Lattimore has missed six of his eight games since the trade due to a hamstring issue.
The Buccaneers, specifically star wide receiver Mike Evans, know Lattimore well. Evans and Lattimore have an epic history with their annual NFC South battles. But will Lattimore play on Sunday?
Washington released its first injury report of the week, and Lattimore was a full participant.
Head coach Dan Quinn said the following about Lattimore’s status:
“He’s hitting all the markers in a good space, so we will have a jog through practice today, and then we’ll be full speed back at it tomorrow,” Quinn said Wednesday. “So, he’s hit all the markers up to this point and I anticipate that trending through the week, but tomorrow and Friday, specifically tomorrow will be one that’s more speed.”
There are several reasons to be excited about this game. Lattimore’s matchup with Evans will be high on that list.
