Washington Commanders vs Philadelphia Eagles NFC Championship Pick & Preview

The Washington Commanders (12-5) head to Lincoln Financial Field to face the Philadelphia Eagles (14-3) on Sunday, January 26, 2025, at 3:00 PM ET in the NFC Championship game. This is the third meeting between these NFC East rivals this season, with each team securing one win during the regular season. The Commanders won their last matchup, a thrilling 36-33 victory in December.
Washington enters the game as a road underdog but has shown resilience with back-to-back road playoff wins. Meanwhile, Philadelphia, the top seed in the NFC, is looking to defend its conference title and advance to the Super Bowl for the second straight year. This game will be a clash of styles, with Washington’s explosive offense matching up against Philadelphia’s elite defense.
Washington Commanders Preview – Underdogs with Confidence
The Commanders have been on a roll in the postseason, scoring 68 points in two playoff games while committing zero turnovers. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels has been the catalyst, showcasing poise and playmaking ability. Daniels leads the postseason in passer rating and touchdowns against the blitz, giving Washington a significant edge in high-pressure situations.
Wide receivers Terry McLaurin and Dyami Brown, along with running back Brian Robinson, provide a balanced offensive attack. However, injuries along the offensive line could be an issue, particularly against Philadelphia’s strong defensive front. The Commanders’ defense, led by Bobby Wagner and Jeremy Chinn, has been opportunistic, forcing six turnovers in the playoffs and limiting opponents to critical third-down stops.
Washington is making its first NFC Championship appearance since 1991, and Coach Dan Quinn has emphasized an aggressive, nothing-to-lose mindset. With Daniels playing at an elite level, the Commanders have the confidence to pull off another upset.
Philadelphia Eagles Preview – Pressure to Perform
The Eagles, as the NFC’s top seed, have dominated most of the season. Their defense is the best in the league, giving up just 17.6 points per game. Defensive tackle Jalen Carter has been a game-wrecker, while linebackers Nolan Smith and Zack Baun have consistently disrupted opposing quarterbacks. However, Philadelphia’s secondary has shown vulnerabilities, particularly when tested by high-powered passing offenses.
Offensively, quarterback Jalen Hurts has been effective despite dealing with a knee injury. Running back Saquon Barkley has been the key to the offense, rushing for 296 yards and four touchdowns in two games against Washington this season. However, the Eagles have relied heavily on Barkley, and Washington’s defense may adjust after struggling to stop the run in previous matchups.
Philadelphia’s offense struggled in the Divisional Round, managing just 65 net passing yards against the Rams due to seven sacks. If Washington’s pass rush, led by Daron Payne and Jonathan Allen, can replicate that pressure, the Eagles’ offense could face significant challenges.
Betting Prediction
The Commanders are 6.5-point underdogs, with the total set at 47.5. Washington has been playing its best football of the season and has shown the ability to hang tough in close games. Jayden Daniels gives the Commanders a dynamic playmaker who can thrive against Philadelphia’s pressure.
Projected final score: Washington 27, Philadelphia 24. The Commanders will cover the spread and win outright as underdogs. Expect the game to hit the over as both offenses find ways to exploit mismatches.
Pick: Washington +6.5, Over 47.5