The Philadelphia Eagles are finally set to kick off their regular season campaign, as they take on the Washington Commanders at home in Week 1. After some major changes this offseason, Nick Sirianni's team has its sights set on a return to the Super Bowl.
That path starts in Week 1 with a crucial NFC East battle.
These four matchups could determine who comes out on top in Philadelphia's first game of the season.
4 matchups to watch as Eagles take on Commanders
Eagles WR DeVonta Smith vs. Commanders CB Mike Sainristil
After a swing and a miss with Marshon Lattimore, the Commanders are stuck with one of the weakest cornerback groups in the NFL. Sainristil, who would ideally play in the slot, is Washington's No. 1 outside cornerback by necessity. It's the perfect situation for Smith to prove that he can be the Eagles' leading pass catcher this season.
With A.J. Brown out of the picture, Smith should see plenty of targets come this way. His ability to dominate Washington's secondary will be a key factor in this game.
Eagles DC Vic Fangio vs. Commanders QB Jayden Daniels
Now fully healthy, Daniels is expected to return to the elite status he established as a rookie. It's Fangio's job to shut that narrative down before it gets off the ground. The Eagles' coordinator has one of the most talented defenses in football at his disposal, and the Commanders' offense is full of weaknesses.
Fangio will need to limit the easy opportunities that Daniels has to put this game out of reach quickly.
Eagles CB Riq Woolen vs. Commanders WR Stefon Diggs
This will be the first big test of whether Philadelphia has truly fixed its second outside cornerback problem. Woolen is a clear upgrade over the revolving door of cornerbacks that the Eagles employed last season, but is he the missing piece in what could be the league's best secondary?
The Commanders have two dangerous receivers after signing Diggs during the preseason. Woolen will likely be tested early and often in this game.
Eagles QB Jalen Hurts vs. media narratives
Hurts has heard all offseason that he can't adjust to a new offensive system. How he can't throw over the middle of the field. How he's one more disappointing season away from being replaced. It's time for the Eagles quarterback to remind the NFL who he is.
Read more: Eagles fans must hear these reports from practice before Week 1 Commanders game
Sean Mannion's scheme will be a massive adjustment for the QB, but he has the weapons around him to succeed. Against an incomplete Commanders defense, he should put on a show.
Add us as a preferred source on Google