In a game where the Philadelphia Eagles are favored to win, it doesn't mean it's going to be an easy contest as they face NFC East rivals, the Washington Commanders, in Week 16.
This is a big matchup for the Birds, as they need just one more win to clinch the NFC East division title and officially send the Dallas Cowboys packing for the postseason. Philly is coming off a 31-0 shutout win over the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 15 to pick up some much-needed momentum.
There are going to be some challenging matchups for the Eagles as they have a chance to get themselves into the postseason with a victory, but they have to get past the Commanders first.
Eagles' Pass Rush vs. Brandon Coleman
The Commanders are going to be out one of their top offensive lineman in left tackle Laremy Tunsil, who is out with an injury. Brandon Coleman is going to be stepping up in Tunsil's place, which is good news for the Eagles' pass rush.
Philly has racked up 11 sacks over the last two games with some great pass-rushing performances from Jalyx Hunt and Nolan Smith. Those guys, and potentially Jaelan Phillips and Brandon Graham, could really make life miserable for Coleman against one of the best teams in the NFL at pressuring the quarterback.
Fred Johnson vs. Von Miller
This will be the fifth start of the season for Fred Johnson at right tackle in place of Lane Johnson, and so far, Fred Johnson has done a good job holding up. His problem will be facing the Commanders' edge rusher Von Miller, who has seven sacks on the season.
Over the last two games, Johnson has done a good job blocking and protecting Jalen Hurts against great pass rushers like Maxx Crosby. He has to do it again against Miller if the Eagles have any shot of getting the passing game going.
Cooper DeJean vs. Deebo Samuel
Samuel has been lining up in the slot as the Commanders' top receiver this season with 65 catches for 604 yards and five touchdowns on the year. He has had to step up with Zach Ertz hurt and Terry McLaurin missing time this season.
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DeJean will be responsible for covering Samuel, and for the most part, has done a great job against some of the top receivers in the NFL this year, including shutting down Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson at the goal line. Eagles know Quinyon Mitchell will take care of McLaurin, but DeJean eliminating Samuel from the passing game can really flip this game on its head.