As the Washington Commanders prepare for their final regular season game of 2024 against the Dallas Cowboys, the stakes couldn’t be clearer. A win sends Washington to the playoffs, where they’ll face either the Los Angeles Rams or the NFC South champions—likely the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. A loss, however, sets up a daunting trip to Philadelphia to face the Eagles in the first round.
Head coach Dan Quinn faces a tough call: Should he prioritize resting key players or field his strongest lineup in Dallas? This decision mirrors one being made by Rams head coach Sean McVay, who has hinted at resting his starters even if it means facing a tougher playoff opponent.
Meanwhile, Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy has his own choices to make. With Dallas eliminated from playoff contention weeks ago, McCarthy could use this game to evaluate younger talent. Star players like CeeDee Lamb have already been ruled out, and more could join them on the inactive list before kickoff.
With so many variables, predicting the outcome of Washington’s Week 18 matchup is difficult. However, some challenges remain constant. Here are the three hurdles the Commanders must clear to secure the NFC’s sixth seed.
1. Pressure the Cowboys Quarterback
The Commanders struggled to disrupt Dallas’s passing game earlier this season, even with backup quarterback Cooper Rush at the helm. Rush torched Washington’s defense, completing 75% of his passes for a 117.6 passer rating—his second-highest of the season. Washington managed only one sack and one quarterback hit, far below their usual defensive standards.
This week, it’s unclear who will take snaps for Dallas. McCarthy could stick with Rush or give Trey Lance or Will Grier an opportunity to play. Both Lance and Grier lack significant NFL experience, making them wild cards.
Regardless of who lines up under center, Washington’s pass rush must dominate. Backups on Dallas’s offensive line provide an opening for Commanders’ defenders to disrupt the pocket and force mistakes. Allowing an inexperienced quarterback to find early confidence could lead to unexpected—and potentially game-changing—results.
2. Limit Explosive Plays on Special Teams
While stars like Lamb will be absent, the Cowboys’ special teams remain a threat. KaVontae Turpin, a dynamic kick returner, has already proven his ability to change games. Washington cannot afford to let Turpin replicate his November heroics. Keeping the ball out of his hands and maintaining disciplined coverage will be critical.
3. Convert Every Scoring Opportunity
Missed extra points and squandered chances can be the difference between victory and defeat. Washington must execute flawlessly on every scoring play, ensuring they capitalize on their opportunities and keep the Cowboys from gaining momentum.
What Next?
As Week 18 approaches, the Commanders are balancing preparation with the pressure of playoff implications. A win locks in the sixth seed and a more favorable path in the postseason, while a loss could lead to an uphill battle in Philadelphia.
With decisions looming on both sidelines, Washington must rise to the challenge and deliver a complete performance to secure their spot in the playoffs.
