On a chilly December evening in Landover, the Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Commanders squared off at Northwest Stadium, and while the temperature dropped, the intensity on the field stayed red-hot. This NFC East clash had all the elements-big plays, physical defense, and a few momentum swings that reminded us why divisional matchups this late in the season always feel a little more personal.
Jalen Hurts and the Eagles Offense Get Going Early
Jalen Hurts looked locked in from the jump. The Eagles quarterback came out sharp, commanding the offense with poise and precision.
Early in the first quarter, he found DeVonta Smith in the end zone for a touchdown that set the tone. Smith, who continues to show why he's one of the league's most polished route runners, created just enough separation to haul in the score.
That connection between Hurts and Smith has become a reliable weapon for Philly, and it was on full display here.
Saquon Barkley, in his first season with the Eagles, also got involved early. Hurts handed it off to the star running back in the opening quarter, and while Barkley didn’t break off any highlight-reel runs right away, his presence in the backfield clearly had Washington’s defense on edge. The Eagles are still figuring out how to fully integrate Barkley into their offensive rhythm, but his versatility continues to open up opportunities for others.
Commanders Fight Back with Physicality and Grit
Washington didn’t back down. Chris Rodriguez Jr. ran hard between the tackles, showing the kind of downhill style that wears on a defense over four quarters. He found some success against a Philly front that prides itself on physicality, slipping past linebackers like Zack Baun and Jaelan Phillips with a mix of power and vision.
The Commanders’ offense, led by Marcus Mariota, had its moments. Mariota, filling in at quarterback, faced heavy pressure early-Brandon Graham got home for a sack in the first quarter-but he stayed composed and kept the chains moving when he could. Jacory Croskey-Merritt gave the home crowd something to cheer about with a first-down run that injected some life into the Washington sideline.
Terry McLaurin, Washington’s go-to receiver, made his presence felt as well. He was met with a strong tackle from Adoree’ Jackson early in the game, but as always, McLaurin kept battling for yards after the catch. He’s the kind of receiver who doesn’t need gaudy numbers to impact a game-his toughness and timing in key moments make him a constant threat.
Defense and Special Teams Make Their Mark
Turnovers played a role in the first half, with the Commanders defense forcing a fumble that cornerback Mike Sainristil celebrated with gusto. Plays like that are momentum changers, especially against a team as disciplined as the Eagles. Sainristil’s energy and awareness on that play gave Washington a needed spark and showed the kind of opportunistic defense they’re capable of playing.
On special teams, Jake Moody split the uprights with a clean field goal that added to Washington’s early scoring effort. In tight games like this, every point matters, and Moody's consistency continues to be a steadying force for the Commanders.
Eagles Defense Answers the Call
While Washington found some success on the ground, the Eagles defense made sure it didn’t come easy. Sydney Brown delivered a strong tackle on Jaylin Lane in the first quarter, showcasing the kind of downhill aggression that Philly’s secondary thrives on. The Eagles’ defense has had its ups and downs this season, but when they’re flying to the ball like this, they’re tough to beat.
A Holiday Crowd, a Rivalry Game, and a Whole Lot of Grit
The crowd at Northwest Stadium brought the holiday spirit-one fan even showed up dressed as The Grinch-but there was nothing festive about the way these two teams went at each other. It was classic NFC East football: physical, emotional, and unpredictable.
While the scoreboard told one story, the tape tells another-of two teams grinding through a December divisional battle, each with something to prove. The Eagles continue to look like a team with deep playoff aspirations, while the Commanders, despite their record, showed they’re not rolling over for anyone.
With just a couple of weeks left in the regular season, games like this are about more than standings-they’re about identity. And both teams made a statement under the lights in Landover.