The Philadelphia Eagles are set to play the Washington Commanders twice in the final stretch of the regular season, a matchup that will be played without the Commanders’ rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Commanders Turn to Marcus Mariota
Washington’s decision to shut down Daniels comes after a season in which the young quarterback started only seven games and has been battling an elbow injury that worsened in Week 14. According to a tweet from Ian Rapoport, the Commanders’ media spokesperson, “The #Commanders have decided to shut down QB Jayden Daniels for the final 3 games, turning his focus to supporting Marcus Mariota. Daniels was re‑evaluated today & not yet cleared. With him expected to be medically ruled out vs. the #Eagles, then facing a short week vs.…” This move removes Daniels from the lineup for the Eagles’ Saturday showdown in Washington and the home game in Week 18.
With Daniels out, the Commanders will rely on 32‑year‑old Marcus Mariota, the former backup to Jalen Hurts in 2023. Mariota has started seven games this season, posting a 2‑5 record. He has completed 62 % of his passes for 1,600 yards, 10 touchdowns and 7 interceptions. His most recent victory came in a 29‑21 win over the New York Giants on Sunday, the team’s first win since October 5.
Eagles’ Division Race Intensifies
Philadelphia’s path to the NFC East title hinges on a win against Mariota’s Commanders on Saturday. The Eagles’ magic number to win the division is currently one, meaning they will clinch the title with a victory in any of their final three games or if the Dallas Cowboys lose in any of those same three weeks. NFL.com reports the Eagles’ playoff probability at over 99 %.
This week’s matchup marks back‑to‑back games for the Eagles against one of Jalen Hurts’ former backups. Earlier in the season, Philadelphia shut out the Raiders 31‑0 in a Week 15 victory over a Kenny Pickett‑led Commanders squad. The Eagles also defeated the Vikings, who were led by Carson Wentz, earlier in the campaign.
Mariota’s Background and Experience
Mariota’s lone career start against the Eagles dates back to Week 4 of the 2018 season, when the Tennessee Titans edged the Eagles 26‑23 in overtime in Nashville. Since then, he has become a familiar face for Philadelphia fans, having played for the Titans before moving to Washington.
Commanders’ Season Overview
Washington began the season with a 3‑2 record but then lost eight straight games before facing the Giants in Week 15. Their remaining schedule includes a home game against the Eagles in Week 16, a home game against the Cowboys in Week 17, and a road trip to Philadelphia in Week 18.
Key Takeaways
- The Commanders have shut down Jayden Daniels for the final three games, shifting focus to Marcus Mariota.
- Philadelphia will face Mariota twice: in Washington on Saturday and at home in Week 18.
- A win against the Commanders on Saturday is essential for the Eagles to clinch the NFC East.
Closing Thoughts
The Eagles’ final three games carry significant weight. With Daniels out, the Commanders will rely on Mariota’s experience and the Eagles will need to capitalize on the opportunity to secure a division title and maintain a playoff probability that sits comfortably above 99 %. Fans in Philadelphia and Washington alike will be watching closely as the two teams square off in what promises to be a pivotal chapter of the 2025 NFL season.
