The Washington Commanders were in an excellent position just one week ago. With a 7-5-1 record, the Commanders held the NFC’s No. 6 playoff spot, and a win in Week 15 over the New York Giants would’ve pushed their playoff odds to around 90%.
Unfortunately, the Commanders, who had a week off before Week 15, also had the benefit of playing the Giants before the bye. Yet, another disastrous start doomed Washington in a one-score loss. Now, the Commanders still hold the No. 7 spot in the NFC playoff picture, but the road is much more challenging.
That road begins Saturday with the San Francisco 49ers. Not only do the Commanders have to travel across the country, but it’s also on a short week. And against a team with arguably the best defense in the NFL.
Even with a rookie seventh-round pick at quarterback in Brock Purdy, head coach Kyle Shanahan’s offense is still lethal. Washington’s defense will need another heroic effort Saturday to give the Commanders any shot at an upset.
We’ve identified five 49ers to watch for Washington fans ahead of this weekend’s clash.