The Washington Commanders finally have a week off. Winners of six of their last eight games, the Commanders’ bye week couldn’t have come at a better time. In the Week 13 tie with the New York Giants, Washington suffered multiple injuries along the offensive line.
In addition, the bye week gives injured players such as cornerback Benjamin St-Juste and defensive end Chase Young extra rest. St-Juste has missed the last two games with an ankle injury, while Young has yet to make his 2022 debut.
At 7-5-1, the Commanders control their own destiny as it relates to the playoffs. If Washington can win three of its final four games, a playoff spot is almost certain. If the Commanders win two of their final four games, they will be in a good position.
Here is the remaining schedule:
- Week 15: Giants
- Week 16: at 49ers
- Week 17: Browns
- Week 18: Cowboys
That’s a difficult schedule. Three of the remaining four teams have a winning record, and the Browns [5-7] will have quarterback Deshaun Watson back and playing in his fifth game.
With Washington off in Week 14, there are games that will impact the Commanders in the playoff race. Washington is currently a half-game out of the final NFC playoff spot. The Giants [7-4-1] hold the No. 6 position, while the Seahawks [7-5] hold the No. 7 spot.
Each of the NFC’s three current wild-card teams are in action this weekend. The Dallas Cowboys, at 9-3, are a near certainty to make the playoffs. The Cowboys face the Houston Texans Sunday, so Dallas essentially has the final wild-card spot locked up.
The two teams just ahead of the Commanders — the Seattle Seahawks and New York Giants — are in action this weekend.
- Eagles at Giants
- Panthers at Seahawks
Ideally, the Commanders want and need both the Giants and Seahawks to lose. You have to like Philadelphia’s chances at taking down the Giants. Meanwhile, you probably shouldn’t get your hopes up for the 4-8 Panthers to win in Seattle. But the Panthers are a feisty bunch who keep games competitive.
As of now, FiveThirtyEight gives the Commanders a 69% chance to make the playoffs — ahead of the Giants. The Giants’ latest playoff odds are at 51%. Meanwhile, the Seahawks are at 79%.
The Commanders host the Giants in Week 15 on Sunday Night Football.