Only one team stood between the Washington Commanders and making the Super Bowl in their first season under head coach Dan Quinn. That makes dethroning the Philadelphia Eagles among the team's biggest objectives in 2025.
Easier said than done. The Eagles are a perennial powerhouse. They lose key names every year but always find a way to replace them. They always draft well and exploit desperation within other franchises to their benefit. Philadelphia also got a massive win this week when the Tush Push didn't get outlawed at the league meetings.
The Commanders have done everything possible to strengthen the squad and put them in a better position. Residing in the same division as Philadelphia almost dictated this approach, but whether Quinn has enough at his disposal remains to be seen.
Lou Scataglia from NFL Spin Zone believes the Commanders have what it takes to knock the Eagles off their perch. The analyst projected Washington to earn the NFC's No. 1 seed next season, citing a Super Bowl hangover in Philadelphia as a primary reason behind his projection.
Winning 12 games in 2024, the Washington Commanders are well-positioned to take a huge leap forward and take the NFC East for themselves. I predict a bit of a Super Bowl hangover for the Philadelphia Eagles and a Commanders team ready to become the best in the conference.Lou Scataglia
This would change everything. Getting the top seed gives Washington a bye week in the postseason. It can sometimes be a poisoned chalice, but getting some extra rest and preparation time is only going to help this strong-willed squad.
It would also be a major statement of intent. The Commanders' instant success under Quinn's guidance was a revelation that woke a sleeping football giant. However, there are some in the media who believe these sensational achievements could be a flash in the pan.
Getting the No. 1 seed would silence their doubters and more. It won't be easy with a difficult-looking schedule and almost no routine attached. However, the Commanders have the proven performers and dynamic young stars needed to ensure these newfound standards are met and potentially exceeded if everything goes well.
The Eagles won't be getting complacent. They are among the favorites to hoist the Vince Lombardi trophy again, and with good reason. Repeating is an extremely tough task, but it can be done. And looking at Philadelphia's roster as things stand, the window for contention remains firmly open.
Washington must match them every step of the way. If they can do that, a potential NFC East title and the No. 1 seed might not be too far behind.
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