Commanders 'Secret' Strategy to Stop Eagles Saquon Barkley

Washington’s season has been fueled by rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, whose dual-threat capabilities have added a fresh spark to the offense. But Daniels met his match against the Steelers, who limited him to only five rushing yards on three attempts and forced a pass-centric approach. 

This week, he faces another tough defense in the Eagles, who have recently won five of their last six games against the Commanders, including two close battles with scores of 38-31 and 34-31. However, Washington holds an all-time series lead of 89-84-5, dating back to their first meeting in 1934, when the Boston Redskins defeated the Eagles 6-0 at Fenway Park.

For Washington, the key to victory may lie in their ability to contain Barkley. Ranked 28th in run defense, the Commanders are giving up an average of 142.7 rushing yards per game, an area the Eagles and Barkley will likely target. Barkley has been dominant this season, posting 991 rushing yards with four games over the 100-yard mark. 

Against Washington, he averages 88.2 rushing yards per game and has eight total touchdowns in nine matchups. Commanders head coach Dan Quinn, previously the Cowboys' defensive coordinator, may look to apply some of Dallas’s strategies from their recent matchup against the Eagles, where they held Barkley to just 66 yards.

The stakes are high for Thursday night’s game as both teams fight to secure their position in the NFC East. For Washington, it’s a chance to reassert their place atop the division, while the Eagles aim to extend their lead. Stopping Barkley and igniting Daniels’ dynamic playmaking will be central to the Commanders' success under the lights.