Final predictions for Washington Commanders vs. Detroit Lions NFC divisional round showdown on Saturday

The top-ranked Detroit Lions face off against the NFC's sixth seed on Saturday. With this matchup, the NFC Divisional Round is expected to be a barnburner, as two of the most explosive offenses are ready to square off inside Ford Field. 

The NFC Championship Game against either Philadelphia or Los Angeles is on the line. If the Commanders upset the Lions, they'd travel to play the Eagles or host the Rams. The Lions would host either team regardless of the result of their matchup.

Our A to Z Sports writing staff has submitted their predictions for this NFC showdown. Below, you can view those predictions.

Mauricio Rodriguez's prediction

Lions 30, Commanders 20

If the score is close late in the game, you can't rule out the Commanders. They have been in high-stakes endgames way too often this year, and they thrive on them. Hearing Terry McLaurin talk about it last week left no doubt in me that that's the script they want. The problem against the Lions is getting there, as they can steamroll any opponent that gets in their way.

If this game ends up being close, though, I'd bet it's because Aaron Glenn's man coverage fails to pass the test against Jayden Daniels, who can extend the play and give time for his receivers to get open. The Lions are and should be big favorites for this one.

Mike Payton's prediction

Lions 35, Commanders 27

I think this game is going to be harder than anyone might expect. The Commanders don’t go away. They’re a tough team, and with Daniel’s ability to get mobile, that’s going to hurt the Lions' defense.

However, the Lions run game is lethal and that happens to be the Commanders big issue that they have trouble stopping. The Commanders keep it close, but ultimately the Lions win the time of possession game and put points on the board.

Wendell Ferreira's prediction

Lions 34, Commanders 21

The Detroit Lions are an obvious favorite against the sixth seed, who is playing in shorter rest. The offense, in particular, has been impressive the entire season, and that's why Ben Johnson has received so much HC interest around the league. The defense has had its ups and downs, but it's crazy what Aaron Glenn has accomplished handling so many injuries—and now some guys, like Alex Anzalone, are getting healthier.

The Commanders and Jayden Daniels have had a dream season, much more than any realistic fan could have imagined, but it's hard to imagine a scenario in which they overcome the talent disparity for this one.

Ian Valentino's prediction

Lions 41, Commanders 24

Beating Jayden Daniels is difficult despite Washington not having an overly talented roster around him. Daniels doesn't play like a typical rookie, and his dynamic blend of throwing accuracy and rushing explosiveness makes him incredibly hard to defend. As is always the case when facing any quarterback, getting pressure without blitzing extra defenders has proven most effective.

Detroit may not be able to effectively drop seven into coverage without getting nickel and dimed down the field and get worn out over four quarters, so the element of timing and surprise will be key. Daniels' completion rate plummets from 75.7% when clean to 47.6% when pressured, and his turnover-worthy-throw rate more than triples because he'll hold onto the ball for 1.5 seconds longer. 

I think Aaron Glenn is ready for that challenge, and we'll really see the talent disparity between these rosters play out as the game progresses.