The Washington Commanders are gearing up for a pivotal NFC East clash against the undefeated Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday night, but they’ll have to do so without one of their star offseason acquisitions. Cornerback Marshon Lattimore, who arrived via trade from the New Orleans Saints earlier this month, will miss his second straight game due to a lingering hamstring issue, head coach Dan Quinn confirmed on Wednesday.
Lattimore has yet to suit up for his new squad, as the injury also kept him out of the Commanders’ heartbreaking 28-27 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers last Sunday. The four-time Pro Bowler’s absence leaves a significant void in Washington’s secondary as they prepare to face the high-powered Eagles offense led by MVP candidate Jalen Hurts.
While Lattimore’s status remains uncertain, the Commanders did receive a dose of positive news on the injury front. Rookie running back Brian Robinson Jr., who has missed the past two games with a hamstring injury of his own, was a full participant in Wednesday’s practice and is expected to play against Philadelphia.
Robinson’s Return Provides Offensive Spark
Robinson’s return comes at an opportune time for a Washington offense that has struggled to find consistency in recent weeks. The third-round pick out of Alabama burst onto the scene with a 134-yard, one-touchdown performance in his NFL debut against the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 5, but he has been limited to just two appearances since then due to the hamstring issue.
I’ve improved tremendously. A lot of movements I haven’t been able to make over the last couple weeks I’m starting to build confidence in. The biggest thing with your hamstring is building your confidence back, and I feel I’ve been able to do that.
– Brian Robinson Jr. on his recovery progress
Robinson’s powerful running style and ability to gain yards after contact have made him a fan favorite in the nation’s capital, and his presence should help take some of the pressure off of quarterback Carson Wentz, who has faced increased scrutiny amidst the team’s recent struggles.
Offensive Line Concerns Linger
While Robinson’s return is a welcome sight for the Commanders, questions remain along the offensive line. Starting right tackle Andrew Wylie, who missed last week’s game with a shoulder injury, is listed as questionable for Thursday night’s contest. If Wylie is unable to go, Washington could turn to veteran Cornelius Lucas, who has been limited in practice this week with an ankle issue of his own.
Showdown with Unbeaten Eagles Looms Large
The Commanders enter Thursday night’s matchup with a 4-6 record, trailing the first-place Eagles by four games in the NFC East standings. A win over their divisional rivals would not only serve as a statement victory but could also help jumpstart a second-half push for a wildcard playoff berth in a crowded National Football Conference.
However, pulling off the upset will be no small feat. The Eagles have been the league’s most dominant team through the first 10 weeks of the season, boasting an unblemished 9-0 record and ranking among the NFL’s best in both offensive and defensive efficiency. Hurts has emerged as a legitimate MVP candidate, while the Philadelphia defense has been downright suffocating, allowing a league-low 16.2 points per game.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Commanders’ defensive front vs. Eagles’ offensive line: Washington’s pass rush, led by defensive tackle Jonathan Allen and edge rusher Montez Sweat, will need to generate pressure on Hurts and disrupt the timing of Philadelphia’s offense.
- Terry McLaurin vs. Darius Slay: The Commanders’ top wide receiver will likely face shadow coverage from the Eagles’ All-Pro cornerback in a matchup that could determine the success of Washington’s passing attack.
- Antonio Gibson vs. Eagles’ run defense: With Robinson still working his way back into form, Gibson will need to step up and provide a balanced rushing attack to keep the Philadelphia defense honest.
As the Commanders prepare for this critical NFC East showdown, all eyes will be on how they navigate the challenges posed by the Eagles’ formidable roster and their own injury concerns. With playoff implications on the line and divisional bragging rights up for grabs, expect a hard-fought battle under the bright lights of Lincoln Financial Field on Thursday night.
