This weekend, the Atlanta Falcons will visit the Washington Commanders, with both teams eyeing crucial playoff positions as they head into Week 17. The spotlight will be on quarterbacks Michael Penix Jr. of the Falcons and Jayden Daniels of the Commanders, each at different stages in their careers. Penix is looking to build on a promising debut, while Daniels is making waves as a rookie, being a frontrunner for the NFL's Offensive Rookie of the Year award for 2024.
With the stakes high, the Commanders will need to disrupt the Falcons' game plan, which heavily relies on their running game led by running backs Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier. The Falcons have demonstrated a strong ground attack, averaging 4.2 yards per carry and leading the league with 132 rushing attempts in December. Stopping this rushing attack is essential for the Commanders if they hope to force Atlanta into becoming a one-dimensional team.
One potential game-changer for the Commanders is the return of defensive tackle Jonathan Allen, who has been sidelined since Week 6 due to a torn pec muscle. His presence could significantly bolster the run defense, enabling Washington to force more challenging third-down situations for the Falcons. The Commanders' strategy will focus on putting the ball in Penix's hands and forcing him into uncomfortable passing situations, which could be pivotal in their quest for a playoff berth.
As both teams prepare for what could be a decisive matchup, the outcome will hinge on which team can impose its will on the other, particularly in the battle of the trenches and the effectiveness of their respective quarterbacks.
