The Washington Commanders are gearing up for a crucial matchup against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 17, with significant playoff implications on the line. As the Philadelphia Eagles have already clinched the NFC East, the Commanders are focused on securing a victory to enhance their chances of making the playoffs. This game is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first prime-time encounter in NFL history featuring two rookie quarterbacks selected in the first round of the draft, adding an extra layer of excitement to the contest.

With a potential opportunity to finish the regular season with an 11-5 record for the first time since 1987, the Commanders are eager to break a playoff drought that has persisted since 2020. The stakes are high as both teams vie for playoff berths and seeding, making this a must-watch game for fans and analysts alike.

In terms of roster updates, the Commanders will be without several key players, including quarterback Jeff Driskel and wide receiver Dyami Brown, while the Falcons will miss running back Carlos Washington and cornerback Kevin King among others. As the game approaches, fans are encouraged to stay tuned to CommanderGameday and the Locked On Commanders podcast for comprehensive coverage of the team's journey throughout the 2024 season.

The Washington Commanders are preparing for a crucial Week 17 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, with playoff implications on the line. However, the Commanders will be without several key players due to injuries and healthy scratches. Wide receiver Dyami Brown, cornerback Marshon Lattimore, linebacker Dominique Hampton, linebacker Jordan Magee, and offensive tackle Andrew Wylie have all been ruled out. Additionally, quarterback Jeff Driskel, listed as the emergency third QB, will also not participate in the game.

In a twist, the Commanders will see the debut of K.J. Osborn, a veteran wide receiver recently claimed off waivers from the New England Patriots. Osborn, who has been a healthy scratch in the last two games, will now be a target for quarterback Jayden Daniels in this critical contest.

On the other side, the Falcons have their own list of inactive players, including defensive lineman Brandon Dorlus, wide receiver Casey Washington, cornerback Kevin King, offensive linemen Tyrone Wheatley Jr. and Elijah Wilkinson, and running back Carlos Washington Jr. Notably, Kevin King is in concussion protocol, while the others are healthy scratches. The Falcons are entering the game in good health, which will be crucial as they aim to maintain their position in the competitive NFC South.

Kickoff is scheduled for 8:20 p.m. ET. Fans can follow the game and stay updated with coverage from the CommanderGameday and the Locked On Commanders podcast throughout the 2024 season.

The Atlanta Falcons are poised for a crucial matchup against the Washington Commanders, with both teams having significant stakes in the game. The Falcons, currently holding an 8-7 record, recently made waves by benching veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins in favor of rookie Michael Penix Jr. This decision paid off as Penix Jr. led the team to victory over the New York Giants, marking their second consecutive win. Despite these victories coming against lower-ranked teams, the Falcons are now at the top of the NFC South, but their position is precarious with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers closely behind.

On the other side, the Commanders, led by standout quarterback Jayden Daniels, are looking to capitalize on their momentum. Daniels delivered an impressive performance against the Philadelphia Eagles, throwing five touchdown passes and overcoming a 13-point deficit. A win against the Falcons would mark the most successful season for the Commanders since 1991. The pressure is mounting on both teams, particularly on Penix Jr. and the Falcons, as any slip-ups in their final games could jeopardize their playoff aspirations.

As the game approaches, analysts are weighing in on potential betting strategies. NBC Sports analyst Brad Thomas suggests that bettors consider Daniels to throw over 1.5 touchdown passes, citing his recent form and the Falcons' struggling pass defense. The Falcons have managed to cover the spread in all their matchups against NFC East teams this season, while the Commanders have found success against NFC South opponents. With injuries impacting both rosters, the outcome of this game remains uncertain, making it a must-watch for fans and bettors alike.

The Washington Commanders, boasting an 8-5 record, face off against the struggling New Orleans Saints, who sit at 5-8. The Commanders aim to capitalize on their recent 42-19 win over the Tennessee Titans, while the Saints must adjust to the absence of quarterback Derek Carr due to injury.

With Carr sidelined, rookie Jake Haener will take the helm for New Orleans. The game is set for December 15, 2024, at the Caesars Superdome, with the Commanders favored by 8 points.

Marshon Lattimore is on track to make his debut with the Washington Commanders after recovering from a hamstring injury. Coach Dan Quinn indicated that Lattimore participated in individual drills, with hopes for a full return to practice.

Meanwhile, wide receiver Noah Brown faces a long recovery due to a significant internal injury, impacting the team's depth. Despite the setback, the Commanders remain focused on their playoff push with a current record of 8-5.