Why Key Trend To Eagles Wins Under Nick Sirianni May Not Help Them In High-stakes Game vs. Commanders

Second-half success in regular season could prove unsustainable in playoffs

Eagles' formula for success under Nick Sirianni has been to dominate the second half.

In 2021, they outscored opponents by a combined 211-71 in the second half, including a perfect 6-0 record in games decided by eight points or less.

This season, they're at it again, outscoring opponents by a combined 106-34 in the second half. They're also 4-1 in games decided by eight points or less.

However, there are reasons to believe that this trend may not continue in the playoffs. First, the Eagles have yet to face a truly elite team in the second half. Their wins have come against the Vikings, Lions, Bears, Packers, Commanders, Cardinals, Colts, and Saints.

The Commanders, on the other hand, are a much tougher matchup.

They have a top-10 defense, led by Chase Young, Montez Sweat, and Daron Payne. They also have a dynamic offense, led by Taylor Heinicke, Terry McLaurin, and Antonio Gibson.

Second, the Eagles have been fortunate to win some close games in the second half. They've had a number of turnovers go their way, and they've been able to convert on some key third downs.

It's unlikely that they'll be able to continue to do that against the Commanders. Washington is a well-coached team that doesn't make many mistakes.

If the Eagles want to win in the playoffs, they're going to need to play a complete game. They can't afford to fall behind early and then try to come back in the second half.

They're going to need to be sharp from the start and execute their game plan for all four quarters.

Injury updates

The Eagles are relatively healthy heading into the playoffs. Their only major injury is to cornerback Avonte Maddox, who is out for the season with a torn ACL.

The Commanders are also relatively healthy. Their only major injury is to wide receiver Curtis Samuel, who is out for the season with a torn ACL.

Key matchups

The key matchup in this game will be the Eagles' offense against the Commanders' defense.

The Eagles have one of the most explosive offenses in the NFL, led by quarterback Jalen Hurts, running back Miles Sanders, and wide receiver A.J. Brown.

The Commanders have a top-10 defense, led by Chase Young, Montez Sweat, and Daron Payne.

Another key matchup will be the Eagles' pass rush against the Commanders' offensive line.

The Eagles have a deep and talented pass rush, led by Haason Reddick, Josh Sweat, and Brandon Graham.

The Commanders have a solid offensive line, led by left tackle Charles Leno Jr., left guard Andrew Norwell, and center Tyler Larsen.

Prediction

The Eagles are a slight favorite in this game, but the Commanders are a tough matchup.

If the Eagles can play a complete game and avoid turnovers, they should be able to win. However, if they fall behind early and are forced to come back in the second half, they could be in trouble.

Prediction: Eagles 27, Commanders 24