Michael Penix Jr. and Jayden Daniels (Images Credit: Getty Images)
The Atlanta Falcons will face the Washington Commanders on Sunday Night Football, airing live at 7:00 PM ET on NBC and Peacock. The Falcons, after making a bold quarterback change last week, are coming off a 34-7 victory over the New York Giants. Rookie Michael Penix Jr. led the way in his first career start, helping the team secure their second consecutive win. At 8-7, the Falcons lead the NFC South, tied with the Buccaneers but holding the tiebreaker. A win on Sunday could clinch the division title for Atlanta.
The Commanders are also fighting for a playoff spot, having kept their hopes alive with a thrilling 36-33 win over the Eagles. Quarterback Jayden Daniels threw five touchdowns, leading a dramatic comeback. With a victory over the Falcons, Washington can secure their first playoff berth since 2020. This crucial game carries heavy postseason implications for both teams as they make their final push for the playoffs.
Atlanta Falcons vs. Washington Commanders: Head To Head Stats
The Falcons and Commanders have played 29 games in total, including one postseason game, with Washington leading the series 18-10-1. The most recent game between the two teams on October 15, 2023, saw Washington win 24-16 in Atlanta. Washington has dominated the series overall, with a strong record of 18 wins compared to 10 by the Falcons. The two teams have also tied once in their history, in a 20-20 draw on October 15, 1967.
Atlanta’s recent victories in the series came in 2018 when they won 38-14 and in 2015 with a 25-19 overtime victory. Other notable wins for the Falcons include a 27-24 win in 2006 and a 24-17 win in 2012. Washington, on the other hand, has claimed several dominant victories, including a 56-17 win in 1991 and a 44-10 victory in 1985. Washington has also won the postseason game 24-7 on January 4, 1992.
Atlanta Falcons vs. Washington Commanders: Probable Starting Lineup
Michael Penix Jr. will start at quarterback for the Falcons, with Bijan Robinson in the backfield. The receiving group features Drake London, Darnell Mooney, and Ray-Ray McCloud III, while tight end Kyle Pitts will be an important target in the passing game.
Washington Commanders vs. Atlanta Falcons (Image Credit: Getty Images)
The Commanders will start Jayden Daniels at quarterback, with Brian Robinson Jr. handling the run game. Terry McLaurin, Luke McCaffrey, and Olamide Zaccheaus will be his primary receivers and tight end Zach Ertz will provide another reliable option.
Atlanta Falcons vs. Washington Commanders: Injuries Update
The Falcons will be without cornerback Antonio Hamilton, who is out with a quad injury, and Kevin King, who is sidelined with a concussion. Tight ends Ross Dwelley and Charlie Woerner are both dealing with injuries, with Dwelley participating fully despite an ankle issue and Woerner resting. Wide receivers Casey Washington (concussion) and Khadarel Hodge (ribs) are also dealing with injuries; Washington practiced fully, while Hodge had limited participation. Other notable players include defensive lineman Zach Harrison (Achilles), who practiced fully, and wide receiver Drake London, who practiced despite a knee issue. Linebackers Lorenzo Carter and Nathan Landman, along with Matt Judon, all practiced fully after recovering from their injuries.
Washington will miss several crucial players, including offensive lineman Andrew Wylie, safety Tyler Owens, linebacker Jordan Magee, and cornerback Marshon Lattimore, all of whom did not practice. Wide receiver Dyami Brown is also out with a hamstring injury. Defensive tackle Jonathan Allen is questionable but practiced fully despite a pectoral injury. Quarterback Marcus Mariota is also questionable due to personal reasons. Linebacker Dante Fowler Jr. fully participated despite a groin injury and wide receiver Terry McLaurin practiced fully after dealing with an ankle issue. Defensive end Clelin Ferrell and tight end Zach Ertz both had rest-related absences but participated in practice.
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