FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — Can the Falcons (8-7) get a prime-time victory against the Washington Commanders (10-5) on Sunday night?
The experts aren't so sure. Atlanta may be underdogs, but it's a win they need to secure. In a tight battle in the NFC South, Atlanta is in lockstep with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-7). The Falcons' tiebreaker against their divisional foe has Atlanta in the top spot, and the best way to clinch a playoff berth is to simply win the final two games.
However, that is simpler said than done, especially against the Commanders, who have been one of the surprise teams this year. The experts lean toward Washington. The Commanders have won three straight games, including a close 36-33 win against the Philadelphia Eagles (12-3) in Week 16. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels notched 258 passing yards, a whopping five touchdowns and two interceptions in the victory, and he was exceptional on the team's game-winning drive.
Michael Penix Jr. faces off against his fellow top-10 pick. The Commanders selected Daniels No. 2 overall, and the Falcons picked Penix at No. 8 in the 2024 NFL Draft. Penix makes just his second start in the NFL, but the coaching staff is confident in the rookie's extensive college experience heading into this big matchup.
A lot is riding on this one for both squads. All but two experts were in agreement with their choice. Check out the full picks below:
Author | Outlet | Pick |
---|---|
Lindsey Thiry | ESPN | Commanders |
Kimberly Martin | ESPN | Commanders |
Dan Graziano | ESPN | Commanders |
Bucky Brooks | NFL Network | Commanders |
Colleen Wolfe | NFL Network | Commanders |
Daniel Jeremiah | NFL Network | Falcons |
Albert Breer | Sports Illustrated | Commanders |
Connor Orr | Sports Illustrated | Falcons |
Vic Tafur | The Athletic | Commanders |
John Breech | CBS Sports | Commanders |
This Throwback Thursday, we're taking at look back at the Falcons vs Commanders match-up through history as we gear up for Sunday's game against Washington in Week 17.
For more complete picks, visit: ESPN, CBS Sports, Sports Illustrated, The Athletic and NFL Network.