NFL playoff predictions and picks: Washington Commanders vs. Detroit Lions
NFL Playoff Predictions and Picks: Washington Commanders vs. Detroit Lions
The NFL playoffs are always a time for excitement and anticipation, where teams battle it out for a shot at the coveted Lombardi Trophy. In 2025, the Washington Commanders will face off against the Detroit Lions in a thrilling playoff matchup. Both teams have had their ups and downs throughout the regular season, but they find themselves here, ready to compete on the biggest stage of the year. In this article, we’ll break down the strengths and weaknesses of both teams, analyze key matchups, consider injuries and player performances, and make predictions for the outcome of this playoff showdown.
Team Overview: Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders are no strangers to adversity. After a mixed bag of results in the regular season, they’ve managed to secure a playoff spot in what was a competitive NFC East division. The team has shown flashes of brilliance, but consistency has been their Achilles’ heel. However, their defense, led by some talented pass rushers and a strong secondary, has been a significant bright spot throughout the season.
Key Players to Watch
1. Sam Howell (Quarterback)
Sam Howell has had an inconsistent year, but his upside is undeniable. When he’s on, Howell can lead the Commanders to victories by making dynamic plays both in the air and on the ground. However, his inexperience in high-pressure situations might be a concern for Washington, especially in a playoff game. Howell’s ability to handle the big moments will be crucial in determining how far the Commanders can go in the playoffs.
2. Terry McLaurin (Wide Receiver)
McLaurin is the standout offensive weapon for Washington. His ability to stretch the field and make plays on the boundary makes him a threat to any defense. His speed, agility, and hands are all elite, and he is often the go-to receiver in key situations. However, McLaurin’s performance might depend on whether Howell can get him the ball in the right spots. If McLaurin can win his one-on-one matchups, he could be the game-changer for Washington.
3. Chase Young (Defensive End)
A star pass rusher, Young is capable of taking over a game with his relentless motor and disruptive presence. If he can put pressure on Detroit’s quarterback, it could limit the Lions’ ability to get their offense going. Washington’s defense is built around their ability to sack the quarterback, and Young plays a pivotal role in that.
Team Overview: Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions are one of the most exciting teams in the NFL this season. After years of underperformance, they have finally built a competitive squad that has the potential to do some real damage in the postseason. The Lions’ offense has been one of the most explosive units in the league, and their defense, while not elite, has done enough to get the job done when needed.
Key Players to Watch
1. Jared Goff (Quarterback)
Jared Goff has been a revelation for the Lions. While he’s not always been seen as a top-tier quarterback, he’s had an excellent year in Detroit’s offense. His ability to distribute the ball and keep the offense flowing has been vital to the Lions’ success. Goff’s experience in big games, particularly from his time with the Los Angeles Rams, gives him an edge when it comes to handling the pressure of playoff football. His performance could ultimately be the determining factor in how far the Lions can go.
2. Amon-Ra St. Brown (Wide Receiver)
Amon-Ra St. Brown has emerged as one of the top receivers in the NFL this season. His ability to get open, his route-running precision, and his knack for making clutch plays in critical moments make him a standout. His chemistry with Goff has been a major factor in the Lions’ offensive success. If St. Brown is on the field and healthy, he could very well be the difference-maker in this game.
3. Frank Ragnow (Center)
Frank Ragnow is arguably one of the top centers in the NFL, and he anchors the offensive line in both the running and passing game. Detroit’s offensive success starts with solid protection for Jared Goff, and Ragnow is key to keeping the pocket clean. His leadership and ability to open running lanes will be critical in this playoff matchup.
Key Matchups
1. Washington’s Pass Rush vs. Detroit’s Offensive Line
One of the most critical matchups in this game will be Washington’s defensive line, led by Chase Young and Montez Sweat, going up against the Detroit Lions’ offensive line, which is one of the best in the NFL. If Washington can generate pressure on Jared Goff, they can potentially disrupt the timing of the Lions’ passing game. This will be particularly important because, with key receivers like Amon-Ra St. Brown and others, the Lions will look to get the ball downfield. A strong push from Washington’s front seven can prevent Goff from finding a rhythm.
On the other hand, the Lions’ offensive line, including standout center Frank Ragnow, has done a great job of keeping their quarterback protected. If they can neutralize Washington’s pass rush, it could allow Jared Goff the time he needs to make plays in the passing game, especially to his top target, St. Brown. The ability of Detroit’s offensive line to keep Goff clean will be crucial in this game.
2. Sam Howell vs. Detroit’s Secondary
Sam Howell will need to show that he can elevate his game in the postseason, and he’ll be facing a tough test against the Detroit Lions’ secondary. While the Lions’ defense is not considered elite, it has been solid at limiting big plays and covering receivers down the field. Washington will look to get the ball into the hands of Terry McLaurin, Jahan Dotson, and Curtis Samuel, but Howell will need to be accurate and efficient in his decision-making. The key for Howell will be to avoid turnovers and to make big plays when it matters most.
Detroit’s secondary, led by cornerbacks like Amani Oruwariye and safeties like Tracy Walker, has been opportunistic this season. They’ll be looking to make life difficult for Howell, forcing him to make mistakes in crucial moments.
3. Running Games: David Montgomery vs. Washington’s Run Defense
Both teams have effective running backs, and the ground game could play a big role in this matchup. Detroit’s David Montgomery is a power back who can churn out tough yards, especially in short-yardage situations. If the Lions can establish the run, it will take some of the pressure off Jared Goff and keep Washington’s pass rush at bay.
Washington, on the other hand, has a solid run defense, led by defensive tackle Daron Payne. The Commanders will be tasked with containing Montgomery and forcing the Lions into predictable passing situations. If Washington can stop the run and make Detroit one-dimensional, it could give their defense an advantage.
4. Coaching Battle: Ron Rivera vs. Dan Campbell
The battle between the coaches will also be key to this game. Ron Rivera, the head coach of the Commanders, has been around the league for a long time and has a wealth of experience coaching in the postseason. His ability to make adjustments and call the right plays at critical moments will be vital for Washington.
On the other side, Dan Campbell has quickly built a reputation as a fiery and passionate leader for the Lions. His aggressive play-calling and ability to motivate his players have been key to Detroit’s resurgence this season. Campbell’s coaching philosophy of playing tough, physical football could be a difference-maker if the game becomes a battle in the trenches.
Injuries and Their Impact
Both teams are dealing with key injuries that could impact the game. For the Lions, the health of key players like Jared Goff and Amon-Ra St. Brown will be crucial. Goff has had a solid year, but if he’s limited by injury or struggles with the pressure from Washington’s pass rush, it could be problematic. St. Brown, a top-tier receiver, will need to be healthy and effective if Detroit hopes to capitalize on Washington’s secondary.
For the Commanders, injuries to Chase Young and Terry McLaurin are particularly concerning. If Young is unable to play, Washington’s pass rush could be significantly weaker, allowing Goff more time to operate. McLaurin’s absence, if it occurs, would also limit Washington’s ability to stretch the field and make explosive plays.
Prediction
This game is shaping up to be a tightly contested battle between two teams with distinct strengths. The Washington Commanders have a strong defense and a capable offense, but their quarterback situation and injury concerns could limit their effectiveness. On the other hand, the Detroit Lions have a potent offense and a solid defense, but their success hinges largely on the health and performance of Jared Goff and Amon-Ra St. Brown.
Ultimately, the Lions have the edge in this matchup, especially with their explosive offense and the leadership of Jared Goff. While Washington’s defense will keep them in the game, the Lions’ ability to score points will prove to be the difference-maker. Detroit will be able to put enough pressure on Sam Howell and capitalize on their opportunities to secure a win in this playoff contest.
