Overview
- The Commanders confirmed Friday that 31-year-old David Blough will make his NFL debut as an offensive play-caller for Washington in Week 1 at Lincoln Financial Field.
- Philadelphia enters the opener as the betting favorite by roughly 5 to 6 points, with local writers and sportsbooks projecting the Eagles to control the game thanks to a top-ranked defense.
- Washington will be without left tackle Laremy Tunsil after a torn triceps suffered in training camp, a loss that weakens pass protection and makes keeping Jayden Daniels clean a primary game plan.
- Tactical matchups to watch include Amik Robertson’s history of tight coverage on DeVonta Smith, Sean Mannion’s expected wide-zone and play-action emphasis for the Eagles, and which team can establish the run to control tempo.
- The game functions as an early measuring stick for both clubs after offseason coordinator changes and could shape short-term expectations for Daniels’ health, Blough’s credibility as a play-caller, and the Eagles’ defensive standing in the NFC East.