Eagles vs. Washington: Week 17 Predictions

Posted on January 2, 2022

The Philadelphia Eagles are preparing for their second match-up against Washington. Their last meeting — just 12 days ago.

After starting the game with an interception and a fumble, Philadelphia fell behind before pulling off a 27-17 victory. Since then, the Football Team lost to the Cowboys (56-14) and the Eagles redeemed themselves against the Giants with a 34-10 win.

Now, with two weeks left in the regular season, playoff contention is still on the table for both teams. Who will take the important divisional matchup?

EAGLES VS. WASHINGTON PREDICTIONS 

Alicia’s Pick: Eagles, 27-20

The Eagles have been branded as one of the hottest teams in the NFL right now. And while I’m still a bit skeptical given their terrible starts lately, Philadelphia has been pulling through when they need it most.

Washington is healthier than their last matchup against the Eagles. Taylor Heinicke will return as quarterback; however, Ron Rivera has mentioned playing multiple quarterbacks. Though this will keep the Eagles on their toes, it will equally cause problems for Washington as they will have to adapt to inconsistencies.

Three of their starters remain on the Reserve/COVID-19 list, safety Landon Collins who played against the Eagles is on IR, and their other safety Deshazor Everett is out.

Philadelphia’s injury list also includes some key players. Their running backs have taken a hit which would lead many to believe that the Eagles will up their passing game Sunday. Miles Sanders is out with a hand injury and Jordan Howard and Kenneth Gainwell have been limited in practice this week. However, this could be a good game for DeVonta Smith who is nearing DeSean Jackson’s rookie record.

Let’s face it, no one thought the Eagles would be in this position, but they’ve proven us all wrong. Luckily, it’s not about how you start, but how you finish, and I think Philadelphia is going to go out with a bang.

Drew’s Pick: Eagles 21-13

While I believe the Eagles pull out a victory, it wouldn’t surprise me in the least if things go sour quickly. The biggest problem for the team this season has been playing down to their opponent – we saw it in the team’s 13-7 loss to NYG earlier, and in the first half of last week’s game. I’ll keep pounding the table every week for this – the team HAS to start out the game stronger, because better teams won’t let the Eagles get away with scoring only three points in the first couple quarters.

When it comes to specific opponents, the Birds caught a break this week with Washington running back Antonio Gibson heading to the Reserve/COVID-19 list. Gibson has been WTF’s most reliable offensive weapon by far this season – not having him in hand will certainly make things tougher for Heinicke and co., and easier for the defense.

Even with Miles Sanders out on the Eagles’ side, I still think the duo of Boston Scott and Jordan Howard — who’s good to go after a stinger  — will be more than enough to set the tone for the league’s best rushing attack. Jalen Hurts’ recent play should also help, but he needs to be more careful with the ball.

This feels like a game the Eagles should win, so I’m going with a cautiously optimistic approach. If things play out right today, the team could be looking at its first playoff appearance since 2019.

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Alicia Andaloro

Alicia was born and raised in Philadelphia, becoming an avid Eagles fan as a child. She graduated from Penn State University and now works in the medical field. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling and baking.

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