The NFL has accomplished its mission of creating even more parody — and perhaps mediocrity — by expanding the playoffs to seven teams. And there’s no greater example of that is the Sunday night showdown between the Washington Commanders and New York Giants.
Neither of these teams is particularly impressive. Washington has turned its season around since turning to Taylor Heinicke under center. The Commanders have won six of eight and rank 17th in DVOA. The Giants are entirely dependent on Saquon Barkley offensively and have a defense that’s fallen off as of late. The G-men are heading in the opposite direction, as they’ve gone 1-4-1 after a 6-1 start. New York ranks 24th in DVOA.
Yet, thanks to the Seattle Seahawks losing Thursday night, both teams will remain in the playoffs regardless of Sunday’s outcome. This NFC East rematch is also unique because the teams just played to a 20-20 draw two weeks ago at MetLife Stadium. However, Washington is coming off a bye, while the Giants were drubbed by the Eagles last weekend.
So, which of these mediocre NFC rivals should we back Sunday night? Or should we back either side at all? Let’s break it down.