NFL Divisional Round Preview - Commanders @ Lions
The incredible Jayden Daniels story continued last week, as he downed Baker Mayfield and the Bucs in the Wild-Card Round. In doing so, he set up a date with the Detroit Lions in the NFL Divisional Round, who have just benefitted from a week of rest as the one seed in the NFC. Jared Goff and company competed in the NFC Championship Game last year; can they defeat the plucky Commanders to get back to the big game again this year?
Find broadcast information and match times for the full Divisional Round schedule on our NFL page here.
(6) Washington Commanders @ (1) Detroit Lions
- When: Saturday, 18th January, 2025. 8pm ET
- Where: Ford Field | Detroit, Michigan
- TV: FOX, Fubo Sports
Commanders @ Lions Divisional Round Preview
The NFL playoffs schedule has slightly underwhelmed so far, but the Divisional Round is stocked full of exciting action, including this intriguing clash featuring the rookie of the year. The Detroit Lions earned the one-seed in the NFC thanks to their fantastic 15-2 record, overcoming a long list of injuries on defense and remaining one of the most daunting units on offense. Dan Campbell has built a bully, starting with domination in the trenches. His offensive line is arguably the best in the NFL, and his running backs absolutely know how to make the most of it. Their 146.4 rushing yards per game ranks 6th in the NFL, and Detroit’s confidence in the run game is evidenced in how often they go to the ground on third and medium-to-long situations.
Unfortunately, for Washington fans, this is not ideal, as they gave up the third most rushing yards per game in the regular season, with 137.5. If Detroit are able to run at will, as they have done on most teams, they will be in a great position to control the game and dominate the time of possession.
The other problem for Washington is that Detroit are also lethal in the passing game, leading the NFL with a 72.4% completion rate and ranking second in passing yards, with 4,474. The Commanders are at least a much tougher unit to pass on, conceding the third-fewest yards through the air, but there are still so many matchups for them to worry about. Amon-Ra St. Brown is as good as they come out of the slot, and Jameson Williams has established himself as a legit number 2 who can take any play to the house. Add in Sam LaPorta and Jahmyr Gibbs out of the backfield, and it’s no wonder Detroit led the NFL in points scored this year by a considerable margin.
Washington have got some point-scoring prowess of their own to be proud of, ranking fifth in the NFL on that front. Jayden Daniels is a runaway favorite for Offensive Rookie of the Year, showing off a truly elite partnership with wideout Terry McLaurin, who had 13 touchdowns in the regular season and one more in the Wild-Card Round. They will fancy their chances at finding some big plays against a vulnerable Lions defense that has been significantly hampered by injuries, and have given up the second most defensive pass interference penalties with 18.
The key to keeping Washington in this game though could well be their rush attack, which struggled last week. No player averaged more than 3.4 yards per carry, and they will be facing another tough D-line this week. Can Brian Robinson Junior and Austin Ekeler give Jayden Daniels the support he needs to work his magic?
How to Watch Washington Commanders @ Detroit Lions
This is the Saturday Night fixture in the NFL divisional round schedule, taking place at 8pm on FOX and via Fubo Sports. If you are ever unsure about how to watch the NFL playoffs, simply head over to our football page. Here, you will see up-to-date broadcast information and timings for both NFL and College football.
Predictions: Commanders @ Lions
Whilst Jayden Daniels is the clear x-factor in this game, it is hard to see him being able to produce a victory over this well-rested and far more talented Detroit roster. The key matchup is Detroit’s dominance on the ground, which I believe will allow them to control the game, and enjoy a comfortable win. Don’t write off Washington putting up some points though.
2024-25 NFL Playoffs FAQs
Who is left in the NFL playoffs?
AFC: Kansas City Chiefs (15-2), Buffalo Bills (13-4), Baltimore Ravens (12-5), Houston Texans (10-7),
NFC: Detroit Lions (15-2), Philadelphia Eagles (14-3), Los Angeles Rams (10-7), Washington Commanders (12-5)
What are divisional rounds in the NFL?
For the first time in the 2024 season’s playoffs, we will see the one seed from each conference in action. They will each face the lowest-seeded team to emerge from the Wild-Card Round, with the middle seeds facing each other as well.
What happens if you win the divisional round?
The winners of the Divisional Round clashes will proceed to the NFC and AFC Championship games, where they will be fighting for a spot in the Super Bowl.
What time are the NFC and AFC championship games?
Both Championship games are on Sunday 26th, January, 2025.
- NFC Championship game: 3 pm. ET on Fox
- AFC Championship Game: 6:30 pm ET on CBS and Paramount+
When is the Super Bowl?
Sunday, February 9th, 2025.
Where is the Super Bowl?
Caesars Superdome, New Orleans, Louisiana.
Who are the reigning Super Bowl champions?
Kansas City Chiefs.
When is Commanders @ Lions?
Saturday, 18th January, 2025. 8pm ET
Who is favored to win in Commanders @ Lions?
The Detroit Lions (-550) are favored over the Washington Commanders (+400).
What TV Channel do I need for Commanders @ Lions?
FOX, Fubo Sports
Author: Venuse, Inc.