The stakes have been raised for the Washington Commanders in 2025. They are no longer among the outsiders with little chance of lifting the Super Bowl. Instead, head coach Dan Quinn's squad is widely anticipated to be among the leading playoff challengers if everything clicks.
That's a stark contrast to the expectations normally associated with this franchise before the current regime came into the fold. This brings a different set of pressure, but everything is seemingly in place to ensure that Washington's sensational run to the NFC Championship game can become the start of something special.
Getting off to a positive start is crucial. Everyone will be gunning for the Commanders. They won't be an afterthought that most don't see coming. This is a respected football operation again, and opposing teams will be doing everything in their power to knock Washington off its perch.
There is enough professionalism to keep standards high and not revel in last season's accomplishments. Players and coaches turned the page pretty quickly, which is only going to serve them well in pursuit of dethroning the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles.
Fans haven't been as excited for a season in decades. Before then, we predicted how the first five games could go for the Commanders in 2025.
Predicting the Commanders' first five games of massive 2025 season
Commanders vs. NY Giants - Week 1
Date: Sunday, September 7
Time: 1.00 p.m. ET
Venue: Northwest Stadium
Channel: FOX
A divisional rivalry is renewed as the Washington Commanders begin their campaign at home against the New York Giants. Dan Quinn's squad is favored among sportsbooks, and with good reason. But anyone expecting a walkover will be out of luck.
The Giants won't have any pressure on their shoulders. They have Russell Wilson under center, and wide receiver Malik Nabers is on the verge of superstardom. They also boast a defensive front seven that could be among the league's best when it's all said and done.
Finding a way to keep Dexter Lawrence II, Brian Burns, Kayvon Thibodeaux, and rookie first-rounder Abdul Carter from getting into the backfield consistently will be difficult. The Commanders' offensive line must be ready to match this supreme threat. Anything less comes with potentially serious consequences attached.
Adam Peters worked hard to enhance the protection in front of quarterback phenom Jayden Daniels. Laremy Tunsil's credentials need no introduction, but this could be a baptism of fire for first-year right tackle Josh Conerly Jr. versus such a formidable pass-rush.
Prediction: Win (1-0)
This might be a lot closer than people think. At the same time, the Commanders have more than enough to get their season off to the best possible start.