Two longtime thorns in Philadelphia’s side are all that’s left for Washington as the Commanders prepare to face the Eagles

Here are two teams who know each other well. The rare Saturday meeting brings a long-standing feud to a head. 181 times the Philadelphia Eagles have met their rivals from our great nation’s capital.

They’ve changed addresses and names, but the same disdain remains. That won’t be going anywhere. Once known as the Boston Braves (1932), this week’s opponent changed its nickname in 1933 to one we retired in 2020. They’ve since been the Washington Football Team (2020-2021) and are now the Washington Commanders.

Philadelphia has taken four of the past five meetings (and 13 of the previous 17). They’re favored again this weekend for obvious reasons. Their star, Jayden Daniels, has been shut down for the remainder of the season, and despite announcing five roster moves ahead of the contest, this team seems overmatched and overpowered as showtime approaches.

Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel, wide receivers

Former Eagles like Zach Ertz and Tyree Jackson have made their way to the injured reserve. They’ve joined offensive tackle Lucas Niang, running back Austin Ekeler, wide receiver Noah Brown, and wide receiver Luke McCaffrey as a half-dozen offensive players who are banged up and out of the lineup.

Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel have been longtime headaches, and even though they’re a little older now, Philadelphia can’t afford to take them lightly. Both have enjoyed great games vs. the Eagles, so Vic Fangio’s unit had better beware.

Jacory Croskey-Merritt, running back

Fourteen games are in the books, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt leads all Commaders in rushing attempts (143), rushing yards (646), and rushing touchdowns five. Thirty-four of his carries have moved the chains. He has also caught nine passes for 68 yards.

Marcus Mariota, quarterback

Another former Eagle leads the offensive attack with Daniels sidelined for the season’s remainder. Marcus Mariota has completed 132 of 213 pass attempts and has thrown for 1.600 yards and ten touchdowns vs. seven interceptions.

Laremy Tunsil, left tackle.

Protecting Mariota’s blind side is Laremy Tunsil. He’s dealing with an oblique injury. He missed practice on Tuesday, and if he sits this one out, the next man up is Brandon Coleman.