Washington Commanders vs. Los Angeles Rams Preview: NFC Playoff Hopes on the Line in Week 9
By Brian Hradsky
Maryland Sports Blog | November 7, 2026
The Washington Commanders return to Northwest Stadium on Sunday afternoon looking to build momentum after their biggest victory of the 2026 season. Standing in their way are the Los Angeles Rams, who arrive in Maryland riding a two-game winning streak and hoping to strengthen their NFC playoff position. Washington enters the matchup at 2-4-1, while Los Angeles sits at 4-4 through eight games. With both teams fighting to remain in postseason contention, Sunday’s contest carries significant implications for the second half of the season.
Washington Looks to Build on Victory Over Philadelphia
The Commanders delivered an impressive performance last Sunday, defeating the Philadelphia Eagles 27-10 after falling behind 10-0 in the first quarter. Washington scored 27 unanswered points and held Philadelphia scoreless over the final three quarters. Quarterback Jayden Daniels completed 16 of 29 passes for 217 yards and a touchdown, while Rachaad White contributed 55 rushing yards and a touchdown. Washington’s defense also recorded five sacks and limited Eagles running back Saquon Barkley to just 30 rushing yards.
The victory offered renewed hope for a Washington team that has struggled with consistency throughout the season. Daniels remains a dangerous dual-threat quarterback, entering Sunday’s game with 976 passing yards, six passing touchdowns and no interceptions across five appearances. He has also contributed 236 rushing yards and two touchdowns, giving Washington an additional weapon when plays break down. His ability to escape pressure and create opportunities outside the pocket could prove critical against the Rams’ talented defensive front.
Rams Bring Dangerous Offensive Weapons to Maryland
Los Angeles enters Sunday’s matchup following a 24-9 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers, extending its winning streak to two games. Quarterback Matthew Stafford completed 17 of 25 passes for 157 yards, one touchdown and one interception in that victory. Wide receiver Puka Nacua caught 11 passes for 80 yards and a touchdown, while running backs Kyren Williams and Blake Corum helped establish the rushing attack. The Rams also intercepted Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert twice and prevented Los Angeles from reaching the end zone.
Stafford remains one of the NFL’s most productive quarterbacks, entering Week 9 with 2,146 passing yards, 15 touchdowns and eight interceptions. Williams has contributed 548 rushing yards and six rushing touchdowns, while Nacua has recorded 565 receiving yards and three touchdowns. The combination gives Rams head coach Sean McVay multiple ways to attack opposing defenses. Washington must limit explosive passing plays while preventing the Rams from controlling the game through their running attack.
Key Matchup: Washington’s Offensive Line Against the Rams’ Pass Rush
One of Sunday’s biggest challenges will be protecting Daniels against a Los Angeles defensive front featuring Aaron Donald, Byron Young and potentially returning star Myles Garrett. Garrett is expected to make his first appearance since Week 1 after recovering from a knee injury, although his workload remains uncertain. Young has recorded 4.5 sacks this season, while Donald continues to command attention from opposing offensive lines. Washington has surrendered 16 sacks this season and must avoid allowing Los Angeles to disrupt its offense consistently.
Washington can counter that pressure by emphasizing quick passes, designed quarterback movement and a productive rushing attack. Daniels’ mobility creates opportunities to escape collapsing pockets, but unnecessary hits could become costly against a defense with multiple elite pass rushers. The Commanders should also look to establish White early and create manageable third-down situations. Sustained drives would help Washington keep Stafford and the Rams’ explosive offense on the sideline.
Injuries Could Shape Sunday’s Outcome
Both teams enter the matchup dealing with significant injuries that could influence the outcome. Washington has ruled out wide receivers Treylon Burks and Dyami Brown, while defensive tackle Jer’Zhan Newton is questionable with a pectoral injury. The Commanders are also dealing with the absence of defensive linemen Daron Payne and Javon Kinlaw, creating additional concerns against the Rams’ rushing attack. Stefon Diggs and rookie Antonio Williams will need to take on greater responsibilities in Washington’s passing game.
Los Angeles has ruled out cornerback Jaylen Watson and tight end Terrance Ferguson, while cornerback Trent McDuffie and safety Kam Curl are questionable. The potential absence of multiple defensive backs could give Daniels opportunities to attack the Rams through the air. However, Garrett’s anticipated return would provide a major boost to Los Angeles’ pass rush. Both coaching staffs will need to adjust their game plans based on the final active rosters announced before kickoff.
Three Keys to a Washington Victory
- Protect Jayden Daniels. Washington cannot allow Garrett, Donald and Young to dictate the game through consistent quarterback pressure.
- Win the turnover battle. Daniels enters the contest without an interception this season, and Washington must maintain that ball security while creating defensive takeaways.
- Finish drives with touchdowns. The Commanders need to capitalize on scoring opportunities instead of settling for field goals against Stafford and the Rams.
Brian’s Take: Commanders Face Their Biggest Test Since Philadelphia
Washington’s victory over Philadelphia demonstrated that the Commanders can still compete when their defense generates pressure and the offense avoids costly mistakes. However, the Rams present a different challenge with Stafford’s experience, Nacua’s receiving ability and Williams’ production on the ground. The injuries along Washington’s defensive line are particularly concerning against a Los Angeles offense capable of controlling possession. The Commanders will need another complete performance to secure consecutive victories for the first time this season.
The matchup could ultimately come down to Washington’s ability to protect Daniels and generate explosive plays against an injury-depleted Rams secondary. If the Commanders establish their running game and avoid turnovers, they have a realistic opportunity to pull off the upset at home. However, Los Angeles possesses more established offensive weapons and could exploit Washington’s defensive injuries. Expect a competitive contest, but the Rams enter with a slight advantage.
MSB Prediction: Los Angeles Rams 27, Washington Commanders 24.
