We’re getting to the good part, ladies and gentlemen. The beginning of the season is about enjoying the fact that the NFL is back in our lives. Now, some fans know whether or not they have a shot at winning the big one this season. Others have opened up their weekend plans because their team keeps starting Daniel Jones or Gardner Minshew.

It’s the meat and potatoes of the season, and it starts with this game. The Commanders have been the surprise of the NFL so far this season, with rookie Jayden Daniels proving he can run with the big dogs. The Eagles, however, want to prove they’re still the team to beat in the NFC East. Who will land the knockout punch in the first heavyweight battle of the weekend?

Washington Commanders @ Philadelphia Eagles (-3.5), O/U 48.5

The Commanders were held in check by the Pittsburgh Steelers last week. Steelers’ fans filled the Commanders’ stadium like someone was selling half-price pierogies, handing Washington just their third loss of the season. They’re not fully healthy at this juncture, either. They’re missing trade deadline acquisition CB Marshon Lattimore, and RB Brian Robinson has been in and out of the lineup.

This leads me to talk about who has the advantage in this game. With Lattimore out, there isn’t anyone talented enough to stick with Philly’s elite receiver tandem of AJ Brown and Devonta Smith. Although they haven’t beaten any good teams aside from maybe the Bengals this season, the defense is stiffening up and Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley team up to make a dynamic rushing attack. I’ve been daydreaming about finding a 3, but it looks like this one is more likely to move to 4. Lock in the 3.5 while you still can.

Pick: Philadelphia -3.5

Brown From Downtown

As previously mentioned, no one on the Commanders’ defense can hang with AJ Brown on the field. Their entire offense revolves around him getting deep shots and winning contested catches to open up other options on the field. He stretches the field and catches the ball when Philly needs him most. The Commanders went after Lattimore at the deadline because they’ve been sporting a below-average secondary all season and, unlike Davante Adams, his hamstring didn’t magically disappear when he changed uniforms. 

It’s going to be a long night for the Washington secondary. AJ Brown’s receiving prop is in the low 80’s, but I think he breaks 100 yards receiving tonight. Find the best number you can and ladder it up.

Pick: AJ Brown Over 80.5 Receiving Yards