Steve Starr
- The Washington Commanders (7-5-1) are favored by 4.5 points over the visiting New York Giants (7-5-1) in Week 15
- Ron Rivera’s club is in playoff position after reeling off six victories in its last eight games
- NBC’s Sunday Night Football kicks off from FedEx Field on December 18 at 8:20pm ET
In a schedule quirk, the Commanders and Giants are squaring off for the second time in three weeks. Even weirder, the teams played to a 20-20 overtime tie in Week 13. With the NFC East rivals tied with identical 7-6-1 records, their Sunday Night Football clash couldn’t be more critical to the playoff race.
Before we check the odds on this divisional matchup, here’s where you can find the best Super Bowl betting tips and the top betting sites for NFL football in 2022.
Commanders vs Giants
 | Spread | Money Line | Total Points |
| New York Giants | +4.5 (-110) | +180 | Ov 39.5 (-110) |
| Washington Commanders | -4.5 (-110) | -210 | Un 39.5 (-110) |
NFC East rivalry game
Washington had six wins in its past seven games before playing New York to a 20-20 tie in Week 13. Taylor Heinicke was sacked five times and fumbled once, but led a game-tying 90-yard touchdown drive when his team needed him the most. Coming off a bye, the Commanders host the rematch against a reeling Giants team that only has one victory (against the Texans) in the past six weeks.
Big Blue was completely outclassed by the Eagles on Sunday, losing 48-22 at home. With only one game remaining against a team with a losing record (Colts), it’s fair to wonder if Brian Daboll’s club will win another game.
The Giant killer!!!
Eagles are destroying everything about the Giants today.#Eaglespic.twitter.com/QczgXY2g0J
— Thomas R. Petersen (@thomasrp93) December 11, 2022
Saquon’s struggles
Once the favorite for Comeback Player of the Year, Saquon Barkley is running on fumes. Limited with a neck injury in Sunday’s loss to Philly, the 25-year-old back hasn’t topped 63 rushing yards in over a month.
That’s not ideal for Daniel Jones, who has been sacked 41 times this season. More than any other quarterback not named Russell Wilson (43). The Commanders brought down Danny Dimes four times the last time they played and could be getting back defensive end Chase Young on Sunday.
Washington vs New York
Washington is a 4.5-point home favorite at FedEx Field on Sunday Night Football. And like many of the Week 15 matchups, the game has a low total (39.5 points). The Commanders have a top ten defense, permitting just 19.7 points per contest. They’re also top ten at stopping the run and the pass, allowing 110.4 rushing yards and 200.1 passing yards per game, respectively.
In comparison, New York’s D has nowhere near the talent up front. The G-Men allow the fourth-most rushing yards per game (149.7). Look for rookie Brian Robinson (21 carries for 96 yards in Week 13) to be leaned on heavily. Taylor Heinicke also shouldn’t have too much trouble against Wink Martindale’s unit after throwing for 275 yards and two scores in their last meeting.
Taylor Heinicke: Simply dashing 🤌😮💨 pic.twitter.com/I2lFfZh2O2
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) December 4, 2022
Best Bet
While it has been a remarkable first season for Brian Daboll in the Big Apple, he simply doesn’t have the talent to compete. Meanwhile, Ron Rivera is on track to secure his first winning record in his past five seasons on the sidelines.
Look for the Commanders to continue their unlikely playoff push on Sunday.
Final Score Prediction: Washington 27, Giants 19
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