The Commanders vs Giants Week 1 clash marks another chapter in their storied 93-year rivalry. Furthermore, both teams bring new faces and renewed hope into the 2025 season. The Giants and Washington have met 186 times since 1932. Currently, the Giants lead the all-time series 107-72-5.
Last season told a different story. Washington swept both regular season meetings. They won 21-18 at Northwest Stadium in Week 2, and secured a 27-22 victory at MetLife Stadium in Week 9.
Interestingly, this marks only the fourth season opener between these rivals. Washington holds a 2-1 record in previous season-opening games. Additionally, their last Week 1 meeting occurred in 2011.
New Faces Bring Fresh Energy
Giants Roster Overhaul
The Giants completely rebuilt their quarterback room. Veterans Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston join rookie Jaxson Dart. Meanwhile, first-round linebacker Abdul Carter prepares for his NFL debut.
Several rookies will make their Giants debut:
- Running back Cam Skattebo
- Tight end Thomas Fidone II
- Offensive lineman Marcus Mbow
- Defensive lineman Darius Alexander
- Wide receiver Beaux Collins
Additionally, veteran acquisitions bring experience:
- Safety Jevon Holland
- Cornerback Paulson Adebo
- Defensive lineman Roy Robertson-Harris
Commanders Welcome New Talent
Washington also features significant roster additions. First-round right tackle Josh Conerly Jr. headlines their rookie class. Other newcomers include cornerback Trey Amos and running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt.
Veteran acquisitions bolster the Commanders:
- Offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil
- Linebacker Von Miller
- Wide receiver Deebo Samuel
Quarterback Showdown: Wilson vs Daniels
This matchup features contrasting quarterbacks. Russell Wilson brings veteran championship experience. Meanwhile, Jayden Daniels represents the NFL’s rising young talent.
Wilson enters his 200th career NFL start. The 10-time Pro Bowler won a Super Bowl with Seattle. Currently, he ranks third among active players with 46,135 passing yards.
His 350 career touchdown passes demonstrate consistent excellence. Remarkably, Wilson posted 90-plus ratings in 12 of his 13 seasons. Last November, he threw three touchdowns against Washington in Pittsburgh’s 28-27 victory.
Daniels made history as a rookie last season. He became just the third quarterback to win 12 games as a first-year starter. Moreover, his 69.0% completion percentage set a rookie record.
His rushing ability sets him apart from traditional quarterbacks. Daniels accumulated 891 rushing yards, another rookie quarterback record. Against the Giants specifically, he completed 74.5% of passes for 435 yards and two touchdowns.
Key Players to Watch
Terry McLaurin: The Giants’ Nightmare
Washington’s top receiver just signed a three-year, $96 million extension last month. Consequently, the Giants must face Scary Terry for years to come.
McLaurin’s dominance over New York is well-documented. In 11 career games against the Giants, he’s recorded 824 yards, and added five touchdowns.
Last season, McLaurin set a franchise record with 13 receiving touchdowns. Two of those scores came against the Giants.
History awaits McLaurin in 2025. With 171 receiving yards, he’ll surpass Hall of Famer Art Monk. That would give him the most receiving yards in franchise history through just seven seasons.
Malik Nabers : The Giants’ Rising Star
Second year wide receiver Malik Nabers is definitely the Giants’ premier asset. In his rookie season, the standout from LSU managed a fantastic 109 receptions and 1204 yards. He also had seven touchdowns.
The sophomore will undoubtedly be looking for revenge after his first-ever game inside Northwest Stadium last year in Week 2. He couldn’t haul in a fourth down throw on the 11-yard line, and had to watch his college teammate Jayden Daniels lead his team to victory with a game-winning last minute drive.
Betting Options
Washington -5.5 (120)
Over/Under 45.5
Player Props
Will Jayden Daniels have at least 228.5 passing yards? -114
Will Jayden Daniels throw an interception? +100
Will Terry McLaurin score a touchdown? +125
Will Terry McLaurin score the first touchdown? +750
Will Russell Wilson have at least 217.5 passing yards? -114
Will Russell Wilson throw an interception? -128
Will Malik Nabers score a touchdown? +150
Final Thoughts
Both teams enter 2025 with playoff aspirations. Washington comes off an NFC Championship Game appearance. Meanwhile, the Giants hope their roster overhaul sparks immediate improvement.
The season opener can set the tone for division standings. Early momentum can seriously affect playoff positioning in the competitive NFC East.
This game is about more than just rivalry bragging rights.
Hail!