Washington travels to Atlanta in Week 4 with momentum on their side in this Commanders Falcons preview, facing a Falcons team still reeling from last week’s shocking defeat. The Falcons (1-2) were spanked in a 30-0 shutout loss to Carolina, while the Commanders (2-1) are riding high after a convincing 41-24 victory over Las Vegas.
Daniels Out Again, Mariota Ready
The Commanders Falcons matchup will once again feature Marcus Mariota under center for Washington, as Jayden Daniels remains sidelined with a knee sprain suffered against Green Bay. While losing the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year is significant, Mariota proved last week that he can manage this offensive system with little drop off.
The veteran quarterback completed 15 of 21 passes for 206 yards and one touchdown against the Raiders while adding 40 rushing yards and another score on the ground. For his career, Mariota has maintained solid statistics with a 63% completion percentage, 98 touchdown passes against 55 interceptions, and 19 rushing touchdowns.
A backup quarterback hanging more than 40 on a team in his first start in three years is simply lights out. He will surely be motivated returning to the place he started 13 games for in 2022.
Washington’s Balanced Attack
This week’s game should showcase Washington’s improved offensive balance. The ground game exploded for 201 rushing yards against Las Vegas, with contributions from Jeremy McNichols (78 yards), Chris Rodriguez (39 yards), and rookie Jacory “Bill” Croskey-Merritt (26 yards). Bill was limited in practice for most of the week, but practiced fully on Friday.
Some of the success last weekend lies with the offensive line. Washington made significant changes by replacing the starting guards with Andrew Wylie and Chris Paul. They were solid in the role – especially in the run game – creating better rushing lanes and protection.
Special teams also provided a spark. Rookie Jaylin Lane took a punt return 90 yards to the house, for his first career NFL touchdown.
Atlanta’s Concerning Trends
There are troubling signs for the home team. Whispers of Michael Penix Jr. being benched have crept into the conversation. After all, the offense has averaged just 14 points – second to last in the NFL.
Atlanta’s complete collapse against Carolina raised questions about the team’s preparation and execution. Being shut out 30-0 by one of the league’s weakest teams suggests deeper issues than can be quickly corrected.
Regardless, in response to the fall out, Atlanta fired receivers coach Ike Hilliard this week. The team also announced that offensive coordinator Zac Robinson will be moving from the coach’s box to the sidelines.
Injury Problems
The Commanders biggest opposition this week might be the injured list. On top of star quarterback Daniels, Washington will be without receivers Terry McLaurin and Noah Brown. Zach Ertz also didn’t practice much this weekend but is expected to be ready on Sunday.
That leaves former All-Pro wideout Deebo Samuel to step up and shoulder the load. Second-year player Luke McCaffrey caught a 43-yard touchdown against the Raiders, and will look to build even further momentum with the potential increase in snaps.
Falcons vs. Commanders Game Information
- Game day: Sunday, September 28, 2025
- Game time: 1 p.m. ET
- Location: Atlanta, Georgia
- Stadium: Mercedes-Benz Stadium
- TV: CBS (WMBD-Peoria-Bloomington, IL)
- Live stream: Fubo
- Live stream: Paramount+
Odds
The combination of Washington’s momentum, offensive balance, and Atlanta’s recent struggles makes the Commanders an attractive road choice in this NFC matchup. The two teams have faced off in each of the last four seasons, with Washington winning all four games.
Nevrtheless, Atlanta come into the game as a 2.5-point home favorite
Washington +2.5 (-120) Moneyline: 106
Under/Over 43.5 (110)
Betting Trends
Atlanta have not gone over yet this season.
Washington have gone over once.
Washington are 2-1 both straight up and against the spread in 2025.
Game Prediction
The bookies seem to think the Week 4 Commanders Falcons contest favors the home team, perhaps due to injuries to key Washington players. Atlanta’s recent performance should raises concerns, but it doesn’t seem to be affecting the line much.
Take advantage of it.
Prediction: Commanders not only cover, but win outright.
Washington 34 Atlanta 20
These two teams are pointed in opposite directions, and Washington is a great choice as the away dog here.
Hail.