The Washington Commanders (11-5) are set to face off against the Dallas Cowboys (7-9) today, January 1, 2024, at AT&T Stadium for the regular-season finale. The matchup is significant for Washington, which clinched its playoff berth last week but aims to secure the No. 6 seed with another victory. This highly anticipated game also holds the Cowboys accountable, albeit with less at stake as they wrap up their disappointing season.
Washington's hopes are slightly dimmed as they will be missing some key players. Cornerback Marshon Lattimore, who had been battling hamstring issues, was ruled out on Friday, marking the second consecutive week he will not be on the field. Center Tyler Biadasz and offensive tackle Cornelius Lucas were also deemed doubtful earlier this week and have officially been ruled out. Without them, Michael Deiter is stepping up as the starting center, and Andrew Wylie returns at right tackle after missing last week’s action.
Another surprising absence for Washington is safety Quan Martin. Although he participated in warm-ups prior to the game, Martin was eventually ruled out with illness, similar to Tyler Biadasz’s situation from three weeks ago. This leaves Washington thinner than they would prefer heading toward the playoffs.
The complete list of inactive players for the Commanders is as follows:
- Quarterback Jeff Driskel
- Cornerback Marshon Lattimore
- Center Tyler Biadasz
- Tackle Cornelius Lucas
- Linebacker Jordan Magee
- Wide receiver K.J. Osborn
- Safety Quan Martin
On the lighter side, the Cowboys will feature Trey Lance as their starting quarterback, with Will Grier serving as the emergency quarterback. Grier, who has seen limited action this season, is on the inactive list alongside other sidelined players. The complete list of inactive Cowboys players includes:
- Quarterback Will Grier
- Linebacker Damone Clark
- Defensive end Earnest Brown IV
- Tackle Chuma Edoga
- Defensive end Tyrus Wheat
- Defensive tackle Justin Rogers
- Cornerback Kemon Hall
For the Commanders, the injury list has lingered throughout the season, but they are still viewed as healthier than many other teams as they enter their playoff aspirations. Recently, running back Austin Ekeler has also been activated after clearing the NFL's concussion protocol. His actual performance during the game remains uncertain due to his time away from the field, but his presence will undoubtedly boost the Commanders’ offensive strategy.
Head coach Dan Quinn remains focused on maintaining the team's competitive edge, emphasizing the importance of not allowing complacency to seep in. This is even more necessary as they approach the tension-filled wildcard playoff round, with their current seeding at stake.
Despite Washington's current injuries, they remain confident, with their prior win against the Atlanta Falcons paving the way to the playoffs. Allen’s return last weekend was pivotal, adding much-needed strength to their defense.
While both teams have reasons to play hard today, Dallas, having endured a mediocre season, is poised to cap off the campaign with some pride against their rivals. The absence of key players could reshuffle the dynamic of the game, but it also offers remaining players the chance to shine.
Fans can expect tense moments and tactical maneuvers, particularly from Washington, which is aiming for their best performance as they head toward the playoffs. With injuries altering the lineup, the stakes and atmosphere make this regular-season finale worth watching closely, as both teams push through both adversity and rival spirit.