3 Biggest X-Factors for Eagles to Take Down Commanders on SNF

The Philadelphia Eagles are reeling right now, with the team having lost five straight games coming into this current week.

The Eagles sit with a record of 2-5 on the season, with the year in free-fall at the moment. Philadelphia has been dealing with all sorts of injuries this season, with starting quarterback Jalen Hurts out for the year due to a scary blood clot issue.

This team is coming off a tough loss to the Dallas Cowboys this last week, and now they will be heading out on the road for a game against the Washington Commanders on Sunday Night Football. Philadelphia will try to stop the bleeding, but given all the odds going against them, it could be tough.

The Commanders will be coming into the game with a record of 1-4-1 on the season, with them seeing their own set of problems. But with the game being played at home, Washington is favored to take down Philadelphia.

Kickoff for the game is set for 5:20 p.m. PT/8:20 p.m. ET between the two sides. Here are three of the biggest X-Factors for the Eagles to snap the long losing streak this week:

1. Feed Saquon Barkley

Barkley has been dealing with injuries this season, but he looked much better on Monday against the Cowboys. The veteran running back rushed for 62 yards and one touchdown in the loss, but he has worked his way back on the field.

Against the Commanders, Barkley could be relied upon even more heavily, with the offense missing multiple other players. If Barkley can turn back the clock a little bit, this team could potentially surprise people.

2. Defense Slows Down Jayden Daniels

The best feature that the Eagles have still is the defense, and this unit will try to bounce back from a poor outing last week. Philadelphia's pass rush will need to pressure Washington quarterback Jayden Daniel,s keeping him in the pocket.

Daniels can do a lot of damage when he gets into space, using his legs to keep playing alive in games. But if the Eagles can limit this, it could give them a good chance to win.

3. Tanner McKee Limits the Turnovers

With Hurts out, the Eagles are again turning to backup Tanner McKee, who has looked up and down so far this season. For the year, McKee has thrown for 426 yards with two touchdowns and one interception. 

Against Washington, McKee could have some chances to spread the field out, and if he can hit some wide receivers, the Eagles may have a chance to win. McKee hasn't looked horrible in his first few games, but he will need to make sure to not turn the ball over this week.