Can the Washington Commanders kick off the 2022 season with a victory? When fans first saw the Jacksonville Jaguars as the opponent for Week 1, some likely felt it was an “easy” game, if for nothing else the Jags have picked No. 1 overall in each of the last two NFL drafts.
This Jacksonville team will look much different than last year’s version. First, you have a successful professional head coach in Doug Pederson. He will make quarterback Trevor Lawrence more comfortable and help him realize his massive potential. In addition, the Jaguars used the No. 1 pick on Georgia edge rusher Travon Walker and spent a record amount of money in free agency.
Washington, meanwhile, believes it dramatically improved the entire team by trading for veteran quarterback Carson Wentz.
Who wins?
The Commanders Wire staff have submitted their picks for Week 1:
Bryan Manning
I see a close game, regardless of who wins. Jacksonville’s defense should be much better in 2022 after adding multiple starters in the offseason. As for the Commanders, it’s all about Wentz. Which Wentz will we see on Sunday? Will it be the one who was terrible for the Colts in Week 18 against the Jaguars last season?
Both quarterbacks will play well Sunday. Wentz gets some help from the running game, while wide receivers Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson add multiple big plays which are enough to lead the Commanders to a season-opening win.
Commanders 21, Jaguars 17
Ivan Lambert
The Jaguars were a trainwreck last year under Urban Meyer. Under Doug Pederson, the Jags will be better.
Washington offensive coordinator Scott Turner has two more weapons in Wentz and Dotson.
Commanders 24, Jaguars 20
