Eagles-Commanders Game Time Adjusted: Week 16 Matchup

The NFL has adjusted the kickoff time for the upcoming Week 16 matchup between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Washington Commanders, moving the game to an earlier slot at 5 p.m. ET on Saturday, December 20, 2023.

This decision comes as the league has decided to flex the Eagles-Commanders game out of prime time, allowing the matchup between the Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers to take the coveted 8:20 p.m. slot.

According to PhillyVoice, the flexing was influenced by the Eagles' recent struggles, having lost two straight games, coupled with the Commanders' disappointing season, where they have lost seven consecutive games, leaving them at 3-9 overall.

The Commanders, while not in playoff contention, may still play the role of spoiler against an Eagles team that is trying to regain momentum as they pursue a playoff spot. Pro Football Talk notes that both games on that Saturday will be televised on FOX, and while the Eagles have an opportunity to reclaim the NFC East title, the Commanders' losing streak means they may not have much to play for beyond pride.

Moreover, Bleeding Green Nation highlights that this will be the first meeting of the season between these two divisional rivals, which initially held more promise before the season began. The Eagles, currently at 8-4, still have their eyes set on the top seed in the NFC, and a win over the Commanders could help them stabilize their season.

Meanwhile, the Packers and Bears matchup carries significant implications for the NFC North, as both teams are competing for playoff positioning. The NFL's decision to shift these games also comes at a time when college football playoff games are scheduled on the same day, creating a competitive landscape for sports viewership.

As the season progresses, the importance of this game increases for the Eagles, who need to turn around their recent performances to secure a favorable playoff position. With the Commanders in the midst of a tough stretch, the game represents a critical juncture for both teams as they navigate the final weeks of the regular season.