Miami Dolphins vs. Washington Commanders GAMEDAY: How to Watch, Betting Odds

The Washington Commanders host the Miami Dolphins today at FedEx Field with hopes of snapping a three-game skid.

Author:
Timm Hamm
Publish date:
Dec 3, 2023 11:47 AM EST

In this story:

The Washington Commanders are back in action this afternoon with the Miami Dolphins in town.

The Commanders have lost three in a row and five of its last six, and is looking for answers. The losses are at least partially responsible for the dismissal of defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio the day after a 45-10 blowout loss to the division-rival Dallas Cowboys on Thanksgiving.

Washington has allowed 290 or more yards in 11 of 12 games this season and 30 or more points seven times. Overall, the Commanders' defense ranks 29th among 32 teams, and last in terms of points allowed per contest with 29.2.

Rivera will take over the defensive play-calling duties, allowing him to defer even more to new offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy. Rivera’s own future is uncertain beyond this season, with Josh Harris’ ownership group expected to make significant changes.

Washington Commanders running back Brian Robinson Jr. takes the handoff from quarterback Sam Howell.
Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

“I think the biggest challenge, more than anything else, is just keeping them focused, keeping them right where they need to be and understanding that what we're doing is trying to create opportunities, and we'll see what happens,” Rivera said.

Miami is trending in the other direction. Winners of two in a row, the Dolphins have also won five of their last seven. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa threw two interceptions last week at the Jets, including a pick-6. His 10 interceptions are tied for No. 4 in the NFL. But despite the turnovers, he ranks No. 4 in passing yards with 3,177 and No. 3 in passing touchdowns with 22.

Sunday will mark the Dolphins' first visit to FedEx Field since 2015, and Miami and Washington have met in the Super Bowl twice. The Dolphins beat Washington in January of 1973 to complete the only perfect season on record for the NFL, while Washington won in January of 1983 at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California.