Preview • Week 9

Hawks Soar Above Injured Commanders in Spotlit SNF Clash

The Seattle Seahawks (5-2) roll into Landover seeking their sixth win in seven games, while the Washington Commanders slump at 3-5 and have dropped three straight. With home-field advantage at Northwest Stadium, Washington desperately needs a spark—but injuries and recent collapse have cast a long shadow. Sunday night lights bring more than just drama—this game could mark a turning point for both teams’ season trajectories. Jayden Daniels, sidelined against Kansas City with a hamstring injury, is back under center for Washington. It’s a welcome return—but his top wideout, Terry McLaurin, is still out with a quad injury, depriving Daniels of one of his most trusted targets. Meanwhile, Seattle’s offense has come alive under Sam Darnold—with over 27 points per game while their defense ranks among the best in yards and points allowed. The betting markets reflect the Louisville tilt: Seahawks are favored by about 3.5 points, with total points hovering near mid-40s (46.5 or so). Betting trends favor Seattle covering, especially as road chalk, while Washington has struggled as underdog by that margin. The O/U suggests a tight, defensive-leaning game—expect slower starts, underscored by Commanders’ offensive disruption without McLaurin and Tunsil, who is questionable. For Seattle, a win solidifies their grip atop the NFC West and builds confidence before divisional grind. For Washington, a loss deepens the hole—3-6 with three straight defeats—and adds pressure to preserve postseason hopes. The lights are on Sunday night; one team needs this moment.